Ep 2. Smile
- TV-PG
- July 13, 2005
- 23 min
-
(10)
Suzuka season 1 episode 2, "Smile," follows the continuing story of Yamato Akitsuki, a high school student who has just moved to Tokyo to attend school. In this episode, Yamato is still struggling to fit in and make friends at school, despite his outgoing personality. He is particularly interested in Suzuka Asahina, a beautiful and talented athlete who he met on his first day of school. However, Suzuka seems to be cold and distant towards Yamato, and he can't figure out how to get her to open up to him.
Yamato enlists the help of his new friend Honoka, who also has a crush on him, to try and find out more about Suzuka. Together, they follow her to a track and field event where she is competing. Yamato is impressed by Suzuka's athleticism and drive, but still can't break through her emotional barriers.
Meanwhile, Yamato's roommate Yasunobu is trying to set him up with one of his many girlfriends. Yamato has little interest in dating anyone else, but reluctantly agrees to go on a double date with Yasunobu and his girlfriend and her friend. The date ends up being a disaster, with Yamato's date being loud and obnoxious and the only thing they have in common is their love of animals.
After the disastrous date, Yamato returns to his room feeling down and discouraged. He can't figure out why Suzuka won't give him the time of day, and he's starting to lose hope. However, he suddenly receives a message from Suzuka inviting him to come watch one of her practices the next day.
Feeling hopeful again, Yamato shows up to the track and field stadium to watch Suzuka practice. She is surprised to see him there, and even more surprised when he tells her that he wants to become a better runner so he can keep up with her. Suzuka starts to warm up to Yamato, and he realizes that all he had to do was show her his determination and commitment.
As the episode comes to a close, Yamato and Suzuka share a moment of closeness that hints at the possibility of a romantic relationship between them. Yamato is thrilled that he's finally starting to make some progress with Suzuka, and he can't wait to see where their relationship goes from here.
Overall, "Smile" is a heartwarming episode that focuses on the budding relationship between Yamato and Suzuka. While Yamato is still struggling to find his place in this new environment, his determination and positive attitude are admirable. Viewers will be rooting for him to win Suzuka's heart and achieve his goals.