Ep 1. Kina Hora

Kina Hora is the first episode of season 2 of Transparent. The episode picks up right where season 1 left off, with the family dealing with the aftermath of Maura's decision to come out as transgender to her adult children. The family is still processing this news, and the tension between them is palpable.

The episode begins with a flashback to 1933, where we see a young Jewish couple getting married and having a traditional Jewish dance known as the Kina Hora. The scene then cuts back to present day, where the Pfefferman family is at a wedding reception for Sarah's ex-husband Len. The family is awkwardly trying to interact with each other, and Ali is particularly uncomfortable as her new girlfriend is present.

The theme of tradition is prominent throughout the episode, as Maura attends a support group for transgender people and we see flashbacks of her childhood where she struggled with her identity. She finds comfort in the ritual of participating in a mikvah, or Jewish ritual bath, which symbolizes a new beginning.

Meanwhile, Sarah is struggling with her own sense of tradition as she tries to navigate her divorce and attempts to form a new family unit with Len and their children. Her brother Josh is dealing with the fallout of his relationships, as his ex-girlfriend Raquel is pregnant with his child and he is unsure if he wants to be a father.

The tension and drama come to a head at the wedding reception, where the family gets into a heated argument and things become physical. In the aftermath, each member of the family is forced to confront their own issues and face the uncomfortable truths about themselves and their relationships with each other.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the episode has moments of humor and levity. Ali's new girlfriend, Syd, brings some much-needed lightness to the proceedings as she helps Ali explore her sexuality and break out of her shell.

Overall, Kina Hora sets the tone for the rest of season 2, as the Pfefferman family continues to grapple with their personal issues and try to come together as a family despite their differences. The themes of tradition, identity, and family are explored in depth, and the performances from the cast are top-notch. Fans of the show will not be disappointed with this powerful and thought-provoking episode.