Ep 2. Since I'm Not Popular, I'll See My Old Friend

Tomoko continues her quest to become popular in episode two of WataMote season one, titled "Since I'm Not Popular, I'll See My Old Friend." After failing miserably at her attempts to make friends in the first episode, Tomoko decides to seek out an old childhood friend, Yuu-chan, who she hopes will offer her some comfort and guidance.

When Tomoko finally tracks Yuu-chan down at a nearby high school, she is surprised to find that her former friend has blossomed into a confident and popular student. Yuu-chan is happy to see Tomoko and excitedly shows her around the school, introducing her to her many friends and even offering to help Tomoko make some of her own.

However, despite her initial enthusiasm, Tomoko quickly becomes overwhelmed by the attention and the unfamiliar surroundings. She struggles to interact with Yuu-chan's friends, and her anxiety causes her to retreat into her own thoughts while her attempts at conversation fall flat. As the day wears on, Tomoko becomes more and more uncomfortable, and she eventually decides to leave the school without saying goodbye to Yuu-chan.

Back at home, Tomoko reflects on her day and berates herself for her inability to connect with others. She worries that her awkwardness has made her friend think poorly of her and wonders if she will ever be able to fit in with the popular crowd.

"Since I'm Not Popular, I'll See My Old Friend" is another poignant and relatable episode that touches on themes of loneliness, social anxiety, and the desire for acceptance. Tomoko's struggles to make friends are something that many viewers can identify with, and her feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt are all too familiar to anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.

What makes WataMote so effective is its ability to balance these heavy themes with a healthy dose of humor and quirkiness. Tomoko's inner monologue and her ridiculous fantasies provide moments of levity amidst the more serious content, and her over-the-top reactions to her own social missteps are both cringe-worthy and hilarious.

Additionally, the show's unique animation style and visual gags add an extra layer of fun to each episode. From Tomoko's exaggerated facial expressions to the quirky backgrounds and character designs, WataMote is a joy to watch even when the subject matter is heavy.

Overall, "Since I'm Not Popular, I'll See My Old Friend" is another standout episode of WataMote that continues to explore the complex and often painful world of teenage social dynamics. While Tomoko's journey is a difficult one, her struggles and triumphs are sure to resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider looking in.