Ep 8. Episode 8

Clay Jensen is still trying to piece together what happened to Hannah Baker, his friend who tragically took her own life. In "Episode 8" of season 1 of 13 Reasons Why, Clay discovers a new tape that has been left for him by Hannah, and it brings up old memories from a party that they attended.

Meanwhile, fellow student Alex Standall is struggling with the aftermath of a suicide attempt. His parents are worried and keep a close eye on him, but Alex's mental state seems to deteriorate more with each passing day. As Clay listens to the new tape from Hannah, he begins to unravel the web of secrets and half-truths that seems to surround him and his classmates.

The episode takes place during a school dance, which serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama. The tension is high as everyone grapples with their own demons and secrets, and the mood is tense and somber. Characters who were once wary of each other begin to come together, as they realize that they are all connected in ways they never imagined.

As the night wears on, Clay becomes increasingly frustrated with the lies he has been told, and he struggles to understand why people are so reluctant to tell the truth. The episode tackles themes of forgiveness, honesty, and mental health, as the characters learn to cope with the difficult realities of their lives.

One of the standout moments of the episode occurs when a group of students come together to create a wall of kindness, where they write kind words and uplifting messages to each other. This scene stands in stark contrast to the darkness that has overshadowed much of the series, and it serves as a reminder that even in the midst of pain and sorrow, there is hope.

In a particularly harrowing scene, Alex's father finds a gun in his son's room, and the episode ends on a cliffhanger as we are left wondering what he will do with it. The tension and urgency of the episode make it one of the most compelling of the series, as the characters are forced to face their own demons and come to terms with the realities of their lives.

Overall, "Episode 8" is a poignant and powerful installment of 13 Reasons Why, and it highlights the strengths of the series, which include its frank discussions of mental health and its willingness to tackle difficult subjects head-on. The episode ends on a hopeful note, as the characters learn to lean on each other and find strength in their shared experiences.