Ep 1. Alone and Lonesome

The show DARLING in the FRANXX is a Japanese science fiction anime that tells the story of a post-apocalyptic world where humanity lives in a city that is guarded by giant robots known as FRANXX. The show revolves around a squad of children who are trained to pilot these robots, and they are called FRANXX pilots. The children are selected based on their abilities and are trained from a young age to become the ultimate warriors.

Season 1 episode 1 of DARLING in the FRANXX is titled "Alone and Lonesome." The episode sets the tone for the rest of the series by introducing the main characters and the world they inhabit. The episode starts with a mysterious voice narrating a history of a world that was destroyed by "klaxosaurs." The voice reveals that humanity barely managed to survive and now lives in a city called Plantation. However, this is not an ordinary city as it is protected by massive walls and is guarded by giant robots known as FRANXX. It is a world where love, emotions, and even names have become meaningless, and the only thing that matters is the survival of humanity.

The episode then introduces the main character, a boy named Hiro. Hiro is shown as a talented FRANXX pilot who has lost his purpose and is feeling lost and alone. He is conflicted about his role and is questioning the meaning of his existence. His squad, Squad 13, is preparing for an operation against the klaxosaurs, and Hiro is feeling anxious about it. The squad has a strict hierarchy, and the leaders are known as Parasites, while the rest are known as Franxx pilots.

The squad is led by a girl named Ichigo, who is shown as a strict but caring leader. She is concerned about the well-being of her squad and is trying to maintain discipline. Hiro's partner, Goro, is also introduced in this episode. Goro is shown as a dependable friend who is always looking out for Hiro.

The episode then introduces the mechanics behind the FRANXX and how they work. The robots require two pilots, a male and a female, to operate, and they require the pilots to be in perfect sync to function correctly. The show also reveals that the pilots need to connect with each other on a deeper level, both emotionally and physically, to operate the robot efficiently.

The episode takes an emotional turn when it reveals that Hiro has lost his previous partner, and he is now unable to synchronize with any other pilot. This has left him feeling alone and purposeless, and it is slowly driving him towards despair. The episode then introduces a new character, a mysterious girl named Zero Two, who is shown to be different from the other girls in the squad. She is a prodigy pilot who has a reputation for being a "Partner Killer" as her previous partners have always died.

The episode ends with the squad going on a mission against a massive klaxosaur, and Hiro's inability to synchronize with any partner means that he is left behind and is not allowed to participate in the mission. However, Zero Two steals him away, and the two form a connection, and they manage to activate a long-dormant FRANXX.

In conclusion, the first episode of DARLING in the FRANXX sets up the story and introduces the main characters. It establishes the rules and mechanics of this world and sets the tone for the rest of the series. The episode is emotionally charged and highlights the theme of loneliness and the need for human connection. The show is visually stunning and is a must-watch for any fan of science fiction anime.