Ep 2. Highly Unpredictable

In Durarara Season 1 Episode 2, titled "Highly Unpredictable," the audience is thrust deeper into the strange and dangerous world of Ikebukuro, Japan. This episode provides viewers with a closer look at some of the main players in the series, exploring their backstories and motivations.

The episode is split up into several different storylines, intertwining in typical Durarara fashion, which make it difficult to predict what will happen next. One story focuses on Mikado Ryuugamine, a freshman at Raira Academy who has moved to Ikebukuro to attend high school. Mikado's friend Masaomi Kida takes him on a tour of the town, and the boys end up crossing paths with several of the show's central characters, including a mysterious man in a bartender's outfit who goes by the name of "Simon."

Another storyline follows a group of motorcycle gang members who call themselves "The Dollars." The members are shown as they engage in various activities, from causing trouble in the city to delivering food to sick members. There is some tension within the group over a new member who some believe may be a spy.

We also see more of Shizuo Heiwajima, the bartender at the Russian sushi restaurant, who has a serious anger management problem. His explosive temper causes chaos in Ikebukuro, resulting in several fights throughout the episode. Shizuo's backstory is further explored in this episode, giving viewers insight into why he is the way he is.

In addition to the character development, the episode introduces a few new elements to the series. One of these is a website called the "Headless Rider Infosite," which is dedicated to tracking the movements of a mysterious headless woman who rides a motorcycle through the streets of Ikebukuro. The site has become incredibly popular, and it is clear that the Headless Rider is a legend in the city.

Overall, "Highly Unpredictable" is a strong episode, building on the momentum of the series premiere and setting up future storylines. The show's unique blend of action, comedy, and drama is on full display in this episode, making it a must-watch for fans of the series. With its nonlinear storytelling and unpredictable twists and turns, Durarara continues to be one of the most exciting anime shows of recent years.