Ep 1. E 1

Kotoura-San is a romantic comedy anime series released in 2013. The show revolves around Haruka Kotoura, a high school girl who has the ability to read minds ever since she was young. Her special ability often puts her in trouble as it is hard for her to differentiate between people's thoughts and what they actually say, leading her to be isolated and bullied. The show portrays the challenges faced by Haruka and how her life takes a turn when she meets a boy named Manabe, who becomes her friend and soulmate.

Season 1 episode 1, named "E 1", begins with a flashback to Haruka's childhood. The episode starts with a young Haruka sitting with her parents, who express their disappointment in her ability to read minds. They are abusive towards her, blaming her for their financial troubles and calling her a freak. The abuse reinforces the young girl's sorrow and loneliness, pushing her to distance herself from others.

Years later, Haruka has grown up and is now a high school student. She has learned to shut down her ability to read minds to avoid getting into further trouble with others. However, she still carries the pain from her childhood memories, making it difficult for her to trust others and make friends.

The episode then introduces Manabe, a classmate who immediately takes an interest in Haruka due to her silent and brooding nature. He tries to make friends with her, but Haruka rebuffs Manabe's attempts, stating that making friends only brings pain and suffering. Manabe does not give up and persists in his efforts, eventually leading to an amusing scene where he tries to convince Haruka to join the ESP research club.

Meanwhile, the school has a new transfer student, a girl named Yuriko, who immediately captivates the attention of Haruka's male classmates. Yuriko's presence disturbs Haruka, as she is unable to read Yuriko's thoughts despite being near her. The episode builds up suspense, as Yuriko appears to have some hidden intentions and Haruka's inability to read her thoughts seems suspicious.

As the day comes to a close, Manabe invites Haruka to a movie, which she reluctantly agrees to. The scene is significant, as it marks the first time Haruka lets her guard down and allows herself to spend time with someone else. The cinema scene is beautifully animated, depicting the innocence of teenagers bonding over a movie.

The episode ends on a dramatic note when Yuriko reveals that she too has psychic powers similar to Haruka. She approaches Haruka and tells her that she wants to help her, eerily smiling while doing so. The scene suggests that there is more to the transfer student, and one might wonder what her true intentions are.

The pilot episode of Kotoura-San is a heartwarming and emotional journey, primarily showcasing Haruka's struggles with her unique ability. It is complemented by the introduction of Manabe's character, who brings humor and light-heartedness to an otherwise serious theme. The episode sets up the show's central premise of exploring the dynamics of friendship and the complexities of being different from society's norms.

Overall, season 1 episode 1 of Kotoura-San is an excellent start to the series, creating anticipation and intrigue for what is to come next. The episode leaves the audience wondering about the motivations of Yuriko and what her future role in the story would be. The show is a treat for anyone who loves coming-of-age romance stories with twists of supernatural elements.