Ep 10. Dance

Anna Konkle and Maya Erskine are back for the uproariously hilarious season finale of PEN15 with episode 10, titled "Dance." This episode takes us on a nostalgic journey through the awkward and endearing world of middle school dances. The beloved duo once again brilliantly captures the simultaneous joy and mortification that comes with being a pre-teen trying to navigate the treacherous waters of adolescence.

"Dance" begins with Anna and Maya's excitement building as they eagerly prepare for the highly anticipated school dance. The girls are determined to have the time of their lives, as they have witnessed the enchanted experiences their older classmates have had at previous dances. However, the reality of their social standing in middle school quickly comes crashing down upon them.

As Anna and Maya arrive at the gymnasium, they are met with a sea of elaborately dressed students immersed in the sultry rhythms of 90s pop hits. The air is thick with teenage angst, shy glances, and the palpable fear of rejection.

Anna, being the more reserved of the two, struggles to break out of her shell and approach any potential dance partners. Maya, on the other hand, dives headfirst into the fray, determined to make this night unforgettable. Fueled by her exuberant imagination, Maya conjures up a dance floor filled with expertly choreographed routines, a spotlight on her every move, and an adoring audience captivated by her talents. However, reality doesn't always align with our fantasies, and this dance proves to be no exception.

The episode expertly weaves between Anna and Maya's individual misadventures throughout the night. Anna finds herself caught in a whirlwind of awkward encounters and embarrassing missteps, from accidentally stepping on someone's toes to getting tangled up in the "Macarena" line dance. Her attempts to blend in and fit the mold of a conventional middle school dancer are thwarted at every turn, leading to moments of genuine and relatable vulnerability.

Maya, on the other hand, experiences a wild rollercoaster of emotions as she careens from excitement to disappointment and everything in between. Her vivacious spirit attracts the attention of various boys, but her eagerness often gives way to heartache as she fails to find the connection she so desperately seeks. Maya's ability to portray the triumphs and failures of teenage emotions with such sincerity is a testament to her incredible talent as an actress.

Even amidst the chaos and inevitable letdowns, Anna and Maya's friendship remains the heart and soul of the show. Their unwavering support and love for each other shine through the madness of the dance floor, reminding us of the profound impact our closest friendships can have during the tumultuous years of adolescence.

The episode skillfully captures the essence of a middle school dance, complete with cringe-worthy slow dances, terrible fashion choices, and the unrelenting desire to be noticed. It triumphs in highlighting both the hilarity and the heartache of this pivotal moment in a young person's life, where the search for validation and acceptance often takes center stage.

"Dance" serves as a spectacular conclusion to a stellar first season of PEN15. Through its clever writing, impeccable comedic timing, and brilliant performances, the show has created a truly authentic and resonant portrayal of the trials and tribulations of middle school. Anna Konkle and Maya Erskine continue to prove themselves as comedic powerhouses, effortlessly capturing the complexities of adolescence with unwavering honesty and heart. As viewers, we are left eagerly anticipating the next chapter of Anna and Maya's hilarious and moving journey through time.