Ep 2. Early Days

Step Dave season 1 episode 2, titled "Early Days," continues to follow the romantic and familial misadventures of Dave and his blended family. In this episode, Dave is trying to fit in with his new in-laws, but his cultural differences continue to create tensions. Sarah’s mother, Liz, invites Dave to a family gathering, which he is hesitant about attending. However, Sarah insists that it is important for him to establish a good relationship with her family.

Upon arriving at the gathering, Dave realizes that he is the only non-Māori person there and is overwhelmed by the cultural differences. He struggles to understand the customs and language, leading to a few awkward exchanges. Liz, who is fiercely protective of her Māori heritage, becomes increasingly annoyed with Dave’s lack of knowledge and understanding.

Meanwhile, Dave’s stepbrother, Dylan, is going through his own troubles. He is trying to impress his boss at the sports store where he works but ends up making a fool of himself. He confides in Dave, who offers him some advice on how to handle the situation. The two stepbrothers bond over their shared experience of feeling like outsiders in certain situations.

Back at the family gathering, Dave attempts to make amends with Liz by learning more about her culture and engaging with her family members. He even tries to learn some Māori phrases and dances, but his efforts are met with mixed reactions. There are some touching moments, however, when he bonds with one of Sarah’s nephews over fishing.

The episode also deals with the fallout of Dave and Sarah’s elopement, which is still unknown to many of their family members. Dylan and Dave’s stepsister, Bex, confront the couple about the decision and express their disappointment. Dave and Sarah try to make light of the situation, but it is clear that their impulsive decision has caused some hurt.

Overall, "Early Days" is a thoughtful exploration of cultural differences and family dynamics. It highlights the challenges of blending families and the importance of understanding and respecting each other's cultures. The episode also delves deeper into the individual struggles of the characters, providing a well-rounded picture of their lives.