"What Is Love," the fifth episode of That 90's Show Part 2, delivers a
chaotic blend of teenage angst, hilarious misadventures, and a healthy dose of
90s nostalgia. The episode tackles several storylines, keeping the pace brisk
and the laughs plentiful.
Ozzie's Recovery (Sort Of): Picking up after his online dating disappointment, Ozzie (Reyn Doi) puts on a brave face. While his friends initially imagine him wallowing in sadness, he assures them he's moved on. However, the episode hints at lingering emotional vulnerability when he connects with another young man at the party.
Driving Lessons and Déjà Vu: Kitty Forman (Debra Jo Rupp) throws a wrench into Red Forman's (Kurtwood Smith) plans by requesting Bob (Don Pinckney) to teach Leia (Callie Haverda) how to drive. The ensuing driving lesson devolves into comedic chaos, with Bob and Red offering conflicting and overbearing instructions. This scene perfectly captures the show's ability to mine humor from everyday situations.
Old Flames and New Lies: The party becomes a breeding ground for awkward encounters. Jay Kelso (Mace Coronel) bumps into his ex-girlfriend Stacy, who reminisces about their past with a hint of possessiveness. Meanwhile, Nate (Maxwell Acee Donovan) and Nikki (Sam Morelos) attempt to move on by flirting with other partygoers. Nikki's success in securing phone numbers contrasts with Nate's awkward fumbling, highlighting their differing personalities.
Secrets Unveiled: Leia's anger flares when she witnesses Jay seemingly flirting with another girl. This moment adds tension to their relationship, hinting at past insecurities. The episode concludes with a surprising revelation: Nikki and Nate, despite their attempts to move on, end up hooking up. This twist adds a layer of complexity to their dynamic, leaving viewers to wonder about their future.
Kitty's Wild Night: The episode throws in a final comedic twist with Kitty waking up demonstrably worse for wear after the party. While the details remain shrouded in mystery, her condition adds a touch of absurdity and leaves viewers wanting more.
The Verdict: "What Is Love" is a quintessential That 90's Show episode. It blends humor, relatable teenage struggles, and the endearing quirks of its characters. The episode sets the stage for future romantic entanglements and emotional confrontations, ensuring viewers are eager to see how the storylines unfold in Point Place.