Plot Details: This opinion reveals major details about the movie's plot.


When Gilmore Girls premiered in the fall of 2000, the show, created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, was an instant hit both critically and in the ratings board. Its success brought upon a second season that was eagerly awaited by fans as many wondered what would happen to Lorelai Gilmore and her daughter Rory as they both taken new steps into their respective love life. The show, known for its quirky sense of humor, pop culture references, alternative/indie rock music soundtrack, and family drama was very popular not just among viewers but attracted a cult audience with fans of indie rock. Yet, the success of the first season led to the premiere of the show's second season when it premiered in 2001.

In the first season of Gilmore Girls, audiences were introduced to 32-year old Lorelai Gilmore and her 16-year old daughter Lorelai "Rory" Gilmore as they live in a small, fictional Connecticut town known as Stars Hollow with the eccentric locals including its grouchy yet compassionate diner owner Luke Danes, who has a crush on Lorelai. When Rory is accepted to the prestigious Chilton prep school, Lorelai ends the estrangement with her rich parents by asking them to pay for Rory's tuition. They do only to attend weekly dinners every Friday. By the end of the season, Rory fell for, broke up, and reuniting with Dean Forrester and Lorelai has fallen for Rory's English school teacher Max Medina.

In the second season of Gilmore Girls, Rory's relationship with Dean Forrester blossoms until the arrival of Luke's bad boy nephew Jess Mariano whom Rory is intrigued by since he is her intellectual equal. Lorelai meanwhile, is engaged to Max but wonders if she's really in love with him just as her former flame and Rory's father Christopher Hayden starts to pop up more. Amidst all of the issue with men involving the girls, there's still the tension between Lorelai and her mother Emily; Richard Gilmore goes through retirement and hates it; Rory's friend Lane Kim tries to find her identity; and the town goes through various festivals and such along with the antics of its local eccentric Kirk Gleason.

2.01-Sadie, Sadie-5/5

Written & Directed by Amy Sherman-Palladino

With Max proposing to Lorelai, she ponders her decision as she turns to Luke for help. Lane freaks out when her parents decide to send her to Korea for the summer as Rory makes it to the top 3% at Chilton. To celebrate, Rory invites Dean to Friday Night Dinner that becomes a disaster when Richard asks Dean about his future leading to a rift between Rory and her grandfather. Things get worse Emily hears about Lorelai's engagement and not from Lorelai.

Lorelai ponders about her possible engagement to Max as the entire town knows including Miss Patty and Kirk. Yet, when Lorelai tells Luke about the news, he tells her what to might expect in a marriage with reference to his own late parents' marriage. Lorelai makes her answer leaving Rory excited as she turns to Sookie to help organize it. When Rory learns she's in the top 3% of her class, the Gilmores decide to celebrate where a week later, Rory brings Dean in as Richard becomes very uncomfortable about his presence. Barging with questions about his future and such, Dean is put into an uncomfortable position making Rory upset as a rift between grandfather and granddaughter emerge. The night only gets worse as Emily is wondering about Richard's strange mood and later, Emily calls Sookie about Lorelai's possible wedding.

It's a great episode that again reveals the dynamic of the Gilmore family but also the expectations that are to come as Richard is convinced that the simple, less-than-ambitious Dean is unworthy of Rory. Lorelai at one moment, defends her father over his decision after the dinner as she talks to Rory. Yet, the source of Richard's behavior would later be revealed. When Emily learns about Lorelai's engagement to Max, it's clear that when it comes to certain events, Emily is always the last to know and never from Lorelai confirming more of their troubled relationship. The episode is also notable for a hilarious subplot when Lane is being sent on a one-way trip to Korea for the summer as she talks to Rory about her problems and it keeps getting worse with Mrs. Kim in a good mood and Lane with a huge luggage that's bigger than her.

2.02-Hammers and Veils-4.5/5

Directed by Michael Katleman. Written by Amy Sherman-Palladino

Rory begins to stress on her lack of extracurricular activities as she puts a strain on her relationship with Dean. Lorelai meanwhile, receives a cold reception about her engagement from Emily as all of Stars Hollow arrive for her and Max's engagement party.

The news of Lorelai's engagement to Max finally reaches the Gilmores as Emily reacts coldly over the fact that she heard it from Sookie in the previous episode. Richard meanwhile, apologizes to Rory over his actions towards Dean in the previous episode as Rory decides to take a few extra classes for summer school in increasing her hopes to go into Harvard. Yet, when she decides to volunteer on a project that Paris Gellar is involved with, Paris tells Rory on what it takes to get into Harvard and it's more than just grades. Rory freaks out as all of her plans to spend some with Dean fall by the wayside as the two get into a fight. Henry (Eddie Shin) meanwhile asks Rory for Lane's number as Lane, is still freaking out about her upcoming trip to Korea.

When Lorelai has dinner with Max and is consumed by Emily's cold behavior, she has an emotional confrontation with her mother as Emily revealed that she knew earlier. A party for Lorelai and Max's engagement later happens where Jackson asks Sookie if he could move in with her, as Sookie thinks he’s joking. Absent from the party is Luke, who watches from afar as Lorelai asks if he could join in that only furthers what everyone else but Lorelai knows about Luke's feelings for her. It's a fantastic episode that reveals Rory's drive to go to Harvard and Dean trying to be supportive while also revealing more of the fragile relationship between Lorelai and Emily.

2.03-Red Light on the Wedding Night-4.5/5

Directed by Gail Mancuso. Written by Daniel Palladino

It's Lorelai's bachelorette party as everyone including Emily are having fun. Yet, when Emily tells the story of her wedding and her thoughts on love, Lorelai suddenly begins to have second thoughts as she makes a phone call to Christopher as Lorelai makes a huge decision about her relationship with Max.

The time is near for Lorelai and Max's wedding as excitement is in the air as Lorelai and Max prepare for the event of their lives. Yet, when Max asks about his role in Rory's life, Lorelai suddenly becomes hesitant about things of what happens when they get married. Dean at one point, reveals the quirks of the Gilmores that Max needed to know as Lorelai begins to ponder everything. Then at a bachelorette party with Michel, Sookie, and Miss Patty, Lorelai receives a surprise visit from her mother who reflects on the moments on the week before she got married to Richard. Lorelai makes a call to Christopher to talk about her wedding as the two flirted with each other.

Things get more confusing when Luke, who had been ranting about marriage and such, made a chuppah for Lorelai for her wedding as he admits to his own jealousy but wanting to do something for Lorelai. Then, Lorelai makes a decision that involves Rory about her impending marriage. Though it's a bit uneven, it's an excellent episode that reveals Lorelai's anxieties and how Max will play into her own and Rory's life. Yet, receiving unexpected comments from her mother, Christopher, and Luke would impact the decision. The episode's title refers to a subplot in which Taylor wants to put a street light in front of Luke's diner that annoys Luke as it stands as the first of many Luke-Taylor conflicts that often bring much-needed humor to the show.

2.04-Road Trip to Harvard-5/5

Directed by Jamie Babbit. Written by Daniel Palladino

In the fall-out of Lorelai's decision to end her engagement to Max, she and Rory go on a road trip where they find themselves at Harvard. Lane returns from Korea as the whole town wonders what happens but as Lorelai returns, she becomes overcome with emotions over the chuppah Luke made for as she decides to focus on her dream to open her own inn.

Lorelai and Rory are on the road and through Lorelai’s spontaneous personality, neither one of them have any idea on where they are and such. They stop at a bed-and-breakfast place that freaks them out due to its look, owner, and the people that are there. Rory confronts Lorelai over breaking the engagement to Max as Lorelai confesses she wishes loves Max but it wasn't enough. With Sookie hearing the news of the cancellation of the wedding, the whole town hears and once Sookie tells Luke while talking to Lorelai on the phone. The surly Luke suddenly has his mood change once he hears the news as he announces that the coffee is on the house.

The girls continue their road trip which lands them into Harvard as Rory becomes excited as she looks at the entire campus and such. Yet, when she enters a classroom, she realizes how much she can fit in. During that scene, there's an appearance from actor Masi Oka of Heroes as a student. With Lorelai watching how happy Rory is, she begins to ponder about her own future about her dream to open her own inn with Sookie. Upon their return to Stars Hollow, Lorelai is overcome with emotion over the chuppah Luke has made where she later talks to him about it. Lane meanwhile, makes a surprising return from Korea with loads of bootlegs. The episode is wonderfully funny for its unique humor and mix of drama as it's a great transitional episode for the girls ready for their future.

2.05-Nick & Nora/Sid & Nancy-5/5

Directed by Michael Katleman. Written by Amy Sherman-Palladino

Luke takes in his nephew Jess Mariano to live with him after his mother becomes worried he is going on the wrong path. Lorelai tries to welcome him but the sullen 17-year old doesn't feel welcomed except in the presence of Rory. Rory meanwhile, returns to Chilton as she tries to take a spot in Chilton's paper The Franklin only to try and be sabotaged by Paris Gellar. Yet, when Rory receives huge praise from advisors, Paris furthers her battle when she gets Rory to interview Max as the two painfully express their regrets over what had happened over Lorelai's broken engagement.

Luke receives a phone call from his flaky sister Liz as he's forced to take in his 17-year old nephew Jess. With Lorelai wanting to help him but Luke is convinced he can handle it. Lorelai decides to throw a welcoming party for Jess that doesn't exactly go well when Jess decides to steal a beer with Lorelai catching as she tries to talk to him. Instead, she realizes how troubled he is leading to an argument with Luke. When Luke realizes he's got more than he can handle, he finally turns to Lorelai for help. Rory meanwhile, has gotten a spot at the Franklin but Paris tries to make her late as well as letter write the most boring piece. Rory instead, turns the piece into something brilliant as Paris makes her do a cover story by interviewing Max Medina.

The episode marks the introduction of Jess Mariano as he finds himself being too much to handle by his emotionally-stilted mother leaving him to be in the care of his uncle Luke. Though Jess finds himself feeling awkward in Stars Hollow and the company of its locals, he connects with Rory through their mutual love of books. Rory meanwhile, battles it out with Paris once again as Paris learns that competing with Rory this time around, will be much harder. Yet, when Rory is given the task to interview Max, the meeting between the two is awkward as Max politely talks about himself. Yet, when Rory stops the tape, the two express the sadness over what happened with the broken engagement as even Lorelai is still reeling from the break-up. The episode overall is great where one of Lorelai's relationship ends while Rory finds someone who is intrigued by a newcomer.

2.06-Presenting Lorelai Gilmore-5/5

Directed by Chris Long. Written by Sheila E. Lawrence

At the urging of her friends, Emily wants to present Rory to make her debut at a society ball but at Lorelai's surprise, Rory agrees as Dean also takes part. With Rory's father Christopher Hayden also willing to help, Lorelai is amazed at the new role Christopher has taken until he reveals news of a new relationship he's in. Richard meanwhile, starts to become evasive as Emily tries to help him get back in the swing of things at the party.

When Rory makes an appearance at her grandparents home to pick up a book, she catches the attention of Emily's friends who work with her at the Daughters of the American Revolution. When they make a suggestion that Rory should maker society debut at a ball, Rory agrees to make her grandmother happy. Lorelai meanwhile, is reluctant as she asks Christopher for help since he has to attend. Christopher does as he reveals to have a new job and a new car where Lorelai is amazed by his newfound role in actually being responsible. With Dean deciding to escort Rory, he is reluctant to put on a tuxedo and a bow tie as Rory convinces him otherwise.

The whole event goes through smoothly except some bickering between Emily and Richard, who is dealing with the fact that his days of working in an office and such is numbered. Emily becomes melancholic as she watches Rory and tells Lorelai it should've been her a long time ago. Things get more hectic for Lorelai when Christopher reveals he's in a relationship with a woman that's getting serious. The episode is great for its sense of drama and offbeat humor where Rory deals with the society girls and a subplot where Luke is trying to have Jess wear the right clothes for work that becomes one of the show's most funniest moments.

2.07-Like Mother, Like Daughter-5/5

Directed by Dannis Erdman. Written by Joan Binder Weiss

When Lorelai and Rory have to improve their social standings for Rory’s Harvard recommendation to be written by Headmaster Charleston. Rory finds herself getting the attention of the elite Puffs sorority in which Paris begs Rory to be part of the group. Lorelai meanwhile reluctantly joins the Booster club with her mother as the two present a fashion show where the club's president (Brenda Strong) takes a liking towards Luke.

Rory's lack of interaction with other students outside of class has gotten Headmaster Charleston's attention as Lorelai meets the headmaster as she reluctantly participates in clubs in order to improve their social standings. When Rory sits at a table with other students, she unknowingly sat in the prestigious Puffs table led by Francie Jarvis (Emily Bergl). When Paris caught Rory at the table, she begs Rory after lunch to put in a good word for her. Lorelai meanwhile, attends a meeting at the Booster Club where she suggested having a fashion show at her inn ended up being a great idea until she learns that she and the club members are the models. Lorelai decides to get Emily involved where the two act as a mother-daughter team.

For Lorelai, it's uncomfortable as Emily is having fun while the club president takes a liking towards Luke. Rory later gets "kidnapped" by Francie along with Paris and other students as an initiation gets them caught by the headmaster. When Rory defended herself over what happened, it's clear that the school was putting pressure on her. The overall episode is truly one of the funniest episodes of the season. Notably for the fashion show where Lorelai looked uncomfortable while Emily is having a ball. Plus, the appearance of what Paris looked like when she'’s in bed with pimple cream and such. Aside from guest appearances from Brenda Strong of Desperate Housewives fame and Emily Bergl of The Rage: Carrie 2, the episode also includes appearances from former Baywatch/Charles in Charge star Nicole Eggert and Madeline Zima of The Nanny and Showtime's Californication.

2.08-The Ins & Outs of Inns-5/5

Directed by Michael Katleman. Written by Daniel Palladino

With Lorelai and Sookie prepare to make plans to open their own inn, they receive a surprise visit from Mia (Elizabeth Franz), the inn's owner who took in the young Lorelai when she was only 17. When Lorelai learns that Mia plans to sell the Independence Inn, she is saddened by the news leading to an argument with Sookie. Rory meanwhile, learns of a prank Jess pulls that worries the town in which Luke is forced to take the heat.

A visit from Mia, the woman who took Lorelai in more than 15 years ago has come to visit as the two along with Rory talk about old times. Things go well as Mia also talks about Luke as a boy as Lorelai tries to figure how to tell Mia that she and Sookie are planning to start their own inn. Even as they try to talk to Fran Weston (Linda Porter) about selling her old Dragonfly Inn. When Lorelai tells Mia about her plans, she's ecstatic as it gives her an excuse to sell the Independence Inn which saddens Lorelai leading her to an argument with Sookie.

The town meanwhile, goes in a frenzy when a prank that involves a drawn body sketch and police stickers by Jess gets Luke into trouble. With the town ganging up on Luke, Rory calls out on Jess for what he did as he learns that she's dating Dean. The episode is great for the development of Rory and Jess' friendship while audiences get to learn who Mia is. One notable scene involves a meeting between Mia and Emily as the two talk about that day when Lorelai ran away with Rory those years ago.

2.09-Run Away Little Boy-4.5/5

Directed by Danny Leiner. Written by John Stephens

Still recovering from her break-up with Max, Lorelai goes on a date with a younger student from her business class that went OK until one day, he brings his parents to Luke's diner. Rory meanwhile, takes part in a play version of Romeo & Juliet that Paris is directing with Rory as Juliet and Tristin as Romeo. With Dean keeping an eye on Tristin, on the night of the play. Things get worse when Tristin gets expelled over a prank he did with other students leading to Paris to save the day.

A wedding present Lorelai had received makes her ponder about her love life as she reluctantly decides to date again. Meeting a younger student named Paul (Bryce Johnson) at her business class, the go on a date that went fine but nothing really came out of it. Then one day, he shows up with his parents as Lorelai feels embarrassed and gets a cold reaction from Luke. Rory meanwhile, is selected to play Juliet in scene interpretation of Romeo & Juliet that Paris is directing. With Tristin playing Romeo, Rory is uncomfortable about all of that, particularly regarding the kiss she had with him after her break-up with Dean months before. With Dean not knowing about it, Tristin starts to cause trouble and suddenly begins to make sporadic appearances for the rehearsals at Miss Patty's.

This is an excellent episode where Lorelai is still trying to get herself back in the dating scene but when her date shows up at Luke's diner with his parents. She feels embarrassed and Luke treats her coldly as Sookie reminds Lorelai that Luke has strong feelings for her. Then there's Rory trying to deal with Tristin over his sporadic appearances, trouble-making attitude, and trying to make Dean uncomfortable. Rory chastises him for his attitude as she and Paris are counting on him to do his part. Instead, Tristin gets himself in big trouble leading to Paris to save the day and get herself, Rory, Madeline, Louise, and Brad (Adam Wylie) their "A". The episode would mark Chad Michael Murray's final appearance on the show as he would later move on to another show, One Tree Hill and movies such as the 2003 remake of Freaky Friday and A Cinderella Story.

2.10-The Bracebridge Dinner-4.5/5

Directed by Chris Long. Written by Daniel Palladino

A historical dinner at the Independence Inn is happening but the people supposed to attend are snowed in as Lorelai, Rory, and Sookie seek help from the locals. Rory urges Lorelai to invite her parents where also attending are Paris, Dean, his sister Clara (Scout-Taylor Compton), and Jess. With Jess trying to get between Rory and Dean, Richard reveals to Emily that he quit his job. Lorelai gets a call from Christopher who wants to invite Rory to his place to spend time with him as well as his new girlfriend Sherry.

The historical Bracebridge dinner is held at the Independence Inn where Sookie is trying to create the perfect dinner for the people coming. When they're snowed in and possible money loss might happen if no one shows up, Lorelai and Rory decide to invite everyone to the dinner including Richard and Emily to boost up his spirits as his mood has been sour as of late. Lorelai earlier, receives a call from Christopher about inviting Rory over for the holidays to meet Sherry. Lorelai, gets jealous and feels threatened about a woman in Rory's life where she later talked to Rory about it. The dinner goes well as Paris arrives with work for the Franklin as she points out inaccuracies over the costumes where Jackson played a squire.

Things seem to go fine until Jess decides to ride in Rory's sleigh where he asks why she's out with Dean. Especially when Jess got into a scuffle with another kid that Dean tried to break-up only to get nearly hit by Jess. Rory finds herself having feelings for Jess while Dean starts to notice. When Richard is suddenly in a good mood, Emily and the rest of the family seemed amazed until he's revealed he quit his job with Emily's output. The episode is excellent in showing Rory's sudden attraction to Jess while revealing the unhappiness in Richard's work life as he talks to Emily about his unhappiness.

2.11-Secrets & Loans-5/5

Directed by Nicole Holofcener. Written by Linda Loiselle Guzik

With a termite problem at the house and Lorelai trying to figure out how to pay for the damage, Rory asks her grandparents for help leading to a brief falling out between mother and daughter. Paris meanwhile, receives her PSAT scores as she wants to know Rory's score that drives her crazy. Rory meanwhile, learns that Lane has become a cheerleader while Lorelai gives in to her financial problems.

Termites have invaded their house as Lorelai tries to figure out how to pay $15,000 to make repairs on the foundation. Luke offers to help in the repairs yet Lorelai is running out of options. Rory suggests going to Emily and Richard for help but Lorelai refuses. When Rory tells Emily about what's happening, Lorelai gets all upset as she scolds Rory over telling Emily. Rory meanwhile, has received her PSAT scores but refuses to share the information with Paris, who becomes obsessed with wanting to know what Rory's score is. Rory also learns that Lane has become a cheerleader, convinced that Lane has conformed. Lorelai, finally swallows her pride ands asks the last person she expect for help.

The episode overall is wonderfully complex in both its humor and drama. The humor where during the opening production credits to the tune Que Sera, Sera where everything is fine until Lorelai steps on the porch and the wood breaks. The episode explores how Lorelai is trying to maintain her pride in not dealing with her parents. Yet, Rory asking for help makes Lorelai feel that Rory has betrayed her trust. The theme of pride is wonderfully explored to deal with what Lorelai is going through and what she might expect from her mother. Rory meanwhile deals with Paris' desire to know Rory's score while dealing with Lane being a cheerleader. Yet, what Lane brings to the cheerleading front proves to be one of the episode's finest moments that involves the music of Madness.

2.12-Richard in Stars Hollow-5/5

Directed by Steve Gomer. Written by Frank Lombardi

With Richard now retired, he decides to spend time with Lorelai and Rory as he visits Stars Hollow where his criticism over a few things start to annoy them. Paris also visits Stars Hollow to find a story about the town hoping to find something dark.

Richard's newfound retirement has started to bother Emily as he begins to notice thing and follow her around all the time. Annoyed, Emily asks Lorelai if she could take Richard for a day. Lorelai reluctantly agrees where she takes her father to Luke's while showing him the town. Things go fine until she's at work at the inn where he saw how she conducted her business. Rory meanwhile, helps Paris find a story for the Franklin that would give other school publications a run for their money. Paris wants to go to Stars Hollow to find whatever bad thing the town is in. At first, she finds nothing until she learns that the video store is censoring films that are deemed obscene for children. Rory however, becomes the new poster child for censorship as Jess decides to help stir trouble.

Richard's visit gets worse when he sees that Rory wants to go Harvard instead of Yale while seeing how Lorelai and Rory live when it comes to food. When Dean arrives with Rory's new present, a car that he built. Richard's criticism gets worse as he demands to have it checked by the town's mechanic Gypsy. Lorelai finally confronts her father over his opinions as Richard reveals about how he feels living a retired life. The episode reveals more about Richard and his newfound sense of alienation as his family tries to deal with it. Yet, the wonderful mix of humor and drama show the show's unique dynamic. Particularly the way Paris tries to find anything bad about the town while audiences are introduced to a new recurring eccentric local in Gypsy, the town's mechanic.

2.13-A-Tisket, A-Tasket-5/5

Directed by Robert Berlinger. Written by Amy Sherman-Palladino

The annual Stars Hollow picnic charity arrives but not everyone is in a happy mood as Jackson is upset over the possibility that Sookie won't let him move in with her. Lane meanwhile, has problems over Henry and their secretive relationship. During the bid for Rory's picnic basket, Jess battles Dean over the bid while Lorelai finds herself getting suitors, set up by Miss Patty, she doesn't like to bid on her basket until Luke comes to the rescue. With Rory getting close to Jess, Lorelai becomes worried as she disapprove of him along with Emily.

The Stars Hollow picnic charity is underway but not everyone is excited. Lorelai, now officially single, has been seen by Miss Patty who asks three different suitors to bid on her basket. Rory meanwhile, hopes to have lunch with Dean on her basket but when Jess decides to take matters into his own hands. Dean gets extremely upset over what happens as he later complains to Lorelai about Jess. Rory and Jess have lunch where their talk of books and such managed to get them closer. Lane meanwhile, hopes to have her first date with Henry by using her cousin as a decoy. Yet, the result becomes a disaster when Henry doesn't show up and their phone conversation leaves Lane heartbroken. When Lorelai's suitors go into a bidding war over her basket, she turns to Luke for help, who reluctantly outbids the suitors.

Jackson tries to tell Sookie that he wants to move in with her but when he couldn't and gets moody, Kirk wins the bid for Sookie's basket. When Sookie wondered why, Jackson finally makes his confession where he ended up paying Kirk for the basket. Things go well between the two until Jackson makes an announcement to Sookie that warms her heart. After the event, Rory and Lorelai get into an argument over Jess where it intensifies during Friday Night Dinner where Emily agreed with Lorelai that Jess is trouble. What makes this episode among one of several episodes considered "classic" by fans is because it showed Rory's newfound interest in Jess while leaving Lorelai worried. At the same time, it allowed a lot of exposure for several recurring and supporting characters to get some moments including Sookie/Jackson, Lane/Mrs. Kim, and Kirk.

2.14-It Should've Been Lorelai-4.5/5

Directed by Lesli Linka Glatter. Directed by Daniel Palladino

Lorelai and Rory are introduced to Christopher's new girlfriend Sherry (Madchen Amick), Sherry hopes to bond with Rory making Lorelai uneasy. When Lorelai invites Christopher to Friday Night Dinner, Emily learns about Sherry as she becomes angry with Lorelai over her relationship problems. Lorelai and Chris have an argument over Lorelai's relationship problems with Chris feeling he's at fault.

When Rory and Paris have a debate against Brad, who is now attending another school. Lorelai gets a call from Christopher who is in the area as she asks if he could attend the debate. Christopher does but with his new girlfriend Sherry as Lorelai becomes uncomfortable. When Rory meets Sherry, the meeting is awkward and it gets more awkward at Lorelai's home when Sherry asks if she could hang out with Rory for one night. Lorelai reluctantly lets Rory go on her night with Sherry while she and Christopher attended Friday Night Dinner. When Emily learns about Christopher's newfound responsible role and his new girlfriend, she gets angry fearing she'll lose Rory and blaming Lorelai for not going after Christopher at this time.

Rory's night with Sherry went well as Lorelai asked if Rory ever pictured the ideal of family of Lorelai, Rory, and Christopher. Lorelai then talks to Christopher about everything she expected from him and about her relationships leading to an unexpected response from Christopher. The episode is really about Lorelai's reaction to Christopher's new girlfriend and her desire to bond with Rory. Yet, when Emily scolds Lorelai over her rejection towards Christopher, Lorelai is forced to think about all of her relationships and such. One notable subplot that is very funny involves a quarantined Lane trying to get a CD as Rory decides to help her with the help of Kirk and most surprisingly, Michel. The CD stop sequence is truly one of the best, conceived moments of the episode.

2.15-Lost and Found-5/5

Directed by Gail Mancuso. Written by Amy Sherman-Palladino

Rory hopes to improve Lorelai's relationship with Jess by having him fix things in their house. When Rory learns she lost the bracelet Dean made for her and Dean noticing, she goes into a panic. With Luke hoping to find a place for Jess to live in, Lorelai helps him until they find the place that's great only to realize who owns the building.

After an accident where Lorelai injures her hand, she asks Luke if he could find anyone to clean her rain gutters. Rory suggests Jess in order to improve his relationship with Lorelai. Lorelai reluctantly agrees to let Jess do the work while Luke is trying to find a new apartment for him and Jess to live in since Luke's apartment is already cramped. Rory goes out with Dean only to realize the bracelet he made for her was lost. Rory freaks out until Jess placed it under her bed when he had found it weeks before during their lunch in picnic festival. Lorelai however, accused him of stealing it making their relationship still shaky. When Luke finds an apartment that he likes, things go well until he learns who is the owner. Finally deciding to buy the building next door, in order to stop Taylor from buying the place, he resolves his living situation with Jess.

A comical episode of sorts that involves Luke trying to find an apartment with Lorelai's help where in one moment, the realtor thought of them as a couple. Lorelai plays along with Luke, reluctantly, as well until the realtor is gone. Michel, giving his banters to Lorelai about the lost bracelet, and the ending. Yet, the episode explores Jess' character where even though he's kind of a book-smart bad boy, he does have compassion though his relationship with Lorelai is still icy as he tries to be friendly until he got accused of stealing the bracelet. With Rory, he's softer though still has an attitude and such.

2.16-There's the Rub-5/5

Directed by Amy Sherman-Palladino. Written by Sheila R. Lawrence

Lorelai and Emily decide to go away for the weekend on a spa as the two have a rare moment of bonding. Rory meanwhile, has the house to herself hoping for alone time until she gets unexpected visits from Paris, then Jess, and then Dean where she gets some unexpected insight into the roles of her visitors.

Emily won gift certificates to a prestigious spa from a DAR auction and asks if Lorelai wanted them. Lorelai does but Emily tells her it's for two people as Lorelai reluctantly joins Emily. Yet, Lorelai’s time with Emily drove her crazy as Emily kept talking and talking about the spa and such. The two ladies decide to go out on a night on the town where everything seemed fine until a man (Hal Linden) makes a pass at Emily, ask her to dance and everything goes wrong. Rory meanwhile, is happy to have the house all to herself and just by herself. Yet, she receives an unexpected visit from Paris, who is reeling over the fact that she got an "A-" quiz paper. Things get crazier when Jess arrives with food as Paris joins in. Dean later arrives to see Jess trying to leave where everything goes into chaos until Paris makes a save.

The episode explores Lorelai and Rory in different relationships in both in a comical and dramatic fashion. For Lorelai, her weekend with her mother is something she's reluctantly taking part of. At first, things seem to go fine despite Emily's constant talking until a night at a bar where Emily is asked to dance. The two question their relationship as Lorelai feels that just as things go well, things start to crumble. Rory however, was supposed to have a night all to herself. Yet, the separate arrivals of Paris and Jess make things hectic and when Dean shows up. Things get worse until Paris says something. For Rory, she gains a new friend in Paris and a suitor in Jess. For Dean though, things start to become shaky as their relationship is now in troubles despite Rory's vow to him.

2.17-Dead Uncles & Vegetables-5/5

Directed by Jamie Babbit. Written by Daniel Palladino.

Luke's Uncle Louie has passed away as Lorelai, Rory, and Jess (through Rory's urging) help out at the diner. Taylor gets annoyed when a farmer's market takes away his vegetable selling business. Emily becomes overwhelming with her plans for Sookie's wedding while Luke is dismayed at the town's lack of compassion for his uncle despite Louie’s own unpleasant personality with only Lorelai helping him.

During a taste-test for an upcoming DAR meeting, Emily learns about Sookie's upcoming marriage to Jackson as he makes huge suggestions for Sookie's wedding. Lorelai learns from Luke that his Uncle Louie has died as he's trying to book nine rooms at the inn for relatives. Lorelai and Rory decides to help out at Luke's diner with Rory getting Jess involved, through his own reluctance. Taylor meanwhile, deals with a vegetable vendor (Dave "Allen" Gruber) who is selling vegetables in the streets as Taylor feels threatened by competition. When Luke's relatives including his sister Liz decides not to come, things get worse when Luke learns that the locals refuse to come to the funeral because of Louie's unpleasant personality. Sookie, later becomes overwhelmed by Emily's suggestion as she feels like that it isn't what Jackson wanted.

The episode is another great mix of comedy and humor as Luke is dealing with his uncle's death and his family's refusal to attend the funeral as well as the town. For Luke, he's doing all the funeral arrangements and such for his late father as Lorelai helps out. Though Jess is reluctant, the fact that he helped out annoys him as Rory feels he's part of the town. The funny subplot of Taylor versus the vegetable guy is a funny moment while the Sookie-Emily story is also funny because Sookie gets all caught up on Emily's suggestions. Yet, the episode has Emily becoming more suspicious of Lorelai’s feelings for Luke.

2.18-Back in the Saddle Again-5/5

Directed by Kevin Dowling. Written by Linda Loiselle Guzik.

Michel's mother Giselle (Janet-Hubert Whitten) visits as Michel becomes ecstatic over the visit until Lorelai reveals about his life in Stars Hollow to his mother. Rory meanwhile, asks Richard to help out on a school project for a business fair. Richard at first, politely declines until Emily urges him to help. When Richard gets involved, he becomes re-inspired by both Rory and Paris as he begins to question his own retirement. Dean meanwhile, turns to Lorelai as he learns about Rory's feelings for Jess.

A project to create a fake product for economics class is led by Rory. Yet, when her classmates are unable to get a business advisor, Rory asks her mother who suggests in getting Richard to advise. Rory asks her grandfather who politely declines until Emily is upset over not doing something for his granddaughter. Richard gives in as he listens to the ideas that students offer until Paris decides to create a first-aid kit for lockers, stylized to what the student is into. Richard likes the idea as he takes the meeting to his home as Emily is amazed at how happy he is. Yet, when the contest is held and Rory's team don't win, Richard gets upset only to contemplate his retirement. The story of Rory and Richard collaborating on a project provides a chance for Richard to be the main focus on an episode as he ponders his role and realizes why he's been unhappy.

Michel's mother Giselle visits where everything goes well until Lorelai reveals a thing she doesn't know about in one of the show's funny subplots. With Rory busy on her school project, her downtime with Dean starts to become less as he waits for her, wash her car, and such until he realizes that she has feelings for Jess as Lorelai sympathizes with him. The episode reveals that Dean is starting to be phased out by the presence of Jess while Rory is trying to hold on to that relationship despite her feelings for Jess.

2.19-Teach Me Tonight-5/5

Directed by Steve Robman. Written by Amy Sherman-Palladino

Stars Hollow is holding a film festival as Lorelai is given the task to choose the films. At first, Lorelai is excited but has trouble choosing the film. Even as Kirk wants to premiere a short film he made. Luke asks Lorelai for Rory to tutor Jess who isn't doing well at school. Rory takes the offer as she and Jess bond until a car accident leaves Rory injured. Lorelai gets upset at Luke leading to a huge rift as she calls Christopher for help.

Dean is out of town visiting his grandmother as a new employee and Taylor takes over revealing the annual Stars Hollow Movie in the Square tonight as he picks The Yearling, again. Lorelai complains to Taylor as he lets her take over while still evading calls from Christopher. Yet, choosing a film ends up being harder, particularly with Taylor's suggestions. Luke meanwhile, learns from the school's principal (Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs) that Jess is failing his classes and might repeat the year as Luke goes to Lorelai to ask Rory if she can tutor Jess. Rory agrees though Lorelai is worried. Things start out a bit rough though Rory is charmed by Jess as they decide to go get some ice cream. Things start to go well until a car accident leaves Rory injured and Lorelai is upset as she lashes out on Luke. Lorelai calls Chris as he attends the festival watching Kirk's short film and the movie for the festival.

The episode is brilliant for its continuation of Rory's attraction towards Jess as she decides to help after Luke asked her. Yet, when an accident happens, Lorelai who had a very testy relationship with Jess blames Luke for bringing him to Stars Hollow. The two immediately have a falling out as Luke knows that it wasn't Jess' fault. The episode also reveals the two men that are important in Lorelai's life, Luke and Chris and the roles they play in this incident. The episode also has a hilarious short by Kirk that features Jon Polito, star of several films by the Coen Brothers, and Mary Lynn Rajskub of 24.

2.20-Help Wanted-5/5

Directed by Chris Long. Written by Allan Heinberg

Richard opens a new office as he asks Lorelai for help to find a secretary and office supplies. Luke closes his diner as Rory is dismayed that the whole town including Dean, Lorelai, and Emily blame Jess for the accident. Lane however, finds her calling when a new music shop is opened by a former musician named Sophie (Carole King).

Luke closes the diner as he leaves to go fishing forcing Lorelai and Rory to eat a diner with bad coffee, a chipper waitress (Patrika Darbo), and worst of all, Michel eats at the place. With Lorelai letting Rory not attend Friday Night Dinner, Lorelai learns that Richard’s longtime secretary has decided not to work with him as Lorelai decides to help him start his company and find secretaries. Rory meanwhile, gives Dean a letter about what happened with Jess leaving Dean angry. Things get worse when the locals look at the cast on Rory's arm as they all have awful things to say about Jess. Then during a party to celebrate Richard's new business, Emily sees the cast on Rory's arm as Rory finally snaps that it was partially her fault over what happened. The final scene of the episode has Luke return and letting Rory in at the diner giving her coffee as they talk about what happened.

The episode shows the reaction to the accident as everyone believes that the bad-boy Jess is at fault and the little miss-innocent Rory isn't at fault. Yet, Rory is tired of being the innocent girl as she snaps at her mother and grandmother over their anger at Jess. The other subplots involving Lorelai and Richard and Lane finding her calling are also great. Particularly Lorelai and Richard as they seem to bond over creating a business and Lorelai helping him as Richard feels confident in his business. Lane meanwhile, is ecstatic at a music store opened by Sophie where she's entranced by a drum set as she realizes what she wants to do with her life. It's a great episode that shows the complexities of its characters as well as the issues of stereotypes.

2.21-Lorelai's Graduation Day-5/5

Directed by Jamie Babbit. Written by Daniel Palladino

Lorelai passes her business class as she is set to graduate. Rory secretly invites her grandparents to the event as she cuts class to go to New York City to find her mother a present and finds Jess in the city. Lorelai’s rift with Luke still continues as she refuses to go to the diner while she is forced to believe that her daughter is falling for Jess.

Still not wanting to go to Luke's because of Jess, Lorelai decides to eat at Sookie's place with Rory as she starts stressing out about her finals for business school. When Rory suggests that Richard and Emily should attend Lorelai's graduation, Lorelai isn't sure they'll attend. Rory decides to turn to them whether they want to or not. After Lorelai's final exams, she and Rory celebrate where Rory gets a call from Jess, who is in New York City. On the day of Lorelai's graduation, Rory decides to cut class to go to NYC to meet Jess and hang out where they go to a record store as Rory buy a vintage album by the Go-Go's autographed by Belinda Carlisle. Yet, Lorelai's day goes well when she receives a basket from Christopher who brings her a bunch of presents including a necklace.

When Lorelai sees her parents at the graduation with a film crew, she's surprised while her classmates seem upset over the fact that some rich people have shown up with a film crew. At first she goes along until she finally defends herself and her rich background but is more upset that Rory didn't show up. The episode shows a great moment of Rory and Lorelai's relationship as a mother-daughter who often share things but with Rory, falling for Jess. Rory has a hard time trying to tell her mother about those feelings. Lorelai meanwhile, feeling that her parents won't show up is touched that they did and pose with her for a picture. The episode also includes a guest appearance from Seth MacFarlane of Family Guy and Hellboy II fame as a fellow graduate who makes unflattering comments about Lorelai's parents.

2.22-I Can't Get Started-5/5

Directed by Amy Sherman-Palladino. Written by Amy Sherman-Palladino & John Stephens.

In the second season finale, Sookie and Jackson are to wed in a grand ceremony at the Independence Inn as Christopher comes to town to be with Lorelai and Rory. Lorelai tries to make up with Luke over what happened with Rory's accident while Rory reluctantly joins Paris to run for the student body election. Jess returns to Stars Hollow as he asks Luke if he can stay. With Christopher seemingly now coming to Lorelai and Rory's world full-time, he receives a bombshell from Sherry.

Sookie and Jackson's wedding is approaching as Lorelai, reluctantly decides to invite her parents to the wedding. Lorelai also tries to smooth things over with Luke yet, nothing really happens. With Paris running for student body election, she realizes that despite being smart and competent, lacks the like ability to sway voters as she turns to Rory, who reluctantly plays Paris' running mate. Christopher makes an appearance attending a rehearsal dinner as he and Lorelai are rekindling their relationship as his relationship with Sherry is not going well. For Lorelai, this was what she's been waiting for.

Luke meanwhile, is surprised by Jess' return as he wants to stay with Luke as Luke lays some new rules for Jess' stay. Yet, when Jess arrives outside the wedding to see Rory, Rory is surprised by his appearance as she makes a move that would confuse her. Yet, with Christopher attending the wedding, Lorelai, Rory, Emily, and Richard seem excited about Christopher's new role and the possibilities of being a full-fledge family. Instead, Christopher receives a huge bombshell from Sherry that changes everything.

The season finale for the second season ends on a high note as well as a down note. For Lorelai and Rory, it ends melancholically as they both become confused about their own individual feelings while Lorelai is trying to cope with the news that Christopher had just told her. Yet, the finale also has some funny moments that involved Paris trying to win the election while Sookie stressing over her wedding. It's a finale that ends things very nicely while setting up the stage for what's to come for the third season.

What happens in the second season is overall involves Lorelai and Rory moving forward both in their separate love life and their ambitions. The season began with Lorelai set to get married to Max Medina and in the end, realize that she doesn't love him only to focus on her life-long ambitions to open her own inn. Yet, Lorelai would get appearances from Christopher as she's amazed by his newfound responsible role, only to later be hit with a bombshell from his girlfriend that changes everything. For Rory, the arrival of Jess Mariano makes her confused as she falls for a book-loving bad boy while trying to maintain a relationship with sweet yet simple boyfriend Dean Forrester.

Yet, these two stories are the core of what the Gilmore Girls are going through as for Lorelai, she finds herself disapproving of Jess while trying to get Rory to be loyal to Dean. For Rory, her hopes for Max as her stepfather are dashed while she unknowingly makes a decision to her grandparents for financial help in house repairs angering Lorelai. Yet, the story of the girls' relationship is what holds true as it ends with the two facing anxiety over their fate. It's the heart of the story that makes the show unique.

Of course, the show isn't complete without its supporting players as they're given more to do with Sookie fretting over her relationship with Jackson Belleville as she ends up marrying him trying to figure out her future. Luke Danes meanwhile, still watches Lorelai from afar while making her a chuppah for her wedding as he goes to her about him trying to raise Jess only leading to a falling out when Rory got into an accident involving Jess. Lane goes through an identity crisis when she briefly becomes a cheerleader while finding her true calling when a music shop opens. Michel's mother visits where at first, things go fine until she learns about his life in Stars Hollow while being the sarcastic foil for Lorelai. Dean and Jess compete for Rory's attention where Dean finds himself threatened by Jess' presence as Jess plays a witty prankster who tries to outsmart Dean every chance he gets.

Then there's Emily and Richard Gilmore as their relationship goes through a period where Richard become unhappy about his work life leading to his own resignation without Emily's consultant. When Richard tries to enjoy retirement, it doesn't go well as Emily becomes annoyed only until Rory gets him involved in a school project that makes him realize he has to go out on his own. Yet, the elder Gilmores and their relationship with Lorelai goes through its ups-and-downs as Richard bonds with Lorelai over business yet Lorelai's relationship is still in shaky ground as they try to bond yet things hold them back.

One recurring character that becomes a regular is Paris Gellar, Rory's rival at Chilton who finds herself trying to get into clubs while realizing that Rory is the only student to match her academic status. For Rory, Paris becomes an unlikely friend who is trying to get her ambitions forward while learning a life outside of academics. Another minor character, though a recurring player that would become a regular in the next season is Kirk. The town's local eccentric who gets a chance to pop up in any moment while making a huge moment when he premieres his short film that makes him an unforgettable character.

Aside from several unique recurring characters that appear on the show, part of the show's unique tone is its music where this time around. More use of alternative music and indie rock appears as groups like Ash and Wilco have songs that appear in episode along with pop songs from the 80s. Of course, the music of Sam Phillips is prominent as great score work as it provides a sense of drama, humor, and energy. Yet, appearances from Grant Lee Phillips as the town's local troubadour is wonderful for his frequent accompaniments while the legendary Carole King, who co-wrote and performed the song with daughter Louise Goffin, makes a great cameo appearance as the music shop owner who gives Lane her calling. The show also includes episodes directed by a few noted filmmakers like Jamie Babbit of But, I'm a Cheerleader , Danny Leiner of Dude, Where's My Car? & Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, and Nicole Holofcener of Walking & Talking, Lovely & Amazing, and Friends with Money.

The cast is brilliant with notable cameos and appearances from Seth MacFarlane of Family Guy, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs of Welcome Back, Kotter, Madeline Zima of The Nanny & Californication, Janet Hubert-Whitten of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Nicole Eggert of Charles In Charge/Baywatch, Brenda Strong of Desperate Housewives, Emily Bergl from the film The Rage: Carrie 2, and an early appearance from Masi Oka of Heroes whom Milo Ventimiglia would later appear in. Chad Michael Murray is good in his lone appearance as Tristin DuGrey who tries to annoy Dean only to later be expelled from Chilton over a prank.

Notable appearances as some of the town locals like Liz Torres as the flirtatious Miss Patty, Sally Struthers as Lorelai's raspy-voiced neighbor Babette, Ted Rooney as Babette's jazz-loving husband Morey, Rose Abdoo as the sarcastic mechanic Gypsy, Mike Gandolfi as local book-store owner Andrew, Biff Yeager as local contractor Tom, Brian Tarantina as magazine stand owner Bootsy, Emily Kuroda as Mrs. Kim, and Michael Winters as the annoying, local town leader Taylor Doose.

Other small appearances from Scout Taylor-Compton as Dean's sister Clara, Adam Wylie as Chilton classmate Brad, Eddie Shin as Lane's boyfriend Henry, and Dakin Matthews as Headmaster Charleston are memorable. Yet, the duo of Shelly Cole and Teal Redmann as Madeline and Louise are always fun to watch. Jackson Douglas also stands out as Jackson Belleville as he tries to figure out his relationship with Sookie where he ends up marrying her. Madchen Amick of Twin Peaks is good as Sherry, Christopher's girlfriend who has this chipper attitude and excitement about getting to know Rory as she makes Lorelai uncomfortable. Noted stage actress Elizabeth Franz makes a great appearance as Mia, the woman who took Lorelai in after she ran away from home when she was 17 as she proves she can deal with Emily with such subtlety.

Sean Gunn is great as the child-like yet eccentric Kirk Gleason who manages to have scene-stealing moments including the short film that he created that features cameos from Mary Lynn Rajskub of 24 and Coen Brothers regular Jon Polito. Liza Weil is brilliant as the sarcastic yet intimidating Paris Gellar who provides some of the show's most funny moments and one-liners while being a great foil for Rory as she also provides depth to a young woman who is just socially awkward. Jared Padalecki is good as the good boy Dean who tries to win the approval of Richard and Emily though finds himself dealing with the presence of Jess Mariano for the heart of Rory as he turns to Lorelai for help.

Milo Ventimiglia is amazing as the bad-boy yet book-smart Jess Mariano, a kid who likes to cause trouble and read books as he acts as Rory's intellectual equal while dealing with his uncle and Lorelai. Keiko Agena is superb as Lane Kim, the young girl trying to find her identity while maintaining her role as a music lover where the appearance of a music shop provides the answer she's looking for. Yanic Truesdale is funny as usual as the sarcastic, witty Michel who likes to banter with Lorelai and Sookie while being the great foil for Lorelai. Scott Cohen is great as the intelligent Max Medina who woos Lorelai only to be dumped as despite being a good guy, he wasn't enough for Lorelai Gilmore. David Sutcliffe is excellent as Christopher Hayden, Lorelai's former flame and Rory's father who makes more appearances as he brings up new hope for the girls to be a full-time provider only to screw up at the last minute.

Melissa McCarthy is great as the wonderfully sweet and supportive Sookie St. James as she tries to deal with her dream of the inn following an argument with Lorelai as McCarthy provides the nice touch of subtle humor and sweetness that is needed. Kelly Bishop is amazing as Emily Gilmore who has this nice, snobbish presence while also carrying tinges of regrets and disappointment as she tries to bond with Lorelai only to deal with her personality. Edward Hermann is superb as Richard Gilmore, a man who feels like he no longer fits in anywhere only to be revitalized by a school contest as he begins to question his own career path. Scott Patterson is excellent as usual as Luke Danes, the grouchy diner owner who pines for Lorelai Gilmore as he tries to raise his nephew while being Lorelai's friend until an accident involving Rory occurs as he tries to defend Jess and concern for Rory’s well-being.

The show's best performances truly go to the duo of Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel as Lorelai and Rory Gilmore, respectively. Bledel provides the sense of confusion and angst needed to play Rory Gilmore as she is going through her first romance while being attracted to the bad boy Jess Mariano. Bledel's performance is as excellent as ever as the good-girl Rory starts to do things she never thought she would do providing the sense of anxiety and confusion as she goes through things that books won't help her. Lauren Graham is great as usual as Lorelai Gilmore, a quirky woman trying to juggle relationships and her ambitions to open her own inn while trying to guide Rory on all of the things she's experienced as a teen. Graham provides the maternal role that Rory needed as she also experiences the great moments and disappointments in her life.

The second season of Gilmore Girls is definitely a great season that provided a new sense of development for the characters while bringing a unique approach to humor and drama isn't overbearing or gimmicky. With a great cast, great writing, quirky dialogue, and pop culture references, the second season of the show is a reminder why the show is beloved as it surpasses the expectations provided from its first season. In the end, the second season of Gilmore Girls is a wonderful season from the unique mind of Amy Sherman-Palladino.

Gilmore Girls Reviews: Season 1 - Season 3 - Season 4 - Season 5 - Season 6 - Season 7 - Virtual Season 8 - Virtual Season 9 - (Virtual Season 10)

Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Good for Groups
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older