The highly anticipated and endlessly debated first kiss between Nick Miller and Jess Day finally occurs in Season 2, Episode 15, “Cooler”. This moment, a culmination of simmering tension and comedic near-misses, marks a significant turning point in their relationship and remains a pivotal episode in New Girl history.
The Significance of “Cooler”: More Than Just a Kiss
“Cooler” isn’t just about the kiss; it’s about the gradual unraveling of the characters’ carefully constructed emotional barriers. Throughout the episode, Jess tries to initiate a “no-strings-attached” relationship with Sam, but finds herself constantly drawn back to Nick. Meanwhile, Nick’s gruff exterior starts to crack, revealing his vulnerability and hidden affection for Jess.
The kiss itself is sparked by a drinking game called “True American,” where the stakes are high, and inhibitions are low. In a moment of spontaneous vulnerability, fueled by both alcohol and genuine feeling, Nick kisses Jess, sending shockwaves not only through the loft but also through the show’s entire dynamic. This wasn’t a planned, fairytale moment. It was raw, imperfect, and profoundly real, perfectly encapsulating the essence of New Girl.
Setting the Stage: The Tension Builds
Prior to “Cooler,” Nick and Jess’s relationship was characterized by constant bickering, awkward moments, and undeniable chemistry. They flirted, argued, and supported each other, their interactions often bordering on romantic but never quite crossing the line. This slow burn created a palpable tension that left viewers craving for them to finally acknowledge their feelings. Key moments leading up to the kiss include:
- Their genuine care for each other: They consistently supported each other through personal struggles and celebrated each other’s successes.
- Moments of accidental intimacy: Unintentional physical contact and shared vulnerabilities hinted at a deeper connection.
- The friends’ constant teasing: Cece, Schmidt, and Winston frequently pointed out the obvious attraction between Nick and Jess, adding to the audience’s anticipation.
The episode cleverly uses comedic situations to heighten the dramatic tension, making the eventual kiss all the more satisfying. The “True American” game, with its chaotic rules and unpredictable outcomes, perfectly mirrors the messy and unpredictable nature of their relationship.
Unpacking the Fallout: What Happened After “Cooler”?
The kiss in “Cooler” served as a catalyst for significant changes in the characters’ lives. It forced them to confront their feelings and navigate the complexities of a romantic relationship. However, their journey was far from smooth.
The Immediate Aftermath: Confusion and Uncertainty
Immediately following the kiss, both Nick and Jess are overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed. The morning after is filled with awkward silences and clumsy attempts to downplay the significance of the moment. They struggle to define their relationship and grapple with the potential consequences of pursuing a romantic connection.
The Relationship Rollercoaster: Ups and Downs
The relationship that follows is a rollercoaster of ups and downs. They experience moments of genuine happiness and connection, but also face challenges related to their different personalities and communication styles. Their journey is characterized by:
- Communication breakdowns: They often struggle to express their feelings and misunderstand each other’s intentions.
- Commitment issues: Both Nick and Jess have anxieties about commitment and struggle to fully embrace the relationship.
- External pressures: The opinions and interventions of their friends add another layer of complexity to their relationship.
Despite the challenges, their underlying love and support for each other remain constant, making their relationship a compelling and relatable storyline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What season and episode does Nick and Jess’s first kiss happen?
The first kiss between Nick and Jess occurs in Season 2, Episode 15, titled “Cooler”.
2. What is “True American” and why is it important to the episode?
“True American” is a fictional drinking game played by the characters in New Girl. It’s important because its chaotic nature and spontaneous rules create an environment where Nick and Jess’s inhibitions are lowered, ultimately leading to the kiss. The game’s inherent unpredictability mirrors the uncertainty and messiness of their burgeoning relationship.
3. Were the actors, Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson, nervous about filming the kiss scene?
Reportedly, both Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson felt the pressure and anticipation surrounding the kiss scene. They understood the importance of the moment for the characters and the fans, and they wanted to deliver a genuine and impactful performance. While not necessarily “nervous,” they were certainly aware of the high stakes.
4. Did the writers always plan for Nick and Jess to get together?
While the writers initially didn’t have a definite plan for Nick and Jess’s relationship, the undeniable chemistry between Zooey Deschanel and Jake Johnson made it difficult to ignore. As the show progressed, the writers realized the potential for a compelling storyline and decided to explore their romantic connection.
5. How did the other roommates react to Nick and Jess’s kiss?
Cece and Schmidt were initially excited and supportive, having long recognized the attraction between Nick and Jess. Winston, however, was more cautious and concerned about the potential impact on the group dynamic. Overall, their reactions reflected a mix of excitement, concern, and a desire for their friends to be happy.
6. Did Nick and Jess immediately start dating after the kiss in “Cooler”?
No, Nick and Jess did not immediately start dating after the kiss. The kiss served as a catalyst for them to confront their feelings, but they spent several episodes navigating the complexities and uncertainties of their potential relationship before officially becoming a couple.
7. What are some other significant Nick and Jess episodes?
Other significant Nick and Jess episodes include:
- “Virgins” (Season 2, Episode 23): Reveals their first sexual experiences and further deepens their bond.
- “Chicago” (Season 2, Episode 20): Jess supports Nick as he travels to Chicago to help his family.
- “Cruise” (Season 4, Episode 22): Nick and Jess break up, marking a significant turning point in their relationship.
- “Landing Gear” (Season 7, Episode 8): Nick and Jess get married.
8. Why did Nick and Jess break up the first time?
Nick and Jess broke up primarily due to their fundamental differences in communication styles and approaches to life. They struggled to navigate disagreements and often misunderstood each other’s intentions. Furthermore, their anxieties about commitment and vulnerability contributed to the breakdown of the relationship.
9. Do Nick and Jess eventually end up together at the end of the series?
Yes, Nick and Jess end up together at the end of the series. They rekindle their relationship and ultimately get married, providing a satisfying conclusion to their long and complicated journey.
10. Is “Cooler” considered one of the best episodes of New Girl?
Yes, “Cooler” is widely considered one of the best episodes of New Girl by both critics and fans. It is praised for its perfect blend of humor, heart, and genuine character development. The kiss scene itself is often cited as a defining moment in the show’s history.
11. How did the kiss in “Cooler” affect the overall direction of the show?
The kiss in “Cooler” significantly affected the overall direction of the show by shifting the focus from solely comedic storylines to exploring the complexities of romantic relationships and character development. It opened up new avenues for storytelling and allowed the writers to delve deeper into the emotional lives of the characters.
12. Is New Girl available to stream online?
Yes, New Girl is available to stream on various platforms depending on your region. In the United States, you can typically find it on services like Peacock, Hulu, and potentially others offering syndicated content. Always check your local streaming options.