Ep 1. The Normal Heart

The Normal Heart season 1 episode 1, titled "The Normal Heart," takes place in the early 1980s in New York City during the early stages of the AIDS epidemic. The episode follows the character Ned Weeks, played by Mark Ruffalo, as he navigates through his personal and professional life in the midst of the crisis. Ned is a writer and gay activist who is struggling to find adequate support from the government and medical community after witnessing his friends and colleagues succumb to the disease.

The episode begins with a meeting between Ned and Dr. Emma Brookner, played by Julia Roberts, who is one of the few doctors in the city with experience treating the disease. She warns him about the severity of the situation and cautions him against continuing his risky behaviors. Although she is a fiery advocate for her patients, her abrasive nature creates tension between her and Ned.

Throughout the episode, we are introduced to Ned's close group of friends, who also happen to be gay men. We see their struggles to maintain relationships and careers with the added pressure of the disease looming over them. One member of the group is a writer named Felix Turner, played by Matt Bomer, who begins a romantic relationship with Ned.

The episode also explores the political climate surrounding the epidemic, as Ned and his friends try to raise awareness and funding for the cause. They encounter resistance from government officials who are reluctant to address the issue.

As the episode comes to a close, we see the toll the epidemic has taken on Ned and his friends. They attend a funeral for one of their own, and the tragedy hits close to home. With emotions running high, Ned confronts Dr. Brookner about her lack of compassion and empathy towards their community.

Overall, The Normal Heart season 1 episode 1 offers a powerful and emotional portrayal of the early days of the AIDS epidemic. It shines a light on the struggles and discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community during this time and highlights the need for proactive measures to combat the disease. The excellent cast and compelling writing make for a must-watch series.