Ep 1. Pilot

21 Thunder is a Canadian television drama series that follows the lives of young and talented soccer players fighting for their dreams on and off the field. The show is set in Montreal and features a diverse cast of characters from different backgrounds, cultures, and countries.

In the Pilot episode, we are introduced to Junior Lolo, a 21-year-old striker from Ivory Coast who is trying to make a name for himself in the world of soccer. Junior is playing for the Montreal Thunder, a fictional team that plays in the United Soccer League (USL), the second division of soccer in North America. Junior's talent is undeniable, but he is also dealing with personal demons, including his father's death and his mother's struggle with illness.

At the same time, we meet Nolan Gallard, the coach of the Montreal Thunder academy, a feeder team for the main Thunder squad. Nolan is a former Thunder player who had to retire due to an injury. He is now trying to make a career as a coach and has to deal with the pressure and expectations of developing the next generation of Thunder players.

We also meet Alex el Haddadi, a young Canadian-born player of Moroccan descent who is trying to make the Montreal Thunder academy team. Alex is confident and talented, but he is also dealing with pressure from his father, who wants him to pursue a more traditional career instead of soccer.

Throughout the episode, we see the struggles and triumphs of the characters as they navigate the world of soccer, balancing their dreams with their personal lives. Junior has to deal with the animosity of some of his teammates who are jealous of his talent and his relationship with the team's owner's daughter. Nolan has to navigate the politics of the academy, dealing with overprotective parents and pressure from the Thunder's higher-ups. And Alex has to prove himself as a player and convince his father that he can make a career in soccer.

The Pilot episode sets up the tone and themes of the rest of the season, introducing a diverse and interesting cast of characters and their complex relationships. The show touches on issues of race, identity, politics, and the struggle of pursuing a career in a competitive and unforgiving industry.

Overall, 21 Thunder is an engaging and refreshing take on the sports drama genre, featuring strong performances, well-developed characters, and high-stakes soccer action.