Ad Vitam Season 1 Episode 1 Episode 1
- November 8, 2018
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6.7 (115)
In Ad Vitam season 1 episode 1, entitled "Episode 1," viewers are introduced to a world that is very different from our own. It is the year 2084, and humans have discovered the secret to immortality. While people no longer age and die, they do still have the potential to die from accidents, disease, or murder. As a result, the world is still filled with crime, investigations, and mysteriously untimely deaths.
The show follows inspector Darius, a cop who is tasked with investigating a young woman's death that has occurred while she was supposedly seeking to achieve voluntary death, an event that is not uncommon in this world. To help him with his investigation, he is paired with the young and idealistic detective, Christa, who at first glance seems to be perfect for the job. However, as Darius spends more time with her, he begins to suspect that there is more to her than meets the eye.
As the detectives dig deeper into the woman's death, they end up discovering many mysteries. The woman, called Clara, is a member of a cult-like group that believes in the afterlife. Her religion fueled her desire to achieve voluntary death and experience a rebirth led by their prophet. However, as questions begin to arise after her death, it becomes clear that there is something more sinister at play.
Darius and Christa's investigation lead them down a tangled path of suspects and motives. They meet the people closest to Clara and uncover secrets about her life that they had never imagined. As they untangle each thread, they realize that this isn't simply a case of voluntary death, but something that is much more dangerous.
One of the fascinating aspects of Ad Vitam season 1 episode 1 is the exploration of how immortality has affected society. There are stark differences in how various age groups view life, death, and morality. Younger generations glorify the idea of voluntary death and see it as the highest form of enlightenment, while the older generations struggle with the new reality and mourn the loss of their loved ones. This societal divide is especially evident in the investigation of Clara's death, with her family being horrified by her choice to end her life while her fellow cult members find her decision admirable.
Furthermore, this exploration extends beyond society and into the characters themselves, with Darius and Christa showcasing two different reactions to immortality. Darius is world-weary and cynical, having lived for over 200 years and potentially being forced to work forever, while Christa is optimistic and full of life, eager to contribute to society in any way possible. These opposing viewpoints create an interesting dynamic between the two detectives.
In terms of the cast and performances, Ad Vitam season 1 episode 1 features standout turns from Yvan Attal as Darius and Garance Marillier as Christa. Attal brings a world-weariness to Darius that suits the character perfectly, while Marillier imbues Christa with an endearing earnestness. The supporting cast is filled with equally strong performers, lending a sense of authenticity to the world of the show.
Overall, Ad Vitam season 1 episode 1 sets up an intriguing world that begs to be explored further. The show tackles complex themes and ideas, such as mortality, identity, and morality, with deftness and intelligence. The twisty mystery at the center of the show keeps viewers engaged, while the characters and their place in this world keep them invested. It's a promising start to what looks to be an exceptional series.