Ep 2. It's Personal

John Woo tackles another case in Almost Paradise season 1 episode 2 titled "It's Personal." The second episode showcases how the former DEA agent turned Philippine police consultant is putting his skills to good use in a small island paradise.

John's friend, a resort owner named Christian, asks for his help after noticing suspicious individuals on his premises. Christian wants to know if the people are drug runners or just regular tourists. John takes the case and begins investigating but his mission gets complicated when he discovers that the suspicious group is part of a family reunion of his former high school sweetheart, Lourdes.

As John navigates his personal connections to Lourdes, he must also deal with Christian's prerogatives and the possible drug ring-related aspects of the reunion. The plot twists, turns, and teases at various junctures throughout the episode. Viewers will find that the case at hand is personal for all involved, including John and the reunion members he knows.

One of the highlights of Almost Paradise season 1 episode 2 is how showrunners use this episode as an opportunity to explore John's past experiences. The show does a good job highlighting his experiences with drugs, trauma, and addiction. Viewers get a glimpse of his former life and how he deals with his struggles.

The atmosphere of "It's Personal" is markedly different compared to the pilot episode. There are no massive shootouts or criminal kingpins in sight, and the pace is leisurely and laid back. The episode emphasizes John's development as a character, revealing much about his personality, personal life, and why he chose the path he did.

Almost Paradise season 1 episode 2 also explores the local culture of the Philippines. There are moments where John has to contend with language barriers, cultural misunderstandings, and the locals' mistrust of foreigners. The show is successful in conveying a sense of place and embedding the events of the episode within a larger, recognizable context.

There are no wasted scenes in this episode, as everything serves a specific purpose in the plot. Even the comedic and lighthearted moments blend seamlessly into the serious plot, keeping viewers engaged. The script is tight, and the pacing is smooth, making for a well-crafted narrative that draws in viewers from start to finish.

Overall, Almost Paradise season 1 episode 2, "It's Personal," is an excellent continuation of the show's debut. The episode showcases how John Woo can navigate his past, present, and future while keeping viewers engaged in a plot that has more to it than meets the eye. It's an excellent sign of things to come and promises that the rest of the season will not disappoint.