Ep 1. Episode 1

Baghdad Central is a thrilling crime-drama set in Baghdad, Iraq in 2003 after the United States' invasion. The show follows the life of Muhsin al-Khafaji, a former Iraqi police officer who lost everything during the war and is now struggling to survive in the new climate of Iraq. In episode 1, we are introduced to Muhsin and his family and are given an insight into their lives and the difficulties they face.

The episode opens with Muhsin at work as a mechanic, trying to provide for his two daughters, Mrouj and Sawsan, and his wife, Zahra. We see that he is a man of hard work and determination, but he is constantly reminded of memories from his past that continue to haunt him.

As the plot progresses, we see Muhsin attempting to get back on his feet and reclaim his past life, but things are not going as planned. His eldest daughter, Mrouj, is missing and he is desperate to locate her. He knows that she was having an affair with an American soldier and is convinced that she has run away with him. Muhsin knows that time is running out, and he must act fast to find his beloved daughter.

The episode has a poignant and somber mood to it, as it depicts the turmoil of a nation grappling with war and invasion. The show does a great job of portraying the devastating consequences of a war on ordinary people. It captures the state of chaos and confusion that characterized Iraq in 2003, and the feeling of alienation and displacement felt by many Iraqis.

As the search for Mrouj continues, we are introduced to a host of other characters, each with their own set of struggles. One such character is Frank Temple, an ex-cop from Manchester who is now working as a private investigator in Baghdad, trying to track down Mrouj and other missing individuals. We also meet a small-time criminal named Mushtaq who has connections to the American military and is looking to exploit the chaotic situation in Baghdad for his own gain.

The episode builds tension and suspense, as Muhsin and Frank's paths cross, and it becomes clear that they both have much to gain from each other's assistance. However, as with all crime dramas, nothing is what it seems, and the characters' motivations and allegiances are constantly shifting.

Overall, the first episode of Baghdad Central is a compelling and emotional introduction to the show. It sets up the characters and their conflicts well, and gives viewers an insight into the complexities of life in post-war Iraq. The performances are excellent, particularly Waleed Zuaiter as Muhsin and Bertie Carvel as Frank, and the direction and cinematography are visually arresting. The show promises to be an excellent addition to the crime-drama genre, and an intriguing exploration of the human cost of conflict and displacement.