Ep 1. The Memory Box

Bloom season 1 episode 1, titled "The Memory Box," follows the story of a small town called Mullan, where Bloomers, a new mysterious flower, starts to grow. The episode is set ten years after a devastating flood in the same town where a group of people, including Ray Reed, played by Bryan Brown, and Gwen Reed, portrayed by Jacki Weaver, are still trying to heal from the tragedy and move on with their lives.

The episode starts with Ray Reed, a retired and wealthy businessman, celebrating his 84th birthday in a retirement home. Ray receives a curious gift, a memory box from a stranger who claims he is from Mullan. The box reported to contain memories of his past, which would bring him more peace. As Ray opens the box, the memories of his past start flashing back to him.

Meanwhile, Gwen is still struggling with the loss of one of her sons during the flood. She visits her son's grave regularly to keep the memories alive. She also works for a local club that serves as a meeting place for the community. Gwen is a central figure in the community and is determined to help people heal from the trauma of the past.

Back in the city, another Bloomer pops up in a random garden, causing a sensation across the town. The school kids in Mullan discover the Bloomers and begin stealing them, making matters worse.

As the episode progresses, we see past and present, slowly but steadily merging as Ray chances upon his diary from forty years back. He finds details of a one night stand and the birth of a baby left in a basket outside his house. He is caught by surprise at the possibility that he may have a different child from his late wife's son Chris.

Ray decides to investigate the matter and visits one of the kids who stole the Bloomers. He bribes the child by promising to fix his bike if he can find out who the stranger that gave him the memory box is. The kid tells him it is a mysterious woman who goes by the name Evie. Ray sets out to find Evie and figure out the mystery of the memory box.

The episode ends with the revelation of a secret passage, a hidden room where all the memories related to Bloomers reside, with Evie as its keeper.

Overall, Bloom season 1 episode 1, "The Memory Box," sets the stage for a compelling storyline. It is a tale of loss, grief, and the search for answers. It is a beautifully shot episode that captures the essence of small-town life and its challenges. The mystery of the Bloomers adds an exciting twist to the show, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves drama and suspense.