Ep 1. Stockholm Syndrome

Jonathan Ames (Jason Schwartzman) is a struggling writer living in Brooklyn, New York, who is dealing with a painful break-up and a severe case of writer's block. In the pilot episode of Bored to Death, entitled Stockholm Syndrome, we are introduced to Jonathan's peculiar and somewhat unconventional way of solving his problems.

After attending a literary festival and feeling discouraged, Jonathan has a chance encounter with a former high school classmate named Ray (Zach Galifianakis), who is now working as a comic book artist. Ray introduces Jonathan to marijuana and persuades him to hire a detective in hopes that it will inspire him for his next novella. Despite initial hesitation, Jonathan decides to give it a try and hires the charming and quirky private investigator George Christopher (Ted Danson).

Jonathan's first case involves a beautiful woman named Rose (Heather Burns), who claims that her boyfriend, Mahmoud, has been kidnapped by his estranged brother and is being held for ransom in Stockholm. Feeling excited by the prospect of being a detective, Jonathan agrees to help Rose and sets out for Stockholm with George.

As soon as they arrive in Sweden, Jonathan and George realize that things are not exactly as they seem. With the help of a local contact named Bjorn (Johan Glans), they embark on a dangerous and darkly comedic journey to rescue Mahmoud and uncover the truth about the kidnapping. Along the way, they encounter a cast of eccentric and volatile characters, including a group of skinheads and a rival gang of kidnappers who are also after Mahmoud.

Meanwhile, back in New York, Ray is struggling with his own issues. He is trying to win back his ex-girlfriend, Leah (Heather Burns), while also dealing with the fact that he has impregnated a woman he barely knows. Ray's story provides a comical and lighthearted counterbalance to Jonathan's dark and intense adventure in Stockholm.

Overall, Bored to Death season 1 episode 1 is a delightful and quirky introduction to the series. With its offbeat humor, charming characters, and unexpected plot twists, Stockholm Syndrome sets the stage for what promises to be a unique and entertaining show.