Ep 1. Episode 1

Collateral season 1 episode 1, titled "Episode 1," introduces its audience to a gripping crime-drama that melds together intense political intrigue, racial prejudice, and an unyielding drive for justice. The episode sets the stage for an engrossing storyline with captivating characters, shattering events, and a stunning interweaving of intersecting storylines.

Opening in the city of London, we are introduced to Kip Glaspie, detective inspector with the Metropolitan Police. The scene is set in motion as a pizza delivery arrives at the door of a house that is hosting an illegal immigrant. Upon receiving the delivery, an argument breaks between the caregiver of the illegal immigrant and the deliveryman, resulting in the man being shot. Thus begins the investigation of a homicide case that sets a chain reaction of events that will expose deep-seated prejudices, power conflicts, and corruption.

As Kip Glaspie and her assistant examine the crime scene, they discover the victim is Abdul Wahid, a Syrian immigrant with no criminal record. The homicide takes place on the same day a local politician, David Mars, is hosting a fundraising dinner to help finance his upcoming re-election campaign. It soon emerges that Mars's aide, Linh Xuan Huy, has a suspicious connection to a group of human traffickers who operate within the district.

Meanwhile, we are introduced to a host of other characters, including Karen Mars, David Mars's ex-wife, and Jane Oliver, a vicar in the area who serves both the legal and refugee community. Karen Mars is revealed to be dating Abdullah Asif, a Muslim convert, who spoke at the fundraising event and who had also reportedly crossed paths with the murder victim, Wahid, before his death. Jane Oliver administers to the spiritual needs of the local refugee community in addition to serving as a liaison between the refugees and the police.

The episode examines the economical, racial, and political tensions that lie beneath the surface of modern-day England. Kip's investigation quickly leads her to uncover a host of damning evidence, including the involvement of the British Government, the Military, and Organised Crime syndicates - all eager to keep their secrets hidden.

The episode brilliantly weaves together multiple plot intricacies, dipping in and out of various character's lives and relationships, leading up to a nail-biting cliffhanger. The series sets the tone for what promises to be a taut thriller that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

In conclusion, Collateral season 1 episode 1, "Episode 1," shines a light on the underlying racial and political turmoil in contemporary London. The episode introduces a myriad of fascinating characters, each living in the aftermath of extreme emotional trauma, whose stories are intricately interwoven in a thrilling and suspenseful mystery. The episode sets the stage for what promises to be a gripping storyline fueled by political corruption, racial hatred, and greed. This first installment delivers a powerful blend of tense drama, complex characters, and intriguing plot lines, all leading up to a dramatic, suspenseful finale that leaves the audience yearning for more.