Ep 1. Eleven Eleven

In Here and Now season 1 episode 1, titled "Eleven Eleven," we are introduced to the Bayer-Boatwright family - a multi-racial, multi-cultural family living in present-day Portland, Oregon. The show opens with Audrey, the matriarch of the family, celebrating her 60th birthday. We quickly learn that Audrey is a therapist who specializes in treating children who have experienced trauma or are struggling with mental health issues.

As the family gathers to celebrate Audrey's birthday, we are introduced to her husband, Greg - a philosophy professor who seems to be struggling with his own existential crisis - and their four children. Ashley, the eldest daughter, is a successful fashion designer who is engaged to a seemingly perfect man named Malcolm. Duc, the adopted son from Vietnam, is a professional life coach who is struggling in his own personal life. Ramon, the youngest son, is an artist who has recently started experiencing vivid, prophetic dreams. Finally, we meet Kristen, the youngest daughter who is a high school student and seems to be struggling with her own identity.

Throughout the episode, we see the family deal with their own individual struggles as well as their relationships with each other. Ramon confides in Duc about his dreams, while Ashley seeks advice from her mother about her doubts regarding her engagement. Kristen, who is struggling with being the only white member of her family, confides in her father about her fears of being different from her siblings.

Meanwhile, Greg seems to be stuck in a philosophical rut - unable to find meaning in his daily life. He has become obsessed with the number "11" and sees it everywhere he looks. He becomes convinced that the universe is trying to tell him something and begins seeking out answers from a spiritual healer who claims to have all the answers.

The family's struggles come to a head at Audrey's birthday party, where tensions and arguments erupt between the family members. The episode ends with Ramon experiencing another vivid dream that seems to be interconnected with his family's struggles, leaving the audience with a cliffhanger and a sense of unease.

Overall, "Eleven Eleven" sets the stage for what promises to be a thought-provoking and deeply emotional exploration of a modern American family. The show tackles issues such as mental health, race, and spirituality with sensitivity and nuance, leaving the audience eager to see where the story will go next.