Ep 1. An Unauthorized Investigation (Pilot)

Inspector De Luca is a crime drama television series set in 1930s fascist Italy. The series follows Inspector De Luca (played by Alessandro Preziosi), a compassionate detective who faces numerous challenges as he tries to solve complex cases while navigating through the political landscape of his country.

In the first episode of season 1 titled An Unauthorized Investigation (Pilot), the stage is set for Inspector De Luca's journey into the world of organized crime and political turmoil. The story opens with De Luca, who works as an inspector for the police force in Bologna, Italy, being summoned by his superior officer, Vincenzo Di Natali (played by Cesare Bocci). Di Natali assigns De Luca to investigate the theft of a car belonging to a prominent fascist party member.

Quickly realizing that his investigation is not welcomed by the fascist party, De Luca takes it upon himself to unravel the truth behind the theft. Eventually, his investigation leads him to a notorious gangster known as the 'Stork', who is suspected to be behind the car theft. Along the way, De Luca meets a young woman named Liliana Balducci (played by Carolina Crescentini), who catches his attention with her wit and intelligence.

As the investigation progresses, Inspector De Luca finds himself at the mercy of the fascist party, who try hard to hinder his investigation. However, De Luca is determined to get to the bottom of the case, despite the dangers and political repercussions he may face.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with an accurate depiction of the political setting of fascist Italy at the time, with the fascist party being portrayed as a powerful force that wields immense influence over the police and the judiciary system. The episode also offers a glimpse into the daily lives of ordinary people in Italy under fascist rule, highlighting the stark contrast between the lives of the wealthy fascist party members and the impoverished working class.

Although the episode ends with Inspector De Luca successfully solving the case, it also highlights the difficult choices and challenges he will continue to face as he doggedly pursues justice while navigating the treacherous political landscape. The episode also sets the stage for future episodes by introducing complex character relationships and political intrigue that will continue to develop throughout the series.

In conclusion, Inspector De Luca season 1 episode 1, An Unauthorized Investigation (Pilot), is a captivating opening to an intriguing crime drama series. Alessandro Preziosi's portrayal of Inspector De Luca is nuanced and captivating, while the richly detailed setting of fascist Italy provides the perfect backdrop for a politically charged crime story. Viewers are sure to be hooked by the end of the episode, eagerly anticipating the next installment in De Luca's quest for justice.