Ep 1. Episode 1

Man in an Orange Shirt is a British drama television series that premiered on BBC Two in 2017. It is a two-part series that explores the lives of two homosexual men who lived in different eras and how their lives intersect. The first episode of the series is titled "Episode 1", and it introduces the viewers to the two main characters of the show.

The episode begins in the 1940s, during World War II. A young soldier named Michael is fighting in the war when he meets a fellow soldier named Thomas. They instantly become close friends and spend their time together whenever they can. However, Michael begins to feel more than just friendship towards Thomas and is unsure how to deal with these feelings. Thomas, on the other hand, seems to be oblivious to Michael's feelings.

After the war, Michael returns home to London where he is welcomed by his family. He meets his fiancé Flora and is overwhelmed by her affection for him. However, he is still unable to shake off his feelings for Thomas and seeks him out. They meet up, and Michael confesses his love for him. Thomas is taken aback but ultimately decides to act on his own feelings towards Michael. They spend a passionate night together, but their happiness is short-lived when they are caught by the police and charged with homosexuality, which was illegal at the time.

The story then jumps forward to the present day, where we are introduced to Michael's grandson, Adam. Adam is a successful architect who is engaged to his girlfriend, but he is struggling with his own sexuality. He is unsure if he is truly in love with his fiancé and is haunted by the memories of his grandfather's relationship with Thomas. Michael had passed away before Adam was born, but his story lives on in his family's memories and in his artwork, which Adam often admires.

While researching his grandfather's life, Adam meets a man named Steve, and they instantly click. Steve is openly gay and helps Adam come to terms with his own sexuality. However, Adam's fiancée discovers his feelings for Steve, and their relationship becomes strained. Adam must choose between continuing with his life as it is or taking a chance on love with Steve.

Overall, the first episode of Man in an Orange Shirt is a beautifully crafted, emotional story about the complexities of love and the struggles faced by homosexual men in different eras. The acting is superb, particularly from Vanessa Redgrave, who plays Michael's older sister, and Julian Morris, who plays Thomas. The show is a poignant reminder of how far we have come in terms of acceptance of homosexuality and how much further we still have to go. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good drama and enjoys thought-provoking storytelling.