Ep 1. CentBom

In Manhunt season 2 episode 1, titled "CentBom," viewers are thrown into the chaos and aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings. The episode opens with a stark reminder of the devastation caused by the bombings as we see real-life footage and hear the screams of terrified bystanders. We're quickly introduced to FBI Special Agent Richard DesLauriers (played by Jack Huston), who is tasked with leading the investigation into the bombings.

DesLauriers is depicted as a man of great focus and determination, who is deeply committed to bringing those responsible for the bombings to justice. His team includes Special Agent Sarah Essen (played by Carla Gugino), who is assigned to the case as a liaison from the U.S. Attorney's office. There's also Special Agent Andy Black (played by Jeremy Bobb), an explosives expert, and Special Agent R. Scott Neal (played by Brian d'Arcy James), who has a background in counterterrorism.

As the team starts to piece together the evidence they have gathered from the scene of the bombings, DesLauriers is convinced that he's dealing with a homegrown terrorist. He hypothesizes that the explosives were made from chemicals that can be easily bought at a hardware store, and that the individual responsible for the act has a grievance against the government.

Meanwhile, we're introduced to a young Muslim man named Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (played by Alex Wolff), who appears to be the perfect American teenager but is hiding a dark secret. Tsarnaev is shown interacting with his friends, attending college parties, and even smoking weed. It's clear that he's never been radicalized in any meaningful way, which makes it all the more shocking when we learn that he's one of the individuals responsible for the bombings.

As the investigation heats up, tensions begin to rise between DesLauriers and the U.S. Attorney's office. There's a sense that the political stakes are high, and that everyone involved is under enormous pressure to find the perpetrators quickly. This dynamic plays out in various ways throughout the episode, as DesLauriers and his team are forced to navigate bureaucratic obstacles and conflicting interests.

Ultimately, the first episode of Manhunt season 2 provides a gripping and intense look at one of the most horrific events in recent American history. The show does an excellent job of depicting the bravery and determination of law enforcement officials, while also acknowledging the complexities of the case and the broader political and social implications of the bombings. If you're a fan of true crime dramas or simply interested in learning more about this tragic event, you won't want to miss this powerful episode.