Ep 1. Episode 101

Episode 101 of McMafia's first season is a thrilling start to the international crime drama. We are introduced to the protagonist, Alex Godman, who seemingly has a legitimate life as a successful fund manager in London. However, as the episode progresses, we learn that Alex’s background is not as clean as he would like to believe.

We first see Alex attending a charity event with his girlfriend, Rebecca. They arrive in a luxurious car and are greeted by an old family friend, Semiyon Kleiman. Through their conversation, we learn that Alex’s father, Dimitri Godman, was a wealthy and successful Russian businessman who built his fortune on shady dealings with the Russian mafia. Dimitri was assassinated, and Alex and his mother, Oksana, fled to England to escape the dangerous criminal underworld of Russia.

Despite their attempts to start fresh, it becomes clear that Alex’s family’s troubled past is catching up with them. Alex is asked to help Semiyon’s nephew Kirill, who has gotten himself into trouble with the mafia in Prague. Alex hesitates at first but ultimately agrees to help, kicking off a series of events that will have major consequences.

As Alex delves deeper into the world of organized crime to help Kirill, he discovers that it is not dissimilar from the world he is accustomed to in finance. The same principles of supply and demand and the pursuit of profit apply, albeit in more dangerous and illegal ways. The episode explores themes of family, loyalty, greed, and power, as Alex is forced to confront his family’s ties to the criminal underworld.

The show’s production is impressive, with stunning cinematography and attention to detail in the portrayal of the different locations. The contrast between Alex’s luxurious lifestyle in London and the gritty reality of organized crime in Prague is stark and well-executed.

The episode also features strong performances from the ensemble cast, with James Norton delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man struggling to reconcile his past and present. His girlfriend, Rebecca, played by Juliet Rylance, provides a refreshing perspective as a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to confront Alex about his secrets. David Strathairn is also excellent as Semiyon Kleiman, the enigmatic and intimidating gangster who appears to have ulterior motives.

Overall, Episode 101 of McMafia season 1 sets up the world of the series’ and its characters’ well and establishes the tension and stakes that will continue throughout the season. It’s a promising start to what is sure to be an intriguing and engaging crime drama.