Ep 1. Say The Words

In the first episode of Motherland: Fort Salem, viewers are introduced to a world where witchcraft is not only real, but it is also a mandatory requirement for all women. The episode, titled "Say The Words," centers around three teenage witches who enlist in the army to serve their nation as soldiers. Their magic abilities are put to the test as they begin their rigorous training to become powerful warriors.

The show is set in an alternate, present-day America where witches have made a deal with the government to become the country's military force. The witches are highly respected and feared by the public, and their magic is used to protect the nation against its enemies. The show is a feminist take on the military genre, with the witches taking center stage as the heroines.

Our three main witches are Raelle (played by Taylor Hickson), Abigail (played by Ashley Nicole Williams), and Tally (played by Jessica Sutton). The three come from very different backgrounds and have distinct personalities. Raelle is a rebellious young woman who is dealing with the recent death of her mother, who was also a witch. Abigail, on the other hand, comes from a prestigious witch family and is determined to be the best soldier she can be. Tally is the youngest of the three, and her wide-eyed wonder at the magical world around her is infectious.

The three girls are placed in the same unit and are assigned to Sergeant Anacostia Quartermain (played by Demetria McKinney), a tough-as-nails drill instructor who is the epitome of military discipline. Under her guidance, the girls undergo intense physical and mental training to prepare them for battle. They are taught how to use their magic to their advantage, with each witch having a unique skill set that they must master.

The girls are also introduced to their cohort mate Scylla (played by Amalia Holm), who is a bit of a wild card. Scylla is charming and charismatic, but there is something mysterious about her. The girls are initially wary of her, but Scylla quickly proves herself to be a valuable member of the unit.

As the girls train, they learn about the history of their craft and the role witches have played in America's military history. The show explores themes of identity, feminism, and patriotism, with the witches asked to balance their individuality with their duty to their country.

Overall, the first episode of Motherland: Fort Salem is a promising start to an exciting new show. The premise is fresh and intriguing, and the characters are well-developed and engaging. The show offers a unique take on the military genre, with a feminist twist that is both empowering and entertaining. The magical world-building is also impressive, with the show's creators weaving together a complex mythology that is both imaginative and believable. Fans of action, drama and fantasy will find much to love in this show.