Ep 1. Christine Falls

In the first episode of the crime drama "Quirke," titled "Christine Falls," we are introduced to the titular character, Quirke (played by Gabriel Byrne), a Dublin-based pathologist who works in the city's morgue. Set in the 1950s, the episode begins with the discovery of a young woman's body in the morgue, identified as Christine Falls, who died under mysterious circumstances. Quirke is drawn to the case, intrigued by the circumstances of Christine's death and its potential links to his own past.

As we learn more about Quirke's character and backstory, it becomes clear that he has a complicated relationship with his adoptive family, the Griffins, and their business empire. His adoptive brother Mal (Barry Ward) urges him to drop the case and stay out of family affairs, but Quirke is determined to uncover the truth about Christine's death. Along the way, he forms a tentative alliance with Inspector Hackett (Nick Dunning), a hard-nosed detective who is investigating the case.

As Quirke delves deeper into the Christine Falls case, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets and lies involving members of Dublin's elite society, including the Griffin family and a wealthy developer named Billy Hunt (Aidan McArdle). Along the way, we are introduced to a cast of flawed and complex characters, including Quirke's ex-lover Sarah (Aisling Franciosi) and her husband Richard (Stanley Townsend), who may be connected to the case in unexpected ways.

The episode is beautifully shot, with moody and atmospheric cinematography that sets the tone for the series. The period detail is impeccable, from the stylish 1950s fashion to the vintage cars and wistful jazz soundtrack. The writing is sharp and insightful, with a slow-burning mystery that keeps the viewer engaged and guessing until the final reveal. Gabriel Byrne is superb in the lead role, bringing a brooding intensity and wry wit to a character who is both emotionally damaged and intellectually curious. The supporting cast is equally strong, with standout performances from Nick Dunning as the gruff Inspector Hackett and Aisling Franciosi as the enigmatic Sarah.

Overall, "Christine Falls" is a gripping and atmospheric crime drama that sets the stage for a promising series. It is a richly realized portrait of Dublin in the 1950s, full of complex characters and shadowy secrets. Fans of noir fiction and period dramas will find much to enjoy in this stylish and evocative show.