Ep 3. Slow Hand

As the drug epidemic spreads throughout South Central Los Angeles, Snowfall introduces us to a cast of characters whose lives are increasingly becoming intertwined through their involvement in the business of cocaine. In season 1 episode 3 titled "Slow Hand," we see Franklin's world expanding as he sells his first batch of cocaine to local dealers. This lands him in the crosshairs of a Mexican drug lord, who sees an opportunity to expand his own empire by partnering with Franklin. Meanwhile, Teddy struggles to keep his covert operations a secret from his family, and Gustavo, a Mexican wrestler-turned-hitman, seeks revenge against a rival gang.

The episode starts with Franklin selling his first batch of cocaine to local dealers. He cautiously navigates the drug business, trying to keep his hands clean while making as much money as possible. His girlfriend, Mel, encourages him to take bigger risks, but Franklin is hesitant to take on too much too soon. Meanwhile, Teddy is working on getting his own product into the market. He secretly meets with a chemist to develop stronger cocaine, but his plans are put on hold after his wife and kids come back home unexpectedly.

As Franklin's drug business grows, he becomes a target for a Mexican drug lord named Avi. Avi sees the potential in Franklin and offers to partner with him. Franklin is hesitant at first, but Avi convinces him by offering him a better quality of cocaine and the protection of his organization. Franklin agrees, but not before running it by his mentor, Jerome. Jerome counsels him to be careful and warns him of the dangers of partnering with someone he doesn't know.

Gustavo, a Mexican wrestler-turned-hitman, is seeking revenge against a rival gang called the Los Olvidados who attacked and killed his uncle. He persuades Lucia, the niece of his former mentor, to join him in his quest for vengeance. Despite her reservations, Lucia helps him locate the Los Olvidados' hideout. They successfully attack the gang, but things don't go as planned, and Gustavo is left with some difficult choices to make.

As the episode progresses, we see the intricate ways in which these characters' lives are connected. Franklin's business dealings with Avi and his connection to Teddy's covert operations demonstrate the far-reaching impact of the drug trade. Meanwhile, Gustavo and Lucia's story shows the ruthless and violent nature of the gangs involved in the cocaine trade.

"Slow Hand" delivers on the promise of the show's pilot, expanding the world of Snowfall and introducing us to complex characters whose allegiances and motives are not always clear. The show masterfully blends drama, action, and social commentary, highlighting the devastating effects that the cocaine epidemic had on communities like South Central Los Angeles in the 1980s. With sharp writing, strong performances, and stunning visuals, Snowfall is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and period pieces alike.