Ep 1. Episode 01

Strike Back: Origins, also known as Chris Ryan's Strike Back when it aired on Sky One in the UK, is the compelling first series that serves as the foundation for what would become the acclaimed Strike Back franchise. Season 1, Episode 1, introduces viewers to the intense, action-packed world of counter-terrorism, as seen through the lenses of the British military's elite Special Air Service (SAS).

In this inaugural episode, we are introduced to the central character, John Porter, a seasoned operative with the tenacity and skills of a hardened soldier. The series opens on the tumultuous battlefield in Basra, Iraq, where the British military is engaged in the tumultuous post-invasion chaos. Focusing not just on gunfights and tactical maneuvers, the show delves into the psychological and moral complexities that soldiers like Porter must navigate while on active duty.

Porter's journey begins with a high-stakes mission that forms the backbone of this introductory episode. The viewers are thrust into a world where political intrigue, global threats, and the camaraderie amongst service members are all interwoven. We witness the inner workings of the SAS and the grueling decisions they must make under pressure. The stakes are heightened by the authenticity of the story, as it is adapted from former SAS soldier Chris Ryan's novel.

Episode 1 skillfully balances character development with the strategic and precise action sequences that Strike Back would become known for. The complexities of John Porter's personal life, his relationship with his family, and the psychological impact of combat are all touched upon, offering a multidimensional view of his character. As Porter is pulled deeper into a world of covert operations, viewers can expect to be captivated by not only the physical battles but also the internal struggles he faces.

The episode sets a brisk pace from the outset, establishing a sense of urgency that flows throughout the series. We are exposed to the intelligence-gathering process, the formulation of critical missions, and to the field operatives tasked with carrying out orders that can have life-or-death consequences. The action sequences demonstrate meticulous choreography and are supported by credible military tactics, as advisors with real-world combat experience helped shape the series' portrayal of military operations.

Moreover, Episode 1 sets up the overarching themes of the season, including betrayal, redemption, and the often-blurred lines between right and wrong in the theater of war. We are also introduced to the support characters who will play pivotal roles in Porter's story—individuals within the British intelligence community and military who each have their own intricacies and motivations.

This first episode does an exceptional job of planting seeds for long-term story arcs while ensuring that the immediate narrative is compelling and complete. As the launchpad for subsequent episodes, it sows intrigue around the characters' pasts, their relationships, and the unrelenting nature of their profession.

As the mission unfolds, the strategizing, the points of conflict, and the choreographed operation all contribute to a sense of realism ingrained in the series. The tactical gear, weaponry, and operational dialogue help immerse viewers in the experience, painting a believable portrait of modern warfare against a backdrop of political and personal drama.

While Strike Back: Origins is ultimately a work of fiction, the program draws inspiration from real-world events, lending the series a gritty and authentic edge. The intensity of this episode doesn't overshadow the character-building moments that are vital for audience investment in Porter and his colleagues. The bonds between soldiers, the weight of command decisions, and the tension between duty and morality are all themes this episode begins to explore.

For fans of military and action dramas, Episode 1 of Strike Back: Origins is a high-octane foray into a world where the consequences of every action can ripple outward with unforeseen effects. It sets the stage for a series where the personal costs of war are never too far from the explosive action that defines the life of a special forces operative.

In summary, Episode 1 is an effective opening salvo that introduces the main protagonist, establishes the intense, gritty world he inhabits, and kickstarts a series of events that will challenge his skills, loyalties, and sense of self. It grips the audience with suspense, detailed military operations, and a peek into the minds of those who protect national security at great personal cost.