Ep 1. Episode 1

The A Word is a British drama series that revolves around the life of a family living in the Lake District. The show focuses on the story of Joe, a young boy with autism, and how his condition affects the people around him.

In season 3, episode 1, titled "Episode 1", the show picks up from where it left off in the last season. The episode opens with the family enjoying a picnic on a sunny day. Joe's parents Alison and Paul are chatting with their friends while Joe plays with his uncle Eddie. The scene reflects a happy and relaxed atmosphere, but it is short-lived as things take a turn for the worse.

Joe's grandmother, Maurice's wife, has died and the family gathers to pay their respects. The death of the matriarch of the family is a traumatic event that forces everyone to come to terms with their loss. The funeral is a sobering event that shows the family struggling to cope with their grief, and the episode provides a glimpse into the complexity of human emotion and relationships.

The recurring theme of the episode is the question of whether or not Joe should be told about his grandmother's death. The family is divided about how to handle the situation, with some feeling that he should be told while others believe that he would not understand. This conflict highlights the unique challenges that come with raising a child with autism and the different approaches that are needed to ensure their well-being.

The episode also explores the issue of communication within families. Alison and Paul have been struggling with their relationship, and the death of Alison's mother brings their issues to the forefront. The couple battles to communicate with each other and to navigate the complex emotions that come with grief.

Similarly, Joe's sister Rebecca is also dealing with issues of communication. She is a teenager dealing with the typical teenage hardships of fitting in and understanding her place in the world. Rebecca struggles with connecting with her family and peers, and her storyline reflects the complexity of growing up in a family with a special needs child.

The episode is not just about sadness, however. Amidst the grief, there are moments of levity and humor that reflect the realities of life. The show does an excellent job of balancing the heavy themes with scenes that provide the audience with a momentary escape from the sadness.

Overall, the first episode of The A Word Season 3 is a poignant reminder of the importance of family. The episode provides a window into the complexities and challenges of raising a child with autism, highlighting the unique communication and connection issues that arise within families. The episode also shows how families must come together to navigate life's challenges and celebrate the moments of happiness that come their way. The first episode sets the stage for what promises to be an emotionally charged season filled with love, laughter, and tears.