Ep 1. Night One

The Comey Rule is a political drama mini-series that chronicles the events leading up to the 2016 US Presidential election and its aftermath. The show is based on the controversial memoir written by former FBI director James Comey.

Season 1 episode 1, titled "Night One," opens on January 24, 2017, with then FBI Director James Comey (played by Jeff Daniels) at a White House reception where he is greeted by President Donald Trump (Brendan Gleeson). The two men exchange awkward pleasantries, and Comey can't help but notice the president's unusually long handshake.

The scene then cuts to a few months earlier, in July 2016, when Comey was called upon to give a press conference about the FBI's investigation into then-Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server while she was Secretary of State. Comey shocks the nation by announcing that the investigation has concluded, and while Clinton was "extremely careless" in handling classified information, there will be no charges filed against her.

Comey's decision enrages both Democrats and Republicans, with many accusing him of playing politics and trying to influence the outcome of the election. Comey's wife Patrice (Jennifer Ehle) worries about the backlash, and Comey himself is consumed by doubt and regret.

The episode then flashes back to earlier times in Comey's career, including his time as Deputy Attorney General under George W. Bush's administration. We see Comey's reputation as a straight-shooter and his willingness to stand up to authority, even when it means putting his job and reputation on the line.

Back in 2016, the election is in full swing, and Comey finds himself in the middle of a political firestorm. The FBI is investigating possible Russian interference in the election, and Comey is forced to navigate both the political minefield surrounding the investigation and his own complicated relationship with President Trump.

The episode ends with Comey receiving an unexpected visit from Trump at the FBI headquarters. Trump makes it clear that he expects Comey's loyalty and asks him to drop the investigation into former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn. Comey is left with a difficult decision, and the viewer is left wondering what he will do next.

Overall, "Night One" sets the stage for a compelling political drama that explores some of the most controversial and contentious events in modern American history. With a strong cast, taut writing, and a commitment to historical accuracy, The Comey Rule promises to be a riveting and thought-provoking examination of power, loyalty, and the rule of law in America.