Ep 1. Pilot

In the opening episode of The Deuce, entitled "Pilot," viewers are introduced to the seedy underbelly of 1970s New York City. The show explores the birth of the porn industry and the rise of the sex trade, all set against the backdrop of Times Square's transformation from a bustling hub of commerce to a den of iniquity.

We are introduced to a cast of characters whose lives intersect in ways both expected and unexpected. At the heart of the story is Vincent Martino (James Franco), a bartender struggling to make ends meet to support his wife and kids. He is propositioned by a local mob boss, Rudy Pipilo (Michael Rispoli), to run a bar that will serve as a front for prostitution.

Meanwhile, we meet twin brothers Frankie and Vincent (also played by Franco), who are constantly botching schemes and running afoul of the law. Their misadventures lead them to a chance encounter with a streetwalker named Candy (Maggie Gyllenhaal), who is struggling to make enough money to support herself and her young son.

As the episode progresses, we see the inner workings of the sex industry, with pimps and prostitutes striking deals and navigating the complex power dynamics at play. We also witness the introduction of the porn industry, as a filmmaker named Harvey (David Krumholtz) recruits a fresh-faced bartender named Lori (Emily Meade) to star in his latest film.

Throughout all of this, the city itself becomes a character in its own right. The vibrant yet seedy streets of Times Square are captured in all their gritty glory, with neon lights and prostitutes serving as a constant reminder of the decay of a once-great city.

The episode sets the stage for what promises to be a complex and engaging drama, with a talented cast bringing to life a world that is simultaneously fascinating and disturbing. With its blend of crime, sex, and social commentary, The Deuce is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing shows on television.