The Frankenstein Chronicles Season 1 Episode 1 World without God

In the first episode of The Frankenstein Chronicles, titled "World Without God," we are transported to 1827 London, where Inspector John Marlott (played by Sean Bean) is called to investigate a disturbing discovery on the banks of the Thames. The body of a small child has washed up, but something about the way it has been stitched together catches Marlott's attention.

Marlott is a seasoned detective with a haunted past -- early on we see glimpses of his wife and child, who both died from smallpox -- and having been on the city's police force for years, he's seen his share of gruesome crimes. But this one seems different, and to make matters worse, the body is missing a heart.

As the episode unfolds, Marlott uncovers a trail of clues that connect the child's murder to a larger conspiracy involving grave robbers, medical students, and a possible connection to the infamous Dr. Victor Frankenstein. Along the way, Marlott also encounters a young girl named Alice (played by Maeve Dermody), who becomes a key witness in the case.

The show's depiction of 19th century London is gritty and atmospheric, with plenty of dimly-lit alleyways and foggy streets. As Marlott follows leads and interviews suspects, we're introduced to a diverse cast of characters, from the upper-class medical students who may have ordered the body-snatching, to the downtrodden prostitutes who work in the slums. And as the investigation deepens, it becomes clear that there's much more at stake than just a single murdered child.

Despite the dark subject matter, there's also a touch of whimsy to The Frankenstein Chronicles, especially in the way it weaves in references to Mary Shelley's classic novel. The idea of reanimating the dead is obviously central to the story, and there are small nods to the original text throughout the episode -- from a stray dog named Scraps to a young girl named Justine, named after the ill-fated servant in Shelley's book.

Sean Bean is perfectly cast as Marlott, bringing a mix of melancholy and determination to the role. We get the sense that he's a man haunted by his own demons, but who is still driven to uncover the truth at all costs. Maeve Dermody is also excellent as Alice, a streetwise urchin who may know more than she lets on.

Overall, "World Without God" serves as a solid introduction to The Frankenstein Chronicles, setting up a mystery that promises to be both gruesome and intriguing. With its blend of historical drama, Gothic horror, and police procedural, the show offers a fresh take on an old tale, and is definitely worth checking out for fans of genre-bending TV.