Ep 1. Everything Is Fine/Flying

The Good Place Season 1 Episode 1, "Everything Is Fine/Flying" centers around Eleanor Shellstrop waking up in a bright and colorful "Good Place" after her death. She is met by Michael, the architect of her personalized heaven, who proudly shows her around her perfect home and introduces her to her soulmate. Eleanor is initially confused and disoriented, remembering only fragments of her life on Earth. However, she is quickly embraced by her new community, including her assigned soulmate Chidi Anagonye, her friendly and helpful neighbors Tahani Al-Jamil and Jianyu Li, and the all-knowing guide Janet.

As the episode progresses, Eleanor begins to realize that she may not belong in the Good Place after all. She confides in Chidi, a moral philosopher, that she was a terrible person on Earth and did not deserve to be in heaven. Chidi agrees to help her improve her behavior so that she can earn her place in the Good Place.

Meanwhile, Eleanor is plagued by the discovery that Jianyu is actually a silent Buddhist monk who has taken a vow of silence. She becomes increasingly frustrated with her inability to communicate with him and her mounting guilt about her true identity. Her anxiety reaches a breaking point when she accidentally sets off a fireworks display during a neighborhood party, nearly killing one of her neighbors.

Despite her growing doubts, Eleanor ultimately decides to embrace her new life in the Good Place and commit to becoming a better person. The episode ends with a twist as Michael and the other residents gather to celebrate the success of Eleanor's rehabilitation. However, Eleanor receives a shocking message from the outside world that threatens to upend her new life.

"Everything Is Fine/Flying" is a charming and uplifting introduction to The Good Place's unconventional take on the afterlife. The episode is filled with bright colors, witty humor, and engaging characters that draw viewers into the show's unique universe. Kristen Bell delivers a standout performance as Eleanor, balancing her character's snarky humor with vulnerable moments of self-doubt and introspection. Ted Danson is also fantastic as Michael, portraying the quirky and endearing architect with aplomb. The episode expertly sets up the show's central conflict of Eleanor's journey towards redemption while also teasing mysterious elements that keep the audience engaged and wondering what will happen next. Overall, "Everything Is Fine/Flying" sets the tone for a vibrant and imaginative show that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable.