Ep 1. Episode 1

The Hour is a British drama series set in the 1950s, where a group of journalists work on a new current affairs program for the BBC. Season 1 Episode 1, titled "Episode 1," introduces the main characters and sets up the plot for the rest of the season.

The episode begins with the start of a new year as the team at the BBC prepare to launch their new program, The Hour. The main character, Bel Rowley, is the producer of the show. She is ambitious and eager to make the program a success, but she faces challenges from her male colleagues who are not used to having a woman in a position of power. Her friend and co-worker, Freddie Lyon, is a talented journalist who is also ambitious but struggles with following authority. He has a crush on Bel, but she is in a complicated relationship with her married boss, Hector Madden.

As the team prepares for the first episode, they are thrown into a story involving a highly publicized murder case and a government cover-up. Bel and Freddie investigate the case, but their article is spiked, causing tension between them and their superiors. Meanwhile, Hector's wife, Marnie, is struggling with mental health issues and their marriage is strained.

The episode also introduces a subplot involving Hector's brother, who is involved in illegal activities. This subplot provides a glimpse into the political and social climate of the time, where corruption and scandal were rampant.

Overall, "Episode 1" sets up the main characters and establishes the themes of the series, including gender dynamics, corruption, and journalistic integrity. The writing is sharp and the acting is excellent, particularly Romola Garai as Bel and Ben Whishaw as Freddie. The production design and costumes capture the feel of the 1950s, adding to the show's authenticity.

As the first episode of the series, "Episode 1" succeeds in hooking the viewer and setting up the plot for the rest of the season. It is a promising start to a smart and engaging drama series.