Ep 1. Episode 1

The Kominsky Method is a comedy-drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. The show is created by Chuck Lorre, the man behind sitcom hits like The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men. The show follows the life of an aging actor, Sandy Kominsky, played by Michael Douglas, who is trying to come to terms with his mortality and make sense of his life and career.

The first episode of The Kominsky Method sets the tone for the entire series. The episode opens with Sandy Kominsky teaching an acting class in his modest studio in Los Angeles. He is a respected acting coach, but his life is far from glamorous. He is a widower, and his daughter, who is a successful writer, lives far away in New York City.

Sandy's closest friend is his agent and former colleague, Norman Newlander, played by Alan Arkin. Norman is also a widower, and the two have been friends for over fifty years. The two men have a playful and loving relationship, frequently bickering and teasing each other, but always showing a deep affection and understanding for one another.

The episode introduces us to some of Sandy's acting students. Lisa, played by Emily Osment, is a young and enthusiastic actress who is determined to make it big in Hollywood. Sandy's other students include an elderly man who is struggling with his lines and a woman who is dealing with a difficult breakup.

The episode also establishes Sandy's struggles with his own aging. He is dealing with prostate issues, and his health is causing him to rethink his life and what he wants from it. He is also struggling with his acting career. He has been offered a role in a network television show, but he is hesitant to take it because he does not believe in the script.

As the episode progresses, we see Sandy deal with a myriad of personal and professional issues. He is dealing with bureaucracy in his acting studio and trying to juggle his teaching with his personal life. He is also trying to make a connection with Lisa, who he sees potential in as an actress.

The episode ends with Sandy heading to Norman's house for dinner. Norman is clearly in pain and is having trouble standing up, which worries Sandy. The two men have a heart-to-heart conversation about Norman's old age and his regrets in life. They speak frankly about the challenges of aging and the importance of living life to the fullest.

Overall, the first episode of The Kominsky Method is a funny and heartwarming introduction to the characters and themes of the series. It sets up the dynamic between Sandy and Norman, establishes the setting of Los Angeles, and introduces us to some of the show's core themes such as aging, mortality, and the pursuit of happiness. The writing is sharp, and the performances by Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin are excellent. For fans of Chuck Lorre's previous work, The Kominsky Method is a must-watch.