Ep 1. Acts of Borden

In The Lizzie Borden Chronicles season 1 episode 1, titled "Acts of Borden," we are transported back to Fall River, Massachusetts, in the late 1800s. Lizzie Borden, famously acquitted of the brutal murders of her father and stepmother, is attempting to resume her normal life following the trial. However, it quickly becomes apparent that not everyone is willing to let the past go.

The episode begins with Lizzie, played by Christina Ricci, attending church with her sister Emma (Clea DuVall). As the congregation sings hymns, Lizzie glances nervously around the room, seemingly worried about the disapproving stares of those around her. It's clear that her reputation as a possible murderer has preceded her, and some members of the community are still deeply suspicious of her.

After church, Lizzie returns to her home, which she shares with Emma, their maid Bridget (Hannah Emily Anderson), and their uncle John (John Heard). It quickly becomes apparent that tensions are running high within the household. Lizzie resents her uncle for marrying her late father's former mistress, and Emma seems to be barely able to tolerate her sister's presence.

The family's strained dynamic is further highlighted when Lizzie receives an unwelcome visitor in the form of Mr. Flowers (Jonathan Banks), a local entrepreneur who has a history of shady dealings. Flowers informs Lizzie that her late father owed him a significant amount of money, and he expects her to pay off the debt. Lizzie is understandably flustered by this demand, but she manages to stand her ground and refuse to submit to Flowers' blackmail.

However, Lizzie's problems are far from over. Shortly after Flowers' visit, John discovers a gruesome discovery in their backyard - the decapitated head of a man. It's clear that this is not just a random act of violence - someone is sending a message to the Borden household. As the episode progresses, the Borden family finds themselves embroiled in a web of intrigue that threatens to destroy them.

Just when it seems that things couldn't get any worse, Lizzie's estranged half-brother William (Andrew Howard) appears, claiming that he has evidence that Lizzie was responsible for the murders of her father and stepmother. He threatens to go to the authorities if Lizzie doesn't give him a sum of money that he claims is rightfully his. It quickly becomes clear that William is not to be trusted, and his arrival only adds to the already tense dynamics within the household.

The tension reaches a boiling point as Lizzie, Emma, and Bridget confront William, and a violent altercation ensues. It's clear that the Borden family is in serious danger, and the episode concludes with a shocking cliffhanger that leaves the future of the family hanging in the balance.

Overall, "Acts of Borden" is an engaging and suspenseful episode that sets the stage for the rest of the season. Christina Ricci delivers a convincing performance as Lizzie, portraying her as both vulnerable and fiercely determined to protect herself and her family. The show also does an excellent job of recreating the atmosphere of Fall River in the late 1800s, with its strict social hierarchies and deeply ingrained prejudices. With its intricate plot and strong performances, The Lizzie Borden Chronicles is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.