Ep 1. Episode 1

Titled "Episode 1," the opening installment of the gripping drama series The Way We Live Now introduces viewers to a world of ambition, greed, and societal allure. Set in Victorian England, the episode delves into the lives of a wide range of characters, each navigating their own complex webs of relationships, deceit, and desire.

Amidst the opulent grandeur of London's upper-class society, we are first introduced to the enigmatic Augustus Melmotte, a charismatic and larger-than-life businessman with a mysterious past. With ambitions of joining the aristocracy and amassing even greater wealth, Melmotte steps onto the stage, capturing the attention and fascination of those around him.

Simultaneously, the audience follows the story of Sir Felix Carbury, a young and somewhat naive man who dreams of securing a fortune through marriage. With his eye on the alluringly beautiful Marie Melmotte, he becomes embroiled in a chaotic spiral of infatuation and desperation. However, Sir Felix's mother, Lady Carbury, bears her own ambitions and endeavors to secure financial stability for her family at any cost.

Running parallel to these intrigues, our attention is drawn to the charming and fiercely independent Hetta Carbury, Lady Carbury's daughter, who finds herself caught between familial expectations and her own desires. Attracted to the sincere and honorable Paul Montague, Hetta struggles to navigate the complexities of Victorian courtship while resisting the influence of her manipulative mother.

The episode also casts a light upon the emergence of modern day journalism and its impact on society. Enter the idealistic young journalist, Mrs. Hurtle, who seeks to expose corruption and uncover the truth. As she enmeshes herself in the lives of key characters, her insights offer a fresh perspective on the social and political landscape of the time.

Additionally, the narrative expands beyond London's upper crust, exploring the lives of those on the outskirts of society. The viewer is introduced to the honest and hardworking Roger Carbury, a prominent landowner who finds himself drawn to Hetta despite their differing social statuses. Roger exemplifies a sense of moral integrity and represents a striking contrast to the world of manipulation swirling around him.

Amidst the glittering ballrooms, bustling city streets, and sprawling countryside estates, the story is intricately woven together, presenting a fascinating look at a society driven by ambition, desires, and social expectations. With each new interaction and revelation, the multiple storylines gradually intertwine, exposing the delicate balance between love and power, truth and deception.

The Way We Live Now, Episode 1 sets the stage for a captivating saga that examines the flaws and vices of human nature while exploring themes of love, class, and moral ambiguity. Through a rich tapestry of characters and an intricately layered plot, this Victorian drama promises to delve deep into the complexities of a rapidly changing society, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they witness the consequences of the way people live now.