Ep 1. Return

UnREAL season 1 episode 1 titled Return introduces viewers to the behind-the-scenes world of a fictitious reality television show called Everlasting, in which a suitor named Adam Cromwell searches for love among 25 female contestants. The initial moments of the episode set the stage for what is to come, opening on a picturesque mansion on a clear day in a seemingly idyllic Los Angeles suburb.

Quinn King, the executive producer of Everlasting, arrives on the scene to find that her crew is behind schedule and that her lead producer, Rachel Goldberg, has been out of contact for an extended period. Quinn, who is highly recognizable for her acerbic and take-no-prisoners attitude, is quick to take charge of the situation, assigning production roles to employees and setting in motion the opening ceremonies for the show.

As the first contestants arrive at the mansion, Rachel appears on the scene, looking haggard and sleep-deprived. It becomes clear that Rachel is passionate about her job as a producer but is also deeply conflicted about the ethics of the reality television industry. The show's creator, Chet Wilton, confronts Rachel about her mental state and suggests she take a break from work, but Rachel refuses, seeing the job as a way to gain respect and a foothold in the television industry.

Throughout the episode, tension grows between Quinn and Chet, who are both vying for control of the show. Quinn is concerned with creating entertaining television and delivering a product that will keep audiences engaged, while Chet is more interested in exploiting the contestants and fostering drama between them. Quinn engages in a power struggle with Chet over the direction of the show, with Rachel caught in the middle.

As the first episode unfolds, viewers are introduced to a cast of contestants ranging from overly confident and attention-seeking to genuine and likable. Among them are Faith, a deeply religious young woman who is struggling with the idea of appearing on a reality show, and Mary, a single mother who sees the show as a way to provide for her family. The initial moments of the show highlight the intense scrutiny that contestants face, with a team working behind the scenes to craft each and every shot and storyline.

The first episode climaxes with an intense confrontation between Quinn and Rachel, who are at odds over how to handle one of the contestants. Quinn confronts Rachel about her ethics, suggesting that Rachel may not have what it takes to work on the show. But Rachel proves her mettle, fighting back against Quinn's accusations and asserting her dedication to the job.

Overall, UnREAL season 1 episode 1 sets the stage for a thrilling and dramatic season of television, introducing viewers to the high-stakes world of reality television production. The episode lays out the key players and conflicts at play, setting the stage for intense drama and captivating storylines to come.