Ep 1. Episode 1

War & Peace is an epic period drama based on the novel of the same name by Leo Tolstoy. It is a BBC adaptation that retells the story of five aristocratic families in Russia during the time of Napoleon's invasion. The first episode lays the foundation for what is to come, setting up the plotlines, characters, and the historical backdrop.

The episode opens with a beautiful montage of the Russian landscape, accompanied by a stirring orchestral score. We are introduced to the Bolkonsky family who live in a grand estate, and whose patriarch, Prince Bolkonsky is a stern and rigid man. His son, Andrei, is an army officer who is unhappy with his life and struggles to find a purpose. Andrei's wife, Lise, is pregnant and they learn in this episode that she is expecting a child, but their relationship is fraught with tension and unhappiness.

The scene then shifts to a grand ball where members of the society are enjoying themselves, dancing and socializing. This is where we meet Pierre Bezukhov, an illegitimate son of a wealthy count who has just inherited his father's fortune. Pierre is an awkward and uncertain man who is not used to the attention he is receiving. He is accompanied by his friend, the content and happy-go-lucky Anatole Kuragin, who introduces Pierre to the upper echelons of society.

Meanwhile, the Rostov family is also introduced, with Count Rostov being a jovial and happy man who is proud of his family. His daughter, Natasha, is a vivacious and charming young woman who is the center of attention at the ball. She dances with Andrei and they are immediately attracted to each other. Natasha's brother, Nikolai, is an army officer who is smitten with a young woman named Sonya, who lives with the Rostovs as a governess and companion.

As the episode progresses, we see the characters grappling with their personal struggles and desires. Andrei is disillusioned with the Army and feels a sense of emptiness in his life. He decides to leave Lise behind and go to war, hoping to find purpose in his life. Meanwhile, Pierre is struggling to adjust to his new life of wealth and privilege. He is introduced to the scheming and manipulative members of society, including the Kuragin siblings, who have their eye on his fortune.

The Rostov family is also dealing with their own challenges. Count Rostov is struggling with financial difficulties, and his daughter, Sonya, has feelings for Nikolai but is unable to express them. Natasha, who is engaged to a wealthy man named Prince Andrew, finds herself drawn to Andrei and is conflicted about her feelings.

Throughout the episode, we see the different characters navigating their way through the complexities of their lives and relationships, against the backdrop of war and societal upheaval. The episode ends with Andrei going to war, leaving Lise behind, and Pierre realizing the true nature of those around him.

Overall, the first episode of War & Peace is a gripping and engaging introduction to the world of 19th century Russia. The production values are excellent, with stunning cinematography, intricate costumes, and a haunting score. The performances are also top-notch, with the actors bringing depth and complexity to their characters. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the audience eager to see what happens next in this sprawling epic.