Ep 1. Puppies and Kittens

In "Z Nation" season one episode one, entitled "Puppies and Kittens," viewers are thrown into a post-apocalyptic world where a zombie virus has destroyed most of humanity. The episode begins with a frenzied scene in a research lab, as scientists frantically work to find a cure for the deadly virus that has already turned their colleagues into vicious zombie-like creatures.

Meanwhile, outside, chaos reigns as a group of survivors led by a former convict named Murphy (Keith Allan) try to escape the city before it's too late. The group is joined by a pair of National Guard members, Warren (Kellita Smith) and Garnett (Tom Everett Scott), who are tasked with escorting Murphy, the only known survivor of a zombie bite, to a medical facility in California.

The group's journey through the ravaged countryside is fraught with danger, as they encounter hordes of "z's" (zombies) who are fierce, fast, and seemingly unstoppable. Along the way, they stop at a seemingly abandoned church where they encounter a group of survivors, including a little girl named "Addy" (Anastasia Baranova) who takes pity on a group of stray puppies and kittens. The scene is touching, with Addy soothing the frightened animals while the rest of the group stocks up on supplies.

However, as the sun sets, the group realizes that they are not alone in the church. A group of "Zeros," militant survivors who have taken it upon themselves to wipe out all zombies and anyone who has been infected, have set their sights on Murphy. A violent encounter ensues, with the group fighting off the Zeros' attacks while trying to keep Murphy alive.

The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with the group escaping the church but facing an uncertain future as they continue their trek towards California.

Overall, "Puppies and Kittens" is a fast-paced and action-packed introduction to the world of "Z Nation," with strong performances from the ensemble cast. The episode sets up the larger narrative of the series while also delivering smaller character moments that help round out the personalities of the survivors. Fans of zombie-themed TV shows such as "The Walking Dead" will find plenty to enjoy here, from the tense action sequences to the gut-wrenching emotional beats.