Ep 1. Pilot

Z: The Beginning of Everything is a period drama web television series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in January 2017. The show is centered around the life of American novelist Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald, who was famously married to the author F. Scott Fitzgerald. Season 1 episode 1, titled "Pilot", introduces us to Zelda and sets the tone for the rest of the series.

The episode opens with a disclaimer that the show is a work of fiction and not entirely historically accurate. We are then transported to Montgomery, Alabama in 1918. The scene is set with a grand party, which is where Zelda, played by Christina Ricci, is introduced. She stands out from the crowd in her flapper outfit and exuberant personality. We see her dancing, drinking, and generally having a good time. This scene is juxtaposed with that of F. Scott Fitzgerald, played by David Hoflin, who is stationed at a nearby army base. He is writing away and struggling to come up with a fitting conclusion to his latest work.

This is where the two characters meet for the first time. F. Scott Fitzgerald attends the party in search of a few drinks and possibly some inspiration for his writing. He sees Zelda and is immediately captivated by her, much to the annoyance of his friend who came to the party with him. F. Scott and Zelda share a brief conversation, which only solidifies his infatuation with her.

After the party, Zelda runs into F. Scott in the street. He offers to walk her home, but she does not seem interested in his advances. She accuses him of being just like every other man she has met, and that he only wants one thing. F. Scott responds by saying that he is not like other men, and that he sees something different in Zelda. This exchange sets the foundation for their tumultuous relationship.

As the episode progresses, we see Zelda living a rather mundane life with her family. Her father is a judge, and he has strict expectations for his family. Zelda is not content with this life and is always looking for something more. She catches the attention of a well-to-do bachelor, but it is clear that she is not interested in him.

Meanwhile, F. Scott has been published and has become somewhat of a celebrity. Zelda sees his name in the paper and remembers their encounter at the party. She decides to write him a letter, congratulating him on his success. This leads to a back-and-forth correspondence that ultimately leads to their reunion. When they meet again, their chemistry is palpable, and they quickly become enamored with one another.

The episode comes to a close with F. Scott and Zelda dancing at a party. They are completely lost in one another and have no idea what the future holds. The scene is shot in a beautiful way, with the colors and lighting lending itself to the romantic atmosphere.

Overall, "Pilot" lays the foundation for what promises to be an interesting and engaging series. The acting is top-notch, with Christina Ricci delivering a standout performance. The cinematography and direction are also noteworthy, with the 1920s setting coming to life on-screen. We are left with a sense of excitement for what is to come and can't wait to see how the relationship between F. Scott and Zelda unfolds.