#7: LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #7

This week, I watched the first episode of Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette. I have been hearing a lot about this show recently so I had to see it for myself. The first episode was released not too long ago on February 12th and completed with 9 episodes total.

SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gw2RakWShdE

Week 7: Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette

Quick Recap

The first episode of Love Story is titled "Pilot."  It sets up one of the most famous relationships of 90s, introducing both John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette's lives before they meet. It begins by establishing the public image and pressure of John's life while he also tries to find his own identity. Then, we have Carolyn, who has effortlessly perfect style and and works in fashion at Calvin Klein - she is portrayed as someone who is reserved and private but in an intriguing way. This episode builds tension and sparks around their first encounters, as well as the complications that come with it - John has a very public life and Carolyn has always strived for a private one. The episode ends with their connection getting deeper, while also presenting the conflict of whether Carolyn can handle / is up for dating one of the most public figures in America. 

First Impressions

The first episode made a really strong impression on me. The episode was somewhat intense but also beautiful. Both John and Carolyn have differing  personalities that make their relationship interesting to observe. I think their dynamic was interesting, especially because of how their lifestyles contrast. It being set in the 90s also creates a very nostalgic theme, so its not just about their love story but about the culture during that time. I don't think the show is going to be overly dramatic, but probably very real in terms of what the couple faced by being constantly broadcasted, followed, and judged. I think it's going to be a show I really like. 

Pacing

The pacing was pretty considerate - I think they did a good job of providing context into both Carolyn's and John's life separately before they met to get a better understanding of where they were coming from when they came together. I enjoyed the slower build. I could see some people thinking it was a slow start but I think that was intended to be the case - it didn't rush straight into the relationship but the audience was able to see them get to know each other before things began to completely change for both of them.

Keep Watching?

Yes, I am going to keep watching. This show is a lot different than the show I chose for my last blog post, but I like to switch things up. I think I overall just really love the 90s vibe that is being portrayed (especially the fashion) so I look forward to watching it. I haven't watched a romantic film or show in some time, but I enjoy shows that reflect real experiences so I have high hopes for this one. 

My Overall Rating: Loved it

★★★★★

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #6

This week, I watched the first episode of Schitt's Creek. I wanted to watch something funny. I've actually seen a few random episodes of the show over the years, but I never watched the pilot episode. The show has six seasons of which aired between 2015 and 2020. 

SOURCE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0uWS6CnC2o

Week 6: Schitt's Creek

Quick Recap

The first episode of Schitt's Creek is titled "Pilot."  It beings with a wealthy family  - the Rose Family - Johnny Rose and his wife Moira, and their adult children David and Alexis. They suddenly lose their fortune after their business manager embezzles their money and the only thing they have left is a rundown town called Schitt's Creek, which Johnny purchased as a joke one time for his son. The family has no choice but to relocate there and stay in two rooms at the town motel. The family struggles to integrate into this new lifestyle, but by the end of the episode, they come to terms with the fact that Schitt's Creek will have to be their home for now. 

First Impressions

I thought it was hilarious. I have not watched a funny show like that in a while and I really enjoyed the lack of seriousness. I've been watching and rating a lot of crime and mystery shows in this blog, so I think it is good I chose to switch it up. The show heavily projects the contrast between the wealthy and high maintenance family and the simplicity of Schitt's Creek. The characters are really dramatic which adds a lot of humor. They are so uncomfortable and distraught over the situation and I think the first episode does a really good job of making it clear who this family is and the types of personalities we will be watching.

Pacing

The pacing was pretty fast at first - the family's loss of wealth was the first scene and it led them to move to Schitt's Creek almost immediately. The first scene gives background context and introduces conflict at the same time. Once they get to the town, pacing begins to slow down just like their environment. Once we get to the town, we start to meet new characters and see in-depth the personalities of the Rose members. I think that overall, the pacing is perfect. 

Keep Watching?

Yes, I am definitely going to continue watching. I once read an article that those who watch funny shows are actually more intelligent and overall happier. I think that during the week, I need a quick episode to life my mood at the end of the day. I also told myself I was going to stop scrolling on social media before bed, so this might be my first step. For some reason, watching a TV show feels more productive than doom scrolling. 

My Overall Rating: Funny

★★★★★

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #5

This week, I decided to watch a show I found on Netflix - The Beast In Me. It came out recently and is a mini 8-episode series. I plan to get through I love following along a mystery and trying to solve the crime as each episode passes by.

SOURCE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iNHGKcP0cM

Week 5: The Beast In Me

Quick Recap

The first episode of The Beast In Me is called "Sick Puppy" and revolves around a once-acclaimed but now struggling writer - Aggie - who becomes fascinated by her neighbor - Nile Jarvis. Years earlier, there were rumors that Nile had killed his wife and while Aggie decides to write about him, she begins to become deeply invested in his past. Throughout the episode, Aggie's grief from the loss of her son is evident and we see her struggle with those personal issues while also discovering pieces about her neighbor. Their interactions are quite tense and clues are dropped throughout giving the audience evidence to hold onto for later. 

First Impressions

I thought the show made a really impactful first impression. The first few minutes of the episode, there was no dialogue yet we found out so much about Aggie and who she is now and who she was in the past. The imagery is so strong that I was able to know almost exactly who she was without her having to speak a word. The episode built a lot of suspense, which made me want to finish the show all in one sitting. The show has a very dark vibe to it, but that is what makes it so enticing. 

Pacing

I think the pacing of the pilot episode was slow, but I intentionally so. It doesn't rush into dramatic dialogue or huge plot twists, which keeps the audience guessing and wanting to watch more. I noticed a lot of details that were subtly exposed throughout the episode that I expect to be important later on. It was intense in the most quiet way and it feels very psychological.

Keep Watching?

YES. I really loved this one. The pilot does not give away too much, but it gives just enough mystery to stay interesting. I'm currently really curious about Nile and whether he is actually dangerous or his character is just made to seem that way to throw the viewers off. I also want to see how their relationship impacts Aggie because of how much she is struggling at the beginning with her own personal life. The slow build is exactly what I like to see in a mini crime series. 

My Overall Rating: SO Good

★★★★★

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #4

This week I watched something that my friends wanted to watch together. I had heard about the show and knew it was a crime drama but did not know anything about the plot prior to starting the episode. His & Hers is a 6 episode mini series that came out super recently on Netflix. There was actually a book series that came out in 2020 and it was adapted into a show earlier this year (Jan 6, 2026). I love crime dramas so I knew I was going to like it.

SOURCE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_szlvBLll0

Week 4: His & Hers

Quick Recap

Basically, the first episode revolves around a county detective and his news reporter wife - they're married but not really married - it's confusing. There's been a murder and the victim had a relationship with each of them so they are both somewhat suspicious of each other. By the end of the episode, you can tell that this murder mystery is far more complex than just any random killer on the loose. There are layers to it and both main characters seem to be drowning within their own secrets and lies that make them both look suspicious.

First Impressions

I think the pilot episode made a perfect first impression. It was dark, emotional, tense, shocking, and suspenseful. I really enjoyed the entire episode. I felt the character's emotions secondhand through the screen and I genuinely wanted to pay attention. I stayed curious the entire duration as the way the script / scenes were set up, I had to follow because everything detail led to something bigger.

Pacing

I think that the pilot episode was mostly slow but intentionally. There are a lot of details that need to be shared in order to understand the context of the characters and their relationship with the murder victim. It doesn't go into the murder investigation right away - it instead focuses on the emotional backgrounds of the characters, which I appreciated. The backstory was necessary in order for me to stay engaged and curious. Also, the fact that I chose not to go on my phone / get side tracked proved that the show truly was interesting.  

Keep Watching?

Yes, I want to keep watching. It was fun to watch with my roomates and it is my type of show. Fictional crime is always fun for me to watch and since it is such a sort series, it will be a very easy show to finish. Looking back at my reviews so far for the other TV shows I rated, I seem to really like most of the ones I've picked out for myself. I don't know if I'm just easy to entertain or if I'm just really good at picking out shows I know I'll like. 

My Overall Rating: Very Good 

★★★★

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #3

This week I watched something someone recommended to me. I didn't really know what it was about but I decided to try it out. It is called The Wire. It is a crime drama and was released in 2002 with 5 seasons. I had a feeling this would be a reliable show I can count on to entertain me for a few weeks or months. I also love crime dramas so I was really excited about this one.

SOURCE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDcQbk78CSw

Week 3: The Wire

Quick Recap

Pretty quickly, I gathered that the show revolved around detective, police, and drug organization. Within the first scene, there was already a murder so it got serious really quickly. Detective McNulty is immediately introduced and throughout the show, he tries to prove how the justice system is doing a poor job to take down these large drug dealer groups. An investigation goes on and you can see both the drug dealers running their operation and the police trying to create a case - this is where the wiretap investigation begins - where the police can legally listen to their suspects' phone calls..

First Impressions

The pilot episode had a very real and serious start. I found it a little hard to follow at first because of all the characters and storylines that were being introduced but it kept me interested. The dialogue between characters was very realistic, but I was also a little confused at parts just because I had a hard time keeping up. I do think it portrayed what goes on on the police and detective side versus the street side of a crime very well. Because the dialogue was so realistic, there were certain phrases that were out-dated or wouldn't be acceptable in today's films, but that's what made it so real - the audience can see how different times are now compared to just 24 years ago. 

Pacing

The pacing was a lot slower than the other two pilot episodes I watched. It wasn't as action-packed as I thought a crime drama was going to be. It definitely sets up a larger story in a slower manner, which made things a little bit confusing for me because of how much information is being shared. I think the slow pacing does make it more realistic setup though. There is a lot of conversation and dialogue and details that the show focuses on, so I know there are a lot of things I probably missed the first time around. I can tell that this is a very complex show. 

Keep Watching?

Yes, I want to keep watching but I also think that I need to watch this show with one or more people. I think my issue is that this show requires patience and attention to detail and when it comes to shows and movies, I do not have that type of patience. I like the plot and I know I would enjoy it if I could just pay a little bit more attention during it. I almost need someone to hold me accountable to pay attention to the details of show and persevere through at least the first episode. I think I will need to rewatch the episode before I watch the entire show.  

My Overall Rating: Very Good but hard for me (personally) to follow

★★★★

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #2

This week I wanted to choose a different genre so I found a show within the comedy-drama genre. I had never heard of this show so I thought it would be a great show to rate, especially if it's good. I don't know if people have known about this show since it came out in 2016, but I am happy to recognize it right now. 

Week 2: Fleabag

SOURCE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nd3Qlo0qspU

Quick Recap

The pilot episode has a funny introduction. It focuses on the main character - a very sarcastic woman navigating financial, family, and relationship challenges in London with her honest but humorous honesty. She speaks to the audience during scenes and after researching what this was called in film, I discovered it was referred to as breaking the fourth wall. 

First Impressions

I chose to watch Fleabag because I found it while browsing for a show on Amazon Prime Video. At first, it seemed like a funny show and it honestly was for the most part. The show is told from the perspective of a woman and in almost every scene, she pauses and speaks to the audience. I haven't watched a show like that in a while so it was kind of fun to watch something like that. I actually did laugh a few times throughout the episode, which means it must have been pretty entertaining. It was kind of interesting because every few scenes, I got this sad weighted feeling about her situation and her life. Under all of the sarcasm and jokes, there is a layer of sadness that you begin to feel the longer you watch. You immediately feel like you know the character on a more personal level. 

Pacing

I feel like the pacing was pretty normal  to fast - definitely not a slow start. I think what contributed to that was the fact that the main character speaks very fast already and the scenes are pretty short in my opinion. I liked it because it kept the show moving as well as kept you engaged. You definitely get an idea of what the main character's family is like, what her profession is, and her the state of her financial and relationship life. 

Keep Watching?

Yes, I will keep watching. I do enjoy a show  that presents realistic challenges that young women face in the real world told through hints of humor because its educational to me in a way. Although I feel Fleabag may resonate with more women because the show is through a female lens, I think that anyone who has ever struggled with relationships, money, family, or personal identity could resonate because the script is very deep. It showcased vulnerability and it was definitely different from the show I watched for the previous week (Succession) and I honestly enjoyed the variation. I for sure am going to watch the entire show at some point. 

My Overall Rating: Super Good

★★★★★

LOVE AT FIRST EPISODE #1

Hi everyone. This is where I will be watching 1 Pilot Episode a week on a different show and will then let you all know whether it's worth watching. I'm going to choose shows that many people know but also some newer ones that I haven't heard about. I'm going to research a variety of shows that are out and try to choose some that I would likely enjoy based on the brief online summary of the show itself.

SOURCE:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzYxJV_rmE8

Week 1: Succession

Quick Recap

The pilot episode has a tense introduction and you kinda quickly catch on that the show surrounds drama amongst a very successful family and their company. It gives a taste of the complications that come with family members competing for higher positions at the same company within the business world. 

First Impressions

There wasn't any real reason why I chose Succession to be the first show I watched - I was browsing on HBO and I heard of it so I thought I should try it. I liked how it wasn't too slow of a start and there was already a conflict happening in the first scene. There were a lot of characters introduced but I was so locked in I actually remembered who everyone was by the end of the episode. 

Pacing

I like shows that have a lot of drama but are also fast-paced. The pilot episode is really important for viewers and it sets a precedent for the rest of the seasons. By the first few scenes, I was intrigued and didn't even go on my phone for the entire 1 hour  episode - which is like really insane for me. It was really dramatic and enticing and I thought it was the perfect beginning to a show. 

Keep Watching?

Yes, 100%. In fact, I wanted to watch the second episode right after but thought I needed to write the review first so my initial vision of the show wasn't quite tainted yet. I'm super excited to keep watching and even suggested the show to my brother and he's now watching it. I also love that there are 4 seasons. Recently, I've been watching a lot short 1 season shows and they're great because you get through it quick, but I kinda want a show that doesn't end for a while. I think everyone should try to watch it if they haven't!

My Overall Rating: Super Good

★★★★★