Episode 1 Discussion [Rewatch]

[Byatil]

I've just begun watching S1, and I have to agree that the grid looks remarkably light and spacious! I liked the way we were introduced to it as being a "world within a world" so to speak; the contrast between Thames House's more 'public' area and the grid was brilliant.

Tom is a fascinating character, I love the way this episode dealt with his relationship issues. It's something you always have to wonder about - how do spies cope in a relationship? Harry's comment about his wedding made me laugh, "I like to have everything on paper"

Zoe seems like she could be a fun character when she's developed a bit more, I'd say 1.1 focussed on Tom more than anyone else. She seems like a "chameleon" as someone previously said, so it should be nice seeing her do some more undercover work. I loved the scene with the cat, hilarious! KH definitely has a lot of comic potential.

Danny... not too sure what to make of him to be honest. He seems like he's desperately trying to 'fit in' and get a feel for the job, so I'll have to wait and see if he grows on me.

Malcolm is endearingly clueless, demonstrated clearly when he tells Zoe "I have a camp bed" I like the way he's presented as a very intelligent man who has absolutely no clue about how to deal with people on an emotional level. Seems that "dealing with emotions" will be a bit of a running theme this series, if this Tom/Matthew storyline runs for the entire thing!

I was surprised that Harry doesn't have a particularly 'big' role in this episode. He has a few hilarious lines which introduce his character well, but he didn't seem to have much screen-time. Should be interesting to see how his character matures

As far as the "threat of the week" goes; I thought it was a clever idea! Perpetrating the idea of "Christian extremists" was a clever move, seeing as we all too often forget that Islam isn't the only religion with followers who are prepared to plant bombs for "the greater good". Absolutely loved Tom's conversation with Mary Kane at the end of the episode, lots of amusing dialogue.

So yes, all-in-all a very promising start to the series! I'm definitely gripped and very interested to learn more about the Spooks.