Ep 1. Episode 1

800 Words is an Australian-New Zealand television drama series that first aired on September 15, 2015. It centers on the life of George Turner, a popular columnist for a Sydney newspaper, who makes the impulsive decision to move his family to a remote New Zealand town following the sudden death of his wife.

Episode 1 introduces viewers to George Turner, who is grappling with the tragic loss of his wife Laura. Known for writing a column that is exactly 800 words long, George has built a reputation on precision and contemplation. After the death of Laura, George decides it's time for a fresh start for himself and his two teenage children, Shay and Arlo. In an attempt to deal with their grief and seeking a simpler existence, George impulsively buys a property online in the small fictional town of Weld, New Zealand, and uproots his family from the hustle and bustle of Sydney to what he envisions as a quaint and peaceful seaside paradise.

Despite his idealistic expectations, their arrival in Weld is met with an array of challenges. The town and its inhabitants are far from what George had imagined, and the house he purchased sight unseen is in a dilapidated state – a far cry from the picturesque retreat he anticipated. Nevertheless, the Turner family is greeted by quirky and eccentric locals, who are simultaneously intrigued and bemused by the arrival of the newcomers.

As they begin to settle in, George and his children confront the stark realities of their new life. Shay, the older of the two siblings, is fiercely independent and protective of her family. She struggles with the move, finding it difficult to leave her old life and friends behind. Shay's character is portrayed as both resilient and vulnerable, navigating the complexities of teenage life while dealing with the loss of her mother.

Arlo, the younger sibling, is more easygoing and open to the possibilities of their new environment. He offers a lighter, more humorous perspective on their situation, providing comic relief at times with his attempts to integrate into the small-town culture.

The integration into rural life poses an array of comedic and dramatic situations for the Turner family. George's efforts to connect with the local residents—which include a fish-out-of-water real estate agent, a surfer best friend, and a potential romantic interest—serve as a backdrop to his attempt to start anew. Likewise, George's episodes of outing himself with blunt honesty to the townspeople through his column only add to his fish-out-of-water experiences, as he paradoxically becomes both a local celebrity and a source of bemusement.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to the picturesque scenery of Weld, which stands as a character in its own right – a reminder of the natural beauty that drew George to make such a drastic decision. As George battles with his feelings of loss and his responsibilities as a single parent, the coastal surroundings offer moments of solace and reflection.

Despite the comedic elements, Episode 1 does not shy away from exploring themes of grief and the search for belonging. The interactions between characters highlight the human desire for connection and community, and it becomes clear that the residents of Weld, with all their idiosyncrasies, are a tightly knit bunch who look after their own. George's journey reflects the universal quest to find purpose and happiness in the face of life-altering events.

Throughout all the misadventures and mishaps in Episode 1, the essence of familial bonds takes center stage. The Turner family's journey is marked by moments of laughter, frustration, and heartwarming togetherness. Their story resonates with anyone who has ever dealt with the complexities of change while yearning for a sense of home.

By the end of Episode 1, the groundwork is laid for what promises to be a series filled with humor, heart, and the enduring question of whether George can fill his life—and his columns—with new stories that match the richness of the 800 words he's so accustomed to writing. The episode sets in motion a narrative arc that will see George and his children confront their past, build relationships in their new community, and forge a path forward in their unexpected adventure.