Ep 1. Episode 1

Broadchurch is a British television crime drama set in the quaint coastal town of Broadchurch. The show revolves around the murder investigation of an 11-year-old boy named Danny Latimer. The first episode sets the groundwork for the series by introducing the characters and establishing the setting.

The episode opens with a montage of serene shots of the town as the sound of waves crashing on the shore plays in the background. The tranquility is shattered when Danny's lifeless body is discovered on the beach. It's a shocking sight, and the townspeople are understandably shaken.

Detective Sergeant Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) returns from vacation to discover that her promotion to lead detective is no longer hers. The job has been given to Alec Hardy (David Tennant), a heavily tattooed, abrasive detective who seems to be harboring a secret. Ellie is devastated by this development, especially considering her personal relationship with the victim's family.

Danny's mother, Beth (Jodie Whittaker), is at the forefront of the grief-stricken family. She is inconsolable at the news of her son's death, and her husband Mark (Andrew Buchan) is struggling to cope with her sadness. Meanwhile, their daughter Chloe (Charlotte Beaumont) is grappling with the sudden loss of her brother.

The investigation begins in earnest, and Hardy quickly starts interrogating the townspeople. He seems to be particularly focused on Mark Latimer, Danny's father, who had an alibi that doesn't quite add up. Meanwhile, Miller is struggling to come to terms with not being the lead detective on the case. She feels like she doesn't belong and is desperate to prove herself to Hardy.

As the episode progresses, we see the inner workings of the town. We meet the local newspaper editor, Maggie Radcliffe (Carolyn Pickles), who is fiercely protective of the town's reputation. We also see the local priest, Reverend Paul Coates (Arthur Darvill), who is dealing with his own guilt over not being able to help Danny.

The episode ends with a bombshell revelation that implicates one of the main characters in the murder. It's a shocking twist that sets the tone for the rest of the season and leaves the viewer desperate to know more.

Overall, Broadchurch season 1 episode 1 sets the groundwork for a compelling and emotional murder-mystery drama. The characters are engaging, and the setting is picturesque, which makes the tragedy that much more heart-wrenching. The first episode is a powerful introduction to the series and sets the stage for an unforgettable ride.