Ep 1. Some Dark God Wakes

In the first episode of Carnival Row season 1, titled "Some Dark God Wakes," we are introduced to the fantastical and grim world of the show. Set in a fictional Victorian-era city called The Burgue, the story follows a community of mythical creatures called "critch," who struggle to navigate the prejudices and injustices of a society that views them as second-class citizens.

We meet Rycroft Philostrate (Orlando Bloom), a human detective who has a complicated past with the critch and their violent rebellion against their oppressors. As Philo investigates a series of gruesome murders committed against Fae (a specific species of critch), he discovers a deeper conspiracy that involves powerful people in The Burgue.

Meanwhile, we are introduced to Vignette Stonemoss (Cara Delevingne), a faerie who has just arrived in The Burgue as a refugee seeking protection. She reunites with an old lover, Tourmaline (Karla Crome), who takes her to a brothel called The Tetterby Hotel. There, we meet the madam, Imogen Spurnrose (Tamzin Merchant), and her more reserved sister, Agreus (David Gyasi), a wealthy Puck (another species of critch) who is shunned by the human upper class.

As the episode progresses, we see glimpses of the larger political landscape of The Burgue, with human politicians using the Fae murders as an excuse to push for more draconian laws against the critch. We also see the beginnings of a romance between Philo and Vignette, whose relationship is fraught with tension and secrets.

Overall, "Some Dark God Wakes" serves as a strong introduction to Carnival Row's vivid and intricate world-building, pulling us into a world full of magic, mystery, and danger. The show combines elements of fantasy, crime drama, and political thriller to create a unique and compelling atmosphere. The characters are complex and well-drawn, with their own motivations and secrets that keep us invested in their stories. The episode sets up a number of intriguing plot threads, promising an exciting and unpredictable journey ahead.