Ep 1. Episode 1

Set in the aftermath of World War II, Close to the Enemy is a thrilling drama series that follows British intelligence officer Captain Callum Ferguson as he embarks on a challenging mission in Germany. Episode 1 is the beginning of Callum's journey as he makes his way to the German city of Frankfurt to interrogate a leading scientist, Dieter Koehler.

As the episode begins, we are introduced to Callum (played by Jim Sturgess), a charismatic and ambitious young man who has just been released from military service and has been recruited by MI6. His first task is to extract information from the renowned scientist Dieter Koehler, who is believed to be involved in the development of a devastating new weapon.

Callum is determined to get the information that his superiors require, using his charm and intelligence to try and win over Koehler's trust. However, things do not go to plan when Callum discovers that Koehler has been admitted to hospital after attempting suicide.

Determined not to let this derail his mission, Callum uses his wit and cunning to gain access to the hospital and Koehler's room. There, he meets Rachel Lombard (played by Charlotte Riley), a compassionate nurse who is looking after Koehler.

Despite being from different worlds, Callum and Rachel strike up an unlikely friendship as she helps him to gain the information he needs from Koehler. In return, Callum provides her with a form of escapism from her mundane life with her domineering father.

As the episode progresses, we see Callum also come into contact with other characters that will play significant roles in his mission. These include his superior officer Colonel Lancaster (played by Angus McFadyen), who has his own agenda, and the enigmatic American Colonel Waters (played by Alfred Molina), who seems to know more than he is letting on.

Throughout the episode, we are treated to flashbacks that give us insight into Callum's military past and the traumatic experiences that still haunt him. These flashbacks serve to make Callum a more complex and sympathetic character, adding depth to his portrayal.

The episode also touches upon the political tensions of the time, with the Soviet Union's growing influence in Europe and the looming threat of the Cold War. This gives the show a sense of urgency and relevance, as we see Callum torn between his duty to his country and his moral compass.

Overall, Episode 1 of Close to the Enemy is an exciting and engaging start to the series, with strong performances from the cast and a compelling storyline that keeps the audience hooked. It sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling and thought-provoking journey through the aftermath of World War II.