Ep 1. There and Back Again

Heartland season 8, episode 1 titled "There and Back Again" is an emotionally charged premiere that sees the characters dealing with the aftermath of the last season's dramatic finale. Set in the idyllic countryside of Alberta, Canada, the show follows the lives of the Bartlett-Fleming family and their struggles to keep their horse ranch, Heartland, afloat.

At the beginning of season 8, we find protagonist Amy (played by Amber Marshall) still struggling to come to terms with the death of her mother and the news that her ex-boyfriend Ty (Graham Wardle) may have died in a fishing accident. Meanwhile, her sister Lou (Michelle Morgan) is trying to keep the ranch running smoothly while juggling motherhood and a long-distance marriage. The episode kicks off with both sisters feeling lost and adrift, unsure of how to move forward, but determined to keep their family and their business together.

As the episode progresses, we see Amy struggle to cope with her grief and the uncertainty surrounding Ty's fate. She throws herself into her work as a horse trainer, hoping to find some solace in the companionship of her animals. However, she finds herself struggling to connect with a new horse named Apollo, who proves to be a challenge even for her skilled hands. In a moment of frustration, she confides in her grandfather Jack (Shaun Johnston), who tells her that sometimes the only way to move forward is to face our fears head-on.

Lou, too, is feeling the strain of her new responsibilities at Heartland. She's still adjusting to life as a mother and trying to balance her family obligations with her role as a businesswoman. Her husband Peter (Gabriel Hogan) is working in Dubai, and she's missing him terribly. To make matters worse, she discovers that one of their horses has a serious health issue that could jeopardize the ranch's reputation and financial stability. In a moment of desperation, she turns to her estranged father Tim (Chris Potter) for help, putting aside their long-standing grudges in order to save their shared livelihood.

"There and Back Again" is a bittersweet episode that sees the Heartland family facing some tough challenges, both individually and as a group. However, it's also a reminder of the strength and resilience of these characters, who have weathered so many storms over the course of the show's lengthy run. As always, the scenery is breathtaking and the horses are stunningly beautiful, providing a sense of groundedness and calm amidst the emotional upheaval.

Overall, Heartland season 8, episode 1 is a strong start to a new chapter in this enduring series. It showcases the show's trademark blend of heart and humor, while also delving deep into the characters' emotional struggles and triumphs. Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or a newcomer, this episode is sure to leave you wanting more.