Ep 1. 401 Unauthorized

"Mr. Robot" is a psychological thriller television series that has garnered immense popularity since its debut in 2015. The show follows the story of Elliot Alderson, a cybersecurity expert and hacker who suffers from social anxiety disorder and depression. The show is known for its stunning cinematography, intense plot twists, and complex characters.

The season 4 premiere, titled "401 Unauthorized," opens with Elliot experiencing a rough patch in his life. The series has always cast a spotlight on the darker themes of society, and this episode is no different. The story explores the aftermath of the events that unfolded in the season 3 finale, where Elliot and Mr. Robot foiled an elaborate plan by the Dark Army to blow up E-Corp's headquarters.

As the episode progresses, Elliot is shown recovering from the injuries sustained in the explosion. He's also dealing with the guilt and trauma brought on by his association with a violent underground movement. To make matters worse, he has no recollection of the past few days and is struggling to connect the dots.

Meanwhile, the rest of the cast is aware that something's amiss, but they don't know the full extent of Elliot's involvement in these events. Darlene, Elliot's sister, is dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and is trying to keep up with the latest developments in Elliot's life. Her usual vivacity is replaced with a melancholic aura, and she's barely keeping it together.

The episode also shows the return of popular characters such as Tyrell Wellick and Phillip Price, and their story arcs will be interesting to watch. The protagonist's moral ambiguity lies at the core of the show, and this episode cements that fact. Mr. Robot is not a conventional television show, and it unapologetically dabbles in heavy themes such as capitalism, mental illness, and societal hierarchy.

One of the central themes of this episode is control - or the absence of it. Elliot is forced to reckon with the consequences of his actions, and he's unable to control the narrative. His subconscious seems to be working against him, and he's finding it hard to differentiate between his own memories and the fabrication created by Mr. Robot.

The cinematography in "401 Unauthorized" is top-notch and adds a visceral quality to the narrative. The show's use of lighting, color, and camera angles is a testament to its artistic merit. The direction is also a standout aspect of the episode, which is no surprise, given that the creator Sam Esmail also directed the entire season.

The show's soundtrack has always been a highlight, and season 4 doesn't disappoint. The premiere features an eclectic mix of songs which complement the mood of the scenes. The haunting cover of "Everybody's Got to Learn Sometime" in the final scene sets the tone for the rest of the season.

In conclusion, the season 4 premiere of "Mr. Robot" is a gripping start to what promises to be a fantastic final chapter. The show continues to stun audiences with its portrayal of societal issues and its exploration of the human psyche. Regardless of whether you're a fan or a newcomer, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates quality television.