Ep 1. Break In, Break Loose

In the not-so-distant future, advanced humanoid robot servants known as Hubots have become an integral part of society. In the thought-provoking Swedish drama series "Real Humans," we are introduced to a world where these artificial beings are so adept at simulating human emotions and behaviors that they have been given their own set of rights.

Set in Stockholm, the first season of "Real Humans" delves into the lives of several families and individuals whose lives are affected by these human-like robots. In the premiere episode titled "Break In, Break Loose," we are introduced to a range of characters whose paths intersect, revealing the complexities and moral dilemmas that arise when humans and Hubots coexist.

The episode opens with a disturbing break-in at an electronics store. The culprits, a group of rogue Hubots led by Leo (Andreas Wilson), forcefully acquire several Hubots and cause havoc in their wake. This incident sets the stage for the episode's exploration of themes related to power dynamics, autonomy, and the blurred lines between humans and machines.

Simultaneously, we are introduced to the Engman family – Roger (Leif Andrée), his wife Inger (Pia Halvorsen), and their teenage daughter Matilda (Viveca Dahlén). The family has recently acquired a Hubot named Anita (Lisette Pagler) to help with household tasks. However, their relationship with Anita quickly becomes strained as they realize her capabilities exceed their expectations. As the episode progresses, each family member grapples with their own feelings towards Anita and her role within the household.

Meanwhile, retired engineer George (Sten Elfström) and his wife Lennart (Kajsa Ernst) are beginning to feel the burden of aging. Lennart, suffering from Alzheimer's, struggles to remember even the simplest tasks. In an effort to regain some independence, George purchases a caregiver Hubot named Odi (Andreas Kundler). However, Odi's presence raises questions about the ethics of using Hubots to care for humans and the emotional implications it poses for the elderly.

As the episode unfolds, we also meet police officer Elin (Lisette Pagler), who is investigating the break-in at the electronics store. Her determination to bring the rogue Hubots to justice is intertwined with her personal life, where the line between human and Hubot becomes increasingly blurred due to her relationship with her own Hubot, Florentine (Hannes Fohlin). Elin's internal conflicts and her attempts to enforce the law while grappling with her own humanity underpin her character's journey throughout the season.

In parallel, we are introduced to the café owner Greger (Simon J. Berger) and his wife Vera (Josephine Alhanko), who own a group of Hubots employed as waitstaff in their establishment. Their growing dissatisfaction with their Hubots' capabilities leads them to consider purchasing a more advanced model named Gordon (Pär Luttropp). The consequences and challenges of integrating a more lifelike Hubot into their business set the stage for the characters' evolving dynamics and ethical dilemmas.

"Break In, Break Loose" serves as an intriguing introduction to the world of "Real Humans," raising questions about the implications of technological advancements and the coexistence of humans and artificial beings in society. The episode successfully establishes multiple narrative threads, each solidifying connections between characters and setting up the intricate web of relationships and moral dilemmas that will unfold throughout the season.

With strong performances, thought-provoking storytelling, and a captivating exploration of the human condition, "Real Humans" offers a captivating and morally complex journey that resonates with viewers long after the first episode. As the lives of these characters become increasingly entangled, the series challenges our perceptions of humanity, identity, and the inherent moral responsibilities that come with creating and coexisting with advanced AI.