Ep 1. Guts

Rescue Me is a gut-wrenching drama series that revolves around the lives of New York City firefighters, their daily struggles, and the emotional demons that haunt them. Created by Denis Leary and Peter Tolan, the show is a masterful blend of humor and tragedy, with characters that are flawed, vulnerable, and utterly compelling.

Season 1, Episode 1 - Guts, introduces us to Tommy Gavin (Denis Leary), a veteran firefighter who has been traumatized by the events of 9/11. He lost many of his colleagues in the tragedy and is plagued by guilt, anger, and survivor's remorse. We also meet his friend and fellow firefighter, Lou (John Scurti), who is trying to help him cope with his demons.

The episode starts with Tommy having a vivid dream about his cousin, who is also a firefighter, dying in a blaze. He wakes up in a sweat, startled and disoriented. We then see him getting ready for the day, doing his morning routines, and heading out on a call. He is the first one to arrive at the scene, and as he walks through the smoky corridors, his memories of 9/11 flood back. We can see the fear and pain in his eyes, and we realize that he is not just a firefighter, but a traumatized survivor.

As the day goes on, we witness the daily routines of the firefighters, their camaraderie, and their banter. We learn about their quirks, their sense of humor, and their shared love for the job. But we also see the darker sides of their lives. Tommy is a recovering alcoholic, and we see him struggling to stay sober. Lou is having marital problems, and we see him trying to patch things up with his wife. And then there is Chief Reilly (Jack McGee), who is dealing with the aftermath of a scandal involving a female firefighter.

The climax of the episode comes when the crew responds to a call at a tenement building. As they enter the building, they realize that the fire is much worse than they thought. The residents are panicked, and the firefighters have to work together to evacuate them. Tommy leads the charge, and we see him in his element, focused and determined. But as they are about to exit, a sudden explosion rocks the building, and chaos ensues. The firefighters are trapped, and we can feel the adrenaline pumping as they fight to get out alive.

Guts is a powerful episode that sets the tone for the series. It introduces us to the characters, their flaws, and their strengths. It shows us the daily risks and struggles of firefighters, and it reminds us of the heroism and sacrifice that they embody. It also tackles some heavy themes, such as PTSD, addiction, and marital strife, and does so with sensitivity and authenticity.

Overall, Rescue Me Season 1 Episode 1- Guts is a strong start to an excellent series. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good drama, with complex characters, and gripping storylines.