Ep 1. Pilot

In the premiere episode of Tyler Perry's Ruthless, titled "Pilot," we are introduced to Ruth Truesdale (Melissa L. Williams), a young woman who has grown up as a member of a cult called the Rakudushis. Ruth has spent her entire life within the confines of the cult, and has been brought up to believe in the teachings of the group's leader, The Highest (Matt Cedeño). However, as we soon discover, things within the Rakudushis are not as idyllic as they may first appear.

The episode opens with Ruth going about her daily routine within the cult compound. She attends a morning meeting where The Highest speaks to the members of the group, and where we see the strict hierarchy that exists within the Rakudushis. The Highest is revered and worshipped by his followers, who see him as the embodiment of God on Earth. Despite this, we also see glimpses of the darker side of the cult - members are disciplined harshly for even minor infractions, and it is clear that there is a pervasive sense of fear and control within the group.

As we get to know Ruth better, we see that she is not entirely comfortable within the Rakudushis - despite her unwavering belief in The Highest and his teachings, she harbours doubts about the group and its practices. These doubts are exacerbated by the arrival of a young girl named Lynn (Nirine S. Brown), who Ruth is tasked with looking after. Lynn has fled from the Rakudushis' compound, and her presence serves to challenge Ruth's beliefs and open her eyes to some of the darker aspects of the group.

Despite Ruth's misgivings, she is reluctant to leave the Rakudushis - the cult has been her entire life, and she is afraid of what might happen if she were to leave. Nevertheless, Lynn's arrival sparks a chain of events that ultimately leads Ruth to question everything she has ever known.

"Pilot" sets the stage for what promises to be an intense and emotionally charged series. The episode is well-paced and does a good job of establishing the characters and the world they inhabit. Melissa L. Williams gives a strong performance as Ruth, portraying her as a complex and conflicted character who is torn between loyalty to the cult and her own doubts and fears. Matt Cedeño is equally impressive as The Highest, exuding charisma and authority while also hinting at a more sinister side to his character.

The episode also features some powerful and unsettling scenes that highlight the darker aspects of the Rakudushis. We see members being punished for minor infractions, including one particularly gruesome punishment that serves as a warning to others. The sense of fear and control within the group is palpable, and there is a constant sense of danger that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, "Pilot" is a strong start to what promises to be an intriguing and gripping series. Fans of Tyler Perry's previous work are likely to enjoy the show's combination of high drama and complex characters, while those who are unfamiliar with Perry's work may find themselves drawn in by the show's compelling premise and strong performances.