Ep 1. Episode 1

Set in early 19th century Jamaica, "The Long Song" tells the story of July, a spirited young slave girl played by Tamara Lawrance, who grows up on a sugar plantation owned by British colonialists. Episode 1 opens with July's birth, and quickly establishes the harsh reality of her life -- one of forced labor, cruel punishment, and constant abuse by her masters. July's mother Kitty, played by Sharon Duncan-Brewster, is a strong-willed woman who tries to protect her daughter the best she can, while also navigating her own complicated relationships with the plantation's overseers.

As July grows up, she becomes increasingly aware of the injustices around her, and begins to question the status quo. She forms a friendship with a fellow slave named Miss Caroline, played by Ayesha Antoine, who teaches her to read and write. July's intelligence and quick wit soon catch the attention of her master's son, Robert, played by Jack Lowden, who takes her on as his personal servant. This position gives July access to an entirely new world -- one of luxury, privilege, and power -- but it also comes with a price. As she becomes enmeshed in Robert's world, she must grapple with her loyalty to her fellow slaves and her own sense of self.

"The Long Song" is an unflinching look at the brutality of slavery, but it is also a story of resilience and resistance. July is a dynamic character who refuses to be broken by the circumstances of her birth, and who fights for her own freedom in ways large and small. The show is beautifully shot, with lush landscapes and vibrant costumes, and the performances by the cast are uniformly excellent. Lawrance in particular shines as July, conveying both her vulnerability and her strength with equal authenticity.

Overall, episode 1 of "The Long Song" sets up a compelling story that promises to explore complex themes of power, identity, and belonging. It is a show that confronts history's darkest chapters head-on, but also finds moments of hope and humanity in the midst of great turmoil. For viewers who enjoy historical dramas, or who are interested in learning more about the legacies of colonialism and slavery, "The Long Song" is a must-watch.