Ep 1. Sink or Swim

In WPC 56 season 1 episode 1, titled "Sink or Swim," viewers are introduced to the protagonist of the show, Gina Dawson. Set in 1956, the show follows the life of WPC (Woman Police Constable) Gina Dawson, who is one of the first women on the beat in the fictional town of Brinford.

The episode opens with Gina arriving in Brinford, having left her home and family in Manchester to pursue her dream of becoming a police officer. Gina is immediately faced with the sexism and gender discrimination of the time, with some of her fellow officers openly questioning her ability to do the job because she's a woman. Gina's superiors, however, see her potential and assign her to work with the highly respected and experienced Detective Inspector Jack Burns.

Initially, Gina is excited to be working with DI Burns, but she quickly realizes that he doesn't share her enthusiasm for the job. Burns is a gruff, unapproachable man who doesn't seem to think much of Gina's abilities. This sets up a dynamic between the two that is one of the driving forces of the show.

The plot of the first episode revolves around a case of theft from a local warehouse. The stolen goods are expensive electronic equipment that's set to be shipped to the United States, and the warehouse owner is insistent that the police catch the culprits before the shipping deadline. Gina and DI Burns are put in charge of the investigation, and they quickly realize that they're dealing with a highly organized and professional gang. Gina is determined to prove her worth as a police officer, and she throws herself into the case with gusto, despite the obstacles she faces.

Throughout the episode, Gina's character is developed through interactions with her colleagues, as well as through her personal life. She makes friends with other WPCs and learns to navigate the difficult politics of life on the force. Meanwhile, she also deals with personal issues, such as a family member who disapproves of her career choice and a potential love interest who may or may not be trustworthy.

One of the things that sets "Sink or Swim" apart from other police procedural dramas is the attention to detail in portraying the time period. From the fashion to the music and even to the way people speak, the show immerses viewers in the world of 1950s Britain. This adds an extra layer of interest to the episode, as viewers get a glimpse into what it was like to be a woman breaking into a traditionally male-dominated field during this time.

Overall, "Sink or Swim" is a strong first episode that sets the tone for the rest of the season. It introduces the characters and establishes the main conflict, while also providing enough depth and nuance to keep viewers engaged. Anyone who's a fan of police dramas or historical fiction is likely to enjoy WPC 56 season 1 episode 1.