The episode opens with an eerie scene: three young women on a sailboat witness a sudden aurora borealis over Buenos Aires—a rare and unsettling phenomenon. One of them collapses, setting a mysterious tone.
Meanwhile, Juan Salvo (Ricardo Darín) and his friends are gathered for a late-night card game. Their evening is interrupted by news of a fire at the electrical station, followed by a city-wide blackout. Soon after, snow begins to fall—an unusual occurrence in the middle of a South American summer. They quickly realize the snow is lethal when a neighbor collapses upon exposure.
As panic sets in, the group allows Ingrid, a woman who delivered their whiskey, into their shelter. Juan becomes increasingly concerned for his daughter, Clara, who is likely to wake up early and unknowingly step outside. Determined to reach her, Juan and his friends fashion a makeshift hazmat suit using layers of clothing and a gas mask. Despite a tense confrontation with Omar, who tries to claim the suit, Juan ventures into the deadly snowfall. The episode concludes with him navigating the desolate, snow-covered streets of Buenos Aires, witnessing the aftermath of the mysterious catastrophe.
What It Means
The premiere sets the stage for a narrative steeped in mystery and survival. The sudden, deadly snowfall serves as a metaphor for unforeseen disasters and the fragility of normalcy. Juan’s immediate response to protect his daughter underscores themes of parental instinct and the lengths one will go to safeguard loved ones.
The episode also hints at broader themes of societal collapse and the human response to inexplicable threats. The group’s quick adaptation to the crisis reflects a commentary on resilience and the necessity of unity in the face of adversity.
Why It Works (or Doesn’t)
Strengths:
- Atmospheric Tension: The episode masterfully builds suspense, with the juxtaposition of a mundane card game against the backdrop of an impending disaster.
- Character Dynamics: The interactions among Juan and his friends provide a realistic portrayal of camaraderie and conflict under stress.
- Visual Storytelling: The depiction of a snow-covered Buenos Aires is both haunting and visually striking, enhancing the sense of isolation and dread.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing: Some viewers might find the episode’s slow build-up challenging, as it prioritizes atmosphere over immediate action.
- Limited Exposition: The lack of immediate answers may frustrate those seeking a clearer understanding of the catastrophe’s origins.
Overall, Episode 1 of The Eternaut effectively establishes a compelling narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth. Its focus on character-driven storytelling and atmospheric tension sets a strong foundation for the series.
