1. Dual Perspectives
The true hook of this new show is its interesting structure: the first episode shows the same day from the point–of–view of both Noah (Dominic West) and Alison (Ruth Wilson), who will eventually have the eponymous affair. Watching some of the same events twice might not seem worthwhile, but it’s fascinating how differently the pair can remember something. With their dual perspectives showing radically different stories, it will be interesting to see if the show ever reveals the truth about what happened or if any other characters will get to add in their perspectives.
2. The Solloways
As described by Noah, the Solloway family is perfectly happy at the start of the series, although that doesn’t always come across on screen. His relationship with his wife Helen (Maura Tierney) seems to be pretty strong, though they are constantly interrupted in bed by one of their children. But wow, aren’t those kids the worst? The oldest daughter wants to do nothing but smoke pot and refuses to eat, while the oldest son thinks a fake suicide is a funny prank and bullies his younger brother. Also, as a fan of “The Wire,” I love the casting of John Doman as Noah’s father–in–law, putting McNulty and Rawls into another contemptuous relationship.
3. The Lockharts
On the other hand, Alison’s relationship with her husband Cole (Joshua Jackson) is much more fragile. Still recovering from the recent death of their son, Alison is broken, while Cole is ready to be happy again. One spouse is depressed and the other doesn’t understand how to help—it’s heartbreaking to watch.
4. Noah and Alison
From Noah’s perspective, Alison comes across as mysterious and seductive, constantly tempting him while he’s perfectly courteous, though he eventually gives in. However from Alison’s perspective, Noah is creepy and forward with her. It will be interesting to see what events in the future could have occurred that so drastically colored their perspective of the other in a negative light.
5. The investigation
The final scene of both Noah’s and Alison’s portions of the episode reveal that they’re in an interrogation room with an officer and being questioned about the start of their relationship. A lot of time has passed since that day they met on the beach. Both characters refer to their first meeting as years ago, Alison no longer uses the last name Lockhart, and she has a child (is it Noah’s or Cole’s?). What crime could have occurred that requires them to recount their entire relationship? Did the crime occur near the start of their relationship and is only just being investigated or is their relationship so crucial to the crime that they need to establish everything about it? With the recent death of Alison’s son, the prank suicide and marble choking, I’m worried that the show’s fascination with children in danger might foreshadow the death of one of Noah’s kids.
