The Sinner: Recap and thoughts on episode ‘Part I’

The Sinner premiered on USA Network on August 2nd quickly leaving viewers anxious for more. So many questions are raised that immediately grab the attention of viewers who are left wanting the next installment right away.

Brief recap of the events that unfold in the premiere episode aptly titled ‘Part I’

The show begins with Cora, her husband, and brother-in-law in the garage of a heat and air specialist company. It appears they own or run this business. They show a brief view of their simple life, including a small argument about going to Mason’s parents’ home for dinner too frequently.

Then we see Cora and Mason at the beach. There are also two young couples at the beach on a double date. One of the girls plays a song that Cora clearly recognizes as you see her face change into a state of confusion. The uncomfortable stare continues while one of the couples is getting frisky. The song continues to get louder and louder visibly bothering Cora.

Cora becomes deeply troubled and runs towards the guy and stabs him repeatedly.

The scene shifts to Detective Ambrose interrogating Cora. As he talks to Cora about the stabbing, it is clear that he feels that something is not adding up.

We saw him earlier asking his co-workers, “Where is the why?”, and commenting that females often kill men with whom they have a sexual history.

Cora declines a lawyer as she knows she did it. But she claims she doesn’t know why and tells Ambrose that the song just kept playing louder and louder and bothering her. But, again, why?

This song is key in the show!

Detective Ambrose visits Mason, Cora’s husband, and asks him some questions. Mason doesn’t have much to say. His mind seems to be elsewhere. Ambrose is convinced that Cora somehow knows Frankie and starts to investigate that possibility.

The scene shifts to the arraignment. Cora is asked to enter a plea.

Before Cora can actually respond, the credits begin to roll.

What did I think about the first episode of The Sinner?

This was a great episode to kick-start a series that generates many unanswered questions. I am ready for the the investigation to begin.

Shows that start first with the actual crime and then break down the events precipitating it are definitely a draw for me. This makes for compelling story telling.

The premiere episode definitely suggests that all of the characters have an element of secrecy to them. And after completing the first episode, I can say that Detective Ambrose is my favorite character so far.

Now, bring on The Sinner episode number 2!