Review: Falling Skies, Season 1, Episode 1 - "Live and Learn"
The pilot episode of Falling Skies—titled “Live and Learn”—successfully launches a post-apocalyptic narrative that is both emotionally gripping and action-packed. Executive produced by Steven Spielberg, the show brings a cinematic scope to television, blending intense alien invasion sequences with deeply human themes of survival, family, and resilience.
Plot Overview
“Live and Learn” begins with Earth already ravaged by an alien invasion. The extraterrestrial forces, referred to as “Skitters” and their advanced robotic counterparts, the “Mechs,” have decimated humanity, destroyed infrastructure, and enslaved children using biomechanical harnesses. This allows the show to avoid a lengthy buildup and instead thrusts viewers into a world where survival is the only objective.
The story focuses on Tom Mason (played by Noah Wyle), a history professor turned resistance leader, who is part of the 2nd Massachusetts Militia Regiment, a ragtag group of survivors fighting back against the invaders. Tom’s knowledge of historical military tactics becomes a crucial asset to the group, while his personal struggle to protect his family serves as the emotional core of the episode.
Tom’s middle son, Ben, has been captured and harnessed by the Skitters, creating a compelling motivation for Tom to fight not only for survival but also to rescue his son. Meanwhile, his eldest son, Hal, steps into a more active role as a young soldier, eager to prove himself. The family dynamic is further complicated by Matt, Tom’s youngest son, who struggles to understand the harsh realities of their new world.
The episode also introduces several other key characters, including Anne Glass (Moon Bloodgood), a pediatrician who provides medical aid to the survivors, and Captain Weaver (Will Patton), the gruff and pragmatic leader of the 2nd Mass. These characters, along with the supporting cast, help to paint a picture of a community that is fractured but determined to endure.
The climax of the episode features a tense battle sequence as the 2nd Mass attempts to gather supplies while avoiding alien patrols. This scene underscores the stakes of their fight, showcasing the constant danger and the resourcefulness required to outmaneuver the vastly superior alien forces.
Character Development
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Tom Mason: Noah Wyle shines as Tom, balancing intellectualism and action in a way that feels authentic. His historical references to revolutions and guerrilla warfare are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, reflecting his character’s perspective as a scholar forced into a soldier’s role. His deep love for his children adds a layer of vulnerability that makes him relatable and compelling.
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Hal Mason: Played by Drew Roy, Hal is a typical teenage character thrust into extraordinary circumstances. His willingness to take on responsibilities and his protective instincts toward his family demonstrate his growth potential as a leader.
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Anne Glass: Anne’s role as a healer and caretaker brings a sense of hope and humanity to the grim setting. Her compassion and level-headedness make her a grounding force for the group.
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Captain Weaver: Will Patton’s portrayal of Weaver is commanding and no-nonsense. His military mindset and insistence on prioritizing the group’s survival over personal attachments create a natural tension with Tom, whose focus is often on his family.
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The Skitters and Mechs: Although the aliens are primarily antagonistic in this episode, their design and behavior are intriguing. The Skitters’ spider-like movements and their use of biomechanical harnesses to control children add an eerie layer to their presence, suggesting a more complex hierarchy and strategy behind their invasion.
Themes and Symbolism
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Family and Sacrifice: The emotional crux of the episode lies in the Mason family dynamic. Tom’s desperate need to protect his children, even at great personal risk, resonates deeply with the audience and serves as a microcosm for the broader theme of survival.
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Resistance and Resilience: The title, “Live and Learn,” reflects the survivors’ constant need to adapt and evolve in the face of an overwhelming enemy. This theme is echoed in Tom’s historical references to guerrilla warfare, emphasizing the importance of strategy and knowledge in resisting a superior force.
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Hope Amid Despair: Despite the bleak setting, moments of humanity—like Anne comforting a child or Tom rallying the troops—highlight the enduring spirit of the survivors and their determination to hold onto hope.
Action and Visual Effects
The action sequences in “Live and Learn” are well-executed, combining fast-paced skirmishes with moments of suspense. The alien designs are particularly noteworthy, with the Skitters’ insect-like bodies and the Mechs’ imposing robotic frames creating a menacing visual presence. The special effects, while not groundbreaking, are solid for a television production and effectively convey the scale of the alien threat.
The cinematography complements the show’s gritty tone, using muted colors and handheld camera work to create a sense of immediacy. The ruined landscapes of post-invasion Earth are hauntingly depicted, reinforcing the stakes of the survivors’ struggle.
Pacing and Structure
The episode’s pacing is effective, balancing character development with action and world-building. The decision to begin the story in medias res—after the invasion has already occurred—immerses the audience in the chaos and allows the show to focus on the immediate challenges faced by the characters. Flashbacks or exposition about the invasion are kept to a minimum, which helps maintain the momentum.
Standout Moments
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The Opening Montage: The child’s voiceover describing the invasion, paired with haunting sketches of the aliens and their machines, immediately sets a chilling tone and establishes the stakes.
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Tom’s History Lesson: The scene where Tom explains guerrilla tactics to his group is both informative and symbolic, emphasizing the parallels between historical resistance movements and their current fight against the aliens.
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The Supply Run Ambush: The episode’s climactic action sequence is tense and well-choreographed, highlighting the constant danger the survivors face and their ingenuity in dealing with it.
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The Emotional Goodbye: The scene where Tom reassures his youngest son, Matt, as they part ways temporarily is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the invasion.
Criticisms
While the pilot episode is strong overall, some of the character introductions feel a bit rushed, particularly for the supporting cast. Additionally, the dialogue occasionally leans toward exposition, which can feel unnatural. However, these are common challenges in pilot episodes and are likely to improve as the series progresses.
Conclusion
“Live and Learn” is a compelling introduction to the world of Falling Skies. By combining intense action, emotional depth, and intriguing world-building, the episode lays a solid foundation for the series. With its focus on family, survival, and resistance, the show manages to stand out in the crowded field of post-apocalyptic dramas.
The pilot effectively hooks the audience with its strong performances, particularly from Noah Wyle, and its tantalizing mysteries surrounding the aliens and their motives. It promises a series that is as much about human resilience as it is about alien invasions.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
A strong start to an ambitious series, blending science fiction thrills with heartfelt drama.
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