It makes sense to put Dolores front and centre – not only does Wood have the chops to carry the bigger drama (see her seamlessly switching between her character and emotionless machine in the "dream" sequences where she's brought in for questioning and maintenance, which is also a tribute to good co-writing and direction from Nolan), but this young, artificial woman is a relatable heroine in the face of what will no doubt become complicated stuff. Dolores doesn't seem like the most complicated character, with her down-home wisdom and cheery outlook on life, but as we learn by episode's end, nothing in the park is quite what it seems, and Dolores is actually one of the oldest of the "hosts," as the high-tech AI here are known. DoloresĮschewing the more usual overall introduction to this world (though having seen episode 2, there is some of that to follow), we focus instead on the main AI character, brought to charismatic, humble life by Evan Rachel Wood. Now we find out if that translates to a compelling show. The show comes from JJ Abrams, Jonah Nolan and Lisa Joy, so there is some proven talent behind the scenes. Is Westworld that hit? We'll find out as the first season wends its way through the story inspired by Michael Crichton's 1973 techno-thriller about AI at a luxury theme park becoming self-aware and turning on the guests.
With Game Of Thrones eyeing its endgame, HBO is naturally looking (as is Sky) for something that could be the next big, zeitgeisty audience draw. Or, like the guests that frequent the pleasure park, do what you like. Welcome to Westworld! Please try to behave yourselves. Saddle up! But beware potential spoilers in this review, which will discuss elements of the episode.