Frank Underwood immediately makes his presence known immediately when he has no trouble putting a dog out of its misery after it has been struck by a car. This is a perfect beginning to his snake in the grass character. When he is denied the position of Secretary of State he feels betrayed by the President and vows to get back at those whom he feels are responsible. He begins his subterfuge, sharing his dirty dealings with the audience as he finds ways to manipulate everything with a grand plan that will eventually make him the most powerful man in Washington. He aligns himself with Zoe, a reporter who wants to use him as much as he wants to use her. His wife becomes a player, attempting to gain favors to push her environmental agenda. She is almost as ruthless as he, but she hasn't quite the killer instinct. A very fine first effort.
