House of Cards (TV Series) Chapter 1 (2013) User Reviews

House Of Cards : S01E01

[advaitkamat · 9/10 · 15 October 2013]

When you see the credentials beside the title, you can't help but give it a go. When I first heard that David Fincher had been signed to direct the first two episodes of "House Of Cards", which also had Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright on board, I was hooked. A diabolical political-drama about a Congressman who is shunned out of the position of Secretary Of State and his plans on avenging this humiliation, "House Of Cards" has got everything that makes a compelling viewing.

The series opens with a dog getting crushed under the wheels of a car, apparently in a hit-and-run case, and Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey) delivering the final blow to the poor beast who was left almost dead after it happened. When Frank learns that the man he backed as his choice for President, Garett Walker, has swindled him, he cannot face it. After he is voted to stay in the Congress, and with a little help from his guileful wife, Frank decides to put together a plan to exact his revenge from those who finked on him.

The lesser you read of the plot, the more you'll enjoy what happens next. Directed with deft precision by David Fincher and impeccably-scripted by Beau Williamson, who also created the series, it is impossible to tear your eyes away. The opening scene, expertly executed, establishes the lead character so wonderfully well that he doesn't need any more explaining. Atmospheric, sly and often darkly comical, "House Of Cards" is a thrill-machine for those who seek it. Spacey is terrific, Wright is utterly convincing and when the two carry out witty chinwags, the effect is something rare.

This one's different, this one's something remarkable. Watch it.

Off to a Fast Start

[Hitchcoc · 9/10 · 26 January 2015]

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.

The first chapter

[TheLittleSongbird · 9/10 · 7 January 2019]

"Chapter 1" had a lot of promise. Really like Kevin Spacey as an actor, particularly in 'The Usual Suspects', 'LA Confidential' and 'American Beauty', and am very saddened that his career and personal life has gone the way it has (while of course not condoning why). The acclaim was difficult to resist. And consider David Fincher a fine director, finding a lot to like about all his films and especially loving 'Se7en', 'The Social Network', 'Fight Club' and 'Gone Girl'.

It turned out, though had no doubt it would be, to be a brilliant way to start a show! Back when 'House of Cards' was in its prime and one of the best and most addictive shows at the time. Which is why it is sad that it declined so rapidly and badly in the fifth season in one of the biggest declines for any show in recent memory, and Season 6, yes they didn't cancel it in the end) has felt even more like a completely different show (unrecognisable actually) than the previous season. Enough of that going off on a slight tangent then and talk about how "Chapter 1" is so great. It is not one of the best 'House of Cards' episodes and even better was to come, with some occasions where the pacing was on the methodical side, but what a start.

Visually, it is very stylish and atmospheric with cinematic-quality photography, Fincher's style so distinctive that the episode could easily have passed as a film, and locations. "Chapter 1" is one of the show's best directed episodes, no surprise as it is Fincher after all, who received a more than well deserved Primetime Emmy for his work. It was tight, controlled and in the early parts had a particularly cinematic approach to the material. The music knew when to have presence and when to tone things down to let the dialogue and characters properly speak, with some very clever sound quality.

Also smart and really quite exceptional is the writing. Biting, thought-provoking and tightly structured, an example to all television. The political elements intrigue and don't preach, a problem so common in film but avoided in 'House of Cards'. Some methodical pacing aside, the story is absorbing, more so Frank's revenge plot than Zoe's, and remarkably layered for so early on, yet figuring out what was going on was never hard.

Even in this very first episode, the characters had me engaged and intrigued. Frank is already such an interesting incisively written character and further went on to be one of contemporary television's most fascinating lead characters. One of the most consistent elements, as well as the production values, has always been the acting, and it is of exceptional quality here. It's only the first episode here but Spacey already gives some of his best acting in years. Robin Wright also makes a very strong first impression and the rest of the cast are up to their level.

Overall, great first episode if not quite one of the best. 9/10 Bethany Cox

"You might very well think that, I couldn't possibly comment."

[stillworkingfortheknife · 7 March 2014]

As all episodes of the first season of House of Cards were made available for viewing at once, the pilot of David Fincher's Netflix project underwent considerably less public scrutiny as the introductions of other series. But as it's always interesting to see in which way the director and screenwriter pull off the establishing of plot and characters, I'm now going to do exactly that.

Kevin Spacey plays the series's protagonist, the cunning and unscrupulous congressman Frank Underwood, and he excels himself in doing so. I wouldn't go as far as naming it the best performance of his career, but it never fails to amaze me how he can act so well with so few facial expressions. Since 50 minutes aren't enough running time to make the audience understand all supporting characters as well, House of Cards primarily lays its focus on Robin Wright's and Kate Mara's characters in its first chapter. Their characters are about as similar as the keyboard I'm currently writing on and the pear I'm simultaneously eating, but they both make you want to see more of them (A/N: this is not a sexual innuendo). I especially enjoyed how Mara's aspiring journalist Zoe gradually turns out to be more than the bitchy little girl she seems like in her first scene and the chemistry between Spacey and Wright as an on-screen couple.

But while the acting is clearly very good, the quality of a series on politics is inevitably decided through its script – thankfully, House of Cards doesn't fall off on that and has The Ides of March's scribe Beau Willimon establish his reputation. Sophisticated and witty conversations, small details that get important later on (even more so in the subsequent chapters), and an astonishingly accurate portrayal of today's politics are what makes this series worth watching, and, just so we're clear, you don't have to give a fig for politics to get a kick out of it. And with David Fincher responsible for the realisation, there's a wonderful visual style to the whole thing, making it an even greater delight to watch.

For chapter one, which very well represents my general view on the series, my only points of criticism are a tendency for clichés (coughing after taking a sip of spirits as an attribute for a fledgling character, for one), which is a misdemeanour, and the protagonist's breaking of the fourth wall, which is a felony. It went on to become typical for House of Cards, but on most occasions, I'm rolling my eyes once Kevin Spacey starts to address me. Nevertheless, I'd be surprised about anyone deciding to stop watching the series after this pilot, which does an outstanding job at making you want to see more.

Memoranda: • Give it up for editor Kirk Baxter and his beautiful segue from opera to ego shooter. • Same goes for cinematographer Eigil Bryld who captures a phenomenal shot of waste paper flying around in the wind of Washington D.C. • The short picture-only exposition moments for the end of this pilot work extraordinarily well, it's a shame they aren't really used in further episodes. • "I love that woman" – I've mentioned my dissatisfaction with Kevin Spacey talking to the audience in the middle of scenes already and this is likely the most unnecessary thing he says while doing so in the complete series. • The position of Peter's face when talking to Frank had me expecting an entirely different storyline when I first watched this episode, silly me. • House of Cards mostly uses bleak colours and the bright apple Frank slices up in his kitchen was a charming contrast to that. • Best quote: "You might very well think that, I couldn't possibly comment." I am so going to use this phrase in conversations.

Behind every great man, there stands a woman

[harryfoulkes · 9/10 · 30 April 2016]

Securing a recent victory for newly-elected president Garrett Walker, Frank Underwood believes himself a shoo-in to be appointed the administration's Secretary of State; indeed, he elected to back Walker's campaign on this promise. Spacey's Underwood feels understandably betrayed, therefore, when Chief of Staff Linda Vasquez (Sakina Jaffrey) informs him that Walker - not yet sworn into office - has reneged on this promise. Senator Michael Kern will instead be awarded the position, while Frank is assured of the invaluable role he will play in exercising his abilities as House Majority Whip - in order to pass the president's new education reform agenda through Congress. From here on in, the real drama begins to unfold, as Frank and his ice-cold wife Claire (Robin Wright) begin to plot Kern's fall from grace. As these events play out, we witness an entirely different story unraveling, in the offices of local rag The Washington Herald. Kate Mara's ambitious young reporter Zoe Barnes pursues meatier journalism, repeatedly requesting her own online column, under the assertion that print media is dead. Yet she is landed with nothing but small, 'human interest' stories ('puff pieces'): articles that do nothing to whet her appetite. On a whim, Barnes appears on the Underwoods' doorstep late at night, and following a brief discussion, Frank clearly recognises her potential as a pawn in his political game.

From the episode's opening beat, Spacey introduces his character's signature habit of breaking the fourth wall; addressing the viewer in those unmistakable dulcet tones as he stares knowingly into the lens - he kneels over a neighbour's dying dog and says 'Moments like this require someone who will act, who will do the unpleasant thing, the necessary thing'. Then, in an act that is wholly unexpected, Underwood proceeds to calmly, and tenderly, end the poor mutt's life. It is this single act that defines Underwood's coldness and severity: this is not a man to be underestimated. Yet Frank is not alone is political motivation. 'Behind every great man, there stands a woman' - if there has ever been such a living embodiment of this phrase, Claire Underwood is it. 'I love her more than sharks love blood,' Frank says (direct to camera), a sentiment which reveals an absolute reliance on his wife, as well as a not-so-subtle reference (one of many, in fact) to Underwood's pure animalism. Indeed, the meaty and animalistic rituals of politics are out in full force in this opening episode. House of Cards more than represents the pinnacle of television drama; bordering on the theatric. Comparisons that liken Claire with Lady Macbeth are undoubtedly apt, and Spacey's Machiavellian masterpiece is indeed worthy of a Shakespearean epic.

Mara's fresh-faced journalist represents an entirely different kind of optimism, among a cast of bitter and self-motivated old-schoolers. Yet Barnes represents the same hunger that we see in Underwood, a common trait which undoubtedly draws them together. This first episode is a belter, no doubt, whose closing scene leads us eager to see what lies ahead. Barnes now stands in the political firing line - exactly where she wants to be.

Chapter 1

[lassegalsgaard · 9/10 · 13 June 2023]

It's no secret that Netflix was looking for a huge show to start them off when they were putting the groundwork out there for their big streaming platform. To do that, they needed a show that would get viewers to tune in, which meant a show that had huge stars attached to it and someone with a lot of pedigree behind them to start it up. That came with David Fincher and Kevin Spacey, who were developing a remake of the British show "House of Cards." It premiered in 2013 and was a huge success, largely due to a gripping and very fascinating opening episode.

They went out and hired Beau Willimon to be in charge of the show and he provided them with an excellent opening script that sets the stage for a show full of corruption, backstabbing, and aspiration. From the opening scene, Frank Underwood is put in a power position that signals his dramatic stage presence right off the bat, and shows you that this is a man to be feared. It's certainly very ambitious from the beginning and it asks its viewers - particularly those who are well-versed in American politics - to put reality aside and simply focus on the entertainment value, of which there is a lot. It's a heightened version of American politics and it works as such on a script level. In terms of the overall look, the production value is off the charts and if it was in their intention to make the viewers believe that this was shot inside of the White House, they succeeded. The halls of Congress probably don't even look this beautiful in real life. A lot of that is obviously due to David Fincher's excellent direction in this episode, capturing the visual beauty of the U. S. capital and the very core of national power. His direction also smoothly takes the audience through the more convoluted elements of the script, by offering up interesting visuals to counter. The stage has now been set, and the Underwoods' future seems like it's going to be filled with drama, and they will take us to dark places, which is totally fine.

"Chapter 1" sets the bar really high, setting up the important elements of the show and displaying a cunning politician with a vengeance at its center. It's a visually stunning show and the writing is tight and interesting, giving the actors - in particular the two leads - more than enough material to immediately bring iconic characters to life.

Limned in darkness

[rlesses · 8/10 · 12 February 2016]

How the hell did Zoe Barnes ever get a job? Her personality is (literally) repellent. She's no Mattie Storen. This is the only episode in which Underwood says, "You might say that. I couldn't possibly comment." He could have used it more effectively, but Ian Richardson's delivery of the line is much more apposite, and Spacey is not at Richardson's level. A lot of setup, introducing major and minor characters in interesting circumstances. The Underwoods's characters, the depth of which you find as they develop over the first season, are here limned in darkness. There are many two-second cuts, which is great for those of us with ADD, but which must be wearing for those without. Nevertheless, 8/10, just for the setup and hint of menace to come.

"We like powerful people because somewhere we also want to be powerful in our life"

[kumaruttara · 8/10 · 20 November 2019]

When i have made my mind in November this year that i should start this high rated political drama not because of its popularity on internet, people are talking about its engaging story line and some creative stuffs and all that, but i started HOC S01 just because of one person Kevin spacey. Honestly i have not finished this season yet i have spent six hours long way to go. What here i am writing is about Chapter one. Yes this is fairly long season thirteen episodes, for me eight more to eat and digest. I found chapter one sufficiently interesting to finish this season one. "i found" because i like to watch Political Drama cause it somewhat interesting and attractive as this show is about we like powerful people because somewhere we also want to be powerful in are our life. This is my line because it came in my mind after watching three episodes. I know it's funny. As Francis Underwood (Kevin Spacey) says "power is a lot like real estate. It's all about location, location, location. The closer you are to the source, the higher your property value. I have not believed it but i cannot ignore it completely, it looks fair to me that can think over it and try to find some sense in it. As i have enjoyed this episode let me try to write a quick review. Here Francis and Claire Underwood both hoping for a big year they have ahead. Twenty two in congress and as an effective majority whip Francis Underwood knows where the wind is blowing so i decided to support a man who became popular people's choice President elect of nation and there is always a promise which was Underwood as secretary of state. But as you know they do not keep their promise, Francis asked stay in congress and this change in circumstance affect Claire equally. Claire Underwood (Robin Wright) has running an organization expecting some private funds but not now. Thus Underwood's choice to plan their retribution. Francis decided to use any mean and Claire too. It seems enough for me talk about the plot at least for chapter one because if you knew full story before watching movie than what is the point of watching than. It is over. You are going ruin every minute of your watching period in thought that you that. Apart from Underwood's there are a number of interesting characters to follow in this episode, such as Doug Stamper played by Michael Kelly. He works for Francis Underwood as his right man. Zoe Barnes Washington herald reporter played by Kate Mara. Yes i have said that i started HOC S01 just because of one person Kevin spacey, that was the primary reason. I am moving on to next episode.

Chapter 1

[alfieharvardharrisons · 9/10 · 18 April 2022]

Seems like a solid start to a show I've heard is one of the best Netflix originals! Great directing, cinematography, acting, the whole lot. Can't wait to keep watching!

Netflix is horning in on HBO's action with this one

[Mr-Fusion · 7/10 · 15 June 2017]

Between the wide aspect ratio and the scrolling credits, it's clear that this show's goals are loftier than just television. It's a skillfully made episode, especially for an opener. And when you need an actor to play the wronged (read: vengeful) career politician, Kevin Spacey is your go-to, there is no question; the rage just simmers underneath, man.

With how Netflix has redefined TV schedules, there's a relaxed pacing to this that kinda surprised me. But it's got the attention-getters where they count and ends on just the right note of menace.

Frank Underwood is not to be trifled with.

7/10

I've lost my faith that I might find a Pilot episode as promising and interesting as LOST was!(minor spoilers)

[Shmaden · 7/10 · 15 July 2017]

I watched this pilot with high or very high expectations. A friend told me that this show had one of the best moments ever on TV. I told him... let me watch the first episode and see if I'll catch me into it and make me watch the whole thing. Sadly id didn't. Here's why:

Maybe it's just me... or maybe I'm a little too old fashioned but when it comes to TV shows pilots I like for them to have an event or a mystery that will intrigue me to make me watch the whole thing. I mean from there the show can develop and make things interesting and grow characters along the way. Well surprisingly(or not) this pilot episode had none of it. I mean honestly it's even worse than Breaking Bad pilot which was one of the pilots I liked the least out of other pilots. The first scene has no connection with the plot of this movie. Just some random dog dying... wow! Then from there was just a continuous introduction of characters but no important event that might start of a chain of events that'll represent the entire show. None of that. Just some political stupidity of congressman and other garbage stuff I didn't care about... and that seems to make the audiences intrigued and wanting to watch more. OK, there was maybe one event that seemed a little un-boring and it was the movement of the main protagonist from one position to another. But the episode doesn't emphasizes this like the synopsis does and I quote "A congressman works with his equally convincing wife to exact revenge on the people who betrayed him." Well the movie completely missed the 'betrayed' part. I mean it didn't convinced me to feel for Francis' situation and want to get revenge like he maybe will...

Also Francis is the TV Show version of Deadpool, with a constant 4th wall break in almost every scene. Yes there were some very good acting and very good scenes, but I wasn't intrigued to want to watch how the story develops so I'll pass this TV show.

This is why I don't like politics

[dakuchonekobing · 2/10 · 17 February 2023]

Seems like a lot of people here are smart enough to flatter this episode, but to me, movie/TV is so simple, if you can't enjoy watching it, that show/episode is a complete failure no matter how good the episode revolves around, although I do like music and silences.

Maybe I'm not destined for David Fincher movies, both Gone Girl and Se7en are very good movies but to me they both offer less enjoyment than the others. With this episode, I think the story told is too complicated and confusing for those who are not passionate about politics. I was very impressed with Kevin's acting, he suits such a cunning character so well. Although I don't fully understand the plot of the episode, it can be said that he is kind of a political mafia. Anyway, the way this show opens with a dog getting hit by a car, blah blah... doesn't make much of an impression on me.

House of Cards Chapter 1

[dalydj-918-255175 · 3 February 2013]

The series opens with the sound of a neighbourhood dog getting hit a car, Francis (Kevin Spacey) is the first responder saying the dog will not survive, when he is left alone he speaks straight to the camera then strangling the dog before the owners arrive on the scene. Francis is married to Claire (Robin Wright) and they go off to a celebration of the president he has backed in some time. The other main character is Zoe (Kate Mara) a blog reporter who we meet trying to get further in her career. Peter Russo (Corey Stoll) a congressman who seems more unstable even with his assistant sexing him over the phone. Francis expected to be secretary of state but is told by Linda Michael Kern is the new choice. Francis have everything to the campaign and gets nothing for it. Francis returns home after such a long day with nothing to show to Claire. Claire wakes up after not sleeping to find Francis still awake and smoking. Francis comes into the office with plans to run for office against the current president next time he runs. Peter and his secretary are more then an inappropriate work relationship but dating for a while now. Zoe was pictured at a gala beside Francis which seem to cause something. Linda comes into Francis's office and the bill they are going to pass is on education. Claire is running a charity and she has to let some people go to afford money. Zoe goes by Francis's house offering her services to him to get news on the headlines. Peter is stopped by the police and arrested because of him driving drunk. Peter is bailed out by his girlfriend who is not happy of him driving drunk. Francis get the bill from Donald not being impressed at all. Zoe must meet with Francis again and is given the bill to leak on her website. Francis meets with Peter is his office and knowing about his past is able to use it to his advantage getting him to support him whenever he needs him. Zoe shows the story to her boss and easily it is made the front story. The president has his inauguration declaring his goal of education. The next day the bill is leaked which just seems to change everything in Washington. This was a strong start and with Fincher at the helm his directing style is shown throughout. Kevin Spacey was the standout followed by Corey Stoll, Wright and Mara were fine but their characters were not as developed or interesting.

EPISODE GRADE: A- (MVP: Kevin Spacey)