The opening episode, ‘Natural Selection’, presents us with a drama that really focuses on a couple of characters while swiftly moving through unpredictable twists and turns. Furthermore, an intriguing conspiracy understatedly sits in the background, bound to become even more fascinating in future instalments.

Admittedly, Orphan Black does still have to work through the same sort of clunky exposition that any pilot episode requires. Thankfully, the dialogue is focussed and fast-paced, often amusing enough that it doesn’t irritate.

The story of the drama is that of runaway hustler Sarah Hawking (Tatiana Maslany), a woman who takes on the identity of somebody who looks exactly like her after witnessing her suicide. ‘Natural Selection’ is all about the consequences of that rushed decision and the implications that they have for those close to her. Sarah convinces her foster brother Felix (Jordan Gavaris) to identify the body of the unidentified woman (who we learn is called Beth Childs) as that of Sarah so that she can clear out Beth’s bank account and escape with her daughter to someplace where they can start a new life.

What she envisions as a straightforward plan, though, reveals itself to be increasingly complex as it progresses. Sarah may be remarkably skilled at thinking on her feet, but it’s clear the scenario she finds herself in is hardly going to be a simple one to worm out of. The mystery of exactly why Beth killed herself remains something to ponder over, along with the numerous other threads of the compelling conspiracy that are introduced in this episode.

Orphan Black wouldn’t be quite as impressive as it is without the tremendous and chameleonic performance of captivating star Maslany. She seems to effortlessly change her body language, switch between difficult accents and embody the different characters she’s playing with very individual personal traits. Maslany is just the type of actor who demands your attention, and her dazzlingly skilful showing in the premiere provides all the convincing that anyone will need as to just why this is a series to keep watching.

Beyond that, Orphan Black is a stylishly shot and atmospheric drama that already hints at interesting developments yet to reveal themselves. The action is primarily steered by Sarah as the central character, while Felix serves as effective comic relief throughout this episode. Potentially worthwhile supporting characters exist on the sidelines, but later episodes should reveal them to be gradually more important.

For now, it’s obvious that this is Tatiana Maslany’s show and she’s pulling it off incredibly well. This riveting premiere really ramps things up in the final fifteen minutes before ending with a breathtaking conclusion that guarantees you’ll want to be watching again next week.

Airs at 9pm on Friday 20 September 2013 on BBC Three.

> Order Season 1 on DVD on Amazon.

Watch the trailer…

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