Content Team 
Westworld: Season 1
When Westworld premiered on HBO in 2016, it quickly became one of the most talked-about shows on television. With its stunning visuals, intricate plot, and thought-provoking themes, audiences were captivated worldwide. From the show’s explosive opening scene to its mind-bending finale, Westworld Season 1 is a masterpiece of modern TV storytelling.
An unfortunate reminder of the series’ early cancellation had recently crossed my path, it afforded me a moment to reminisce on what made Season 1 so very special. And while the series was canceled for a myriad of reasons, the later seasons inability to capture similar magic as its first, certainly had to play a role in the decision. Westworld became a victim of its own success and never quite lived up to the expectations that the first season would create. In the end, it doesn’t change the fact that we got to experience the story of Season 1 and can fondly remember its greatness and its reasons for being so beloved.
From the first episode, viewers were transported to a fantastical world where lifelike robots or “hosts”, lived out their programmed narratives in a sprawling Wild West theme park. As the season progressed, we watched as the lines between human and host began to blur, and the characters we thought we knew revealed their hidden agendas.
At the heart of the show’s appeal was its exploration of consciousness, what it means to be human and our ever-changing relationship with technology. Using artificial intelligence as a core element for these explorations we got to experience the consequences of men playing god, watch how sentience could emerge and grow and how important things like our environment, our memories, and our morality help construct our own unique self-identity.
The most interesting theme, for me at least, revolved around the idea of free will and do we actually have it, does any sentient creature? Are we no different than hosts on a loop, marching to the tune of our own subconsciousness completely unaware of why we make the decisions we do. The answer is likely different for everyone and the discussions it produces is what makes the show so enjoyable.
And while its deep themes and razor-sharp narrative contributed to its success, the show and its viewers created an instant connection through Westworld Park itself. The amazement of seeing this technological triumph and entertainment wonderland in action, the show had many of us dreaming of being able to attend an actual Westworld one day. The strong feelings we all felt being moved around the Park cemented a bond that captured most of us in a trance from the very beginning to the very end of the season.
Enough cannot be said about its expert cinematography that allowed the viewers to feel like they were completely immersed within and living as a part of Westworld. And each episode is beautifully crafted, with a meticulous attention to detail in the overall narrative that rewards repeated viewings. From the seamless editing to the haunting score, every element of the show was designed to plunge viewers into this techno-dystopian world. The show’s ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, with standout roles from the likes of Anthony Hopkins, Evan Rachel Wood, Jeffrey Wright, and Thandie Newton.
In writing an article remembering the greatness of Westworld Season 1, it is important to acknowledge the show’s impact on the sci-fi genre and its place in the zeitgeist of the modern era. Its influence can be seen in the increasing prevalence of AI and technological dystopias in popular culture, as well as in the ongoing conversations about the ethics of AI research. Above all, Westworld Season 1 is a shining example of how television can be used to explore complex themes and challenge societal norms, while still providing thrilling and entertaining storytelling. It is truly a must-watch for any fan of science fiction or great television.
