Paradise’s Shocking Twist: Two Mysteries Set to Unravel in This Must-Watch Premiere!

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⚠️ CAUTION: This write-up unveils plot points from the debut episode of “Paradise,” currently available for streaming on both Hulu and Disney+.

This way maintains a similar tone while making it easier to read by using more natural language, avoiding jargon, and rephrasing the original sentence.

Fool us once, shame on Dan Fogelman. Fool us twice, shame on us.

After the shocking turn of events at the end of the 2016 premiere of NBC’s family drama “This Is Us,” it can be challenging to recall when viewers weren’t aware that the show was not about unrelated individuals living in contemporary times, but a series spanning decades through time jumps. Now, the creator of “This Is Us” has introduced his latest production, “Paradise” on Hulu, and left everyone speechless again with an even more stunning revelation: at first glance, it appears to be a political conspiracy drama; however, it is actually a thriller set within a massive underground shelter in what seems to be a post-apocalyptic world.

Sterling K. Brown, who played Randall Pearson on “This Is Us” for six seasons, describes his initial experience of Dan Fogelman’s script as follows: “For the first 49 pages, it’s like, ‘Wow, this story is really grabbing me. I can’t wait to see more,'” he says. But then, Brown adds, comes the moment when his character takes out a cigarette at the hospital, which was a clear signal to the audience that one of the timelines is set in the ’80s.

In the series “Paradise,” we follow Xavier Collins, a Secret Service agent who previously protected President Cal Bradford (played by James Marsden). Unfortunately, Cal was murdered at the start of the first episode, making Xavier the prime suspect due to their rocky past. As the episode concludes with Xavier fleeing, the focus shifts from the murder mystery to other peculiarities. For instance, we observe that the ducks in the town’s pond are artificial, residents pay for items using identical wristbands, and the entire community is contained within a massive dome hidden inside a cave.

Brown explains during an interview for a EbMaster cover story that initially, there were sprinklers similar to the ones Xavier runs through at the start. These sprinklers sprayed water, and later in the scene, they released dye to color the grass. The ducks were present throughout the production. As the end approached, Brown realized it resembled “The Truman Show,” finding out that the people were actually in a controlled environment. This revelation took Brown by surprise, as they weren’t anticipating it.

The next time I dive into a piece of reading material, I’ll be on the lookout for the unexpected turn. It was excellent, and it kept me on the edge of my seat.

Not only was this surprising, but Fogelman & Co. decided to push boundaries even more by releasing the premiere episode of “Paradise” two days earlier than planned on both Hulu and Disney+, before the initial airing of its first three episodes on Hulu on January 28th.

In this piece, the mastermind behind “Paradise”, Fogelman, engages in a conversation with EbMaster, discussing the major plot twist and offering insights into the direction the story takes for the remainder of the initial eight-episode season.

“This Is Us” was filled with questions, some of which didn’t get answered until the very end of the show. How long will we be waiting to find out the story behind Cal’s murder and what got everyone into this bunker?

Speaking from my perspective, I must admit that this new series has piqued my interest, especially after six years immersed in “This Is Us.” One aspect that stands out about this show is its ability to address and resolve any enigmas or queries within the first season itself. For instance, regarding Xavier’s initial feelings toward Cal at the beginning of the pilot, there are two intriguing mysteries that unfold: The first being the circumstances surrounding Cal’s death – who was responsible, and why? Essentially, a murder mystery unravels here. However, there’s also a deeper layer to the show, delving into conspiracy theories, unexplained events in the world, and possible connections to Cal’s murder. Both of these mysteries are ultimately resolved by the end of the first season.

Regarding Sterling’s behavior towards Cal in the pilot episode, especially his response to Cal’s body, it’s deeply connected to the broader enigma. Many viewers have speculated about Sterling’s anger, with some suggesting that he’s upset because Cal killed his wife. However, the true reason will be unveiled throughout the season, encouraging viewers to ponder and develop their own theories.

By the close of Episode 7, you’ll find solutions to all the enigmas concerning the overarching puzzle of our world. I believe no further mysteries will linger post that episode. However, expect a multitude of questions regarding the murder and Xavier’s wife to arise, which are all addressed in the eighth episode.

There are a lot of ways you could have revealed the true nature of the city of Paradise. How did you decide on this setup for the end of the premiere?

In previous instances, I’ve worked with complex narratives, and my initial approach is to thoroughly scrutinize potential collaborators. Although opinions and feedback are valuable to me in later stages, they are not a priority during this initial screening process. Instead, I seek out individuals who are fresh and knowledgeable about television, and my primary concern at the beginning is to gauge their understanding of the plot twists.

To achieve this, I present them with schematics, renderings, or drawings of the storyline and ask, “Can you follow it?” The aim is to generate confusion, ensuring that they are actively engaged and attentive to the unfolding narrative. If they respond with surprise or bewilderment, then I know they are paying attention and understanding the story I intend to tell.

To elevate this further, you might ask, “What form does that take? And what does that form resemble?” At present, about one in ten individuals are responding to the solar shape in a particular way. This is the method we’re following.

One of the key moments that points to Xavier as a suspect in Cal’s death in the premiere is their final private conversation in a flashback, in particular the line, “I’ll forgive you when I can sleep again, and I’ll sleep again when you’re dead.” Why go so hard with his potential guilt right off the bat?

Originally, we had a powerful and contentious line. I tried several alternatives in case it was too intense. However, the one we chose resonated with everyone. Sterling commented that it carried a unique impact when we recorded it, and he was right! We also had an alternative that was more tender, something like “Will I ever forgive you for what you did? No, but I’ll never forgive myself either.” But the final line has a softer, more poignant feel.

You’ve said you have a three-season plan for “Paradise.” The show hasn’t yet been renewed, so where are you in terms of planning for a second season?

We’re making significant progress towards wrapping up most of our season, with much of it already scripted. The main challenge in streaming content lies in series that captivate audiences but then go on hiatus for approximately two and a half years. To address this issue, my aim is to bring the show back to television within at least one year.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

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2025-01-27 06:17