Encoding

First episode took a long time to develop--interesting choice to go linear with the timeline instead of doing family flashbacks (but made it all the more gut-punching). In this episode, it's finally clear that the story is a psychological thriller and the pace/story is appropriate to it. Very impressed by the acting quality. The music--not so much--it occasionally overshadows the dialogue. Maybe Pratt needs a diction coach, or to play it a little less mumbly. Ditto all the prior reviews on the lighting being too dark when it's not appropriate (bedroom/underground/nightclub).

This was enjoyable enough that we went right into episode #3.

I did have to adjust the settings on the TV to bring in more light to picture. The acting by the entire cast has been amazing and the story just grabs you and pulls you in! Well done to everyone involved!

Ep 2 fixes most of what was wrong with the premiere.

Ellen Kuras' direction delivers visual clarity where Antoine Fuqua offered confusion. No more shaky cam chaos... just focused storytelling that actually serves the plot.

Pratt's performance sharpens as Reece's psychological deterioration becomes a dramatic strength, not a crutch. His partnership with Katie (Wu) crackles with tension while driving the conspiracy forward. Even Taylor Kitsch feels essential rather than decorative.

The episode smartly pivots from action spectacle to character-driven thriller. The conspiracy gains real momentum without sacrificing personal stakes. Pacing feels confident - emotional beats breathe, plot moves briskly.

Most crucially, "Encoding" provides answers where the premiere only offered questions. Reece's mental state becomes plot-relevant rather than mysterious for mystery's sake. The 7.5/10 rating reflects genuine improvement.

This isn't revolutionary television, but it's competent thriller craft. The dramatic jump in quality suggests Terminal List found its rhythm. If this trajectory continues, the series might actually deliver on its ambitious premise. A solid course-correction that earns cautious optimism.

This show and especially Chris Pratt are exactly why streaming entertainment is so timely and necessary. Hollywood lost all credibility decades ago when it elevated politics above honesty. It's not Bourne but it's asset level entertainment.

Truth is not relative and lies are prevalent.

As Steve Jobs so profoundly declared "The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller." Few people can discern the truth from the stories nowadays. If you're not a storyteller then you're a participant in their story.

As "The Terminal List" so incisively details throughout the entire first season, knowing your enemy IS the battle. This series has its flaws (Secondary Acting, Overly Dark and occasionally sloppy writing) but it's also disturbingly authentic and could very possibly be non-fiction.

Fairly sharp, very believable and satisfying story with a hero who's easy to root for.

80/100.

Why is this thing shot in darkness? It's awful. The story doesn't interest me, either. And that Asian journalist is annoying, an airhead for getting involved in something that would get her snuffed instanta.

There is nothing much to say, really. It's bland. The previous episode had a dumb MRI room scene that is so unrealistic, it MUST be imagined. But, who cares what happens. None of the characters is well defined.

I'm bored of having to write 600 words on a non-descript show, too. It's bland, playing it safe. A Total Recall wannabe, it seems. Go see the Arnie movie, Total Recall. When entertainment was fun!