The BEST episodes of Rise (2018) season 1

Every episode of Rise (2018) season 1, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Rise (2018) season 1!

Inspired by a true story, a working-class community is awakened when its high school theater program takes on an unconventional new leader. As dedicated teacher and family man Lou Mazzuchelli takes over the lagging department, he encourages his students to unleash their creativity and explore new means of self-expression. But even though the students discover talents and ambitions they never knew they had, not everyone in town is thrilled. Upset by challenges brought by change, enraged faculty and skeptical parents contest Mr. Mazzu's galvanizing efforts. But with passionate fervor running through the town's veins, no one can deny a revolution is underway.

Last Updated: 11/26/2024Network: NBCStatus: Ended
Opening Night
star
8.57
109 votes

#1 - Opening Night

Season 1 - Episode 10 - Aired 5/15/2018

During opening night of "Spring Awakening" personal crises and dilemmas percolate in the wings backstage as Simon struggles to overcome his biggest fear, Lilette withholds a huge development from Robbie, Robbie has a momentous breakthrough, and Tracey draws a line in the sand. Over the course of one evening, decisions are made that will change Lou and Stanton Drama forever.

Directors: Michael Weaver
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Pilot
star
7.96
266 votes

#2 - Pilot

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 3/13/2018

In the premiere, Lou petitions to take over as director of the theater program in an attempt to revitalize his passion for teaching, but quickly realizes he has his work cut out for him. His controversial decision to change the musical to the more provocative "Spring Awakening" and his atypical casting choices create a ripple effect for the program's assistant director Tracey Wolfe. the school's football coach Sam Strickland, and the students in the show.

Directors: Mike Cahill
Writer: Jason Katims
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Most of All to Dream
star
7.84
200 votes

#3 - Most of All to Dream

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 3/20/2018

Lou is brought down to Earth when his production budget is slashed, Coach Strickland vindictively monopolizes Robbie's time, and he has a conflict with Tracey. Lilette finds herself starting to fall for Robbie.

Writer: Jason Katims
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
We've Got All Our Junk
star
7.82
124 votes

#4 - We've Got All Our Junk

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 4/10/2018

After their unresolved confrontation with Gordy, Lou and Gail try desperately to get through to him. Lou discovers a crucial element to the show needs a major overhaul, while Tracey resists a blossoming romance. As Gwen reels in the aftermath of a shocking announcement from her parents, Simon finds an unlikely ally. Robbie and Lilette grow closer just as outside forces conspire to put them at odds, and Vanessa takes a stand.

Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Totally Hosed
star
7.78
94 votes

#5 - Totally Hosed

Season 1 - Episode 9 - Aired 5/8/2018

Gordy agrees to volunteer in the theater, bringing him back onto Gwen's radar, while his family tries to come to terms with Maashous' imminent departure. As Robbie faces the severity of his mother's illness for the first time, Lilette waits for her mother to return home. Tracey and Lou work to prepare "Spring Awakening" for opening night, but can't see eye-to-eye on how to address notes from the administration.

Directors: Chris Koch
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
What Flowers May Bloom
star
7.70
178 votes

#6 - What Flowers May Bloom

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 3/27/2018

When Lou describes his vision for the show's staging and design, Tracey questions his every decision - but it's Simon's bombshell news that forces Lou to ask himself whether picking this controversial show was worth the cost. Meanwhile, Coach Strickland attempts to rehabilitate Gordy, and Gail worries for Maashous. Lilette struggles to contain her feelings for Robbie after discovering another side of him.

Writer: Kerry Ehrin
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Bring Me Stanton
star
7.57
108 votes

#7 - Bring Me Stanton

Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 4/17/2018

As Lou's vision for "Spring Awakening" starts to crumble, Lilette and Robbie feel the weight of responsibility on their shoulders with rehearsals going into overdrive. In reaching out to a student in need of support, Tracey opens up old wounds from her own past. Gwen starts down a destructive path that threatens to disrupt Gordy's attempts at self-control, while Simon takes steps to get closer to Anabelle.

Writer: Denise Hahn
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
This Will God Willing Get Better
star
7.56
109 votes

#8 - This Will God Willing Get Better

Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 4/24/2018

Tech week at Stanton High finds Tracey and Lou leading the cast through a series of rehearsals that falls short of expectations. Gwen's familial strife leads to a wild night out, while Michael tries to reconnect with an estranged friend. Maashous receives potentially life-changing news, and Simon's personal feelings start to compromise his performance in the musical.

Directors: Peter Sollett
Writer: Jason Katims
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
The Petition
star
7.54
95 votes

#9 - The Petition

Season 1 - Episode 8 - Aired 5/1/2018

When an unauthorized, provocative sizzle reel promoting the Stanton High production of "Spring Awakening" is posted online, it spreads like wildfire through the school and surrounding community. Coach Strickland and Vanessa are forced to face their daughters, but major damage has already been done. Robbie faces a crisis of confidence, while Maashous contemplates a difficult family reunion.

Directors: Nestor Carbonell
Writer: Jason Katims
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Victory Party
star
7.20
157 votes

#10 - Victory Party

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 4/3/2018

Robbie's two worlds collide at a house party where his football teammates face off with the drama troupe; Tracey reluctantly explores a new relationship with a not-so-secret admirer; a family road trip to visit Gail's sister goes sideways.

Watch Now:AmazonApple TV