The BEST episodes of The First

Every episode of The First ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of The First!

This sci-fi drama set in the near future and from creator Beau Willimon (House of Cards, Ides of March) tells the story of a crew of astronauts who are attempting to become the first humans on Mars. Under the direction of visionary aerospace magnate Laz Ingram, the crew members have to contend with dangerous situations and personal sacrifice as they undertake the greatest pioneering feat in human history. Oscar-winning actor Sean Penn leads the cast, portraying Tom Hagerty, one of the five astronauts aboard the Providence 2 vessel who have been chosen to colonize Mars.

Last Updated: 1/30/2024Network: HuluStatus: Ended
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Near and Far
star
7.55
429 votes

#1 - Near and Far

Season 1 - Episode 8 - Aired 9/14/2018

The members of Providence 2 gear up for their mission on launch day. Laz and Denise must prepare for a new chapter in their lives.

Directors: Ariel Kleiman
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What's Needed
star
7.29
609 votes

#2 - What's Needed

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 9/14/2018

With the mission in danger of being shut down, the Vista team travels to Washington to testify before Congress. Meanwhile, the Castillo family pursues their lawsuit against Vista. Tom and his daughter Denise work to repair their relationship.

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Where Life Is
star
7.23
511 votes

#3 - Where Life Is

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 9/14/2018

Sadie and Ollie’s marriage is tested. Laz works with the engineers as pressure builds to find a solution to the MAV malfunction. Tom and Ellen grow closer.

Directors: Daniel Sackheim
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Collisions
star
7.22
445 votes

#4 - Collisions

Season 1 - Episode 6 - Aired 9/14/2018

Laz attempts to sway an influential reporter who is critical of the Mars program. Aiko and Eitan test a solution to the MAV problem. An incident with Denise forces Tom to reconsider his priorities.

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The Choice
star
7.16
412 votes

#5 - The Choice

Season 1 - Episode 7 - Aired 9/14/2018

Tom and the Providence crew must make a choice with potentially life-threatening consequences. Matteo wrestles with his past. Tom and Denise must deal with unfinished business.

Directors: Ariel Kleiman
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
Separation
star
7.16
738 votes

#6 - Separation

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 9/14/2018

On launch day, Vista CEO Laz Ingram and the Providence crew count down for the first manned mission to Mars. Former mission commander Tom Hagerty watches from home. After a difficult day he is confronted by an unexpected visitor.

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Two Portraits
star
7.16
478 votes

#7 - Two Portraits

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 9/14/2018

Denise confronts her turbulent upbringing as she paints a portrait of her late mother, revisiting a lifetime of joy and trauma.

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Cycles
star
7.14
590 votes

#8 - Cycles

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 9/14/2018

Kayla and Tom find themselves at odds when faced with a difficult decision. A problem arises with the Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV) that may jeopardize the crew’s safety. Aiko hosts a dinner party to celebrate Sadie and Ollie’s wedding anniversary.

Directors: Daniel Sackheim
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV