20 TV Show Pilots That Are Totally Flawless
2. It's Summer And We're Running Out Of Ice - Watchmen
It's Summer and We're Running Out of Ice would make this list for its first scene alone, which kicks things off with a visceral portrayal of the Tulsa Race Massacre and its effects on those who survived. Luckily, Watchmen's pilot actually manages to be much more than its opening, in more ways than one.
At once a stunning assessment of race, law, history and identity in America, the episode makes it clear that whilst the show is a thrilling superhero story based on Alan Moore's classic comic book, it's also a timely look at the world we live in, and the horrors we still have to face.
With gorgeous special effects, brutal violence, confrontational drama and a rousing performance courtesy of star Regina King, It's Summer and We're Running Out of Ice holds nothing back, and says what it has to say without feeling melodramatic. From here, the miniseries only got bigger and better.