The first couple of episodes started out at (I would say) around 6.5/10 and 7.5/10. Because the show had to set a premise for what's going on, that's to be expected. Then, I guess the writers decided to strap-on rocket boosters to their scripts from episode 3 onwards, because the drama and acting literally takes off.
Some things to expect when watching this show. (You can even make a drinking game out of it):
1.> Virtually, EVERYONE cries in EVERY episode. In some situations its a bit over-done, but there are a good few episodes where you'd find yourself crying as well.
2.> They have two or three main background music that's played through the entire series. It would've been nice if the mixed it up a bit or added variations, but I'm just nit-picking here. But you might start to notice it as you watch on.
3.> There is no true good guys or bad guys in this show- even when it comes to the main characters. It's all mainly tragedy based on life circumstances. Even when the bad guys do eventually get their comeuppance, you'd still find yourself shedding a tear for them.
4.> The mind-games, cunning, fore-thought and stratagem in this show is INSANE
5.> All the characters really do mature as the series goes on, and you see it. Its a fascinating thing to watch, and when they do flashbacks, its amazing how far it shows said character has progressed
6.> The loyalty. The loyalty of some of these characters is something to behold- where they would stick together through thick and thin- and are willing to offer their lives at the drop of a hat. This goes both ways, for both the good guys and the bad guys.
7.> Those damned cliff-hangers. Let's just say I am so glad I didn't watch this, while this series was live, because it would drive me nuts waiting for the next episode. Then again, it took a substantial amount of self-control on my part, in pacing myself watching this. Because if you're not careful, you could end up watching 4-6 hours worth very easily.
8.> The eyes/eye contact. Half of the dialog is in the eye-contact, where there's no talking. It goes to show that it is possible to create a meaningful scene with very little-to-no dialogue, and deliver just as much impact.