Episode 1

S1, E1: Scientist Bill Masen (Dougray Scott, The Diplomat, Desperate Housewives) the world's premier authority on the extraordinary plant species known as Triffids, has become the architect behind a global phenomenon. Genetically modified, the plants are mass-produced for their 'Triffoil', a vital source of renewable fuel. However, Bill has also noticed an unnerving change in their behavioural patterns. The Triffids are starting to communicate. Masen's reservations are dismissed as people across the globe prepare for an amazing natural spectacle. A solar storm is about to take place, and promises to cast a spectacular light show across the sky. But the spectacle blinds all those who watch it and global mayhem ensues. In London, fear and panic rage as the blind desperately depend for survival on the few who have retained their sight. Having escaped blindness, Bill Masen meets Jo Playton (Joely Richardson, Nip/Tuck, The Last Mimzy) a BBC correspondent who also retained her sight after becoming trapped in London's Underground. Together they make their way through streets of panicked, blind mobs and a city that has descended into chaos following the collapse of the government. It's every man for himself as gangs of desperate people roam the streets. But a more chilling discovery soon comes to light. The Triffids have escaped from the farms and are making their way towards the cities, which is where they can find the most abundant source of their prey, mankind. Bill and Jo join a group that have established a rudimentary community, but they are soon overwhelmed by an army of the blind, led by Major Coker (Jason Priestley, Above & Beyond, Colditz) and his commander, the power-hungry Torrence (Eddie Izzard: Valkyrie, Ocean's Thirteen). Bill realises that Torrence is an amoral opportunist, who is fast laying the foundations of a tyrannical dictatorship and wants Bill out of his way. Unknown to Jo, Torrence has Bill arrested and taken to Hampstead Heath, where the Triffids have arrived.