Episode 1 of "The Horror of Dolores Roach" unfolds as Dolores's sordid tale is reimagined on the dazzling stage of Broadway, transformed into a pulse-pounding thriller that captivates audiences. Flora Frias, embodying the iconic cannibalistic serial killer with remarkable finesse, delivers a shattering final soliloquy that elicits a thunderous standing ovation, echoing through the theater's rafters.
Backstage, amidst the adulation of her colleagues, Flora reflects on the daunting challenge of inhabiting Dolores's twisted psyche. But as she prepares to depart, the unexpected occurs: Dolores herself, risen from the shadows of her macabre past, confronts the actress. Fueled by resentment at being exploited without financial gain, the murderer seeks to set the record straight, unraveling a tale that spans decades.
The narrative shifts, transporting us to the vibrant yet seedy underbelly of Washington Heights in the early aughts. Here, Dolores thrives alongside her partner in crime, Dominic, their drug empire thriving as they meticulously plot their escape. However, their idyllic existence is shattered by a ruthless drug raid, leaving Dolores to face the consequences alone. Dominic vanishes into thin air, leaving her to endure 16 years of incarceration for assaulting a cop and drug possession with intent.
In 2019, Dolores emerges from the shadows of prison, only to find a New York City transformed beyond recognition. Her once-familiar neighborhood has succumbed to gentrification, erasing all traces of her past. Returning to her former abode, now occupied by strangers, Dolores's heart sinks as she discovers her hidden stash in the bathroom—empty, a stark reminder of Dominic's betrayal. Furious and betrayed, she realizes he stole their future, their escape fund, and her last hope of a life beyond bars.
Lost and disoriented, Dolores wanders the unfamiliar streets, her once-familiar landmarks a distant memory. Yet, amidst the chaos, one beacon of familiarity remains: Empanada Loca, a bustling fast-food joint that stands as a solitary reminder of her past. Here, Dolores finds solace, if only for a moment, in the familiarity of a taste that transcends time and tragedy.
As she scurries across the street, her heart pounding, Dolores narrowly escapes being trampled by oncoming traffic. Stepping into the eatery, she finds a familiar ambiance that wraps her in a comforting embrace as she places her order for her beloved dish. However, her contentment is fleeting when the cashier declines her $50 bill, leaving her feeling defeated as she exits the premises.
Just as she's about to leave, a familiar face illuminates her path. It's Luis Batista, now the proprietor of the very eatery that holds so many memories. Recognizing his old friend, Luis' joy overflows as he not only comps her meal but also presents her with a soothing herb to partake in. Together, they descend into the restaurant's basement, which doubles as Luis' temporary abode.
Dolores' inquiries about Dominic's fate linger heavily in the air. Luis' expression grows solemn as he recalls the aftermath of the drug raid, revealing that he's lost track of his friend. Rumors swirl, painting a bleak picture of Dominic's possible demise or relocation.
In a heartfelt confession, Dolores reveals her dire situation: devoid of friends, family, finances, and a stable roof over her head. Luis, moved by her plight, offers her the sanctuary of his father's former basement room, a gesture of kindness that costs her nothing but fills her heart with immeasurable joy. For Dolores, it's a dream come true.
Amidst their conversation and shared smoke, Luis is overcome by a panic attack. Without hesitation, Dolores offers a soothing back massage, her fingers working magic as they ease his tension. She then shares her own secret, revealing that she once lent her skilled touch as a masseuse within the confines of a prison.
Settling into her newfound haven, Dolores indulges in a hot shower, her thoughts drifting to Tabitha, her former cellmate whom she misses deeply. The episode draws to a close, the present merging with the past as Dolores recounts her life story to Flora, a testament to the many untold chapters still waiting to be unveiled.
