Introduction
The Dropout has become one of the most popular series on streaming platforms lately. The story of Elizabeth Holmes, founder of the now infamous Theranos, has gripped audiences worldwide. For those who haven’t had the chance to watch, this article provides a comprehensive guide on The Dropout, including its episode count, plot, structure, and a breakdown of each episode.
Episode Guide: A Comprehensive List of All the Episodes in “The Dropout”
With only nine episodes available, the show can be binge-watched in one sitting which makes it an addictive and engaging series. Here’s a complete list of all The Dropout’s episodes:
- Episode 1: The Debutante
- Episode 2: Building the Unicorn
- Episode 3: Sunbeam
- Episode 4: Going Live
- Episode 5: The Downfall
- Episode 6: A Question of Leadership
- Episode 7: Fake it till you make it
- Episode 8: The Trial
- Episode 9: Justice
Each episode was released on its scheduled date, i.e., the first episode was first aired on March 3, 2022, and the last one on April 28, 2022. At an average length of 60 minutes, the series lasts for roughly nine hours.
The Dropout: A Breakdown of the Show’s Plot and Episode Structure
The Dropout is a gripping docudrama show that takes its viewers on a journey behind the scenes of the meteoric rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes and her once-revolutionary biotech startup, Theranos. The show’s plots and storylines are intertwined with the documentary footage, giving the feeling of a thriller movie rather than a true-crime series.
The series’ structure is unique and unforgettable, filled with multiple cliffhangers that leave you wanting more after each episode. Each episode’s plot is skillfully narrated while bouncing back and forth between different timelines. This style of storytelling helps to enhance the show’s pacing, keeping the audience fully engaged as the plot unfolds, piece by piece.
The Dropout: Why Its Episode Count is Just Right
The Dropout’s episode count of nine episodes is just the perfect amount to showcase everything that led to the collapse of one of the most significant fraud cases in Silicon Valley. The pace of the series is well thought out, with no excess content or slow build-up. Each episode adds crucial details to the case and further explores its impact on the businesses and the people involved. The shorter series also means that the show’s consistency and pacing are maintained throughout the episodes, making it an incredible viewing experience.
Binge-Worthy: A Quick Guide to How Many Episodes are in “The Dropout” Series
For those looking to binge-watch the entire series in one go, sitting down to watch The Dropout would consume approx nine hours of their lives. The series runs for a total of nine episodes, with each episode running for approximately one hour. It is an addictive show that can be consumed quickly without losing the overall story arc with each episode typically ending with a gripping cliffhanger.
What You Need to Know About Each Episode in “The Dropout”
Each episode of “The Dropout” is rich in detail and captivating storylines. The series’ lead characters, Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos, are analyzed, providing an in-depth look at a case that shook the world. Here is a closer look at each episode’s plot, major characters, significant events as well as notable lines or scenes that caught our attention:
Episode 1 – The Debutante
The first episode provides a perfect introduction to the characters and their relationships, setting the tone for the show’s climactic storyline. The episode follows Elizabeth’s life before she starts Theranos, her grandiose idea of changing modern medicine, and the creation of her technology that promises to revolutionize blood testing.
Episode 2 – Building the Unicorn
The second episode starts with a glimpse of Elizabeth’s early success and her vision for the future of Theranos. She starts to attract the attention of investors, media, and business elites who believe in her. The episode marks the beginning of her relationships with powerful people who are more than willing to trust her to change the medical industry.
Episode 3 – Sunbeam
As investors flock around her, Elizabeth is faced with increasing scrutiny and setbacks. The episode provides insights into the troubles she faced with her investors and how she managed to leverage their trust to keep the company afloat. Finally, the episode ends with a crisis that further puts her business at risk.
Episode 4 – Going Live
After a few crises, Thernos has earned its place among the elite players in the biotech space, and Elizabeth is now a billionaire. The episode showcases Elizabeth’s vision for growth, with plans to expand globally and new partnerships with major players in the industry. The key highlight is the launch of the mini lab, arguably the company’s flagship product, but its success is yet to be determined.
Episode 5 – The Downfall
The fifth episode marks the beginning of the end for Theranos and Elizabeth’s reputation. Unsuccessful tests, ethical issues, and the mistrust of key business partners have brought evidence of the company’s fraudulent practices to the surface. Elizabeth fights back against these disclosures with lies and deception, which causes her world to come crashing down in a matter of seconds.
Episode 6 – A Question of Leadership
The company is now in massive turmoil, facing government investigations and financial crises, and Elizabeth’s initial resolve to fight back gives way. This episode takes us on a journey to how she grapples with her leadership role and the kind of person she is becoming. Her indecision alienates people loyal to her even while the company continues to crumble from within.
Episode 7 – Fake it till you make it
“Fake it till you make it” is the mantra of this episode as Elizabeth continues to push back against the onslaught of legal accusations, especially the Securities and Exchange Commission’s charges. As the spotlight shines brighter on Elizabeth’s lies, she’s increasingly isolated until the very end.
Episode 8 – The Trial
The penultimate episode shows the court fights and everything that happened in the trial. The episode is packed with drama as the prosecutors lay out their case against Theranos and the people responsible for it. The portrayal of disgruntled employees and investors testifying is captivating while the defense strategy appears far-fetched.
Episode 9 – Justice
The final episode brings closure to what has been a mind-bending series. The judgment is finally delivered and Elizabeth faces the consequences of her fraudulent activities. The episode paints a vivid picture of what the judgment means for Elizabeth, her last moments in front of the camera, and leaves the audience with a sense of justice well served.
Tracing the Story Arc of “The Dropout” Through Its Episodes
The Dropout’s story arc is evident from the first episode, where we see Elizabeth’s rise to power, which comes to a crashing halt in the last episode. The series oscillates between the different timeframes, showing the company’s glory days and the dark days that result from fraudulent activities. For example, Elizabeth goes from a media darling to a fraudster over nine episodes –– it’s a jaw-dropping spectacle backed by all the details.
Each episode skillfully builds on top of the other to create an intense storyline that shows the different aspects of the company’s rise and fall. The cliffhangers embedded in each episode are excellent hooks, pushing viewers to watch the next one. The finale pieces it all together, delivers justice, and leaves the audience satisfied and gasping for more at the same time.
Conclusion
The Dropout is an excellent docudrama that depicts the crazy world of Elizabeth Holmes and how greed and ambition can lead even the most outlandish ideas to be taken seriously. The show demonstrates skillful plot development, memorable characters, and engaging dialogues, all of which combine to deliver the right dose of entertainment. If you’re looking to learn something new about the modern world’s darkest side, this show is for you.
The show’s addictive qualities and total run time of fewer than ten hours, it’s easily binge-watched and highly recommended. Start watching The Dropout today! You won’t regret it.