While initial reviews were mixed—some critics found the characters unlikable or the concept too similar to other "riches-to-rags" stories—the pilot is now viewed as a necessary starting point for the show's transformative character arcs. It establishes the "impenetrable armor" of their vanity, which the series spend six seasons slowly dismantling. If you're interested, I can also:
: Early character dynamics suggest a profound disconnect between the family members; Alexis initially attempts to "save herself" and leave the rest of the family behind, highlighting the shallow nature of their prior bonds. Symbolic Title and Sarcasm [S1E1] The Cup Runneth Over
Compare this pilot to the to show how much they changed. While initial reviews were mixed—some critics found the