snoozejonc

The writers do good work, further exploring the characters from wealthy backgrounds, who suffer hang-ups associated with parental relationships. In many ways, it follows up on some of the themes established in episodes like New Amsterdam.

Some scenes involving Betty are painfully awkward to watch, particularly her family interaction and some moments with Glen. The writers include some good character development in her behaviour. For me, her scenes are the strongest in the episode. I have experience with family members suffering from dementia, and the portrayal of Gene feels very familiar. There is nothing like the declining health of a parent to thrust responsibility on you and a feeling that you have to finally grow up.

Other characters have interesting moments in smaller focus, like Peggy and Joan. It is quite amusing watching office clown Paul Kinsey's pretentiousness in full flow.

This is a strong horror-focused chapter that does a very good job portraying events on board the Maginot before those shown in the episode Neverland.

As we already know the outcome for the ship and most of the characters on board, there is only so much tension to be generated. However, the filmmakers use the space tics and ocellus well to keep the atmosphere suitably creepy and sustain the suspense. Additionally, the mystery of the saboteur and how it connects to the overarching narrative unfolds nicely.

For me, the development of the character Morrow is a highlight. The writers have drip-fed information about him so far, and here we are given a sufficient amount to keep the arc interesting. We needed to know more about his backstory and motivation, and this chapter explains it well.

There are likely to be eyebrows raised in relation to the xenomorph scenes. I anticipate words like inconsistency and phrases like plot armour being used to describe certain moments. That being said, their presence is still nightmare fuel, but maybe not as potent when it shares the chamber with a variety of other horrors.

What will frustrate most is the lack of caution shown by certain characters in key moments that stretches plausibility to the limit. It depends on how seriously you take fictional stories.

This is a strong episode with great character moments.

The comedy banter is as good as always, with Fletch, Warren, Barrowclough, and MacKay used very well by the writers. That being said the plot regarding the exam paper is very predictable.

Ronnie Barker is exceptional, making the best of the material. He not only displays fantastic comic timing, but when required he shifts to a slightly more dramatic tone to convey the character's insecurities and his care for Godber. The "cross roads of your life" speech he delivers is one of the best moments of the entire show.