S.O.S.

When 'Lost' was in its prime, it was must-watch television. Remember first watching it, found it remarkably easy to get into, was hooked from the start and was on Season 3 by the end of one week. The general consensus is that the final season is a disappointment and cannot disagree.

Can see why fans may dismiss "S.O.S.", with it often dismissed as a filler episode. It is slower in pace from the relatively general tautness of the previous episodes, more low-key and intricate in tone and is not the most character or plot-advancing of all 'Lost' episodes, there are signs of it with the Jack and Kate story-line and the surprising ending but they were more setting up what was to follow.

However, count me in as another person who likes "S.O.S." and considers it one of the most underrated 'Lost' episodes. It is not 'Lost' at its best by any stretch, or even Season 2 at its best, but there are a lot of pleasures and interest points (it's far from Season 2 at its worst, that distinction will always go to "Fire + Water").

"S.O.S." isn't flawless as such. The Mr Eko and Charlie stuff doesn't add an awful lot and is not as memorable as the rest of the episode, and Jack and Kate's dialogue can be very cheesy in spots.

On the other hand, everything with Henry Gale continues to delight (at points even he's creepy here) as does the interaction with Locke. Where "S.O.S." deserves most credit is giving minor characters up to this point more exposure and development and in a way that makes one identify and emotionally invest in Bernard and Rose, as well as giving Jack and Kate something to do that is crucial to the goings on and worthwhile (something that many previous episodes didn't achieve). There are many delightful character moments, and the flashback scenes are among the show's most poignant.

Acting is uniformly good, with the best performances going to Michael Emerson (that shot with the grin indeed will haunt one for days), L. Scott Caldwell and especially Sam Anderson who moved me to tears in his most emotional moments (i.e. the proposal).

Visually, 'Lost' continues to be stylish, atmospheric and beautiful in "S.O.S.", as always making the most of the island setting. The music is as always chilling and understated, everything is well directed and the script is very well written.

Summing up, very good episode deserving of more credit. 8/10 Bethany Cox

"S. O. S." focuses on Bernard and Rose's efforts to create a signal to attract rescue, while delving into their past and their relationship. The episode opens with Bernard's determination to build a large SOS sign on the beach, despite skepticism from the other survivors. Directed by Eric Laneuville, the episode effectively balances the emotional depth of Bernard and Rose's story with the island's ongoing tension.

Sam Anderson and L. Scott Caldwell deliver heartfelt performances as Bernard and Rose, showcasing their unwavering love and commitment to each other. The flashbacks reveal their touching backstory, including how they met and the challenges they've faced, particularly Rose's battle with a terminal illness. Their interactions provide a refreshing perspective on hope and resilience amidst the island's darker themes.

The writing in "S. O. S." explores themes of faith, love, and perseverance. Bernard's relentless drive to build the SOS sign, juxtaposed with Rose's quiet faith in the island's healing powers, creates a compelling narrative. The script skillfully balances character development with plot advancement, highlighting the couple's enduring bond and their differing views on rescue.

The cinematography captures the episode's emotional and tender moments, using close-ups and gentle camera movements to convey Bernard and Rose's deep connection. The editing maintains a steady pace, ensuring a seamless flow between the flashbacks and present-day events. The sound design, including the use of ambient noises and subtle music, enhances the episode's emotional resonance.

In conclusion, "S. O. S." is a touching and emotionally charged episode that delves into Bernard and Rose's relationship and their individual perspectives on hope and survival. The performances by Sam Anderson and L. Scott Caldwell are compelling and multifaceted. The writing, direction, and cinematography create a rich and engaging narrative, adding significant depth to the series' character dynamics and overarching themes.

I've rewatched the series several times. This is the high watermark of story telling without leaning on the shows core mysteries and characters. Rose and Bernard are the best people on the island and their arc throughout the series is probably the only one without flaw. And "these arms of mine" is a banger and the best song featured in the series. 10/10.

"S.O.S." isn't a perfect episode, nor is it the most eventful of "Lost" episodes nor did it come along at the perfect ime, nor is it a masterpiece of character-driven drama. It is, however, a completely pleasant, genuinely well-written gem which takes a look at Bernard and Rose, two of the few 'normal' people on the island, and certainly one of the more realistic and authentic couples. The flashback scenes are genuinely effective and involving, and even tie into the mythology (through the faith healer and the 'energy areas', one of which is the island, obviously) for those who believe the mythology is the main driving force of "Lost".

The episode is notably well-directed by Eric Laneuville, and very well-written by Leonard Dick and Steven Maeda, and as much as the plot involving Bernard and the sign he wishes to make is unnecessary, it's hardly aggravating or worth getting upset about, and is very, very far from the most annoying episode-contained storyline on the show. It's a good bit of sometimes humorous fun, actually.

The acting is excellent as well from L. Scott Caldwell and Sam Anderson as Rose and Bernard, and the scenes involving Fenry Gale are really fun to watch as well. The episode as a whole is just a really good, enjoyable episode, with an ending that sets up a superior, devastatingly good episode to come.

8/10

If there's an episode to skip then this is the one. It doesn't add anything to the myth arc and you can easily skip it if you're watching for the first time and not miss much. But if you're a fan of Rose and Bernard (I'm not) than watch It.

Filler episode and I disagree with those who are saying being called a filler episode is undeserved.