Greatest Hits

"Greatest Hits" is the greatest example of a 'set-up' episode I can think of. Rarely has any episode in any television series which was basically leading directly into and setting up the season/series finale been so absolutely riveting and involving. The on-island stuff, outside Charlie's 'greatest hits' list, is essentially a prelude to the action-packed "Through the Looking Glass", while the flashbacks, when coupled with Charlie's actions on the island, particularly late in the episode during and after his conversation with Desmond, are among the show's most unabashedly sentimental and yet beautiful scenes. Dominic Monaghan gives his best performance in the role, and the episode is the finest achievement for Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz as writers and for Stephen Williams as director. A thrilling and exciting episode, sure, but also one of the most emotional on the series, even for someone who is generally ambivalent about Charlie as a character.

This is my first time watching through this show and so far it's the most hard hitting emotional episode yet for me. I say for me because I'm not sure why, but I didn't get very emotional when Boone or Shannon died. I think the anticipation for the season finale is great, the flashbacks, Claire and Charlie's relationship, and everything else is very well done and I heavily enjoyed this one. It shines a somewhat new light on Charlie that we haven't seen before and makes me love him even more. The only negative thing I have to say about this episode is the way Alex's boyfriend delivers this one line that feels so disingenuous but it's just a funny little thing no big deal!

How many adventure thriller shows have the death of a character being predicted, and then repeated over and over and over, for an entire season?

The reason for this is that everyone loved Charlie expect the actor who played him.... he wanted to leave, no different than any other actor who wants to leave a goldmine...

So they have Desmond, a character they arm with various gifts in lue of creativity and good story-telling, and he is the one who has been telling Charlie and the audience of his death, and again, it's just so silly...

Lost is an adventure fantasy but mostly it's a mystery, and Desmond reading this episode like a children's book to us ruins what's otherwise a good episode. Desmond is horrible.

I've been watching Lost since day one, and I have to say this episode is easily one of the best yet. Even as good (if not better) the moment in season one when the raft sets off. I'm not an emotional person, but this episode really made my eyes swell, as Charlie is easily one of the most likable and funny character on the island (he is also from my hometown, and lived very near me, which is also pretty cool :P). I loved how the flash backs were arranged as well, it felt very final, and the way it matched what Charlie was writing was genius! I found myself through out the whole episode gripping the edge of my seat, you could have cut the tension with a knife. The appearance of Rose and Bernard was a nice surprise as well, in fact I could go on and on about how awesome I thought this episode was, but you can watch for yourself, although if you have never watched Lost before it might not have the emotional impact, and if you have never watched Lost before, what are you doing?! Go out and buy the DVD! You may have to wait till season 3 to get some answers, but it just makes the revelations all the more satisfying.

Being only one more episode left of season 3, the final episode will really have to be amazing to top this one. Somehow I can see an explosive ending ahead...

"Greatest Hits" centers on Charlie Pace, highlighting his character's journey and his preparation for a potentially sacrificial mission. Directed by Stephen Williams, the episode begins with the survivors preparing for a dangerous operation to communicate with the outside world. Flashbacks reveal key moments in Charlie's life, showcasing his transformation from a troubled rock star to a selfless hero.

Dominic Monaghan delivers a heartfelt and poignant performance as Charlie, capturing his character's growth and determination. The flashbacks are particularly moving, providing a retrospective of Charlie's most significant moments and his evolving sense of purpose. The interactions between Charlie and Desmond, played by Henry Ian Cusick, add emotional weight to the episode.

The writing in "Greatest Hits" explores themes of redemption, legacy, and sacrifice. The flashbacks are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, creating a cohesive and emotionally resonant storyline. The episode's focus on Charlie's impending sacrifice and his efforts to leave a meaningful legacy adds a layer of poignancy and depth to the series.

The cinematography captures the episode's emotional and dramatic moments, using close-ups and dynamic camera angles to convey the characters' emotions. The editing ensures a smooth transition between flashbacks and present events, maintaining a steady pace throughout. The sound design, featuring uplifting music and ambient island noises, enhances the episode's emotional and hopeful atmosphere.

In conclusion, "Greatest Hits" is a heartfelt and emotionally resonant episode that delves into Charlie's character and his journey towards redemption. Dominic Monaghan's performance is compelling and nuanced. The writing, direction, and cinematography create a rich, engaging narrative that adds significant depth to the series' overarching themes.