Greatest Hits

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!

"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.

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.

Alongside "Not in Portland", "Flashes Before Your Eyes", "Enter 77", "The Man from Tallahassee", "One of Us", "The Brig" and "The Man Behind the Curtain," "Greatest Hits" for me is one of the best Season 3 episodes (for me a very solid season where the only misfire was one of the worst episodes of the show "Stranger in a Strange Land") up to this point of the season. Also feel that it is one of the best of Season 3 in general, one of the best episodes of 'Lost' up to this point and among the best of the show in general. Every aspect of "Greatest Hits" is brilliant and with all the trademarks for a 'Lost' classic.

The episode has pretty much everything that 'Lost' is all about. It's taut and thought-provoking, with utterly gripping on-island events, also providing some answers and surprises, with one of the most illuminating and compelling flashbacks of Season 3.

On top of all that, it advances characters, shows plot progression rather than repeating itself or being filler and there is some nice foreshadowing and a few shocking revelations. The ending is also a triumph.

Loved seeing Rose and Bernard back and Charlie is at his most interesting and likeable, things he's not been as much in a while, with things revealed about him that adds to his character and not reiterating things already known like some other Charlie-centric episodes have done.

Can't fault the performances, particularly from Dominic Monaghan giving easily his best performance on the show, both up to this point and overall.

Nor the stylishness and atmosphere of the visuals, nor the effective use of music, taut writing and the tightly controlled direction (one of the best of the season and perhaps of the show).

All in all, one of 'Lost's' greatest hits. 10/10 Bethany Cox

Jack brings the leaders of the survivors to the woods, calls Danielle and explodes one tree. He discloses that Juliet will mark three tents, as agreed with Ben, but inside there will be dynamite instead of pregnant women, ready to blow The Others to hell. Ben anticipates the raid to the survivors' camp and Alex asks Carl to advise them. Juliet tells that there is a submersible station called Looking Glass that jams the distress signal from the island. Desmond has a premonition where Charlie flips a button in the Looking Glass and drowns, and then a helicopter rescues Claire and Aaron. Charlie decides to sacrifice his life to save Claire and her son, and writes the best moments of his life in a piece of paper.

This third season of "Lost" is undoubtedly sensational, with excellent episodes. In "Greatest Hits", Jack assumes his leadership and even Sayid respects him. Charlie recalls and lists the best moments of his life, such as when he swam for the first time; when his band Driveshaft played in the radio for the first time; when his older brother gave the family ring for him in Christmas; when he saved a young woman from a thief in an alley and she called him hero; and when he met Claire in the island. Charlie proves his love for Claire and that he is really a hero with his noble action to save her life. The end of the episode is in its climax to make the fans crazy expecting for the sequel on the next week. I do not trust on Juliet, and I am still waiting for the fate of Locke. My vote is nine.

Title (Brazil): Not Available

Note: On 12 April 2013, I saw this episode again on DVD.

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...