S02E05

Woohoo! A good Primeval episode feels rather like an anomaly in itself, given the recent dire and formulaic adventures in this disappointing second series.

The central plot may well be derived from the film Tremors, involving big bugs roaming beneath the sand, but at least the story contains an expansive scope and epic feel that has been distinctly lacking in recent episodes. The atmosphere was nicely built up in the opening scene through the eerie desert landscape in the moonlight, while Cutter's use of a bug's shell as a sledge was great fun. However, the dog-chasing girl that stumbled through the anomaly became a terrible television cliché with her overstated 'adults always lie' histrionics.

Finally, the conspiracy subplot involving Oliver Leek started to become intriguing after weeks of mere hints. Stephen's potential turn to the dark side, via the manipulations of Helen, provide a tantalising teaser of the conflict that may lie ahead for the team. As for Caroline, the girl should consider a turn at Wimbledon this summer. The manner in which she dispatched poor Rex with a double-handed backhand would have Venus Williams licking her lips.

Despite a lack of originality, this Primeval episode finely blends a self-contained storyline with a much-needed elevation of the ongoing story arc involving Leek's duplicity.


> Click here for our review of last week's episode