'Heroes' S03E05: 'Angels and Monsters'

What's going on with the Petrellis? They're a family so full of shock revelations and in-fighting that they wouldn't be out of place on EastEnders. Fortunately, they make for hugely entertaining viewing and help make this Heroes episode one of the best yet.

It's to the show's huge credit that the engrossing, adrenalin-fuelled nature of the narrative is still maintained despite a lack of action compared to previous weeks. The ongoing powerplay between Sylar and Noah Bennet is electric and fascinating to watch unfold, especially seeing Claire's shocked reaction to the unlikely pairing.

The cheerleader's own subplot with Stephen Canfield adopted a slower pace, yet quickly generated an emotional authenticity that made us feel for the plight of the vortex-generating man. Having lost his family, the persecuted Canfield refused to lose his morals and sacrificed himself rather than slay Sylar under Noah's duress.

Various recently established story threads receive a tantalising jolt in this episode, as Maury Parkman is revealed to be behind the Linderman appearances, Papa Petrelli shows up and Jeff Goldblum impersonator Mohinder puts Maya into bondage (can you blame him?). Nathan Petrelli's recent spiritual rebirth is also challenged by his mother's admission that he was given his powers by science rather than God. He's gonna be on the phone to Richard Dawkins before long.

Best of all though, is the development of the fractured Hiro-Ando relations. The time-stopper's sudden slaying of his companion still shocks even though there's surely a convenient get-out clause around the corner. More importantly though, their adventures have allowed Sark from Alias to return to the fold in the guise of the deliciously devious Adam Monroe.

A change in style, but not a change in quality. Plot twists take over from nifty visuals this week - demonstrating the versatility of Heroes. When the action does crop up though, such as in Peter's cell or Canfield's living room, it serves to add another dimension to the ongoing brilliance of the show during its resurgent third season.


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