'Merlin' S01E07: 'The Gates Of Avalon'

The best ensemble acting on the show to date, coupled with excellent direction, ensure that the usual flaws of Merlin don't thwart this enjoyable episode.

Yet again, it's groans all round as King Uther allows some total strangers into his court. "You will stay with me," he insists, which effectively now functions as a comedy catchphrase given the nastiness that the visitors will predictably bring.

However, guest stars Kenneth Cranham and Holliday Grainger, who embody the show's nice blend of young and veteran talent, salvage the stale plotting with magnificent performances. As the heart-craving duo, they give their characters a real sense of depth and desperation in their bid to survive.

Colin Morgan delivers his most assured and crowd-pleasing turn as Merlin. The camera captures the sheer wonderment in his eyes when he witnesses the immortal 'fairies' flutter around the lake. The ongoing gag with the stocks is also perfectly played by Morgan and cleverly cut into the story. Rotten vegetable throwing has never been so much fun. The understated relationship between master and servant is also beginning to amuse, as Merlin and Arthur could well be the latest incarnation of The Fast Show's Ted and Ralph.

Although the pre-credits teaser is once again lacklustre and bereft of suspense, the climactic scenes at the lake are superbly shot and capture the magical and morbid qualities of the action. Interestingly, Merlin barely blinks as he blasts his to enemies into smithereens without even asking them to leave in peace beforehand. Could this be a sign of the young sorcerer's dark side?

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