S02E02: 'The Lost Sontaran' - Part Two

After the fine first part, 'The Last Sontaran's conclusion disappoints in the action stakes but impresses with its emotional content.

Plenty of tension-free chase sequences function as meaningless padding and lessen the threat posed by Commander Kaagh because of his inability to successfully pursue a group of kids. Luke and Clyde even stop to have a chat at one stage, while the lumbering spud in a spacesuit has seemingly drifted far behind the gang despite being hot on their heels moments earlier.

Bearing in mind that Kaagh has a gun that he's not afraid to use, shouldn't the humans be running for their lives and not being so blasé? It's almost up there with the Slitheen in Downing Street chase scenes in terms of inadequate direction.

Fortunately, the presence of the endearing Jackson clan more than compensates for the episode's action failings. Maria and Alan's departure is well handled, striking a touching rather than soppy note.

As for the manic Chrissie - what a revelation! Having acted like a dizzy non-blonde in her previous appearances, her seemingly vacuous nature has been replaced by an air of mystery. How did she know where to hit the Sontaran with her shoe? What secrets does she hold? The fact that she feigned amnesia about the events in Goblin's Copse shows that she is a smarter and juicier cookie than previously thought.

Fittingly, the resolution to the adventure was death-free and surprisingly heartwarming. Even Kaagh was allowed to head off peacefully. All it needed was Christopher Eccleston to stroll on set and proclaim "Everybody lives Sarah Jane! Everybody lives!"


> Click here to read our review of episode one