S02E09: 'The Temptation Of Sarah Jane Smith' Part One

Perhaps the best Sarah Jane yet, the opening part of the terrifying Trickster's comeback story is a perfectly executed and absorbing piece of drama. Packed full of astounding visuals and poignant emotions, this episode is far too good and dark to be dumped in such an awful timeslot. In fact, it's up there with some of the best Doctor Who adventures in recent times.

The pre-credits sequence superbly establishes the intrigue, with the unexpected transformation of the little Oscar from helpless kid to devious hunter. A character study of Sarah Jane ensues and although lacking in action, the sheer sincerity of Elisabeth Sladen's performance and engaging camerawork keep up the momentum.

The time-altering dilemma Sarah Jane faces is similar to that encountered by Donna Noble in 'The Fires Of Pompeii', but on a far more personal note. Wisely for a family show, the traumatic situation is nicely eased by the occasional flash of humour, such as Luke and Sarah Jane's hilarious foray as David and Victoria Beckham.

A wonderfully bleak ending, complete with a ruined Big Ben, must have eaten up a large chunk of the show's effects budget. It's worth it though, as it creates a neat juxtaposition with the dream-like visual qualities of the Foxgrove that Sarah Jane visits.

The prospect of a Trickster rampage neatly whets the appetite for the concluding part, although it has a great deal to live up to. Could it be Sarah Jane's finest hour?

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