Episode Critics
Compiled by Martin Willey

2. Matter of Life and Death

Mysterious and atmospheric but a little dull. The ending is disappointing but Barry Gray's music and the Terra Nova set design are definite highlights. B- (Chris Bentley, SFX 20, 1996)

Undeniably a disappointment after the lean drama of Breakaway. Although the idea of a transformed Earthman communicating with ordinary human beings is compelling, the screenplay is crippled by plot holes and poor character motivation, not to mention a seriously wrong headed conclusion. (John Kenneth Muir, Exploring Space: 1999, p24)

Silly, but Johnson, as always, is first rate. **- (average) (James O'Neill, Sci-Fi On Tape, p271, 1997)

Precise, flawless acting, production and direction (which comes to an exciting peak on the planet) continue the note perfect manner set by Breakaway. The characterisation is quite subtly performed, but it is present and displays great depth. There is a large amount of visible emotion, from jokes to tears. The interaction between the characters is still fairly stiff and formal, as they are still getting to know each other and come to terms with their journey. 8/10 (Bob Wood, The Future Is Fantastic, 2001)

Another good episode, giving the Alphans everything they seem to want, then snatching it away. 4/5 (Alasdair Stuart, SciFiNow #10, 2007)