Episode Critics
Compiled by Martin Willey

5. Earthbound

Quite superb in almost every respect. First and foremost, Anthony Terpiloff's storyline makes perfect sense and almost eliminates any unlikely coincidences that would arise. With the exception of a brief interlude with Helena being trapped in a capsule, the script is very tight and well paced. The ending is very nasty indeed, and rather sad. Rating 9/10 (Anthony McKay, DWB, 1993)

One of the most enjoyable episodes. This can be attributed to several factors, perhaps the most notable being an unusual plot twist which has the evil protagonist in the form of an alien, while the visiting aliens are peaceful, intelligent and helpful. There are also some memorable performances from guest artists. It's only downfall is the very 1970s design: Zantor's ship is all glowing panels and coloured perspex, the Kaldorians are Glam Rockers in mascara, long wigs and shiny multicoloured kaftans. (Richard Houldsworth, TV Zone, 1990)

A terrific episode with Lee brilliantly cast against type in a sympathetic role. The chilling conclusion is one of the best moments in SFTV. A (Chris Bentley, SFX 20, 1996)

A resounding success in writing, performance and particularly in resolution. It is the first 1999 since Breakaway to hit all the notes it strives for. (John Kenneth Muir, Exploring Space: 1999, p34)

Horror legend Lee adds stature to this one, about an alien spaceship crashing near Moonbase Alpha on its way to conquer Earth. Even with the silly face paint makeup, Lee makes this worth watching. *** (good) (James O'Neill, Sci-Fi On Tape, p270, 1997)

All of the performances in the show are excellent, but guest stars Lee and Dotrice both excel. Earthbound is well conceived, written, performed, designed and directed. It features one of the most powerful endings of the entire series, and is another first-rate episode. 9/10 (Bob Wood, The Future Is Fantastic, 2001)

A nicely handled and surprisingly bleak take on the human cost of the Alphans plight. 3/5 (Alasdair Stuart, SciFiNow #10, 2007)