Episode Critics
Compiled by Martin Willey

7. Missing Link

Edward di Lorenzo's script has a fascinating idea, but as usual with Lorenzo ends up over-long and padded. It is saved to some degree by both the acting of Martin Landau, and by the direction of Ray Austin which, due to a variety of camera tricks, is suitably disorientating in scenes set inside a deserted Moonbase Alpha and also in the strange misty voids which are the bulk the viewers see of Zenno. Rating 7/10 (Anthony McKay, DWB, 1993)

The narrative is unremarkable, but the episode is set apart by the stunning visuals and imagery; the alien city is superb, and the design work and lighting give the planet a truly 'alien' feel. (Richard Houldsworth, TV Zone, 1993)

A strange episode with a dreamlike quality and a rather disturbing nightmare sequence. Peter Cushing gives a nicely understated performance in a pecular hat. Interesting and philosophical, but not very exciting. C+ (Chris Bentley, SFX 20, 1996)

The relationship between Koenig and the lovely Vanna is tender and heartfelt and very unusual for a show that tended to focus primarily on the epic rather than personal stories. Ray Austin oversees this episode with dynamic visual touches. The only time this episode's direction falters is in Koenig's 'haunted house' tour of the dark abandoned Alpha. Though this scene is moody and dark, it goes on far too long. (John Kenneth Muir, Exploring Space: 1999, p40)

Above average for the series, with good roles for Hammer Films great Cushing and future Absolutely Fabulous star (Joanna) Lumley. *** (good) (James O'Neill, Sci-Fi On Tape, p271, 1997)

This marvellous episode is filled with tension, character drama, and emotion on both Alpha and Zenno. The beautiful special effects, cinematography and direction combine with magical lighting and a perfectly fitting musical score (mysterious and lovely). Missing Link is rather slow paced, and might be more appealing to fans of the series than to the casual viewer, but it is a beautiful entry to the series. 8.5/10 (Bob Wood, The Future Is Fantastic, 2001)

Koenig finally gets to do the Captain Kirk two-step. It's no fun for him or us. 2/5 (Alasdair Stuart, SciFiNow #10, 2007)