Episode Critics
Compiled by Martin Willey

23. The Immunity Syndrome

Tries desperately to be a good action-packed adventure, but falls sadly short of the mark due to its tired plot. (Richard Houldsworth, TV Zone, 1992)

...an unusually tired affair... It's also unforgivably cheap and cheerful, with a studio forest set that cannot compensate for some much needed location filming. Nevertheless, the special effects hold up well after twenty years, and for once Helena and Maya get a shot at doing the boys' stuff by embarking on a daring rescue mission. But even that's not enough to breathe some much needed life into an episode that does little more than tread water. (Matthew Cooke, TV Zone 66, 1995)

Although working within the restrictions of time and budget imposed by the end of the series production, The Immunity Syndrome is a breath of fresh air compared to its recent predecessors. A real sense of impending catastrophe is created as things go from bad to worse on the planet. There is genuine drama as Maya worries about Tony. There are even a few respectable action sequences as the Alphans space craft attempt to negotiate the corrosive atmosphere. The alien beings in this episode, especially the character of I That Am I, are portrayed with a degree of sensitivity and other worldliness reminiscent of the first season. As an episode, The Immunity Syndrome consists of the right mix of action and science fiction to produce an enjoyable fifty minutes of escapism, the only doubt being the title which has nothing at all to do with the script. 7/10 (Anthony McKay, Dreamwatch 7, 1995)

A fairly average episode with an interesting concept but a disappointing climax (Koenig stands and talks). B (Chris Bentley, SFX 20, 1996)

The mystery at the centre of the episode is compelling and the final twist is gratifying. With fast action, great special effects and strong character moments, this episode is undoubtedly part of the final upswing that ended the second season. (John Kenneth Muir, Exploring Space: 1999, p150)

Almost all of the cast are in top form, and Tony Anholt delivers his strongest performance of the entire series. The Immunity Syndrome is literally filled with excellent moments is one of the most sensitive, biggest and best productions undertaken by the show. 9.5/10 (Bob Wood, The Future Is Fantastic, 2001)