“Why are shape-shifting soldiers from another universe stealing frozen heads?”
“The most likely explanation that we can think of is that they’re looking for a specific head.”

Title:”Momentum Deferred”

Cast and Crew

Anna Torv as Olivia Dunham
Joshua Jackson as Peter Bishop
John Noble as Dr. Walter Bishop
Lance Reddick as Philip Broyles
Jaskika Nicole as Astrid Farnsworth
Kirk Acevedo as Charlie Francis
Blair Brown as Nina Sharp
Leonard Nimoy as Dr. William Bell

Synopsis

We learn more about the history that connects Walter Bishop, Dr. Bell, Agent Dunham, and the other universe, while the invaders try to get a head.

High Point

I suppose the fact that we’re finally getting a backstory to the various events, and it seems coherent, counts as a High Point.

Low Point

Even a backstory this complicated should not require quite so much expository dialogue.

The Scores

Originality: 2/6. We’ve discussed the similarity between this series and The X-Files, but this week, I couldn’t help notice that we’re watching a show involving parallel universes spawning invaders, a corrupt corporation run by a woman, and special individuals who cross realities. The underwatched Charlie Jade did it better.

I can accept “two people fighting with a gun nearby on the ground,” but it remains a Serious Cliché.

Effects: 5/6.

Story: 4/6 The story arc comes together somewhat, but it shouldn’t require quite so much direct exposition.

Acting: 5/6. John Noble continues to rule. The dialogue I quoted at the start made me smile, but Torv and Reddick and the director don’t nearly do with this material what a Joss Whedon show would.

Production: 6/6.

Emotional response: 4/6.

Overall: 4/6.

“Momentum Deferred” receives thirty out of forty-two.

Notes

Did the combination of the search for the head and the appearance of Leonard Nimoy make anyone else think of Futurama?