Primeval 5.03

'This is not what you think'

After last week’s very different episode of Primeval - being unusually stationed in one location rather than having the characters running around - we were expecting a lot from this week’s episode. Once again Primeval didn’t disappoint.

The opening scenes set up a much darker version of the show, with the dark skyline and eerie Victorian streets providing an intriguing backdrop for the episode. Unusually this episode revolved around the Victorian era – a time surprisingly human for such a show. The tension was further increased by the return of an unsettling face in Emily (Ruth Bradley) who was accompanied by her husband and his Alistair McGowan look-a-like of a sidekick. Bradley’s portrayal of a feminist living in an era before her time was very convincing, clearly illustrating her anguish between being a faithful wife and a monster hunter. However, the Victorian era aspect of the show could have been further exploited to greater effect, with the potential for more of a murder mystery quality.

The tension from through the anomaly was let down by the dealings in the ARC this week. The lack of Connor’s (Andrew Lee Potts) usual comedic role was evident, leaving the character in a position where he simply became grating, with his delusions about Philip and his team overly mentioned. Equally, if not more irksome was April (Janice Byrne), his assistant. Her annoying over protectiveness, wariness and cold stares were only added to by her irritating voice. The darker tone of the episode was still continued though, as the underhand dealings and whisperings that took place between many of the characters emphasised. Despite the yearning to return to the Victorian era, the recurrent, yet often seemingly unnecessary ARC scenes provided a decent pay off with the final revelation of the programme.

The departure from the norm was very welcome this week and continued the run of gripping and surprising episodes which have provided a strong first half of the series. Despite such a move for the programme, the continuing story arc was still rapidly moved forwards this episode providing anticipation for next week and the rest of the series.

Aired 30/06/12 ITV1