Ethan and Lizzie make an unlikely alliance…

Everything is ratcheted up a notch in the fourth episode of Emma Reeves’ return of the Demon Headmaster, as Ethan and Lizzie try to learn the truth. But the old saying is still very true – be careful what you wish for. The final scenes see Lizzie asking for help from the most unlikely of sources, but you can see the depth of her friendship with Ethan that she will go that far – and then is presented with a real moral dilemma, in what’s the best cliffhanger of the series to date.

The extent of the Headmaster’s influence is spreading – to the sponsors very obviously, but also to those protesting against the drones – and we’re getting some interesting hints regarding his relationship with his deputy. There’s strong performances from all the younger cast members, and a starring moment for the Short Circuit-esque Robo, whom I’m afraid becomes the 21st century version of Metal Mickey in his post-meeting trauma (and at long last there’s another ‘possessed’ rubbish bin in the ranks of British SF to join the burping Auton from Doctor Who’s premiere!). The comedy of that moment though is neatly counterpointed with what happens to Ethan.

Verdict: Nearly halfway through this first series, and the stakes are being raised on all sides. 8/10

Paul Simpson