“This is awful – too many people. The last island that had this many humans on it was Atlantis and that did not turn out well.”

After last week’s green-haired diversion Harry and Asta finally rock up in New York City, but not before Harry must bid an emotional farewell to his most delicious confidant. Once in the Big Apple they’re soon on the trail of Harry’s fellow alien, street artist Goliath, but are hampered by his Banksy-like anonymity. While there they also learn more about the circumstances surrounding the murder of Dr Stone after a chance encounter with someone heavily involved in the conspiracy. Back home in Patience Ben and D’Arcy bond over some long-hidden joints, while Liv finally forces Mike to talk about his late partner.

With only two more episodes remaining, and no indication as yet of the series’ future, we’re finally where I feel we should have been at least a couple of weeks ago. The change of scenery is welcome, although with scenes of Harry wandering the busy streets I did wonder what happened to the whole “a small percentage of humans can see the real me” thing – presumably either quietly ignored or else assumed that New Yorkers wouldn’t bat an eyelid. Having Harry and Asta investigating a mystery together works well, it’s a big part of the original comic (very little of which was translated to the screen) and if we do get a season 3 this might be the way to go to give the show a little shot in the arm.

The scenes back home for once present Ben and Mike as something other than comic foils for their respective spouse and deputy. Ben’s “aw shucks” persona hides a more serious-minded fellow than we perhaps expected, while Mike has clearly built an emotional wall to protect others and punish himself. It’s not all heart to hearts, Mike’s unfortunate Willy Wonka reference is one of the best gags this year, and D’Arcy’s Tiffany impression had what I presume was the desired effect..

Verdict: A hard episode to judge without knowing where this goes, but it’s pleasing to see the main story back on track. 7/10

Andy Smith