For Auld Lang Syne.

A slightly shorter episode pushes one of our key players to the edge.

It did seem strange that Dr Singh’s predecessor left the picture quite quickly; I had wondered if that was a loose end that would be left dangling. It turns out that there is more than meets the eye to most of our characters, even those with less airtime, as the layers get peeled back. The arrogance and insidious evil of humanity’s need to control nature is embodied in the General, out for destruction of Hybrids and the animal army at any cost: it’s chilling.

Big Man and Bear’s bickering provides some light refreshment, but just as I’m giggling at them and at Sweet Tooth’s lack of patience with their interpersonal conflict, a drop of vinegar sours that refreshment as the audience – but not Gus – are made privy to a nasty side of something apparently innocuous. Then we see what Big Man and Bear have in common: protecting Gus’ hope and innocence. I’m right there with them: why burst his bubble where there is enough darkness in the world? They also manage to overcome their differences when he’s in danger, and they go to some lengths (see above-mentioned nasty thing) to save him, not before a pep talk from his dad in a dream. I get that bit, but if the images come from Gus’s head, how is the General there? Is that a plot hole or something in his past we don’t know yet?

In answer to the question in the title, it’s exactly what you guessed and it probably smells quite bad by now. The different narratives begin to be tied together now we’re past the half-way point and the weaponised hypocrisy of suburban life comes for Dr Singh and his wife, as we knew it would. My heart’s in my mouth as all seems lost.

Verdict: The enemy of my enemy is my friend? Don’t be too sure about that, Dr Singh. 8/10

Claire Smith