Falling Skies- "Prisoner of War" Review

OK, Someone tell me that WASN'T like ID4.

The third episode of Falling Skies, "Prisoner of War", did feature some interesting new developments, such as a more in-depth explanation of how harnesses work, as well as a better look in general at the skitters themselves. Hal's girlfriend Karen was also captured, while Pope discovered his new calling as the 2nd Mass' smartass but lovable cook. Ben, Tom's son, was seen multiple times, but was never actually acquired for experimentation by the new doctor, played by Steven Weber. The doctor and Tom apparently had a history, as the doc abandoned Tom's wife Rebecca in the first waves of the invasion in order to fend for himself. By far, the most harrowing scene of the episode is when the harnessed kids were executed by a mech in front of Hal, showing that these skitters are a methodical, vindictive bunch who use similar tactics to the ultimate historical evil, the Nazis. This episode belongs to Noah Wyle, as he carries the story with his intense and heartfelt performance. However, one particular scene annoyed me, that being the episode's title's namesake. When Tom brings in that skitter as a prisoner, it is more than a little reminiscent of Will Smith in Independence Day. While this show has many brilliant moments, at times it feels a tiny bit too derivative. I was entertained by "Prisoner of War", but I would argue that it is not the best episode of Falling Skies. Though the cliffhanger definitely excited me, as the skitters seem to have some sort of telepathic connection with the captured kids. I look forward to next week.

"Prisoner of War" - 3.5/5 stars