When 'Lost' was in its prime, it was must-watch television. Remember first watching it, found it remarkably easy to get into, was hooked from the start and was on Season 3 by the end of one week. The general consensus is that the final season is a disappointment and cannot disagree.
Although Season 2 of 'Lost' to me was very solid with many good to outstanding episodes (with a notable exception being "Fire + Water", which took strangeness too literally), "One of Them" is one of its best. Not just that, it is also for me one of the best 'Lost' episodes and agreed the best one since "Orientation".
"One of Them" sets up what was to follow brilliantly, making one highly anticipate how things will evolve, while managing as well to move things forward. The island events are riveting to watch unfold and the flashback is among the show's best.
A fine example of a flashback that advances the development of the character in question (in this case Sayid in one of his best and most illuminating flashbacks that corrects what wasn't quite so good before), has plenty of intensity and psychological interest and one that blends well with the present story, adds to it and actually feels relevant, nothing distracts here.
The other characters are just as interesting, especially Locke and the notable introduction to Henry Gale, who later went on to be one of 'Lost's' best characters. The acting is great all round, particularly from Naveen Andrews, Michael Emerson and Clancy Brown. Terry O'Quinn shows why Locke is one of the show's most interesting characters, and the presences of Jorge Garcia and Josh Holloway are welcome and bring some well-timed amusement.
Visually, 'Lost' continues to be stylish, atmospheric and beautiful in "One of Them", as always making the most of the island setting. The music is as always chilling and understated, the writing is tight and smart (one of the season's and show's best written) and the direction is skilled throughout.
In summary, a 'Lost' classic and one of the must watch episodes. 10/10 Bethany Cox