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.
Season 4 was a solid season, with high points such as "The Beginning of the End", the three part finale and particularly "The Constant" and the only disappointments (though they were still decent) being "The Other Woman" and "Eggtown". "Because You Left" couldn't be a better way to start Season 5, definitely among the stronger 'Lost' season openers and one of the most confident and most settled. The episodes between that and this were also good to great, the weakest being a long way from low-points.
"Some Like it Hoth" is a very good episode, albeit not one of the show's best. It's taut and thought-provoking, providing some questions as well as some answers here. The on-island events are emotional and above all gripping.
On top of all that, it shows plot progression rather than repeating itself or being filler as such. Admittedly there are episodes that advance the characters more, Miles is the most developed character here, and having content that enhance the mystery and make it go somewhere. There are surprising moments and also illuminating ones, with a major revelation that leaves one floored. It was great having development to Miles and having an episode centred around him.
Also found "Some Like it Hoth" to be an episode full of entertainment value, tension and emotional moments. The more dialogue-driven parts is a case of it being thought-probing, relevant and adding a lot rather than slowing things down and rambling. The character dynamics are surprising and with interesting perspectives and the little shocks do shock. The episode is not action heavy but it's not dull either.
Can't fault the performances, particularly from Ken Leung, with some of his best acting and character writing of the show.
Nor the stylishness and atmosphere of the visuals, nor the effectively understated and chilling use of music, taut writing and the tightly controlled direction.
Summing up, very good. 8/10 Bethany Cox