Review of 6B

Fringe: 6B (2011)
Season 3, Episode 14
9/10
Between Fringe and V, the difference is great writing
23 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This episode is solid, well-written, classic sci-fi. What happens when extraordinarily impossible things happen to regular people? I love that Fringe actually incorporates real scientific theory. Here, they take a look at one of Einstein's theories revolving around interaction between objects regardless of physical state or distance. More precisely, if two people lose their spouse, each in a different universe but in the same place, is their mutual grief strong enough to unravel the fabric between realities? The clincher came near the end of the episode when the old woman reflects about her dead husband. "If the impossible can happen, then perhaps some day I'll be with him again." Great sci-fi: the story unfolds, is highly entertaining, and at the end of a well-crafted tale the audience is left with something to ponder.

Now, compare this to V and their recent schlepping into matters of the soul. No basis in established religious theories or discussions (any of which are easily available on the internet--and yet an advanced alien race is clueless about them), no interesting conclusion, no real need to keep it in the thread of the series. Pathetic, really. I hate it when action, or effects, or gore, or any other plot device meant to stroke along the story is used in lieu of good, solid, old fashioned writing.

Which is why I will continue to watch Fringe but have given up on V. These stories make sense. Even for being fantastic, they're still grounded in reality. These characters react emotionally to what they're doing. Look at Walter. He's visibly distraught over a horrendous decision. Peter and Olivia's relationship is strained and they have to deal with it like adults. Even the peeks into the Other Side and what Fringe Division does in reaction to events at the apartment were interesting.

Overall this episode was... simply... excellent.
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