Red Dwarf (TV Series) Parallel Universe (1988) User Reviews

Strong finish to the second series

[snoozejonc · 8/10 · 20 November 2020]

Holly invents a device that can move Red Dwarf to any point in space instantly.

This is a highly enjoyable episode with an good sci-fi concept and some of the best comedy banter of series 2. It also ends with a reference to a previous episode that gives a nice touch of continuity.

The idea of the parallel universe with opposites of everything and everyone was a great idea and provides the basis for some hilariously funny moments, particularly the interaction between Rimmer, Lister and their female counterparts.

The episode overall is littered with some of the best banter of the series. Most of the jokes come at both Rimmer and Lister's expense and all cast members, both regular and guest, give excellent performances.

The dream sequence at the start is mildly amusing and allows Danny-John Jules to showcase his dancing skills, but how it ever became so popular I'll never know.

Parallel Universe

[Prismark10 · 7/10 · 10 January 2019]

Holly has created a 'Holly Hop Drive' that can take Red Dwarf from one part of space to another in a matter of seconds.

When the star drive is tested, Red Dwarf has gone to a parallel universe.

The crew meet female versions of themselves, Even Holly has a female equivalent called Hilly. Cat is in for a surprise though.

Suzanne Bertish is brilliant as the chauvinist Arlene Rimmer, just waiting to eat scared Arnold alive. Deb Lister is a slob just like Dave. When both get drunk, Dave finds that it was for him to take precautions.

This was a fun episode. Grant & Naylor did well in recreating a parallel Earth that was female dominated. The greatest writer in history is Wilma Shakespeare.

Series 2

[ametaphysicalshark · 3 May 2008]

Series 2 of "Red Dwarf" sees the show still in its infancy, continuing to rely on minimal locations and the interaction between Lister and Rimmer, though Cat and Holly both get more screen time this series. This series had two classic, memorable episodes: "Kryten", featuring everybody's favorite Androids fan in his first appearance (a primitive-looking appearance as well) and "Queeg", which is just a splendid Holly episode. "Parallel Universe" marks the end of 'early Red Dwarf', leading into the different but improved series 3-6 era of Red Dwarf. This 6 episode series is really excellent in its own right and is great and doing its own thing.

Series average based on all episodes: 8.3/10

Parallel Universe

[MrFilmAndTelevisionShow · 10/10 · 16 August 2020]

As the episode begins everything seems normal or as normal as opposite gender Rimmer and Lister can be, then it gets weird in how they act, and yet it makes sense, is funny and I suppose could be described as "social satire". And I love it, it was just as all previous episodes - absolutely hilarious!

A masterly performance by Suzanne Bertish.

[ian-rafferty2 · 28 January 2006]

I'm writing this on my wife Sheilas' behalf. My wife was also born in 1953, like Suzanne. She thought that Suzannes' portrayal of Arnold Rimmers female equivalent was an absolute joy to watch. Sheila thought it was a marvellous performance , not to be missed. From my point of view as a man , I felt very sorry for Arnold . This goes to show how totally convincing and masterly her performance was. Usually , I never feel sorry for Rimmer. We would love to see more of her, if any more series are planned. We also agree with the writer, that her unusual preparations produced a star performance. Deserves an encore , bravo , superb !