an appraisal by: GF Willmetts. In many respects, the fifth and final season of the ‘Sarah Jane Adventures’ was a build-up for another season what with the introduction of another child for Miss Smith to foster.

With the death of actress Elisabeth Sladen back in April, that is something we aren’t likely to see. I doubt if it would be possible to even have another companion take on a similar role because then you would have to explain what happened to Sarah Jane, the ultimate in resourcefulness and rarely stays beaten. If it was possible, it would have to depend on an entirely new set of characters away from Bannerman Road. Maybe in a few years, but that would depend on the popularity of any of the current companions and another generation.

So, in the meantime, let’s rejoice with this fifth season which is as good as any of the previous four seasons, even with only three stories.



How much to say without giving spoilers for those of you who live abroad or missed the first showing on Cbeebies channel but if it’s like last time, there should be a re-showing on BBC1 in the next month or two, not to mention endless repeats on the digital channels.

The first story, ‘Sky’, has Sarah Jane left holding the baby in the literal sense of the word. Possessing telekinetic abilities and being primed to explode until...well. I suspect the introduction was to replace Luke. After all, even though he’s back for one adventure, Sky is there to re-affirm Sarah Jane’s caring nature.

‘The Curse Of C*yde L**ger’ might still be working. A totem curse means anyone saying his name goes into a rage against him and I’d rather not. This story also highlights the homeless as he finds refuge amongst them until it is unravelled how it happened. Daniel Anthony does a superb job here, showing what it’s like to be alone. The aptly named actress Lily Loveless makes a marvellous Ellie. Fortunately, in real life that is less likely to happen. Sky’s place in all of this as the key to the solution could easily have become a deux ex machine in future stories.

The final story and swansong, ‘The Man Who Never Was’, introduces a new computer laptop which has an odd power over people. Just as you think you might have sorted out who or what is what in the first episode, the second episode shows things aren’t quite the way they seem. It also becomes a somewhat more adult show in the teen-age spot but also gave all the cast something to do and made a fitting final story, going out strongly with a dose of humour.

The hint that there is an existing black market in trading aliens would suggest something that should be explored in ‘Torchwood’ at a later date. Considering that Russell T. Davies is involved in both of these series could that be something to come?

I defy anyone not to have a damp eye at the end. You’re sorely missed, Lis Sladen.

GF Willmetts
© opinions 2011

All rights reversed
Ask before borrowing