Fringe: “Neither Here Nor There” Review
Fringe returns for another season, and after last year’s chaotic and surprising finale, the writers decided to slow things down a bit. “Neither Here Nor There” is mostly a case-of-the-week episode, with some mythology thrown in for good measure. While that’s typically the structure of Fringe, I’m not sure it worked so well here.
Let’s start with the good. “Neither Here Nor There” involves a personal Fringe case that allows Lincoln to join the team. There were plenty of fun action sequences and exciting plot twists. And seeing Walter back in the lab is always welcome - it reminded me how much I missed this show over the long summer break.
Likewise, every moment that even hints at Peter’s disappearance is gripping. From Olivia reminiscing about loosing John Scott in the pilot to her explanation of that hole in her life, there’s some nice attention to detail. And all the while, we’re left wondering about Peter’s “never existed” and the implications that comes with such a bold statement.
But that leads to the problem. As stated, Peter’s erased life is one bold move, and it’s surprising that the writers didn’t address the huge twist in a more forceful manner. Think back to last season’s “Olivia.” That was a kick ass opening to Season 3. “Neither Here Nor There,” on the other hand, doesn’t quite explain (or even address) the elephant in the room. Chiefly, why don’t we see more of the deals made between Olivia and the Alternate Universe?
I have faith that these minor concerns will be alleviated in the weeks ahead. Perhaps I’m just a bit frustrated with the “more questions” ending… and if that’s the case, I just need to get back into Fringe mode, where all answers lead to questions.
In the mean time, we were treated to some interesting new reveals. First, the new shapeshifters already suggest a feud between both sides. And in that regard, how great was the set design for the inside of the Statue of Liberty? That looked awesome, how both sides connected, with the machine looming in the background.
Also, the observer deciding not to fully “disappear” Peter was a nice moment. Likewise, Walter’s visions of Peter could lead somewhere great down the road. It did make me wonder though: why isn’t Olivia having the visions? She did when she was on the other side… remember her scolding Peter for not doing the same in “Marionette?” At this point, it’s best not to ask too many questions. I’m looking forward to seeing where this season goes from here. It should be interesting.
Oh, and one other thing. You can add a yellow (or amber, maybe?) introduction to the list. For those keeping track, here’s a cheat sheet: Blue = Normal Universe; Red = Alternate Universe; Yellow = Fused Universe with Missing Peter; Black = Future (2026), Normal Universe; Retro = Past (1985), Normal Universe.
God, you might want to bookmark this page for future reference.
-MP
Note: The review is from Review Hub Central.
