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.
All the episodes for me up to this point in 'Lost' were very good to outstanding. Season 1 and 'Lost' in general is back on outstanding form with one of my favourite early seasons episode "Raised by Another". Its most memorable asset is the climax, the suspense of it and the unforgettably shocking reveal are blood-curdling. Learning more about Claire was also wonderful and the character finally gets to properly shine with an interesting back-story that is wonderfully mysterious.
Emilie De Ravin gets her turn to shine in her meatiest material up to this point, and gives a deeply felt performance in the process. William Mapother is the other standout, but everybody does strong work. It's not all mystery and suspense, Hurley also provides some welcome humorous levity.
Visually, "Raised by Another" is well made with the island as beautiful and mysterious as ever. The music is understated and chilling.
The writing still provokes thought, and a return to the smart and taut writing of 'Lost' at its best. The story absorbs, with the climax being the most note-worthy element.
In summation, outstanding episode. 10/10 Bethany Cox
