Ep 1. One Minute to Midnight

One Minute to Midnight is the opening episode of the fifth season of the popular fantasy TV series, Highlander. The show brings back the immortal protagonist, Duncan MacLeod, as he prepares to face his deadliest enemy yet.

The story opens with a flashback to 1885, where Duncan and his fellow Immortal, Hugh Fitzcairn, are on a mission to stop a band of gunrunners in the Sudan. The scene is fast-paced and intense, featuring plenty of sword fights and explosions, which sets the tone for the rest of the episode.

Cut to present-day Paris, where Duncan is now living. He receives a phone call from Fitzcairn, who claims that an old acquaintance of theirs, Kronos, has returned and is looking for revenge. Kronos is a particularly dangerous Immortal, who was once a member of a powerful group known as the Four Horsemen, which Duncan and Fitzcairn fought against over a century ago.

Duncan is apprehensive but not altogether surprised by the news. He knows that Kronos is a threat, and begins to prepare himself for their inevitable confrontation. He also reconnects with old friends Amanda and Methos, who offer their help and support.

As the episode progresses, we see Kronos wreaking havoc across Paris, assassinating people and causing chaos wherever he goes. The sense of impending doom is palpable, as we know that a showdown between Kronos and Duncan is looming.

One of the key themes of the episode is the idea of redemption. Duncan is haunted by his past mistakes, including his role in Kronos' transformation into a villain. He wishes he could have done more to prevent it, and feels responsible for the harm that Kronos has caused. However, he also knows that he has the power to stop Kronos, and that it's his duty to do so.

Another aspect of the episode that stands out is the dynamic between Duncan and Fitzcairn. The two have a tumultuous history, marked by both friendship and betrayal. Fitzcairn is a roguish character, who often puts his own interests before those of others. However, he is loyal to Duncan in his own way, and the two share a deep bond that transcends their differences.

The episode builds to a tense and dramatic climax, as Duncan and Kronos finally face off in a brutal fight to the death. The scene is beautifully choreographed and shot, highlighting the agility and skill of both fighters. The outcome of the fight is uncertain until the very end, adding to the overall sense of suspense and excitement.

Overall, One Minute to Midnight is a thrilling and well-executed episode of Highlander. It explores complex themes and relationships, while also delivering plenty of action and suspense. Fans of the series will be delighted to see the return of old favorites like Fitzcairn, Amanda, and Methos, while newcomers will appreciate the intense and immersive storytelling.