Ep 11. The Refuge

The Refuge is an episode from the second season of Outer Limits, a science fiction and horror anthology series. The series features a different story each episode, exploring the limits of the human psyche, technology, and the unknown. The Refuge is directed by Brad Turner and written by Michael Cassutt.

The episode follows Captain Jessie Pratt (Lisa Brenner), a military pilot who crash-lands her fighter jet in a remote and inhospitable area of the desert. Injured and alone, Pratt seeks refuge in an old storm cellar she spots from the air. However, once inside, she realizes that the bunker is fully equipped, stocked with food, water, and medicine - and someone has been living there.

Pratt discovers that the bunker's inhabitant is a man called Ben Samson (Sam Robards), a former soldier who has been living off the grid since the Vietnam War. Samson tells her that he built the shelter as a way to escape the horrors of war he experienced overseas. Although the two initially find common ground as fellow soldiers, their relationship quickly turns sour when Pratt discovers the truth about Samson's past.

The Refuge explores themes of isolation, trauma, and the consequences of war. Both characters are struggling with their past experiences and trying to find a sense of purpose in their lives. Pratt is a pilot whose career was cut short by a personal tragedy, while Samson is a veteran who is haunted by the memories of his time in combat. The episode also examines the human need for connection and how the lack of it can lead to a sense of desperation and detachment.

The performances of Brenner and Robards are standout, as they both bring depth and nuance to their characters. Brenner's portrayal of Pratt highlights the character's resilience and determination to survive despite the odds stacked against her. Robards' Samson is a complex character whose motivations and actions are often ambiguous, adding to the tension and unpredictability of the episode.

The Refuge also features stunning cinematography that captures the harsh, desolate landscape of the desert. The storm cellar is a claustrophobic setting that adds to the feeling of isolation and desperation that both characters experience. The episode's pacing is deliberate, giving time for the characters' relationship to develop and the tension to slowly ramp up. The climax is a satisfying and poignant resolution that leaves the viewer with a sense of closure.

Overall, The Refuge is a standout episode of Outer Limits that explores themes of war, isolation, and the human condition. The performances of the two leads, the stunning cinematography, and the deliberate pacing all combine to make this a memorable episode. The show's use of science fiction and horror elements to tell a human story is a hallmark of the series, and The Refuge is a prime example of this approach.