Ep 3. Becoming

As the third installment of the first season of The 4400, Becoming presents a provocative plot displaying the twists and turns that the show is known for. The story follows the lives of 4400 individuals who were abducted from various points in history and returned to Earth at the same time, un-aged and with newfound abilities. In this episode, Becoming, the plot thickens as one of the returnees, a teenage girl named Maia, develops precognitive abilities.

The episode picks up from the end of the previous episode, where Maia is introduced as a 9-year-old girl who was abducted in 1946 and has not aged since. At the start of Becoming, Maia wakes up in a state of shock after experiencing a premonition that sets the pace for the rest of the episode. This premonition foretells the death of a young man, which sets in motion a chain of events that risks the lives of other inhabitants of the 4400 center.

As Maia's abilities continue to develop, the NTAC, a subsection of the government responsible for investigating and containing the 4400, becomes increasingly interested in her case, leading to a battle for control over her abilities between their agents and those involved in the 4400 project. Meanwhile, Kyle, a fellow 4400 member, who is also one of the agents investigating the disappearances, begins to uncover a conspiracy that threatens to unravel the entire operation.

The episode focuses heavily on the character development of Maia, whose newfound premonition abilities reveal a dark and ominous side to her existence. Her visions cause her to distance herself from her fellow 4400s, who start to become suspicious of her and her powers. This challenges the group's bond, and decisions made over the course of the episode will have far-reaching implications for the rest of the series.

Another significant storyline in the episode is the rivalry and mistrust between NTAC agents Tom Baldwin and Diana Skouris, who must work together to uncover the truth behind the 4400 abductions and the government's role in it. Their interactions prove to be both amusing and thought-provoking, as they struggle to work together while facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

As the episode progresses, tensions begin to rise, and a sense of foreboding haunts the viewer with every passing interaction, building to a climactic finish that will leave the audience on the edge of their seats. The plot twists and turns are a hallmark of the series, and this episode does not disappoint, culminating in a surprising revelation that sets the stage for the events to come.

Overall, Becoming is a compelling addition to the series, offering an intriguing plot and character development that will leave viewers invested in the unfolding events of the 4400. The pacing is well crafted, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish and leaving them wanting more. With its deft handling of the central themes of identity, allegiance, and power, Becoming is a must-watch for fans of the science fiction genre, and a testament to the skills of the show's writers and cast.