Ep 8. Sub-Smash

In the eighth episode of the first season of U.F.O., entitled "Sub-Smash," a routine submarine drill takes a terrifying turn when the sub loses contact with the surface and is attacked by an unknown force. As the crew struggles to keep the sub afloat and figure out what is attacking them, SHADO must race against time to rescue the crew and prevent an international incident.

The episode opens with SHADO's submarine control team performing a routine drill with an experimental submarine. The sub is manned by Captain Andy Conroy and a crew of four, including a civilian observer. At first, everything seems to be going smoothly, with the submarine successfully testing its new navigation system and diving to an incredible depth.

However, just as the crew begins to ascend, they lose contact with the surface and their sonar detects an unknown object in pursuit. Soon, the sub is being battered by an unseen force, with the hull cracking and water flooding in. With their air supply running low and no way to communicate with SHADO, the crew must use all of their ingenuity and resourcefulness to stay alive.

Meanwhile, at SHADO headquarters, Commander Straker is alerted to the situation by his team of impressively named assistants: Colonel Alec Freeman, Doctor Doug Jackson, and General James Henderson. Despite their initial skepticism that the sub is being attacked by an extraterrestrial force, the evidence soon becomes overwhelming. As the situation grows increasingly dire, Straker must decide whether to follow standard protocol or take a risky and untested approach to saving the crew.

As the episode unfolds, we see the emotional toll that the situation takes on both the submarine crew and the SHADO team. Captain Conroy, played with poise by actor Keith Alexander, remains remarkably calm under pressure, even as his crew begins to succumb to panic and despair. Similarly, Commander Straker, portrayed with gravitas by Ed Bishop, must balance the need to make tough decisions with the knowledge that his actions could affect the safety of millions.

While "Sub-Smash" definitely has some exciting action scenes - including a tense underwater fight with a group of alien divers - the real strength of the episode lies in its nuanced depiction of character and emotion. We see the effects of isolation, fear, and trauma on the crew, as well as the toll that leadership takes on Straker, who is forced to make impossible choices with no guarantees of success.

Overall, "Sub-Smash" is a standout episode of the first season of U.F.O., showcasing the series' blend of sci-fi action and human drama. With strong performances, impressive special effects, and a gripping storyline, this episode is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.