Sarah Jane Adventures: Episode 2.03/2.04

Yes, yes, scary clowns. Although actually well done, so I can sort of see what people are going on about.

New girl Rani(*) (Anjli Mohindra) is thrown right in it. She moves into Maria's house and quickly into her role. Yes, it's obvious, but still handled nicely enough that we can accept it without too much fuss and the adventure doesn't harp on about how she shouldn't be involved too heavy handedly. She should fit in well.

The story itself works because of Bradley Walsh as the villain. He plays the parts so well, and the make up is really well done. As I mention, I can nearly see why some people consider clowns as scary, a very evocative atmosphere is formed on screen. It does get a bit Buffy at times with the "strange events at school" (again), and the ending was on the weak side, but overall a decent viewing.

Also joining the cast is Ace Bhatti, the headmaster with the heart of gold, and Mina Anwar, who makes want to go watch The Thin Blue Line again.

The Sarah Jane Adventures are establishing their own ground, and moving away from the Doctor Who roots. But is that a good or bad thing?

(*)Yep, it's odd having a companion named after a villain.

Next time: maybe it's just because I watched a lot of Tomorrow People not that long ago, but I am thinking this could be one of their adventures...

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