User reviews

This episode is a lot of fun. I love the dynamic between Jack and Locke. Their philosophical differences come into display yet again portrayed through great dialogue and acting. Also, the orientation film just adds to the mystery of the island.

Orientation is a 9/10.

Ah, "Orientation". One of my favorite episodes, the sort of thing that was missing from the first season in the sense that it gives us both some key character moments and dwells on the recurring theme of faith but still packs a wallop in the mythology department, giving fans much to buzz about (season one was great in different ways, but I can surely be forgiven for being more interested in DHARMA than the raft launch).

A lot of people hate the button, the hatch, and the general storyline there, but I have always had a soft spot for it. Perhaps it's just the brilliant design of the hatch and the iconic images it provided. To me it felt at the time that we were really getting into the meat of the show, and we certainly were. Regardless, this particular episode is very well-written, revisiting the 'man of science, man of faith' angle and introducing the DHARMA initiative. "Orientation" provides the first DHARMA orientation film, the first glimpse of the tailies, further insight into Locke's relationship with Helen, a quality examination of Locke's character and his motivations, and the iconic "Why do you find it so hard to believe?" question posed by Locke, and Jack's answer: "Why do you find it so easy?".

What more could anyone possibly want out of an episode? An exciting, thrilling, brilliantly-acted, superbly-directed, and well-written episode which is, to me at least, the real introduction to the show's overall mythology.

10/10

Sawyer, Michael and Jin are captured by "The Others" and Ana Lucia (Michelle Rodriguez) is arrested with them. Locke recalls his rehabilitation with a support group, where he met and had an affair with Helen (Katey Sagal). However, although with the support of Helen, he was not able to get free from the figure of his cynical father. Meanwhile, Kate hits Desmonds and accidentally shoots the computer. While trying to fix the apparatus, Desmond gives a film to Jack and Locke solving partially the mystery of the place. Desmond recognizes Jack from the brief encounter he had with him, but provokes a short circuit in the electric installation. Sayid and Hurley come to help.

In this episode, the secret of the shelter is partially disclosed through the projection of a film called "Orientation Film" of the Dharma Project for Station 3 (Swan). It is very impressive how the needy character of John Locke became strong in the island. My vote is nine.

Title (Brazil): Not Available.

Note: On 26 March 2013, I saw this episode again.

When 'Lost' was in its prime, it was must-watch television. Remember first watching it, found it remarkably easy to get into, was hooked from the start and was on Season 3 by the end of one week. The general consensus is that the final season is a disappointment and cannot disagree.

Love the second season opener "Man of Science, Man of Faith", which had a Herculean task of matching the quality of the Season 1 finale but proved more than up to the task. "Adrift", while to me better than its reputation, was a few steps down and a lesser 'Lost' episode up to this point in the show. 'Lost' though returns to form in an episode as brilliant as "Man of Science, Man of Faith" and as good an episode as the best of 'Lost' can get.

The hatch and captive storylines are equal when it comes to compelling storytelling and are balanced beautifully, the mysteries of them becoming more intriguing, more suspenseful and more advanced. The flashback is a prime example of how to do a 'Lost' flashback and that it is centred around one of the show's best and most interesting characters helps quite a bit.

All the acting is never less than strong, Terry O'Quinn especially of the regular castaways and a chilling Kevin Tighe standing out of the guest turns.

"Orientation" is beautifully photographed, as always making the most of the island setting. The music is as always chilling and understated, while clearly a lot of passion was put into a very thought-provoking and smart script and the direction is spot on.

In summary, a terrific return to form for the season and 'Lost' overall. 10/10 Bethany Cox

"Orientation" provides crucial insights into the mysteries of the hatch and introduces the concept of the Dharma Initiative. The episode opens with Jack, Locke, and Kate discovering a film reel that explains the purpose of the hatch, while Michael and Sawyer continue their journey back to the island. The direction by Jack Bender effectively balances the suspense of the new revelations with the character-driven drama.

Terry O'Quinn and Matthew Fox deliver standout performances as Locke and Jack, respectively. Their contrasting reactions to the Dharma Initiative video highlight their differing worldviews and add depth to their dynamic. The flashbacks reveal more about Locke's past, including his relationship with Helen, which adds significant emotional weight to his present-day actions and beliefs.

The writing in "Orientation" explores themes of destiny, control, and faith versus science. The discovery of the Dharma Initiative and the significance of the button in the hatch create a compelling narrative. The script skillfully balances character development with plot advancement, gradually revealing more about the island's mysteries and the survivors' evolving dynamics.

The cinematography captures the episode's suspenseful and emotional moments, using tight framing and dynamic camera movements to convey the characters' inner turmoil and the claustrophobic atmosphere of the hatch. The editing maintains a brisk pace, ensuring a seamless flow between the flashbacks and present-day events. The sound design, including the use of dramatic music and ambient noises, heightens the episode's tension and emotional resonance.

In conclusion, "Orientation" is a thought-provoking and suspenseful episode that delves into the mysteries of the Dharma Initiative and the hatch. The performances by Terry O'Quinn and Matthew Fox are compelling and multifaceted. The writing, direction, and cinematography create a rich and engaging narrative, adding significant depth to the series' character dynamics and overarching themes.