Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time!

“SINK OR SWIM: A SEA OF LOST POTENTIAL”

The Dimension Cannon saga continues in Trapped, picking up directly from the previous set’s dramatic conclusion. Sink or Swim throws Rose into yet another parallel Earth—this time, one where the sea has reclaimed much of the land, leaving humanity clinging to survival aboard a massive cruise liner floating on the Thames. As always, Rose must find her bearings and search for a way back to Pete’s World, but this time, she is entirely on her own, unable to contact her friends for help.

A PROMISING PREMISE WITH UNDERUSED POTENTIAL

On paper, this setting is rich with possibilities. A world overtaken by water? A floating society struggling to survive? The potential for both thrilling adventure and deep social commentary is immense. However, the story never fully capitalises on these elements. Instead, it leans heavily into a bleak and understated atmosphere, which, while effective in building a sense of isolation, ultimately makes the story feel sluggish and underwhelming.

A DIFFERENT JACKIE, BUT NOT A COMPELLING ONE

A notable aspect of this world is its vastly different version of Jackie. Camille Coduri delivers a strikingly distinct performance, so much so that it takes a moment to even recognise her as Jackie. Unfortunately, despite her efforts, this version of Jackie doesn’t make much of an impact. She lacks the charm, warmth, or even the engaging flaws of the Jackie we know, making her more of a curiosity than a compelling character.

A WEAKER SUPPORTING CAST

Rose’s interactions with this world’s inhabitants don’t carry the same spark as in previous episodes. Even her alternate-world sibling, Danni—portrayed with conviction by Em Thane—fails to leave a strong impression. Billie Piper continues to deliver a solid performance, but the absence of her usual chemistry with Coduri and Mark Benton is keenly felt. The episode lacks the lively interplay that has made earlier Dimension Cannon stories so engaging.

A DARK TURN WITH LONG-LASTING CONSEQUENCES

Despite its shortcomings, Sink or Swim does introduce elements that will carry through the rest of the set. Most notably, the presence of an anti-life entity that ultimately possesses and kills Jackie adds a shocking and unsettling twist. The loss of Jackie, even an alternate version of her, adds an emotional weight that lingers beyond this episode. Additionally, Danni joins Rose as her companion for the set, setting up a new dynamic moving forward.

📝VERDICT: 5/10

While Sink or Swim has an intriguing premise and a few standout moments, it struggles to make full use of its setting and supporting cast. The world-building feels underdeveloped, and the slow, bleak tone overshadows what could have been a gripping survival story. Coduri’s performance is impressive in its range, but this version of Jackie fails to leave a lasting impact. However, the presence of the anti-life creature and the tragic loss of Jackie give the episode some narrative weight, ensuring that it remains an important, if not entirely satisfying, chapter in Trapped.

there were some good elements to this, however the one thing i loved about series 1/2 was exploring a different world/scenario in each story whereas this one is headed in the more serialised format. curious as to where it's going to go next!