A friend of Dr Mentor dies in what seems to be an accident, and because it is believed he was murdered to hide the secret of cold fusion, a Backstep is authorised to save the scientist's life. The problems begin when thanks to Ballard's latest fiddling, Parker becomes trapped in an eight hour time loop, and must find a way out of it.
Seven Days does it again, although some credit must be given to the writers of Groundhog Day, obviously such an inspired concept it has been used relentlessly in Science-Fiction over the last few years. However, its amazing that the idea can seem fresh and fun just about every time it's used. This time is no exception.
Each trip through the loop, events move past the viewer quicker, with Frank taking care of similar problems in different ways each time. His attempts to impress Olga are particularly entertaining, as he tries every approach known and still can't manage to please her. His mounting frustration is hilarious as the more loops he endures, the more violent his responses to everyone get. The final twist, when everything is going well until the last minute, and Frank must go through one more loop gives the episode a strong emotional weight too.
Once again, it's Jonathan La Paglia who carries the show, along with an increasingly puzzled Justina Vail as Olga. Strong characterization, action, romance, and drama, this episode has it all. Unmissable.
*****
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