Simm delivers a grounded, empathetic performance as a "fish out of water" struggling to apply 21st-century forensic ethics to an era where "gut feeling" and brute force rule.

The set design, cars (the iconic Ford Cortina), and costuming are meticulously crafted to evoke nostalgia without becoming a parody.

The episode excels at establishing its central hook: is Sam Tyler in a coma, has he traveled through time, or has he simply lost his mind? The transition from the high-tech, clinical world of 2006 Manchester to the smog-filled, beige-and-brown reality of 1973 is jarring and effective.

The heartbeat of the show is the explosive chemistry between (John Simm) and Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister).