2001-2002 Review Summaries

Fall 2001 | Winter 2002 | Spring 2002 | Summer 2002

Welcome to the 2001-2002 Review Section. This is your chance to review the latest episode and interact with fans about the newest developments.

A note of about the ratings... All ratings are out of four unless otherwise noted.

481: Grand Opening, Part 1

Episode Information

Consensus: Thumbs Way Up! (23/23 positive reviews)

Fans are excited about "Grand Opening, Part 1," with every review so far being very positive and many including phrases like "awesome" and "so cool" and "talk about suspense!" No recent episode aside from "Strange Boy in a Strange Land" has gotten such positive reviews. Few specific elements of the show are being either praised or criticized, but most liked the fact that a few questions were answered and many issues of the story arc were brought up.

Review by Jacob Isom (Odyssey Scoop)
Rating:

Read the entire review at the Odyssey Scoop.

Review by DrBlackgaard (Blackgaard's Castle)
Rating:

Read the entire review at the Blackgaard's Castle.

Review by James M, age 24
Rating:

Awesome. Very cool. Suspenseful. Makes you think and guess...Who's good? Who's bad? What's going on? Loved it. Looking forward to future eps.

Review by Ly, age 15
Rating:

Review by Larry Amon, age 28
Rating:

I'm a bit partial, but these are my favorite kinds of Odyssey shows. The shows has a very nice flow, lots of mysteries to be explored and just brings a certain excitement to it.

Review by Asher, age 14
Rating:

Great show. It combines humor with the suspense of Novacom.

Review by Ben, age 14
Rating:

The plot thickens...I can't wait until next week!

Review by Bradford Goodridge, age 11
Rating:

This was the best episode ever. It was cool how the cameras were found, Mitch, and Andromada owning Novacom. It is so cool, it will make everybody in the United States fall out of thier seats!!!!!!

Review by a listener, age 11
Rating:

This ep was superb. I love the way AIO weaves its plots. And from the teaser I can guess who AREM is...Eugene! Okay, maybe a little far out. But anyway, great ep!

Review by EuGenius III, age 16
Rating:

Great Quality. A nice balance of humor and a more serious plot line. In my opinion, these types of episodes are what make AIO great. As far as the Novacom plotline, this episode had great developments. We are seeing real progress as far as narrowing down the connections between all the names that are floating around (AREM, Novacom, ANDROMEDA and Mitch!), and I cant wait to see exactly who that bald guy was! A 4 Star Episode.

Review by Julie, age 14
Rating:

Awesome episode! Though I didn't like it when Chris "We would love to know what you think"! You wanna know what I think??? AAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHH! This whole thing is DRIVING ME CRAZY!!!! Can't wait for next week!

Review by Nate the Great, age 13
Rating:

This ep reveals Mitch may NOT be good enough for Connie; he really could be AREM like my brother thinks, and he and Mary and Novacom MIGHT be in cahoots like my brother thinks, though he thinks Mary isn't completely evil. I'm dissapointed though, I liked Mitch. It was very well put together, leaving you crazy to hear the next ep. I also can't wait for "Secrets." Tom and Connie have long been my favorite charecters and Eugene my least favorite so I liked the Novacom series because there was no Eugene (Even though he has and will play a big part in future Nova eps) and lots of Connie and of course, Tom. Also I can't wait to hear Missing In Action, as it sounds as though it is about a kidnaping. And because of the ending of Grand Opening, with clips from part two, it sounds as though Mitch might kidnap Connie! (At least thats what some of my other Odyssey Nut friends think.) Anyway that's what I thought of Grand Opening

P.S. All the companies Mitch mentions are connected with stars (Galileo, Polaris ect.) in Strange Boy, Jared mentions Andromada (Which is OBVIOUSLY connected with Novacom...). Andromada is a star and Nova is like a star that explodes or something. Just a note.

Review by a listener, age 13
Rating:

AHHHHHHHH!!!! This wonderful episode makes you pull your hair out as you wait for the next one!!!

Review by Errol, age 44
Rating:

AIO brings in 2002 with a fireworks show of it's own. This ep has enough red herrings and/or suspects to satisfy the most diehard "Odyssey" fan. Arem returns, cameras are installed in every room of the new Whit's End, Whit learns that "Andromeda" is the parent company to Novacom and that Mitch may have signed the documents to have the cameras installed. It has some funny touches with Alex and Cal trying to find out what "Arem" means. Also Connie making small talk with Mitch after Whit asks her to be careful in anything she discusses with him. It is important to note here, that for the first time since AIO's debut, Chris ran audio for next week's show in the program. Were other longtime fans as happy as I was to hear the cast shout in unison-Eugene Meltsner? The plot is getting as thick as pea soup. I for one love it.

Review by Paul Brown
Rating:

This is the episode I've been waiting for. The return of AREM. Another camera in a book found out by Alex and cal. The bald guy is back again, too. A person in public relations buys the spy camera stuff. Could it really be Mitch? Jared and Cal think the mayor is Arem. This is the best episode so far this season. Can't wait to hear part 2.

Review by MermaidEvie, age 13
Rating:

WOW! What a great episode! Talk about suspense! I wish I knew how Jared plays into all of this. It was wonderful. I really liked the way they brought back WonderWorld in the midst of all the new and exciting things happening in Odyssey and Connellsville. Grand Opening was just what Odyssey needed after all the blah Christmas episodes they had to end the year. What a great way to start off 2002!

Review by AIOFanatic
Rating:

I think this episode was well thought out and written. I can't wait for next week's conclusion! I think the EM in AREM stands for Eugene Meltsner.

Review by KevinJ, age 16
Rating:

AWESOME EPISODE!!! It brought so much together!! Of course I now again really, really suspect Mitch! I knew that he was bad from the beginning. I also suspect Mary again!! There's just something that I don't like about her. I've also said that Jared might be AREM and that might be coming true also. I hate cliffhangers! When, I like them becuase they're exciting. I can't wait until next week. Excellent episode!!!

Review by Adam White, age 13
Rating:

Totally awesome! The pieces of the puzzle are falling into place at last. AT LAST! There's a connection between Andromeda, Novacom, and AREM. I don't trust Mitch. But they torture us with two-parters. AREM=Andromeda Remains Enigmatic Mystery

Review by Michael P., age 18
Rating:

It's a good episode. I liked how the kids are becoming more involved in this mystery as it progresses. Something about this episode, though seemed a little odd. It really doesn't feel like it needs a part 2 because there's not really a cliffhanger. It's kinda like "Red Herring" or an episode like that. It just kinda feels completed in itself. Just thought that was a uinique observation. It's a great episode, though.

Review by Carol, age 17
Rating:

I know who AREM is!!! Can you guess??!! Andromeda (sp?) Research Eugene Melstner.

This ep is great! I can't wait until next week .... that's about the only problem...we have to wait a whole week to find out what happens!!

Review by OdysseyFan (Town Hall)

Excellent, again. More information is communicated by what is NOT said. Can't wait to see what's coming up next.

Consensus: Thumbs Up (16/17 positive reviews)

The reviews for "Grand Opening, Part 2" are just as positive (if not more so) than Part 1. Reviewers are theorizing about AREM, Novacom, and Mitch, among other things. Many mentioned the scene where the kids are decoding the report from the college as a highlight. A few questioned the lack of spiritual content as a possible negative on the story arc shows.

Review by Bill, age 32
Rating:

It kept me on the edge of my seat!

Review by Emily Hoobler, age 12
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There are a lot of things happening! What was that guy doing in the new Whit's End? How is Mitch connected with everything? I wish I could hear the next episode now! Although it is fun to have something to look forward to!

Review by Dag, age 14
Rating:

Review by Nick Grant, age 21
Rating:

Overall two very great episodes. The thickening suspense, drama, and intrigue represent AIO at its best. The coming episodes will be great.

The only negative I can see with Grand Opening parts 1 & 2 is the lack of spiritual content. The greatest part of Darkness Before Dawn is how well they were able to present the spiritual side of the battle. There was none of that in Grand Opening. Even when White spoke of Connie it was "I'll keep my eye on her" not "I'll be praying for her." Hopefully "Plan B" will bring it all together.

Review by MermaidEvie, age 13
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WOW! What can I say? I am dying with suspense! I can't wait for next weeks! It was so fantastic. I cannot handle the excitement!

Review by Alyson, age 12
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Grand Opening, Part 1 is so cool. Because they found a camera in Whit's office. As well Mitch has a surprise for Connie. Then Cal And Alex meet up with AREM again. What is going on around here?

Review by Dave
Rating:

I only give this episode 2 1/2 stars because it doesn't have THAT much in it...just more of the mysterious Novacom mystery. It's good, suspenseful, but just part of the whole scheme of Novacom vs. Odyssey. Don't get me wrong though. It's a good episode.

Review by Nathan
Rating:

I loved these episodes! I think that Mitch does not play a big part in the "weird, secret things". I thought that the part where they were trying to find out about AREM sounded sort of like a Jack and Oscar skit. I can't wait to hear more. I don't think that AREM is Eugene. It just doesn't sound like something he'd do. However, he did hack onto that computer system in The Right Choice. Hmmm.

Review by Joe, age 12
Rating:

It kept me on the edge of my seat, especially when it ended because I wanted to know what happened next.

Review by BigNate, age 11
Rating:

This episode rules! Everyone now knows that AREM is Eugene. And about this "brain wave to radio wave" business I personally think that Andromeda is using Novacom shows to hypnotize kids and turn them into mindless zombies.

Review by Bradford Goodridge, age 11
Rating:

Part2 was even better then Part 1. And I think we hear the guy at the airport from the episode "Breaking Point" in this episode. Plus, what happened to Arthur Dent and his relocatin and Mitch's job, and AREM, and the even bigger question what's up with EUGENE?????!!!!!

Review by Paul Brown
Rating:

Mr. Dent has been replaced? Could this new guy be the head boss of Novacom? What ever happen to Mr.X? Could Novacom be brain-washing odyssey? When will Eugene show up? Is it just me or does Mitch sound like Chad Pearson? Connie uses Mitch's computer and the AREM sound comes up. Could this be another strike against mitch? Another tip…don't go bowling with Connie…she scores for other people on their lane. LOL. Eugene's name comes up a lot in this show. Could this be there way of bringing him back to the show? Only time will tell.

Review by Boni, age 13
Rating:

Grand Opening is great!!! It kept everyone guessing and kept everyone wanting to listen to the concluding episode. It as great! I think that Eugene is AREM and Mitch is gonna do something bad.....

Review by a listener, age 11
Rating:

We learn who Mitch is! We hear from Mr.X/Charles, and we even learn something about Eugene. The plot is so great! I can't believe Mitch is a traitor!

Review by Alyson, age 12
Rating:

Grand Opening 2 was really good. Three kids are trying to find out who is AREM and Mitch and Connie are acting strange. I think who is responsible for all of this is AREM or Mary. Or Novacom. I hope it isn't Mitch and that is why you should keep listening.

Review by James Moore, age 24
Rating:

AWESOME! Excellent! Suspenseful! It raises MANY questions. Is Mitch good? bad? (I think good; he is working for Novacom while spying on them.) Is he AREM? Mr. X is in charge now. What did Dent do? Will he be back? Mr. Charles is a new name for Mr. X is it A) first name b) last name c) middle name or d) made up? It doesn't sound too sinister. Where does Eugene fit into all this? He could just be doing his job. He has written many reports he may not know it's all bad. (I hope we hear his voice soon.) Leaves you wanting MORE and waiting for "Secrets" and the four part "Plan B."

Awesome, cool, suspenseful! Many questions. GREAT job!

P.S. For an ep called "Grand Opening," the grand opening was very little (but appropriate).

Review by Errol
Rating:

Grand Opening, Part 2 keeps the suspense rolling. Exit Arthur Dent...Enter the sinister Mr. Charles. Sarah and Cal get information from AREM…Alex and Cal decipher the information and link it to a project started by Eugene, and Connie sees AREM spelled out on Mitch's computer. Great touch with Connie and Mitch having it out at the bowling lane. Connie is so flustered that she bowls strikes in another man's lane. Looking forward to seeing how Mr. Charles will play out. He has really told Mitch in no uncertain terms what he expects...or else. And as Whit said at the end on this ep, "Eugene...what have you gotten yourself into?" The great thread continues.

Review by JoyElectric (Town Hall)

This was one of those "some questions answered, far more questions asked" shows. Not too bad, though. After it apparently absolves Mitch, questions are raised again. I guess "Secrets" is going to have a LOT in it!

Review by KevinJ (Town Hall)

I have to admit that it's a very good episode. I don't think that it was exciting as part one, but it was very good. Lots of new info! Like Mr. X heading up Novacom and talking to Mitch! And AREM being on Mitch's computer! And Eugene doing the radio wave study! And AREM knowing about Eugene doing the Radio Wave study! And Whit saying what have you got yourself into Eugene! Good stuff!!!

Consensus: Thumbs Up (13/20 positive reviews)

Reaction is so far for "Secrets" is mixed, but more positive than negative. The reviews so far seem to enjoy the show, though not quite as much as "Grand Opening," with many looking forward to Plan B. Most were hoping for bigger revelations, but liked the character of Connie throughout. A number of reviewers objected to the lack of any sort of spiritual content in the last few shows, questioning why Connie or Mitch weren't seeking any sort of Christian guidance for their relationship. Others wished that Connie acted more mature.

Review by Corey Willis, age 15
Rating:

Overall this was a horrible episode.

Review by a listener, age 17
Rating:

I don't want to be to hard on the Novacom story arc... but I remember when an AIO episode had Bible verses at the end. Obviously the writers are trying to appease the listeners who are asking for INTRIGUE in capital letters.

Review by MermaidEvie (Town Hall)

What was said in this episode could've taken five minutes, not a half hour! Mitch works with bad people, and is in love with connie, but connie doesn't trust him, even though she wants too. The end. WHAT ABOUT "MR. CHARLES"? Or Arem? Or Jared? Or Andromeda? Or Eugene? Why did we have to know about "Justine"? I mean we learn all that about her, only to find out she's not even the girl we're talking about. I was very unsatified. Besides, I think Kathey W. is taking her point of "all Connie does is hang around old men" thing a little too far. It's getting to be annoying and stupid. How do we know in the next episode the marriage they talk about isn't Mitch and Connie's? This was really, really out of place. Especially for the age group Odyssey is supossed to focused toward. If you ask me not many eight, nine, or even some ten year olds are going to understand most of this, espically the boys who are not interested in dating. What little kid would be?! If you ask me they should either tell Kathey W. to tone it down a bit, start focusing on the FAMILY, or change the age level that Odyssey is geared to. Or, hopefully, not have an episode like this again. I mean Connie's relationship with Jeff (that was his name right?) made a point about dating non-Chritians, but this doesn't do anything.

Review by Jared Walczak, age 15
Rating:

When listening to "Secrets," I was somewhat bored. It somewhat had my attention because I was waiting for a BIG secret to break about Mitch. None came.

Connie is over her little girl stage. She was fifteen over 14 years ago, so she should be mature! Of course, she's only about 17 now, but I challenge you who liked this episode: listen to albums 22-28. Connie was getting (amazing as this may seem) MATURE!

Maturity must have been a passing fad for her. The proof? A plethora of Odyssey episodes, with Secrets being near the top.

In essense, Connie was so immature it was horrible. And What happened to friendly advice from Whit? No talk about the hair or the peeking in Mitch's briefcase? Also, speaking of snooping around where you don't belong, Whit didn't chastise Sarah and Cal for their discussion with AREM and the computer hacking they did as a result.

Most importantly: The Moral Lesson of Secrets. The big problem is that there WAS NONE, unless the moral lessons of Secrets are:

1.) Dye your hair purple a lot
2.) Lie and don't get in trouble for it
3.) Everything works out great at the end even when you ruin EVERYTHING
4.) Snooping in briefcases is okay if you find out something useful

Okay, don't think those are the episode lessons, but then, WHAT WERE? This episode dissappointed me. I expected great excitement and true secrets. Yes, there is a secret about the phone line modem lady, but she didn't get close to answering it. The big secret was no secret.

True, not all episodes NEED a moral lessons/scripture reference. (EXAMPLE: I Slap Floor - Moral Lesson: Slap Floors as Often as Possible.) But besides the bizzare get-away-from-everything I Slap Floor and the lookback-style episodes, Odyssey episodes need lessons and Scripture references.

Adventures in Odyssey isn't a soap opera or just a radio sitcom or even just a radio drama. It's a CHRISTIAN radio drama designed to TEACH while entertaining.

Television has been called mindless entertainment. Pure entertainment does not require much thought; certainly nothing provoking. Odyssey should provoke. Odyssey should make you think; make you consider things. Odyssey should TEACH.

"Secrets" didn't. At least not in my opinion.

And that's why I could not rate "Secrets" very high. Semi-boring plotline, no lesson.

Review by a listener
Rating:

Alongside bowling, add tennis to the list of things NO ONE especially Mitch should EVER do with Connie!!!!

Review by Bill, age 32
Rating:

Secrets was a great episode for banter. I enjoyed the conversations between Nick and Connie. I especially enjoyed the interview Connie did with Mitch on Conversations With Connie. I don't think she has ever done a quality interview on that show yet!

Review by Mike, age 15
Rating:

Good story, and it answered some questions but raised many more which is kind of fun to try and figure out. The ONLY thing I was disappointed with was that Connie apparently hasn't learned very much from her previous stints with curiosity. Changing her hair color, lying about her interests, and snooping through Mitch's stuff and then jumping to conclusions that are based on her assumpions. It would be nice to see Connie actually mature spiritually and at least get better in these areas; but not much has changed since the show first started way back when...

Review by Arthur Dent, age 13
Rating:

Awesome episode. That's pretty much all I can say - I loved it a lot. It was very well made, and the writing was very good. And it inched on the Novacom/AREM/Andromeda saga. Keep up the good work, AIO!

Review by Jessica S., age 18
Rating:

I thought that the episode was pretty good. I am looking forward to what will come in the future and who the identity of the red haired woman will be.

Review by April, age 18
Rating:

Great episode!! I'm glad Mitch finally admitted to Connie that he's falling in love with her. I can't wait for next weeks show to hear how that turns out. And I love the new twist. I really think I know who AREM is. I'm excited to find out if I'm right! :)

Review by Dave
Rating:

Intriguing episode. This episode centered a lot around the developing relationship between Connie and Mitch. There's only a few slight facts pertaining to the Novacom Story Arc, but they are important. It had a great ending too...but all of Odyssey knows about it, and about the relationship between Connie and Mitch, thanks to an argument between them that was aired live via Candid Conversations with Connie! Great episode.

Review by KevinJ
Rating:

So what exactly was the moral lession in this episode? Stay with your boyfriend? I don't know... it just seemed a little weird to me. Whit doesn't care that Connie is trying to change to please Mitch? I obviously missed the point when Odyssey turned into a show with just a few positive "moral" points thrown in when the fans grumble. I'd say this show was typical for a Kathy W. show. Not exciting, girl problems that are way too old for even -um- 12 year olds, and BORING. That, however, is my opinion. It's quite interesting that this episode had NO SCIPTURE REFERENCE, and not pointed out MORAL POINT by Chris... Good to find out about the girl in Mitch's briefcase, but that's about all this episode had... chshshshsshshh... the girl in Mitch's briefcase is bad... chchsssss

Review by Errol, age 44
Rating:

Good ep with Connie going off the deep end trying to solve the mystery of a woman's photo found in Mitch's briefcase. With Nick's help, well let's just say, Holmes and Watson have nothing worry about. Connie finally recognizes the woman as the same person who installed the second modem in Whit's office. While this ep certainly drew us deeper into the Novacom thread, it remained very lighthearted and had some great comic touches (Connie coloring her hair and playing Mitch in tennis, which ends with his face getting smashed). Here is my one big concern. As a reviewer noted last week, the lack of scripture references this season. Even the best of the Blackgaard saga had some scriptural references to it. Audiences, writers, characters, and actors may change, but it is imperative that Dr. Dobson's original vision for AIO never change. Our relationship to God through Jesus Christ and how lives are affected by that relationship or lack of relationship. Looking forward to next week's show.

Review by Nick Grant, age 21
Rating:

Overall it was pretty good. Connie had a great role in this episode and I really liked the interaction between Connie and Nick--kid of makes you miss Eugene a little more! The closing scene was terrific.

The downside: it was built up a litte too much since we really didn't really see any more pieces of the puzzle. Sorry, but some circumstantial evidence connecting Mitch to some Novacom wrongdoing has already been established.

The whole "You've gotta trust me" bit by Mitch is a little overplayed. Still concerned with the lack of spiritual content in the past few episodes. Would someone tuning in for the first time realize it is a Christian show? There have been times when this angle has been way overplayed which can turn off some people, but Darkness Before Dawn truely showed that the suspense/action element and the spiritual element can be woven together seemlessly. Darkness Before Dawn demonstrated how much of such a battle truely is spiritual.

Don't mean to overcriticize the episode, it was a worthy effort and set the stage well for the excitement of the weeks to come.

Review by Alyson, age 12
Rating:

This is so cool! Mitch admits something inportant on Connie's talk show. Listen if you want to know.

Review by Paul Brown
Rating:

Nick is back again. Nick has a fear of chickens? Okay... Connie changes her hair raspberry chestnut to impress Mitch. Again we find that Connie can't do sports after she hits Mitch face with a racket. You think he would have know better after bowling with her. The photo of a girl Connie and Nick found in Mitch's briefcase look familar to her. Could this be the phone lady that Connie saw who put the computer modem in Whit's office?

Review by JoyElectric
Rating:

Hmm... Learning more, but not really. I'll get the gripes out of the way first (and they aren't that big)... First, with a summary that said that Connie uncovers "mysteries;" there was only one real "mystery" uncovered. Second, I somewhat wonder if the whole "Stop seeing each other" and whole dating thing with Mitch in this show may be speaking a little over some kids heads (especally those kids who still think boys/girls are gross at 9 or 10). And, not that I'm the police on these things, but we really don't hear Whit/Connie/Mitch talk about the Christ factor in their relationship. I somewhat expected one of the two to say that they needed to pray about the issue. Like I said, I'm not the Spiritual police on these things, so I don't want to seem like I'm better than anyone. ;)

Anyway, I like the shows on Connie since Katie Leigh basically owns the part. She has a way of conversing with people, in this case Nick and Mitch, that is simply fun to listen to. I also liked Whit's little "Whoa" when he saw Connie's new hair--it spoke words. And, of course, more info on the whole Novacomm plot is always good. I looks like it's going full steam for the next 4 shows, which should be interesting.

Review by Josh
Rating:

Very well done show. I personally think Mitch can be trusted. AIO wouldn't give a person that much air time saying "You've gotta trust me" if it weren't true. But what about the picture in Mitch's briefcase?

But on a lighter note, the scene of Connie and Mitch on the air recording CCC was incredible. The best AIO scene in a while. Look for that to be a nominee when it comes time to vote for your favorite scene of this season.

Review by Bradford Goodridge, age 11
Rating:

The first part of the show was dull, but when we heard Connie look at the picture and realize that it was the phone lady things got intresting. Plus more questions about Novacom.

Review by Carol, age 17
Rating:

YUK! That was the big secret??? He has a picture of the modem lady. Disappointing. I and that "I THINK I"M FALLING IN LOVE WITH YOU" bit was a tad ridiculous. Connie with the purple, uh, I mean raspberry whatever colored hair was funny. Overall I thought we would get more information from this ep, it sounded a lot more like a soap opera to me.

Consensus: Thumbs Way Up! (36/37 positive reviews)

Reaction to the first of the four "Plan B" has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans are using words like "Wow!" "Whoa!" "Awesome!" "Fantastic!" "Incredible!" and "Great!" to describe the show. Nearly every reviewer piled compliments on the installment, saying it was exciting and "huge." Many were wondering about the phrase, "Nothing is as it seems." Others looked forward to seeing Arthur Dent back in the show. One major complaint was that the wedding may not have been "big" and dramatic enough after all the buildup and that Eugene and Katrina's lines were extracted from previous shows.

Review by Meleah, age 14
Rating:

WOW! This whole Novacom thing is getting better each episode! I love it when Adventures in Odyssey does mini series. My only problem with Plan B is this: I didn't like it that Eugene and Katrina got married so suddenly. It would have been neat if their marriage involved a wedding. Oh well, I'm sure there is a reason. We will just have to keep litening to see what's up.

Review by Catty Cathy, age 12
Rating:

When this episode stopped in the middle and Chris said, "Keep litsening..." I nearly fell off my chair!!!!! I won't be able to sleep untill Saturday! The novacom stories have GOT to be my favorite group of stories (yes, I even like them a tiny bit better than the Blackgaard saga, but that's probably because I allready know what's going to happen in the Blackgaard ones). So many things are going on in Odyssey lately! I can't wait for part two!

Review by Daniel Browning, age 16
Rating:

This episode is really setting the stage for an upcoming explosion of events. While I enjoyed the mysterious quality that held a shadow over the episode, my only hope is that the conclusion lives up to the increasing amount of suspense that was hinted at in it.

Review by Kelli, age 10
Rating:

This was a very good episode! I can't wait for the next one to come out!! When will it?

Review by a listener, age 16
Rating:

This show definitely deserves 4 stars! The only downfall is the fact that the producers of AIO are keeping us in this much suspense. I thought that the clips for next week's show were very interesting. Did anyone notice the sinister voice of Arthur Dent's replacement? It sounded as if he was out to hurt Mitch. Anyway, this is definitely one of the best shows AIO has ever had. How are we exprected to wait almost a FULL week for the next show?

Review by James Moore, age 24
Rating:

Wonderful. Suspenseful. Great. Loved it. Great ties to past ("The Right choice," "Malachi's Message") including Brandon, Janice, etc. Great to hear Jack and Joanne for first time together in LONG time. I cheered at Eugene and Katrina (could not tell their voices were added in from past). What's up? Thrilling! Full of suspense. They married before Dad died. Can't wait to see Arthur Dent and Mrs. Shanks talking next week. Bravo! Great job!

Review by Matt Schulert, age 22
Rating:

It was good, great actually; I've been waiting for them to tell us about eugene... I have been into AIO for a long time. That's why, at 22, I'm still listening. But I'm curious, what happened to Will Ryan? It's obvious in this episode that the parts of Eugene were pieced together from older sound bites of his. Eugene hasn't been on the show once this year till now. I remember this happening with another character we all know and love.

Review by Andy G Harvey, age 14
Rating:

GREAT!

Review by NGA, age 13
Rating:

Okay... I saw only a few reviews with these thoughts... Mr. Shanks's tumor... growing faster than usual... EUGENE'S REPORT! Eugene realized his report and the study and stuff were bad.... Novacom trashed his office looking for the research. Go Whit, Connie, Jack, & Joanne!

Review by KevinJ, age 16
Rating:

Awesome show!! Great stuff!! E & K getting married was great to hear that finally get taken care of, and Jack and Joanne are back on the show. Can't wait till next weeks!

Review by BlueDevil, age 17
Rating:

Odyssey finally seems like it is picking up where they left off circa the "big hiatus" of 1997. Everything is coming together.

While I really enjoying the plot...the drama and the suspense, I was disappointed that there was no deeper meaning to the show. Maybe it will be played out over the next three episodes?

This episode kept me thinking all day. It was something that I never expected from AIO.

But hey, the Novacom arc looks like it's beginning to wind up, and I can't wait to see how the writers pull this one off. They finally have something to rival the great Blackgaard Saga.

Here's to Eugene and Katrina actually showing up in the next few episodes!

Review by Philip Glossman, age 14
Rating:

Great episode! At last Eugene and Katrina are finally married! It sounds like Mr. and Mrs. Shanks know about Andromeda! Too bad Mr. Shanks died. I liked him. I think Malachi's Message makes more sense now. This was a great episode! All the storylines left off at Malacai's Message have continued! Great episode!

Review by Jared Walczak (Town Hall)

It was great to hear from Eugene..and this episode is WONDERFUL so far.. But.. Are his lines newly recorded or not? They sounded brief and cut. Where they taken from former episodes?

Review by Jason_Agent 1131 (Town Hall)

Could that be any more amazing? Goodness sakes.

Review by JJP, age 16
Rating:

First of all, Armitage got killed off. How bad is that? Second of all, Eugene and Katrina got married. Of course it was in front of Armitage, so it seemed fitting, but still....Still, we must remember what Eugene said: "Nothing is as it seems. Beware Andromeda."

Too much is happening at once. Still, I have to say it was good. Second part looks good, too. Overall I think it'll play out well.

Review by Harrison, age 14
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WOW!!! When was the last time I heard an episode like this? Eugene has obviously gotten himself into some trouble. I think that he was somehow associated with the death of Armitage. Eugene's study on the conversion of brain waves to radio waves was also probably related. Overall this was an incredible episode. Great Job!

Review by Paul B
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What a cliffhanger! What are Eugene and Katrina up to with the computer files? One good thing that came out of this episode is that they are finally married...or are they? Next show Whit chats with AREM himself. This Plan B is getting good. Can't wait to see what Miss Shanks tells Jack and Joanne.

Review by MermaidEvie, age 13
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Fantastic! I can't wait to see what comes next! Ooh! Adventures in Odyssey has out done themselves this time!

Review by Errol
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Annnndddd, they're out of the gate and running at a mad pace! This ep ties up one long wished for story line and opens a few more. Jack and Joanne learn that Eugene and Katrina have been married at Mr.Shank's deathbed by the now Pastor Brandon. "Dean" Rogers and Whit learn that our newlyweds have taken a hard drive and skipped town. What was Mr. Shank's cryptic death bed confession about Eugene's job? And what is the Mrs. Shanks about to tell Jack and Joanne about the danger Eugene and Katrina are in? Excellent!! An apt title for the next couple shows could well be borrowed from a title from about six years ago. Only with a one change: " The Search For Eugene and Katrina " Great Show!

Review by Austyn, age 20
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Good Episode. We finally get to hear from Eugene and Katrina, but as far as revelations about what he has been up to, well we didn't find out much. Oh yeah, and one other little thing happened: THEY GOT MARRIED!!!! Yeah I do agree that the marriage ceremony itself seemed a little bit contrived (to the actors that play E and K, please come back! I know you are there Will Ryan, I know you are out there somewhere, it's listed that you are going to be in the new video coming out, please bring your vocal greatness back to our little show once and for all!).

My theory is that they got married so that Katrina's father could be there before he passed away. Despite his actions, he always cared for and wanted the best for his daughter. Hopefully, Eugene and Katrina will return to Odyssey and have a real wedding ceremony later (episode 500 anybody?).

Now that I have rambled on and on about the Marriage stuff, on to the rest of the show.

I was very, very pleased to see Jack and Joanne getting involved in all of the Novacom/AREM business. I hope they stay a part of this conspiracy as it continues to unfold. Now all you need to do is find something for Bernard and Jason to do, and soon!

The teaser for the next few episodes told us that, A) Ol' Armitage had something to do with Eugene getting his job at the school. B) Arthur Dent is going to be back, who is he talking to? Is he on assigment by Mr. X? Or is he really wanting to help us? and C) Did Eugene and Katrina join the witness protection program as well? Are they hiding out in a lead bunker with Jared? Is the tower Tom allowed Novacom to build going to play a part in anything? Is Tom going to play a part in anything? How does this all connect to the great and mysterious Regis Blackgaard saga? Will Richard Maxwell be back? Will Whit finally just lock his office door? Stay tuned for next week at the same Bat time and the same Bat channel!

Review by AIOfanatic
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Wow! What will happen next? First Eugene disappears, then Katrina, now they're married? The only thing that could have made this episode better is if Will Ryan and Katrina (I don't know her real name) could have actually been their for the first recording session. You can really tell what episodes their lines came from.

Review by a listener, age 17
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This was so awesome! I'm so excited that Eugene and Katrina finally tied the knot! One of the best shows in a long, long time.

Review by Margaret (Town Hall)

Incredible!

Review by OdysseyFan (Town Hall)

WOW!

Review by Josh
Rating:

Well, Eugene and Katrina are married. Katrina's dad is dead. Mrs. Shanks is about to tell something really important. Eugene's been accused of stealing computer files. Connie still wants to know about the picture in Mitch's briefcase, and we've got 3 episodes to let all these plots fall into place. (Well, maybe Eugene and Katrina getting married isn't much of a plot, but it's worth metioning since they've been engaged for almost 6 years.) This was an incredible episode, but, once again, there was NO SPIRITUAL CONTENT. The official site said the episode was about "Dealing with Loss". What? Was any of the epidode, ANYTHING, about someone dealing with loss? Sure, Mrs. Shanks seemed a bit depressed, but that's all we got of dealing with loss. And she was in only one scene. But anyway, the episode was awesome. I can't wait for pt. 2, and to hear David Griffin again.

Review by Bradford, age 11
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This was a great show! It had almost all the characters from the past 3 years. I can't wait to hear more!!

Review by trina (Town Hall)

I GOT MARRIED!!!! Trina MELTSNER!!!!

Review by Nathan
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I can't wait to hear what comes next! I think that Armitage Shank's brain tumor had something to do with the radio wave-brain wave study. Maybe someone else knew that he knew something and used the studies to kill him. I also think that the job at the college is the one he received in the episode "Malachi's Message". I like the the part at the end where you hear lines from the next show. I think that Arthur Dent is going to spill all he knows.

Review by Alyson, age 12
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Someone has died. Someone has gotten married. Eugene and Katrina are missing. Eugene has been blamed for stealing.

Review by Joshua Shelly, age 13
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Okay. I really do want to listen to all the episodes in Plan B. I can't live another day without Plan B: Collision Course, so how am I expected to live a week!? They should seriously consider doing 4 episodes a week.

Anyways, about the episode, I think we were all caught be surprise with Eugene and Katrina getting married, and I found it hard to believe the rumors, but I believed. I found the line "It's time I told someone the truth" very interesting. The truth?!

Rewinding a bit, "I am sorry I got you the job at the collge?" What's that suppose to mean?

Ok, I am becoming like Jared, I need to stop babling, that's my review!

Review by Ben, age 20
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I gave this one a 2 because I don't really know how to rate it. On the one hand, it is dealing with a lot of storylines that we all have been wanting dealt with for a long time. On the other hand, the episode moved way too quickly. After years of suspense, some of the storylines were wrapped up in a mere matter of seconds. Also the music sounded too much like it was from a sleazy detective movie. But it was nice to have Will Ryan's voice back. After drawing the novacom saga out so much, I had wished for more compactness, however conversely I think Plan B:MIA should have been slower paced. It felt like the writers were in a hurry to dump their cards onto the table.

Review by 11 boy
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One of the greatest, best, most exciting AIOs this season!

Review by Vic Schiavone, age 41
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Finally, a story that begins to wrap up some long-standing story lines and at the same time keeps the Andromeda story line progressing. It was great to hear a lot of old characters (Eugene, Katrina, her parents, Brandon) return. I hope the next three parts progress the story in a logical manner.

Review by JoyElectric
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Whoa!! Again, we know more, but not really. It was all coming together, then Eugene says "Nothing is as it seems." What's up with that?

Anyway, this is great at stringing us along. We've got a little idea of what's going on, and we're seeing just how big this thing is becoming. John Beebee is right...Dr. Blackgaard is looking like a Sunday School teacher compared to this.

The only thing I noticed is how it appeared that Eugene and Katrina's lines were obviously thrown in from other shows. If I'm wrong, I apologize, but it had that sound to them. Otherwise, I'm interested in hearing the next part! Good job guys!!

Review by Corey Willis
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This episode was Awesome! It had a lot of old characters. I can not wait for the next episode.

Review by April, age 18
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Wow, what a great episode! But, as most others have been saying, it's disappointing. First of all, Eugene and Katrina's wedding was way too rushed. I mean, come on, we've been waiting for this for years!! :-) Second, Mr. Shanks suddenly dies. I don't think AIO has EVER killed off a character that has been on as long as he had. Third, the actors that do Eugene and Katrina weren't even in the episode. But, all in all, an awesome episode that left me frustrated with curiosity and dying for more!!

Consensus: Thumbs Way Up! (44/46 positive reviews)

Reviews for Plan B, Part 2 are generally just as positive, if not more so, as Part 1. Reviewers are applauding the revelations and the action scenes. Many are comparing these shows in a very positive light to the Blackgaard shows, specifically Darkness Before Dawn. A lot of reviews mention the "intensity" as a positive aspect of the show, though some wished for a "parental warning" before the show. The plot turn that ended the show has met with a bit of criticism as well.

Review by Deborah Griffieth, age 25
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Definitely an episode replete with top quality suspense and action, plot advancement, necessary humor and truism to character development (a.k.a. Jack and Joanne)!

I see that several have commented as to the need for a parental warning for the episode. While I agree that the intensity of this particular series would merit a parental warning, www.whitsend.org DOES have a parental warning on it, and (if memory serves me correctly) the last of the Blackgaard episodes got right into the episode without the parental warning being actually "stated" by Chris or another introductee to the show (if I'm wrong on that count, I apologize). Each week, it has been clear that the following week's show will be one of an "intense" nature (that's been obvious from the direction of the story arc). I recognize not everyone has access to the internet to view the website's warning, but obviously everyone who has made such a comment on this review site does...just a thought.

I also agree that I would like to see a bit more emphasis on the spiritual realm and the issues taking place there--one would expect that a man of Whit's experience (his sensitivity to spiritual issues in Castles and Cauldrens, his concern for the kids of Odyssey and their response to God, his involvement with Eugene and his salvation, for example) would naturally be clearly and explicitly turning to the Lord for direction and strength as we head through the various events taking place. One point to note along those lines...Jack's prayer for God's help in the midst of the encounter and escape from Arthur Dent's enemies.

All in all, an excellent example of quality writing and "edge of your seat" interest. I agree that they (the writers) simply CAN'T do that to us OR Connie in killing off Mitch! :) On a personal note, I and my brothers and sister began listening to Odyssey in 1987 and have waited for way too long for this to happen only to have it snatched away like that! :) Also, a GREAT thing to see (in the Connie area) is her statement, when being encouraged to NOT download the file from AREM, to do so anyways because "I DO trust Mitch!" We KNOW she does down deep, but with all the mysteries surrounding him, it's easy to see why it's difficult.

With all this, how in the world does one wait patiently for next week? :)

Review by Josiah, age 11
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I liked it a lot...I just don't beleive Mitch is dead!

Review by Vincent, age 12
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It is so cool and suspenseful. I can't wait till next week!!

Review by Jill (12) and Emily (10)
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Mitch is dead? How can that be?

Review by AIOfan, age 13
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I don't believe Mitch died. Now they will probably "use" Arthur Dent just like they "used" Armitage Shanks and if the Radio Wave Study doesn't work on him either (and it won't—count on it!), then he will probably die from a brain tumor. Poor Connie... poor Mr. Allen...poor Mr.Dent...poor us!! Please writers...DON'T DO THIS IS US!!

Review by Vicki Byrne, age 14
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Great episdode! Upset though because they leave you hanging AGAIN!!

Review by Anna, age 15
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I really enjoyed this episode. It bounced back and forth between several characters, which kept it going well. It was nice to see Autor Dent again, and we're now pretty much confirmed that he's on the up and up. But the nagging question, is Mitch really dead? If he isn't, as I suspect, how is his re-appearing going to be accomplished? I can't wait for part three!

Review by BTC, age 24
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Great adventure show...Those writers are awesome!! Something is fishy about Mitch's death though. Is it just me, or would a killer really burst in the door hollering, "Freeze! Don't Move!"? Witness protection? NSA agent? What's the angle? Can't wait till next week.

Review by Dave
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First off, I'm not buying that Mitch is dead. Just not buying it. The Odyssey writers wouldn't do that to Connie, or us. Or Mitch.

Second, I think that Gandalf is right (A reviewer further down this page), that this show is intense enough to warrant a warning for younger listeners.

I haven't liked this saga thus far, not too much, because it was moving awful fast. "Another international intrigue show in Odyssey, just how many can happen in such a small town?" But it's getting better. There's a short car chase in Plan B part II, and the dialogue from the eager taxi driver adds the spice. ("They're chasing us? AWESOME!")

I am also glad that Arthur Dent is turning out willing to help. (He had too nice of a voice to be bad.) And I know we all hope that something will prevent the "experiment" on Mr. Dent. And we all look forward to seeing what is in his package too.

And I also figure that we all hope