Quantum Leap Season 1 Episode 2 Review: Atlantis

Quantum Leap Season 1 Episode 2, “Atlantis,” is a much-improved step in the right direction, providing more context and allowing us to get to know these characters. 

Last week’s premiere felt lackluster and hollow, and while Quantum Leap still has a ways to go in terms of development, “Atlantis” restores whatever hope went out the window with the pilot. That said, the broadcast television glossy sheen is ever-present. We can only hope the series will lean further into the sci-fi weirdness, not shy away from it.

“Atlantis” delves further into Ben Song as a character. His brilliant negotiating skills are displayed, and his penchant for derring-do is reminiscent of the 2022 Ben who leaped into the Accelerator Chamber with abandon.

Raymond Lee continues to ooze charisma and self-effacing charm as our lead, even becoming more at home with the dialogue and his interactions with Caitlin Bassett’s Addison. 

Additionally, “Atlantis” gives the remainder of the main cast plenty to do, shedding light on Ernie Hudson’s Magic and Nanrisa Lee’s Jenn as they embark on a side quest. Hudson and Lee share an easy onscreen dynamic, and while we still don’t know too much about these characters, Quantum Leap leaves us enough intriguing breadcrumbs to keep us sated.

The Janice Calavicci connection is an interesting one, brimming with possibilities. Considering how Al was Sam Beckett’s companion in the original series, it’s intriguing how the show seems to cast an almost villainous light on Janice. 

While Addison believes Ben did what he had to do for good reasons, there’s always the chance he dabbled in something illicit with Janice. Morally gray, ambiguous characters are fun to play with, so here’s hoping Janice (and maybe Ben) skirts that line.

“Atlantis” might not be leaps and bounds better than its predecessor, but it’s certainly filling in the blanks and carving a path toward something less hollow. All the hallmarks of great sci-fi are there; the series has so much potential.

As long as Quantum Leap doesn’t succumb to the pitfalls and trappings of boring network TV, we’re good. 

Right now, there’s enough intrigue, loose threads, and a compelling story to keep us invested as an audience. Character development is slow-going; however, we’ll get there with time. 

Stray Observations: 

• It’s lovely to see the return of Susan Diol as Beth Calavicci to the Quantum Leap universe. Here’s hoping we see more characters from the original series make appearances. 
• We all need to protect Ian with our lives. At all costs. 
• Ziggy still doesn’t talk, which is a travesty. Listening to the characters refer to Ziggy without hearing her voice feels strange. It’s as if she doesn’t exist. 
• Will we see Magic discuss his experience with Sam Beckett leaping into his body? It would solidify more backstory for this character.
• It’s nice to see José Zúñiga in another spacecraft after playing a pilot on The Expanse.
• What was Janice doing in Ben and Addison’s apartment? Wrong answers only. 

What did you think of this episode of Quantum Leap? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Quantum Leap airs Mondays at 10/9c on NBC, with next-day streaming on Peacock.

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