Quantum Leap Season 2 Episode 3 Review: Closure Encounters

Quantum Leap Season 2 Episode 3, “Closure Encounters,” finds Ben investigating a possible UFO sighting as a government agent in the 1940s. It introduces Eliza Taylor into the narrative as Hannah, a charming waitress with dreams of working in science, while mining the depths of Ben and Addison’s now-complicated dynamic. 

Admittedly, the leap itself in “Closure Encounters” is the least exciting aspect of the episode. Our main characters take center stage, and rightfully so, after Ben and Addison’s reunion in Season 2 Episode 2, “Ben & Teller.” 

The outing zeroes in on Ben’s coping mechanism, which seems to be uncharacteristic risk-taking. Raymond Lee navigates Ben’s convoluted feelings with ease, showcasing his frustration with Addison’s new relationship without voicing it. We’ve never genuinely seen Ben and Addison at odds with each other, even when Ben was bereft of his memories. 

That’s the defining factor of “Closure Encounters” — the fracturing of Ben and Addison’s relationship. While Ben has his explosive moment in the episode, something tells me the real explosion where Ben puts everything on the table is down the line. 

Eliza Taylor’s Hannah is bursting with charisma and a character who seems to believe in the impossible, perhaps even a man from 2023 traveling through time and using different people as hosts. Taylor also has fun chemistry with Lee. We even see the seeds planted for a burgeoning bond between Ben and Hannah. 

As for the rest of the cast, any screen time with Ernie Hudson, Nanrisa Lee, and Mason Alexander Park is welcome. While we haven’t seen too much of them this season (yet), their easygoing dynamic, delightful rapport and repartee are a blast to watch. Here’s hoping Season 2 thrusts this trio more into the spotlight. 

So far, Quantum Leap Season 2 has done a serviceable job of laying the groundwork for the central conflict. With Project Quantum Leap running again and the government seemingly out of its hair, we can expect the rocky terrain between Ben and Addison to get some narrative action. Well, in addition to getting Ben home. 

With “Closure Encounters,” the series seems to fall into the “comfort zone” groove established in Season 1 regarding general storytelling. Here’s hoping the show doesn’t get too formulaic and, like Ben, takes some risks. Or as much as network TV will allow. 

Overall, “Closure Encounters” is a slight step down from last week’s propulsive, action-packed episode, as far as the leap is concerned. However, the character dynamics, the inner workings that drive the story forward, are fun to explore. They’re also the strongest part of the episode — as they should be. How can we enjoy this show if we don’t care about the characters? 

Stray Observations: 

• If you’re a devout sci-fi fan, you might recognize Louis Herthum, who plays Sheriff Morgan, as Peter Abernathy from Westworld.
• Couldn’t Addison have blipped to the hospital instead of sitting with Ben in awkward silence for a lengthy road trip? 
• Ian’s sardonic wit is a balm for the soul. They have a gift for sarcasm, and it’s beautiful. 
• I’m curious to discover how Hannah leaves her timeline in the 1940s. We know Eliza Taylor and Peter Gadiot are series regulars for Season 2. 
• Project Sign was also called Project Saucer. According to the internet, it served as a precursor to Project Grudge, which saw the Air Force investigating UFOs in 1949. So, the episode should’ve taken place in 1948 instead of 1949. 
• Is anyone getting vibes between Ben and Hannah? Just me? I don’t want a love triangle between Ben, Addison, and Hannah, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that were in the cards for this season. 

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

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Quantum Leap airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on NBC, with next-day streaming on Peacock.

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