"Tru Calling" is one of my all-time favorite TV series, and "Paradox" is probably the closest thing I've seen to it so far. There are differences, of course (here the protagonists are four and they don't go back in time, they just receive images/hints from the future), but the core concept is very similar: if you know what will happen in the future, can you change it? Should you change it? Each of the five episodes presents a cleverly assembled puzzle to solve: the question is not just who-done-it? but where? how? why? and to whom? Only the "when" is a given. The characters are (probably deliberately) a little lacking in charisma, and there is arguably too much bickering between them, but the stories are gripping enough anyway. However, the series was dropped by the BBC prematurely; the "final" episode actually ends with at least four separate cliffhangers! It's a shame we will never know where this was going, but I for one am at least grateful for what we have. *** out of 4.

Paradox is obviously inspired by Fringe: Heavily featured out of the way City (Boston/Manchester), Blonde female lead, Mysterious high tech corporation behind the happenings, something else I won't mention to not spoil Fringe plot, Team that is formed from the normal police force but deployed to track unexplained phenomenon, socially awkward scientists provide technical support. I love both shows, but I think Paradox is more intelligent and disciplined. Fringe is all over the place (and fascinating for it), but Paradox stays focused on one phenomenon and milks it. Each episode you get a little more. With Fringe I get the feeling that we are being introduced to an ever increasing piece of an ever increasing pie. In other words, that there is no way we are ever going to get a complete explanation. But with Paradox, I may hold out hope. I also like the way that both shows are filmed on location. You definitely get a feel for the cities.

The comparison to FlashForward was very apt and I was surprised a Brit made it. All the USdumping about imitation, it's payback time! Every time we go to EE's tortured face (or whatever that expression is) I have to remind myself this is NOT Joseph Fiennes - as if they deliberately were looking for a copy. Both can probably act better than these roles demand but it looks like they had a deadringer's runoff. Who is taking the pictures may also involve parallel universes, just 6 hours or so instead of 6 months flashing forward. I am enjoying it anyway, there is some satisfaction to the greater potential of changing the future than FF has so far presented.

If you're used to watching American science fiction series and films, then this one may not be to your liking. Elizabeth Mickery, whom has written for such British dramas such as Byker Grove, The Bill and Heartbeat brings us another low-budget drama filled with terrible writing and poor acting.Not only was there no plot twists, interesting developments and characters with personalities, but there was also no action, nothing for the watcher to think about and nothing to grip the watcher.However, if you enjoy watching The Bill, but with a little sci-fi twist to it but not much else, then this series from what I've seen in episode 1 is for you. However, if you're looking for something bigger budget, well written, with better acting and more action, then I'll suggest you stick to the American Flash Forward, which appears to be the superior to this series in every way.And the positives about this series?... 1) the low budget means the casting team couldn't steal anyone worthwhile away from doing something more productive 2) because it was made so badly, it had caused a paradox in time, meaning that the lucky few who were affected by its dreadfulness were actually referred to this review ahead of time, thus potentially avoiding a wasted hour that could be better spent outdoors playing football, attempting home-made lasagne, or banging their heads on the wall.As a finale, the final note is that the only "Paradox" you'll see in this episode is... if the event happened at said time.............. then who took the photographs... and when?