Ep 2. Marooned

Marooned is the second episode of season 3 of the British science-fiction comedy series Red Dwarf. The episode starts with Dave Lister and Arnold Rimmer, the two surviving members of the spaceship Red Dwarf, on a mission to collect a valuable mineral on an asteroid. However, their landing craft suffers damage during the journey, and they are forced to land on the planetoid surface.

Their situation is made even worse when the mining vehicle is stolen by a band of scavengers, leaving them stranded with no way of returning to the Red Dwarf. Lister and Rimmer must work together to survive in isolation until they can find a way off the planetoid.

The majority of the episode focuses on their attempts to survive, with Rimmer predictably coping less well in these adverse circumstances. They encounter a variety of challenges, such as finding food and water, dealing with low oxygen levels, and repairing their habitat's power source.

Lister, the more practical of the two, tries to make the most of their situation, explaining their food options, including "ham flavoured" tofu and pea soup, and even proposing a game of "eye spy". On the other hand, Rimmer becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea of rescue, spending his time trying to send out distress signals, even at the expense of vital resources.

The two characters also spend time recalling their pasts, discussing their former relationships, and having conversations that reveal more about their personalities and history. There is also a moment where Rimmer, convinced he is going to die, confesses his love for the female member of the crew from his previous incarnation on Red Dwarf.

The episode is a classic example of Red Dwarf's unique blend of science fiction and irreverent comedy. It showcases the show's ability to balance humor and drama, weaving together heartwarming moments with absurd scenes. It also explores the relationship between the two main characters, drawing attention to their differences while also highlighting areas of similarity. Ultimately, the episode is about survival, friendship, and the importance of finding joy in even the bleakest of situations.

Overall, Marooned is a standout episode of Red Dwarf, demonstrating the show's ability to deliver smart, character-driven stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. With its memorable moments, laugh-out-loud humor, and strong performances from actors Chris Barrie and Craig Charles, it remains a fan favorite and a must-see for anyone looking for an intelligent, unique, and hilarious take on sci-fi.