Let’s just get this out of the way: Nestor Carbonell gives a stellar performance as the dispirited Richard, as we learn about his tragic past and how it links up to the struggle on the island. ‘Ab Aeterno’ is not only the best episode of the season, it ranks as one of the best episodes of the series.

‘Ab Aeterno’ is comprised mostly of Richard’s flashback, as we learn of the tragic circumstances around the loss of his wife and freedom, and how his destiny takes him to the island and encountering the Man in Black and Jacob.

There are also a few easter eggs that hardcore fans will enjoy (such as, what exactly happened to Jacob’s statue, and what was the name of the Black Rock’s captain again?).

‘Ab Aeterno’ is instrumental in the mythology of the series, but none of this compares to simply how great the script and Carbonell’s performance are.

To say Carbonell is dynamic as Richard does not give him enough credit; this is a script that easily could have degenerated into an angst-ridden, over the top performance. Instead, Carbonell’s portrayal is a revelation to watch.

It’s almost disappointing that Richard has been more on the sideline these past few seasons; Carbonell is simply too good an actor for this, and hopefully with several episodes left, we will see him at the forefront.

Wrapped up in this episode are fine performances from Titus Welliver (the Man in Black) and Mark Pellegrino (Jacob). Welliver in particular gives a layered performance; evil without menacing, almost innocent in his desire to leave the island.

Pellegrino plays Jacob the opposite in this episode; angry, almost menacing in his confrontation with Richard.  He then softens, and his conversation with Richard on the beach (where he explains the nature of the island) is one of those long-awaited ‘Lost’ moments.

‘Ab Aeterno’ is a total win for the series. With fine performances all around, this show reminds us why ‘Lost’ is so great, and how much it will be missed. Ambitious, smart, and layered, ‘Ab Aeterno’ will go down as one of the best moments of television this season.