"The Brig" is an unusual experiment: although it "typically" centers on one character (Locke), giving him the flashbacks (which, by the way, are exclusively on-island this time; "Exposé" was similar, but had a few off-island past scenes as well), it is another character (Sawyer) who drives the story forward and stars in the most intense and powerful scene of the episode. Both characters are also somewhat different than their usual selves: Locke seems to have picked up some tips in manipulation and mind games from Ben, while Sawyer is angry, bitter and aggressive. Terry O'Quinn and Josh Holloway are both excellent. Meanwhile, the story of the new arrival on the island (Naomi) is starting to get revealed, and the possibility of rescue is starting to appear in the horizon (not literally!). You definitely get the feeling that the season finale is approaching, that the series is building up more and more steam. ***1/2 out of 4.
Review of The Brig
