Handlen felt that the episode's "disarmingly simple" premise belied its depth, and praised Morgan's script as perhaps the writer's best work.

In the United Kingdom the Monthly Film Bulletin praised the film's script, special effects, design and Schwarzenegger's performance.

He praised the film's script, direction, cinematography and music.

He also praised Gaiman's script for being "a simple idea executed brilliantly".

Meyers also praised Swartzwelder's script.

TOI gave the film 3/5 star rating and praised the film's script and narration.

Newsweek praised the film's script, pacing and direction.

SFX stated that the two-part story had "everything", particularly praising Moffat's script.

Niu praised the drama's "too brilliant" script and that he "didn't want to leave it behind."

Mirkin described the episode as "excellent", and praised Scully's "great" script.