: Critics from The Review Geek praise the evolution of Mrs. Coulter, noting that her transition from a primary villain to a complex, protective figure for Lyra is handled with exceptional care and depth.

: The journey of Lyra and Will through Purgatory reaches a profound climax. Reviewers frequently cite the reunions and final goodbyes with Roger and Lee Scoresby as standout, "tear-filled" moments that provide a satisfying sense of closure after seasons of tension.

: IMDb reviewers note that the episode's cinematography and narrative depth resonate strongly, particularly in how it interlaces disparate storylines—from the Magisterium’s crumbling influence to the metaphysical struggle in the Land of the Dead.