Politics, B5 Style

I know going political is always dangerous terrain. So I'll just place my write-in vote.

These are the best choices.

As stated over at Cafepress:

"They bring a combination of military training, a love of freedom, and sartorial excellences. They are also excellent public speakers and true patriots who put their people ahead of their own interests. Should the electorate find themselves not happy with the slate as elected, whoever is in second position will gladly assassinate the other in order to bring about a referendum."

Sounds good to me. Love that campaign slogan. It could be alot worse.

B5 S2 Ep 16: In The Shadow Of Z'Ha'Dum

[Man running breathlessly to top of mountain]

"I LOVE THIS SHOW! I AM A BELIEVER! BEHOLD BABYLON 5!" There I’ve said it!
Ba-da-bing, ba-da-boom for Z’Ha’Dum [that just had a nice ring to it]! Season 2's In The Shadow Of Z'Ha'Dum is absolutely freakin’ brilliant! Babylon 5 at its absolute best!

Ed Wasser returns as Morden and like many of the series recurring characters he is always a joy to watch. He has a meaty role and he delivers it with sinister confidence and likeable creepiness.

The entry is jam-packed with information.

The story begins with Morden meeting Vir in the Zocalo where Vir really demonstrates some major stones and lets Morden have it with both barrels. It is a delicious exchange.

Elsewhere on the ship, Sheridan is reviewing the ship manifest of his wife’s science vessel the Icarus. Garibaldi arrives and makes note of one of the crew pictured on the monitor. Curiously it is none other than Morden. Garibaldi informs Sheridan he knows him. Of course this is impossible because everyone on board the Icarus perished. Alas, apparently not, Garibaldi checks the computer and informs Sheridan Morden is still very much alive. Where is he? He's still on B5. Sheridan demands him found and arrested for interrogation. This leads to yet another impressive mental duel throughout the episode between Wasser and Boxleitner. They too are at their best!



Sheridan: “What happened to the Icarus?”
Morden: “I told you I don’t know. I don’t remember.”
Sheridan: “Well you damn well better start remembering mister because by God by the time I am done with you, you will wish you had died on the Icarus.”

Sheridan means it. He is pissed off and in a frighteningly vengeful mood! Nevertheless, Morden is about as cool as cucumbers get. It was a nice turn to witness Sheridan’s judgment clouded with his personal agenda. If you recall, his head was clear when he advised G’Kar against revenge upon Londo in The Coming Of Shadows, but all of that is out the window now that his wife's demise appears uncertain. He feels rage standing in G’Kar’s shoes. He needs significant help to come down off this cliff, but does eventually get it. This is one of the best elements of B5. Behavior, choices, consequences are all part of the exceptional writing by Straczynski. Further, this one is loaded with uncomfortable intimacy. It is riveting space drama.

Things get heated internally when Garibaldi presses Sheridan on the illegal detention of Morden. If charges are not applied, the honorable Garibaldi threatens to resign his command. As Security Chief he is a proponent of the law and inevitably resigns. Sheridan promotes Zack "Greased Lightning" Allan to Security Chief as a result. The pressure builds as Sheridan continues to lean hard on Morden by requesting the telepathic assistance of Talia Winters. Meanwhile, upon hearing of Morden's incarceration, Vir approaches Sheridan on behalf of Londo and requests Morden’s release as a guest of Centauri Prime. Vir emphasizes diplomatic immunity for Morden. Sheridan, cleverly turns the tables on Vir and informs him that Morden is in protective custody, has not been charged with a crime and is therefore ineligible for diplomatic immunity.

Sheridan continues to feel the strain placed upon him for Morden's release. Upon learning Ms. Winters has declined the scan for legal reasons Sheridan gets cute. He arranges for Morden and Winters to cross paths on board B5. Winters sees Shadows surrounding Morden and is left disturbed at the images revealed. She lets Sheridan have it.

Delenn and Kosh learn of Morden’s retention. Both request his immediate release from B5 and inform Sheridan of the last Great War with the Shadows, 1,000 years ago. The Shadows were defeated then by the First Ones, but not destroyed. Kosh is one of the last of the First Ones. His encounter suit protects his identity. The Vorlons have been guardians watching and waiting for the Shadows’ return. Delenn pleads with Sheridan to do the right thing and that lives, outside of his own redresses, are depending upon it.

Delenn: “Be warned. Once you know his secret. You will never sleep again. Come Captain, the greatest nightmare of our time is waiting for you.”

Here is an intense segment of revelation surrounding the Icarus and the Shadows.

*

A furtive trust between Kosh and Delenn dates back at least to Chrysalis [the Season 1 finale]. Delenn had Lennier ask Kosh if 'they' had returned and his singular answer was “Yes.” At the time we weren't entirely clear on what had inspired Delenn to move toward transformation. In The Shadow Of Z’Ha’Dum continues to capitalize on those earlier seeds surrounding Delenn, Kosh and G’Kar. A revisit of that episode may be in order.

Sheridan is forced to relent, much as G’Kar's hand was forced to yield to Sheridan despite learning of the attack on his beloved Narn. Sheridan orders Morden’s release to ensure the Shadows’ continue to believe they are still moving unmolested and undiscovered, at Delenn's urging. It was Delenn who reminded Sheridan of his own call for calm from G'Kar in Acts of Sacrfice. I understand the omniscience of Kosh, but how did Delenn know what Sheridan had told G'Kar about letting go of revenge? She wasn't present during that exchange.

The epilogue is splendid as well. Sheridan informs Kosh in the alien sector that he himself will someday go to Z’Ha’Dum. Kosh tells him he will die, but he agrees to teach Sheridan how to fight the Shadows. This is hands down, kick ass stuff! The amazing Straczynski story continues.

Oh! In a new thread I’m sure will be important later, The Ministry Of Peace has offered credits [payment] to B5 security personnel for wearing a new patch dubbed the Nightwatch program. Yikes! Jeff Conaway earns the cringeworthy speaking role. Gasp!

In The Shadow Of Z’Ha’Dum: A

Approaching The Possible: The World Of Stargate SG-1

This entry is long and is probably for the SG-1 faithful. I felt writing about the book was cathartic after reading it.

My latest Stargate SG-1 reference book encounter finds a work entitled Approaching The Possible: The World Of Stargate SG-1 by Jo Storm. I cannot recall the last time I rolled my eyes as much as I did with this publication. At times, Storm plugs her feminist agenda to the detriment of the material. It started well but quickly took a downward spiral when she analyzed the episodes season by season. It was an infuriating read and since it took up nearly two-thirds of the book I cannot recommend it. In fact, I think a better title choice might have been Approaching The Possible: The World Of Stargate SG-1 According to Jo Storm. Her philosophy just didn't conect with me and I certainly never witnessed some of what she covers in the same way. Were we watching the same show?

Storm purports to be a fan, like us, I think. She clearly and unabashedly offers her own unique analysis, and I do mean unique. We part company here. She covers Seasons 1-8 of SG-1 in an exhaustive episode guide where her insights are seemingly at odds with most of my own. Kudos to her for getting her highly subjective book published, never an easy task [unless you are famous or rich], but we enjoyed the series for very different reasons in many instances. Our tastes were as contrary as night to day and I was left scratching my head often. It was one of my least favorite reads in recent memory. The upside is we both love and appreciate SG-1 despite being completely polarized on the analysis.

Storm's writing is heavy-handed in her scrutiny. She reads into things and makes connections that really aren't there. Her attempts to tie culture, philosophy and historical facts to the show seemed a bit forced. I'm very much a fan of academic level text on science fiction, but I've seen much better and Storm didn't pull it off so I found myself disagreeing with her on many points despite her arguments.

Here is an endless list of reasons why I was not a fan of the book.

"shipper" - Storm loved using this word in describing O'Neill and Carter's relationship throughout the book. I understand it's a legitimate reference for television and it applies, but stop! Example: "Few episodes thus far have caused as much controversy in the Stargate fandom than A Hundred Days, especially amongst the shipper faction." Argh! She clearly doesn't classify herself as one.

"team play"- Storm refers to SG-1 episodes that revert back to the quartet as "team play." ANNOYING!

Hathor. A perfect example of Storm's reaction to anything remotely stereotypical of women. She clearly is sensitive to such "feminine wiles" throughout the series and calls it where she sees it. So her agenda/ perspective is well-represented in the book. She rips into Hathor. Look, as entertainment goes, I enjoyed the episode including the red wig. She is also critical of how the writers employed Dr. Frasier here. She loves the character but is often at odds with the creators on how they utilize her character. I didn't see a problem with what the team was accomplishing with Dr. Frasier. It was fun.

Wormhole X-treme. Storm is overly enthusiastic and overboard here. "One of the all-out funniest episodes of the show, with a carnivalesque atmosphere that's as fun as cotton candy....a delightful, vacuous and expensive-looking treat." Okay, calm down, not that funny and Episode 200 is much better. She loved Episode 100 in "the tradition of Tin Man, Urgo and Deadman Switch." What? All are very different. Deadman Switch is brilliant and Urgo was just plain dumb. As much as I love Peter DeLuise' contributions to SG-1, I'm just not a fan of Dom Deluise' comedy.

"Season two is much more about exploration than the first season was." Storm loves to box individual seasons into categories based on themes or arcs. I'm not sure why. Exploration and/or attaining technology is certainly one of the core tenets of the show throughout the series. And apparently season three is about knowledge. Huh? "Another of the main themes of season four, along with opportunity, is choices- how we make and implement them, and their consequences." Yah, sure, that's generally what happens with most TV characters. Choices are made. Consequences result. This is deep stuff folks. Look, she backs up her statements concerning these general themes, but there's plenty of material to draw from to make a case. "The theme of politics comes up alot in Season five." What! The theme of politics comes up alot throughout the series. Season 7 is about "identity and belonging... dealing with how we choose and define who we are." Right. "Free will is one of the more encompassing themes in Stargate SG-1." True, but if we're talking philosophy here, free will as an integral part of choices made isn't all that much of a stretch.

Her comparison of the Jack/ Sam relationship to Farscape was priceless. "Unlike many other science fiction couples, neither of the two primary people in the unacknowledged relationship is "other," that is, an alien in some way or another. That facet of alienness relieves the lovers [and the audience] of much of the guilt they feel about acknowledging a 'wrong' but needed union, like Aeryn and John Crichton from Farscape." Guilt never really entered the equation for me and I felt the creators did handle the reality of their association brilliantly throughout the series. Given her implications I pray she won't be writing a Farscape book.

Storm refers to characters within her reviews as "annoying," "unnecessary," "irritating" even "bothersome." Storm won't mind if I apply those same terms to her writing and add "self-righteous," "arrogant" and "wacky."

Storm dubs the Gate as a literal device that is "feeding the audience stories." No shit. It's the avenue to adventure, but hearing her intellectualize it is just tedious. "The Gate does indeed feed us, with the characters, with their universe, with their adventures." Yawn.

Menace. "They are called Replicators because they replicate, rather than reproduce. Self-replication is the process by which something makes a copy of itself." Thank you Jo for that information. I hadn't a clue. Personally I like to think the SG-1 audience is a little smarter? This is really unnecessary stuff. She continued, "The solemn atmosphere surrounding this episode isn't entirely due to the script: parts of it were shot on September 11th, 2001, and it shows." Ummm, no it doesn't. In fact, until you mentioned it, I never would have guessed it was filmed on 9/11. Truly idiotic!

Meridian. Storm sinks her teeth into the episode that temporarily killed off Daniel Jackson. She lets the bologna fly from Greek tragedy, Zen Buddhism, Victorian sentimentality to Humanism. It is absolute horseshit. This is unquestionably a complex episode as character arcs are changing along with the team dynamic as a reult of Daniel's death, but you talk about reaching. She also takes time to criticize the choice of William Waring as the episode director and not someone else. By the way, the man did a mighty fine job with some very difficult material. She is way off base especially after she hammers the guy and proceeds to let folks know that it is "definitely worth watching." "Meridian is both bold and traditional, postmodern, egalitarian, a little maudlin, a little escapist, a little moral, a little easy of the eyes." Verbal diarrhea. Gee, and to think I enjoyed it without putting that much thought into it. Heavy praise from someone befuddled by the choice of Waring as director.

Abyss. A rare instance where I mostly agree. But comparing Baal to Seth. Come on, not even close. Cliff Simon as Baal blows Seth out of the water on the evil-o-meter factor. Baal is also a beloved villian.

Smoke And Mirrors. "Unfortunately, actor Peter Flemming looked more sad than stalwart during this episode. We keep waiting for him to double-cross Sam." I thought that was the whole point of Smoke And Mirrors.

Paradise Lost. "Not only does it borrow from movies like Black Hawk Down and Apocalypse Now, but it gives a nod to wartime photographers with their handheld sequences and close, bobbing shots." Whoa! I've seen Black Hawk Down more times than I care to count and I'm not sure if Storm has actually seen that movie based upon the evidence here. Now, Apocalypse Now perhaps as O'Neill and Mayborne dig into some hallucinogenic plants that reminisce of the period's drug-induced haze. The coloring and jungle feel might allude to Apocalypse Now or Platoon, but overall there is very little handheld camera here save for the 31 minute mark for about 2 minutes. I mean it's a real stretch to make the comparisons. It's still a decent entry in the SG-1 catalogue.

Homecoming. Jo lays it on thick here. "The episode refers to the various homecomings that are occurring on the show; while Daniel is returning to his home- both physical [Earth] and pscyhological [his memory, his mind]- Jonas has to question whether or not he still belongs at the SGC, his new home." She goes on some psychobabble rant about adapting and changing to new environs. I can imagine the actual writers reading this, "hmmm, I really hadn't considered that angle myself."

Birthright. Chris Judge turned writer hits a nerve here with Storm. The tone is way too racy and sexist and stereotypical for her liking. "The veneer of gender role reversal is just thin, since the women still have to rely on what the men provide- in order to survive. The sexualized language only adds to that- as does the very cliched scene of women warriors with gaping cleavages, riding huge black stallions. I mean, really." I kind of liked the clea...I mean stallions. I will fall back upon one of Storm's defenses from Space Race, "sometimes, that's what television is for."

Evolution. Storm and I agree on one point here, the episode is excellent. On how we reach that conclusion I couldn't have been more frustrated reading the following nonsense concerning her analysis of this fine two parter. It's always the means to her ends that completely drive me bonkers. She compares the title of this two parter to the evolution of SG-1. "It's not just Anubis who is evolving but the show itself." She indicated the show is becoming more "sciencey" and that the Super Soldiers liken it to Star Wars thanks to their "Darth Vader-like appearance." Aw come on! I love this thread and I never thought of it as bloody Star Wars. It was a fresh new direction and a lot of fun.

Grace. This is a tremendous entry and performance by Amanda Tapping. It has a kind of 'Ripley' goes it alone in space [a la Alien] feel to it. Following a head trauma, Carter attempts to come to grips with her situation in space where the Prometheus has come in contact with an alien ship. It is haunting and quietly, dramtically executed. Storm indicates "feminine scholars argue that showing the female character always in relation to others is a sign of patriarchal values at work." Here we go. I hardly think writer Damian Kindler and director Peter Woeste, despite being born with a penis, looked at Carter as anything more than the leader that she is. She wonders where Janet Frasier or Cassandra are in her disoriented mental state. All the men are here from her team though must be a conspiracy. "Why is Carter only shown in relation to men?" Perhaps because she works within a male-dominated profession and her best friends that make up her unit are men. Just guessing here Jo. I love this. "Trying to execute a mental state on film is daring, and the writers deserve some praise." Wow, that's pretty big of you. The writers do in fact succeed imho. Once again, Storm delivers her faint praise regarding SG-1 as reality-based science fiction by slamming Farscape. She notes Tapping pre-taped all her narrative voiceovers anwhich is "why the disembodied voice seems a little out of sync." Folks, this is clearly intentional by the creators and part of what makes this episode work so beautifully. It creates a certain disconnect and atmosphere and exemplifies just how out of sorts Carter is in her condition. Storm is off the mark again.

Fallout. Apparently "agenda" is another theme especially in Season 7. Storm would know all about agendas and they aren't exclusive to Season 7.

Chimera. "Sam/Jack shippers screamed for days but some people were quite happy to see something, anything happen to Samantha Carter." Storm clearly loves the concept of the "shipper" and throughout she has been a real critic of how the writers handled the Sam/ Jack relationship to the point of annoying. I admit, I'm an unabashed Sam/Jack fan of exactly how the writers managed that connection. Like any good TV relationship, the fun is in preventing the connection from being consummated. Guess I'm just a chipper "shipper."

Death Knell. This is a solid episode thanks to the writing/ directing of Peter Deluise. Storm merely equates the exercise as a means to the end or "the money shot" as she refers to it. She postulates unfairly, "the entire purpose of this episode was the 'money shot' of Jack and Sam at the end, when,... O'Neill puts an arm around her. It looks suspiciously as though the writers were doing a rather obvious 'see we're still friends!' maneuver." Of course it seems that way to you Storm. You clearly zero in on those Jack/ Sam moments like a heat-seeking missile. I'm beginning to think you're jealous. I simply enjoyed the game of cat and mouse between Carter and one of the Super Soldiers. Good fun.

Heroes [Part 2]. Referring to both parts of Heroes, I concur with Storm that they are "the best two episodes of SG-1, ever." I couldn't agree more. I don't want to give anything away here, because if you haven't seen the series, this is a HUGE episode with all kinds of power. I had trouble with Storm's efforts to tie the actions of all characters to the title of the episode. She describes filmmaker/ reporter Emmett Bregman, "even though he does manipulate emotions for a living..., and though he appears to be looking for something fantastic for his personal gain,...can we really say at the end of the episode that he is not also a hero?" Oh for BLEEPIN' sake Storm are you bloody serious!!? Shouldn't his actions simply be considered as DOING THE RIGHT BLEEPIN' THING!!!??? That is all that happens here and there is nothing heroic about it. He ain't one of the heroes. Furthermore, you might recall from Part 1 that he might have some loyalty to the situation based on a connection he made with that character. That's not heroic. If it was some faceless, nameless person to Bregman his actions might not even be what they were. Moving on.

Lost City [Part 2]. Here is another dig at the writers and their handling of Sam. "Sam's last angsty moment in an episode full of angsty moments was obvious and tasteless...every moment onscreen between her and O'Neill is a replay of every moment they've had from season four on." After eight bloody years of Sam & Jack I didn't find anything tasteless at all about the sequence. What the hell are you talking about?

Avatar. We agree. According to Storm it's "fantastic." My apologies for sounding like a bit of a simpleton here, but this entry KICKS ASS! I remember being drained after watching this one. It was a solid 10 on the intensity scale.

Gemini. Where there is a Carter-centric episode, we are sure to have Jo's agenda to follow. "Tapping does a good job of making Replicator Carter both eerie and approachable, in effect replacing her character with a more feminist version of what Carter could have been." Wow, to think I was enjoying Replicator Carter for just being pure evil. All of it aside, it's a pretty scary proposition to see Carter fighting Carter.

Prometheus Unbound. Storm is surprisingly harsh here. It's also a good example of where we just don't see eye to eye on much of her guide. For me, this was an excellent installment of SG-1 and it was by far the best Claudia Black vehicle throughout her run. Storm subtly links her performance with that of Hathor [and she hated that episode]. She's not a big fan of the "cutesy fight scenes" and appears closed to the physical comedy of this one. I thought the connection between Black and Shanks was brilliantly entertaining and laid the foundation for a relationship that lasted Seasons 9 & 10. I guess Storm will have a few things to say about those. Their chemistry is electric and if it wasn't, this entry wouldn't have worked. One of Storm's favorite things to do is alalyze the title of the episode and how it applies. For some reason she can't for the life of her understand why this one is dubbed Prometheus Unbound. "The episode isn't even really about the ship." Look, unbound means 'no limits' and the ship which is the setting for this episode's no holds barred antics is commandeered and is uncontrolled. The Vala character opposite Shanks is equally unbound in her personality. There is a physical reference to the ship's situation as well as a metaphorical reference to the characters in this episode. I'm not really sure where her confusion is on this. I love her shot across the bow at Damian Kindler as a "hit-or-miss kind of writer." What!? The guy is a hell of a lot more 'hit' than you are, not to mention a bloody genius. She dubs the episode "an updated Deadman Switch." I would say it has much of the humor of that entry and both are excellent, but they are entirely unique. Finally, Storm points out the "cultivation of homophobia" found at the end of the episode regarding the CPR maneuver. She also refers to the ring room scene at the end as being "unbelievably behind the times, and inexcusable." Wow, talk about nitpicking agendas. Kerrazy!

Citizen Joe. This clips episode owes thanks to the performance of Dan Castellaneta. He was a fascinating character study. Storm liked this as much. I think. I guess all in all we liked it for different reasons. Here's her thoughts from the Why We're Space Monkeys section quoting a fan whom she clearly agrees with: "I do have a deep, deep love of the humor episodes, especially those that are meta-commentary on the show itself ('Wormhole X-treme'? Hilarious). It always boggles my mind when I hear fans complain about those episodes, claiming that they're not true Stargate. I end up thinking, 'What show have they been watching?' SG-1 is all about the humor." I often felt the same about Storm's book. Did we both watch SG-1? Humor is good and episode 200 is damn near classic using it in the extreme, but I wasn't all that crazy about Wormhole X-treme. Jo and I tend to agree to disagree on what's funny and what's not. Storm overanalyzes the show and the Joe character as a symbolic version of the fandom or the writers as only Jo can. Did you ever think that satire or not, the appearance of Castellaneta was included for the fans who knew Jack loved Homer and The Simpsons, that it might be funny on its own accord, to have the voice of Homer be an adoring fan of Jack and SG-1. To quote Jack from Evolution Part 1, "do you see the irony?"

Reckoning. Storm goes absolutely ga-ga for this two parter. It is solid. I will say this, she's a bit hard on Season 8 as a whole. Sure, the season was reeling from Richard Dean Anderson's new role, but I thought the creators navigated through some very solid entries without his prominence. It does seem the perfect season to wrap up the eight years helmed by Anderson and moreso than any other season it felt like these final episodes of the season were really bringing things together before the natural break to a semi-new cast for Seasons 9 & 10. Oh, in Storm's view, this is Damian Kindler's best episode to date. I'm sure he'll be happy to hear it.

Threads. I enjoyed the concentration on character and the interplay of this episode far more than Storm. It's a pretty outstanding 90 minute drama tying up a whole host of loose ends, not least of which is the Sam/Jack affair or lack thereof. Storm expounds, as only she can, delving deeply into unintended meanings for this one. To my surprise she doesn't mention much about the Sam/Jack portion of Threads or the "shipper" fanbase she so loves to refer to. A solid entry and one of the last times we really get to enjoy the exchange between the quartet that is the SG-1 we know and love. I gotta say I would have been happy if it ended here. It's perfect.

Moebius Part 1. Stand back and behold Storm's brilliance as she delves into the scientific background of the "Mobius Strip." Snooze. She enjoyed the first of this two-parter a little bit more than myself. I thought it had some interesting ideas but it just didn't convert for me. On the one hand it was a great way to close out eight years of SG-1, but on the other hand it just wasn't one of my favorite finales. Storm comments "the alternate-timeline Daniel/Sam nerdy Dynamic Duo goes a little over the top." Ya think? I actually thought it was a lot over the top and I didn't quite buy the act. Still, it was adventurous. Storm also whines, "a perfect opportunity to resurrect Dr. Frasier gets overlooked." Well, here's a thought Jo, calm down, perhaps they tried and perhaps Teryl Rothery was just a little too busy with her careeer to make it to your "perfect opportunity." Good news though, they resurrect her in Season 9 for Ripple Effect, but then I'm sure you'll write about that in the revised edition of this book which I won't be buying.

Moebius Part 2. I could see this coming a mile away. Remember that "shipper" business. She saved her final thoughts for this entry and the rousing finale of a kiss between Jack and Sam [I love how those creators get it done without really doing it]. I'll say this, Storm is right on one point. Any one of the last 5 episodes could have been a season ender. The one reason I am happy they went the extra step is for the closing kiss scene or "the money shot" [I'm surprised she didn't refer to the scene this way]. It is terrific. It's the kiss scene to end all kiss scenes and it's funny. This is the real highlight of the finale or as Storm calls it "the big splash" [that why she didn't use "the money shot"], but she wants you all to know "it's not all just about the shippers." Ugh! She enjoyed the finale for so much more. Man, I feel so shallow.

I know plenty of examples right? I'm not done.

Each episode entry also includes 4 sub-sections:

Gods & Scientists: blah blah blah- Storm proceeds to spell out the meaning of various dictionary words or historical facts stemming from Egyptian and Norse mythology. I can hear Jack O'Neill now, "stop!" Yes, some of it's educational, some of it a bore and sometimes a complete reach. Here's a great example. She compares Death Knell to For Whom The Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway. "The female character as hero, and the idea of a team dynamic ultimately working together to achieve a larger end, are both contemporary views that have grown out of novels such as For Whom The Bell Tolls. And you thought reading classics was boring." Actually Jo I didn't but your work is another story. This is just a part of her lengthy entry.

Interesting Fact: The best of the four most of the time.

Why We're Space Monkeys: Here is an example of this annoyingly titled sub-section. Metamorphosis: "The women characters are changing. No longer quite so easily slotted into the templates of harlot, black widow, or nice grandmother, the female characters are becoming more complex, with conflicting emotions that are truer to contemporary women than the jaded, patriarchal stereotypes we saw in Emancipation and Hathor." Look Emancipation was just plain bad that much we agree. She refers to Hathor as a "sex goddess." Exactly, that's what she was! Here is her entry from Heroes [Part 2]: "This entire episode is why we're space monkeys, will always be space monkeys, and are defiantly proud of our space monkey status." I'm not exactly sure we're from the same "space monkey" planet after reading your book.

Parlez-vous Gate?: Some good dialogue clips. Some head scratchers.

Despite my criticism, some entries are solid and if anything it'll get you thinking if not frustrated. Making one think isn't necessarily a bad thing. Storm just comes off a bit high and mighty in her analysis of what the writers intended or didn't intend or 'should or shouldn't have done'. It comes off a bit smug for my liking. She does include a nice interview with Darren Sumner, gatekeeper to Stargate's most popular fansite Gateworld.

Storm does a good job conveying exactly what appeals to the diverse cross-section of SG-1 fans. It's varied for various people, which is precisely why this show has blossomed. "From fans who adore the mythology, to the science and technology fans, to the fans of the military aspect. There are so many different types of people who enjoy the show for different reasons" explains one fan quoted in the book. So actually it wasn't Storm who said that but she did include it.

I couldn't help but ponder that thought. You have to give it to the folks who greenlit this show for an extended period. They gave it time to find its footing. They gave it time to relax and find its way. So many shows are cancelled out of the gate [no pun intended] before they get off the ground. It can take upwards of 2-3 seasons to really soar and often times shows never get a chance to get there. So hats off to those involved who allowed a new mythology, outside of Star Trek, the chance to shine for a change. SG-1 [along with Babylon 5] altered the playing field at least slightly. No longer did sci-fi fans have to merely walk in the shadows of Star Trek alone. Now we have more.

Conclusion:
At first I enjoyed Jo Storm's book, but it quickly progressed into a very painful exercise for me once I reached her extensive episode guide. It was long-winded, exhaustive and exhausting on overanalysis and reading into aspects of the show that just weren't there. Episodes she did not enjoy I liked. The ones she loved I often felt were weak. I felt she wrote the whole thing from a very different background philosophically and her perspective was quite different. She constantly harped on the "shippers" and the Jack/Sam relationship. I just can't recommend this book. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how she enjoyed the show. Still, if you're interested in provoking a bit of thought by all means. This one's not for everybody, but it may be for you.

Good news for fans of Jo Storm, she's released a new book Frak You! The Ultimate Unauthorized Guide To Battlestar Galactica. I've got news for you. I'm not surprised it's unauthorized or that it's "ultimate unauthorized." Honestly, I'm surprised Approaching The Possible wasn't unauthorized. I can only imagine the world of Battlestar Galactica according to Jo Storm. Will I be buying that book? Frak you!

B5 S2 Ep 13-15: Hunter Prey, There All The Honor Lies & And Now For A Word

Johnny Storm, Susan Storm, Reed Richards and Ben Grimm. The Fantastic 4?
I'm not really sure why folks would take pleasure in ripping Babylon 5 as "a knockoff of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine." I can only assume there was some penis-envy there. I mean, it's like comparing apples to oranges. Dare I even say Star Trek fans [and I am a fan] were jealous. Okay, sure the stories center upon space stations but that's about where comparisons should end. This is a uniquely developed series and one that resides very much in its own orbit separate and apart from the aforementioned Star Trek universe. Anyone deriding Babylon 5 has certainly not watched it past the first few episodes or given it a chance at all. You need to be giving it a look.

By the way, the very sight of Jeff [“Kenickie”] Conaway as Zack Allan is difficult to reconcile within the genre of science fiction. Of all the actors, how did he get cast as Garibaldi's backup?

Thanks, but I was really hoping for a Captain Kirk doll. The B5 store selection is sorely lacking.

So here we are Episode 13-15 of Babylon 5 Season 2: The Coming Of Shadows. Hunter, Prey [Episode 13] is solid in building the continued political backdrop and intrigue to Babylon 5. A woman arrives on the station sent by General Hague to notify Sheridan he’s in danger. A man named Dr. Everett Jacobs is hiding on the station from Earth Special Intelligence. He is, shall we say, a ‘loose end’ in the midst of attempting to escape the long arm of sitting Earth President Clark. Jacobs has information that could finger him as an accomplice to former President Santiago’s death. Clark faked ill and left Santiago's side one day prior to his explosive murder. Jacobs was Clark’s personal physician and let’s just say he knows a little too much. Conveniently Clark assumed the Presidency. Sheridan, while appearing to assist Earth Special Intelligence, must find Jacobs before they do. Jacobs is relocated to Bay 13 where a Vorlon ship is docked for the mysterious Ambassador Kosh.

The Kosh subplot is the most intriguing, as we know little about him/it. We learn a couple of things in this entry. The Ambassador’s Vorlon ship is alive. Its skin moves. We see the appearance of what might be Vorlon symbols/script on the side of the squid-like vessel. The code/living craft appears to be giving directives to Kosh as he nods. It looks like Straczynski predates Moya of Farscape. The slick lime-green designed ship first appears on B5 entry in Season 1's Signs And Portents [Did George Lucas take note for Star Wars in developing a ship for Count Dooku complete with expanding flair-like umbrella design?]. Kosh clearly speaks in riddles and poetic allusion seemingly offering more questions than answers or at least information that isn't quite as revealing as it might be in due time. His mysterious nature keeps things interesting. While it would appear Kosh double-talks and influences the mind of Sheridan, the commander is bound and determined to learn more about the ambassador.

*

Classic exchange:
Sheridan: “What do you want?” [of course, Morden asked that very question as envoy to the Shadows in Season 1's Signs And Portents]
Kosh: “Never ask that question.”
Sheridan: “So what’ll it be ambassador?”
Kosh: “I will teach you.”
Sheridan: “About yourself?”
Kosh: “About you until you are ready.”
Sheridan: “For what?”
Kosh: “To fight legends.”

Yup. Head-scratching, thought-provoking Kosh dialogue that is simply brilliant.

There All The Honor Lies [Episode 14] delves into the Minbari culture directly through an attempt at framing Sheridan by one of their own. Sheridan is attacked and kills a Minbari in self-defense with a PPG [gun]. Julie Caitlin Brown [formerly Na’Toth] returns sans Narn make-up as Sheridan’s counsel Guinevere Corey [the actress is simply wasted in this new role- a shame]. Delenn calls it a “shocking incident” and given the difficult relations between the Earthers and the Minbari [compliments of the Earth-Minbari War] decides representing her own people via her own investigation, with Lennier, would be in the best interests of the Minbari. Garibaldi conducts his own separately, but has difficulty completing it with the Minbari one step ahead of his every move. The subject of honor [or more importantly 'saving face'] is at the heart of Minbari culture, but lying to achieve it doesn’t appear to enter into their equation or be a problem [remember Lennier lied for Londo to Sinclair way back in Season 1's The Quality Of Mercy]. So, in other words, we’re keeping up appearances then. Nice. Actually, sounds alot like Earthers.

Classic exchange:
Sheridan: “Find that Minbari witness I mentioned in my report. He will back me up. I am absolutely sure.”
Garibadi: “Alright. Description?”
Sheridan: “Bald with a bone on his head!”
Garibaldi: “We’re gonna’ need a real big lineup.”

Meanwhile, Sheridan ‘Starkiller’ [as he’s been dubbed by the Minbari] defends his honor and Kosh begins the education of Sheridan. He takes him to the bowels of the Down Below in B5 where he witnesses what Kosh dubs “one moment of perfect beauty.” The Minbari enlighten us further on the title they have bestowed upon Sheridan by referencing the Black Star event of the Earth-Minbari War [I'd like to see that].

Stephen Furst as Vir Cotto really gets to shine in this one. What a fine turn as Londo’s loyal assistant & foil. Isn't there a bit of Vir in us all?

And Now For A Word brings ISN News on board B5 for a full 36 hour expose. The setup is good for learning more and establishing elements concerning the Minbari, Narn and Centauri or even more specifically about aspects of our favorite characters, but it doesn't succeed completely in my opinion. ISN’s arrival coincides with the Narn-Centauri conflict heating up in B5 airspace. Central to the story, is whether or not B5 is still a necessary or viable station worthy of funding now that the Earth-Minbari War has long been concluded.

This G’Kar segment sheds light on Narn servitude under the Centauri occupation for the once peaceful Narn. Katsulas knows how to deliver genuine emotion that brings all that latex and make-up to life. G-Kar was also an adorable “pouchling” don'tchya know!

It is troubling to see just how convenient it appears to be for Londo to reshape history and current events to suit his political agenda as well as what is in the best interests of the Centauri Empire despite being nothing more than a pack of lies. It's as frustrating as watching current events. I keep trying to understand Londo as human, but it helps to remember this is very much a Centauri, with a very different political upbringing. I mean, heck, the guy has 6 penis-like appendages! It's possible he has a lot of balls to boot!

*

"I told you boys to ease up on the steroid injections!"

The final third of this episode is the most climatic and gripping. Sheridan has apprehended Centauri and Narn for the skirmishes they've brought upon B5 airspace. Londo has summoned a Centauri Cruiser to enforce a blockade of B5 until all Centauri are released. Londo is prepared to utilize deadly force upon B5 itself. Sheridan sends out a transport ship to call Londo’s bluff. It goes swimmingly until another jumppoint opens to allow for the arrival of a Narn Cruiser. Face to face, B5 witnesses the Mexican standoff turn violent. The firefight destroys the Centauri warship and the Narn is so damaged it explodes.

So the question is put: is B5 worth it? All agree for different reasons, except for G’Kar who is frustrated by the inaction of all parties concerning what he perceives to be the ‘right thing’ to do.

Interesting facts:

The alien sector of B5 allows for atmospheric change for 14 different species including the Vorlons. Three expeditions into Vorlon space have never returned. The species, including Ambassador Kosh, remains a mystery.

Sheridan from And Now For A Word: “The job of Babylon 5 is not to enforce the peace. It’s to create the peace.”

*

Hunter, Prey: C+

There All The Honor Lies: C+

And Now For A Word: C+
*

I'd say I thought these episodes averaged a C+. Still, there are some major high points!

B5 S2 Ep 12: Acts Of Sacrifice

Babylon 5: Acts Of Sacrifice serves up another humdinger of an episode. I had to dedicate one entry to it. In fact the more detailed each episode becomes with new information combined with back story the more I get the feeling this may happen. I ended up watching this one twice.

This is such a character study especially for G’Kar and Londo Mollari. This is pure unadulterated sci-fi drama of the highest caliber. Special effects are at kept to a minimum apart from a gripping opening sequence. This is strictly a vehicle for the actors and it really allows Boxleitner, Furlan, Doyle, Christian and especially Katsulas and Jurasik a chance to shine. It builds upon these players with powerful performances. Season 2 has Katsulas and Jurasik really digging in. Revelations, The Coming Of Shadows and now Acts Of Sacrifice are all, not surprisingly, penned by one J. Michael Straczynski who really has the pulse of these characters and where he wants to go with his story. In fact, looking back to By Any Means Necessary from Season 1, there is pure venom between Londo and G’Kar. If you remember, G’Kar was desperate for a G’Quan Eth plant for his religious ceremony. A Narn ship was destroyed in an accident that was carrying the necessary ingredients for the time-sensitive Holy Days of G’Quan. Londo possessed the required flower but would not aid G’Kar with his ceremony. He made his life miserable and did it with a smile [and to think at one point or another we thought perhaps Straczynski might go in a more positive direction for these two. He sure had us fooled]. The bad blood runs deep. It is a pivotal moment as we begin to see our perception change and sympathies transfer from Londo to G'Kar.

Episode 12, Acts Of Sacrifice, begins with Centauri warships attempting to wipe out a civilian transport ship of Narn women and children making a break for the jumpgate. A Narn vessel positions itself between the escaping craft and the Centauri. The sacrifice of those Narn saves hundreds.

Sheridan and G'Kar go toe to toe before making out.

The episode is jam-packed with emotional power and rising tensions beginning with Sheridan’s efforts to gather support against the Centauri military action in support of the Narn. Sheridan is alerted to Earth’s inability to intervene “officially” following Sheridan’s request to aid the Narn. G’Kar pleads with Delenn who is torn and unable to reconcile the hateful, vengeful rhetoric of G’Kar from the past and the possibility of the Minbari being drawn into another war that maynot be quelled.

Meanwhile, all sorts of lobbyists [with their own racial agendas] are turning to Londo for assistance given his newfound prestige and power within the Centauri Empire. Jurasik plays the role with a sublime panache combined with a touch of the temperamental. It’s a beautiful thing watching Jurasik deliver.

The conflict between the Narn and Centauri is escalating and not unlike any engagement of this magnitude convincing nations to fall in line and apply pressure to ending it is no small task. G’Kar is left frustrated and helpless at every turn for help. It is a thrill to watch these ambassadors jockey and navigate the political turmoil within the neutral zone of B5. Who knew political conflict could be so rife with excitement.

With G’Kar thwarted at every turn tempers rise

Londo, too, is coming to terms with his newfound political power. He discovers all isn't as he'd hoped. Suddenly he is feeling very alone as perceptions around him are changing. It is a troubling fall from grace to behold.

Londo gives good meaning to "with friends like you who needs enemies?," but he continues to pack a heartbreaking punch of his own as we still care about the esteemed Londo Mollari for the flawed Centauri that he is.


The fragility of these two leaders couldn’t be more heartbreaking as displayed for different reasons. G’Kar continues to try and do the right thing for his people. He even challenges his own people calling for calm, patience and cool heads on B5 in the hopes of gaining sympathy external to their own race. Let’s just say G’Kar is the freakin’ Narn! He has become a character with such a noble heart.

There is a brilliant juxtaposition of these two characters throughout the installment as G'Kar and Londo are caught up in the push and pull of their own personal demons amidst the unstoppable force and weight of dark forces much bigger than themselves and beyond their control.

The emotional energy is palpable in this one and I informed “The One To Be Pitied” how touching this episode really was. She didn’t care. She informed me that I was bothering her. I told her how moved I was by Katsulas as G'Kar. She told me, "you want to see him naked don't you." Now really. Honestly folks, Season 2 is resonating with me because the writing is more genuine and sincere than it was delivered or felt in the first season. I had a lot of praise in Season 1 for Jurasik, but for fans of G’Kar, Katsulas has really been something special in Season 2. These are two amazing characters created Straczynski and made credible by these two seasoned actors.

*

This is an emotional sequence and one of the best of the series to date.

G'Kar remains true to the path of diplomacy only to receive yet another crushing blow. The dignity of his people is on the line and he writhes in pain behind a brave face. This is one of the show’s most heartrending moments to date. It’s a brutal episode as the attempt at systematic genocide continues to unfold before the ambasador's eyes while he can do nothing. Equally troubled is Delenn in that brief scene as she clearly desires to do more for G'Kar and yet she too has no answers.

Stepping back from it, so much of this story plays like a modern version of Greek tragedy. There are paths that characters take that will inevitably end badly and as events unfold you know there is this momentum in place and all of these wonderful characters seemingly play a part of decisions that cannot be altered. It's as if destiny's hand is pulling their strings. You just want to scream at the screen in frustration. The future is hurtling toward them and with each poor choice tomorrow looks dark indeed.

To lighten the mood a second thread for the installment features Ivanova with her extraordinary riff on the Meg Ryan fake orgasm. Ivanova has been tasked with establishing an ambassadorship with a race of elitist aliens. Custom has it they must have sex first in order to establish such a relationship [my brother would like these guys]. Ivanova turns the tables by informing them they will have sex her way, hence the orgasmic performance!

Londo to Garibaldi: “It is good to have friends is it not Mr. Garibaldi? Even if maybe only for a little while.” Truly tragic stuff.

Acts Of Sacrifice: A-

The Alien Space Ride [a.k.a. Bus Field Trip]

Folks! I just survived a school bus field trip filled with third graders. I thought, maybe, perhaps, at the end of the ride there might be an "I Survived" T-shirt waiting for me there. This thing was packed with aliens, I mean kids, and they were so erratic and noisy it was like an out-of-body experience. Everyone was talking, but damned if I could tell you what the hell any of them were saying. I felt like a foreigner in a strange land. In fact, I think I know what it might be like to be human on Babylon 5 now.

It was fun, but bizarre. Oh and let me tell you, teachers don't get paid enough. This was a three hour block of time and it felt like an eternity. The patience these people have for the children and the energy they need to expend to maintain order- I mean seriously they deserve every penny they earn.

En route to our destination the bus quickly lost its air supply. The windows began fogging up and Oxygen was quickly displaced with Carbon Dioxide. I wanted to reach up and open a window but wasn't sure of the 'bus rules' and there were three to a seat. It was so stuffy in there I felt it was the Hot Zone. I mean no wonder these kids get sick and bring things home all the time. Their sneezing and farting and one of the teachers went back on board to get something and said it smelled. Of course we didn't know it because we were all slowly dying from whatever it was we were gradually breathing all the way to our destination. On the way back I cracked a few windows. I adapted and overcame.

Kids were doodling names and drawings in what seemed like an alien language on the windows. It felt like I was in some kind of prehistoric cavern with cave drawings.

There was so much noise some children covered their ears. Oh and the bus driver, God bless her too, she turned on the radio on the way back. It was on, but I couldn't hear it. Somehow the kids could make it out because everytime it got to the chorus it was "don'tchya wish your girlfriend was hot like me, don'tchya wish ya girlfriend was a freak like me." It was that and something about shaking hips. It was loud and inaudible and as every 18 wheeler passed us on the way home it seemed like we were going backwards. It was a looooooong 25 minutes.

I departed the bus and felt as though I had just done the Tour De France.

When I got into my own car I was wiped and my ride home was the most peaceful ride in space that I had ever experienced. Bless all you teachers out there wherever you are.

B5 S2 Ep 10-11: Gropos & All Alone In The Night

The sultry-lipped Commander Ivanova.

This is shaping up to be one mighty, damn fine space opera!

The Babylon 5 Season 2 fun continues following on from the despair found in The Coming Of Shadows. That episode was so flat out powerful, I was like 'where the hell do we go from here?'

What is interesting at this point is even when an episode doesn’t quite succeed it’s still pretty damn good. The natural flow is there and that keeps things hopping. If I haven’t given the impression, I’m definitely hooked and caught up in these characters lives. There becoming like old friends. ‘The One To Be Pitied’ is always telling me, “these people are NOT your friends.” I tell her that's just not true, they are indeed my friends. Imaginary friends yes, but friends nonetheless. She's just jealous.

Does Robert Rusler really need to be in the credits for this show?

*

Gropos inevitably lightens the mood following the white-hot intensity of The Coming Of Shadows. We see B5 forced to accommodate an influx of 25,000 soldiers [a.k.a. ground-pounders, jarheads or gropos]. Leading the troops is Dr. Franklin’s estranged father. B5 is being established as a staging center for an assault. Meanwhile, following on from all the action Londo or Winters has had, Garibaldi finally, almost, gets a piece of …errr, the action. New defensive systems are installed on B5 equipped with pulse systems and tracking three times faster than the more antiquated system in place. Why do I get the feeling they’ll come in handy later? There’s a lot of touchy-feely drama and relationship moments in this one. I kinda dig touchy-feely. It worked just fine for me, afterall these are my friends. If not one predisposed to the enjoyment of a tug on the ol' emotional heartstrings, a good, old-fashioned, balls-to-the-wall, bare-knuckle bar brawl ensues. That was nice to get the blood going.

All Alone In The Night concentrates on Sheridan and Delenn. Sheridan is captured by an alien vessel and the story mirrors elements of the classic film Enemy Mine as Sheridan allies with a Narn for survival. Elsewhere, Delenn is summoned before the Grey Council for judgment from the nine. Culturally, we learn more about the Minbari. The council is comprised of three components of Minbari society/ caste: warrior [3 members], religious [3], worker [3]. Delenn is of the religious caste. Surprisingly she learns her position has been replaced by that of a warrior off-setting the balance of the nine. Delenn is treated as an outsider and in essence banished by her people despite her noble intentions as a bridge between human and Minbari. Loyally Lennier remains by her side. Delenn seemingly is alone in much the same way as Sheridan. Meanwhile, the Agamemnon is sent through the jumpgate to save Sheridan. All in all the acting was a tad overdone specifically by Richard Biggs and Bruce Boxleitner, but everyone's entitled to a bad day. Most interesting, Sheridan had a vision while aboard the alien craft whereby Kosh tells him, “you have always been here.” Kosh repeats those same words when he returns to Babylon 5. Sheridan looks entranced as Kosh walks away. This is the stuff that really captivates in B5.

The final act of All Alone In The Night is the most intriguing. Sheridan is visited by General William Hague. In relief, Sheridan indicates he’s been waiting on the station for a debriefing for six months and that he thought he’d been forgotten. So, Sheridan is clearly there as part of a plan initially designed by former President Santiago. Hague informs him that Psi Corp may be involved in the assassination of the former Earth President and he will contact him whenever possible with information as they move forward. The two patriots pledge to take back Earth by doing the right thing. Sheridan has observed those he can trust and calls a private meeting. Ivanova, Garibaldi and Dr. Franklin are all on board regarding his confidence. “We’re with you Captain. Wherever this goes, however it ends, we’re with you” assures Ivanova. Now, that’s loyalty folks! Tremendous qualities hard to find these days. One last thing, Ship effects are really beginning to shine in this series.

Gropos: [C+]

All Alone In The Night: [C] [Roberty Foxworthy guests with a small but excellent role in the final minutes]

Sheridan: "There’s only one truth about war. People die. Killing is part of a soldier’s job. We can’t deny it. We can only live with it and hope the reasons for doing it are justified."

B5 S2 Ep 9: The Coming Of Shadows

Babylon 5 has arrived! The Coming Of Shadows was a near perfect mix of mind-blowing political intrigue, action and pain, emotional pain and lots of it. This episode nailed it! We’ve been leading up to this with a number of fine entries, but this is downright explosive.

There's so much in play I had to dedicate the entire entry exclusively to Episode 9 of Season 2. The installment takes the name of the Season's umbrella title. There certainly have been signs concerning the Shadows from the re-appearance of Morden to sightings in hyperspace.

The Coming Of Shadows begins by touching on the reason for that outrageous Centauri hair. As we meet the Emperor we understand the trademark doo is a symbol of power and a trapping of stature and when he is slated to visit B5 he leaves it behind. That decision is symbolic of his final act in reversing the harsh doctrine of Centauri policy as his life concludes and atone with the Narn.

Understandably, given their history, G’Kar is incensed to learn of the impending visit by the Centauri Emperor and plots his assassination by his very own hand. As G’Kar dictates what he believes may be his final words to a computer it is fascinating to witness G’Kar's resolve. His determination speaks volumes of the Narn's hatred for the Centauri following over 100 years of oppression. He is willing to sacrifice his existence as a symbol of Narn resistance. However irrational it may seem it clearly illustrates the long, painful history between the Narn and Centauri.

A power play is at hand for a political coup d'etat of Centauri Prime by Londo and associates. Londo’s loyal aid, Vir, justifiably pleads with him to avoid tempting fate in reaching out to Morden [exceptional recurring role by Ed Wasser]. Vir knows all too well it's a mistake to do so and it is clear to Vir that Londo is suceptible to the toxic elixir of power despite Londo's own reservations. "Don't do this! There's no turning back once you start down that road!" begs Vir. Vir, like any of these exceptional ambassadorial assistants, has proven his worth time and again often disagreeing with Londo's preferred hardline position. Looking back at The War Prayer in Season 1, you'll recall Vir's impact on Londo's decision concerning the young lovers. That episode shed light on the importance of Centauri pride and tradition. Yet, where Londo exhibited a willingness to break from tradition then, he's beginning to show signs of a much less yielding side in Season 2, thanks to his newfound Shadows' support. Interesting that Morden found his instrument within Londo and not through G'Kar as tempted in Signs And Portents from Season 1.

Flashback: Signs And Portents is even more interesting with more information at my disposal. When Morden arrives on B5 he clearly looks to G'Kar and asks "what do you want?" and G'Kar responds in kind much the same way as Londo. The most unsettling is his inquiry of Delenn who in horror places her hand over a glowing symbol upon her forehead. Morden is darkened by shadows and abruptly asked to leave. The fear is palpable. Finally, interestingly, Morden absconds from the view of Kosh earlier. Later he inadvertently runs into Kosh where Kosh directs him "leave this place, they are not for you." So again, Morden selected Londo over G'Kar and I can only wonder why. I surmise that it has something to do with G'Kar's soul and how his reaction seems more in the passion of the moment rather than someone hell-bent on self-destruction. G'Kar's nature, like the Narn, is out of self-defense, not driven by an interest in conquering and ruling like that of the Centauri. Londo appears more suceptible to influence and more embattled by demons. There is a fragility to Londo's psychology and more lofty goals in his blood by his people's very design.

So with The Coming Of Shadows, in an unexpected move, the Emperor, to G’Kar’s surprise, apologizes to him through Dr. Franklin for the Centauri’s treatment of the Narn. G’Kar, who often times appears interested in making bridges, expresses hope upon seeing Londo. Unbeknownst to G'Kar, Londo has already set the wheels of war in motion with an attack on a G’Kar civilian populace in Quadrant 14. Londo appears absolutely stunned by a crisis of conscience jarred by G'Kar. Meanwhile in Quadrant 14, The Shadows arrive and strike hard with their swift, lethal and devastating purple-pink laser power and within seconds all is destroyed. As the Emperor lets go of living, Ambassador Kosh appears before him like an angel. The Emperor inquires, “how will this end?” Kosh replies pointedly as only Kosh can, “in fire.” Good to see things are lookin' up.

This was a pivotal entry in emphasizing the genius of J. Michael Straczynski. Throughout the near entirety of Season 1 Londo was built up to be a kind of womanizing ladies man, a good-time charlie, a trusted ambassador perhaps, and more and more a frustrated politician. Straczynski purposefully developed the characters in such a way that viewers weren't necessarily seeing the entire picture. The motivations and backgrounds of Londo and G’Kar were perceived one way in Season 1 and yet another in Season 2. These perceptions began changing and our initial sympathies were redirected. Straczynski's masterstroke was to throw us visual cues. The wild-looking Londo, with hair in the mold of a geisha fan, hardly appeared the threatening kind. G'Kar was graced with a more bellicose appearance and we immediately formed opinions incorrectly. Afterall, how could anyone that looked like Londo Mollari possibly belong to a race of subjugators? Alas, the other shoe has dropped and Straczynski sold it hook, line and sinker to us. As stories and characters develop perceptions continue to change to the benefit of the viewer's journey.

G’Kar eventually reveals more on the Narn’s tragic history and ironically, as viewers come to find out, his genuine spiritual make-up through G'Quan [see By Any Means Necessary in Season 1]. Reversely, Londo has unveiled a more self-absorbed side and an unquenchable thirst for power. His desire for Centauri glory seems insatiable and as it grows unmolested so does too does our lowered opinion of him. The ambassadors switch places in our minds thanks to the strength of story designed by Straczynski Appearances can be deceiving indeed. The more we learn of the Narn and G'Kar, the more we understand them to be victims. Remember, it was G’Kar who dispatched a rescue to Catherine Sakai [Sinclair’s girlfriend] out on Sigma 957 [see Season 1 Mind War]. He had warned her of the dangers there. It wasn’t just posturing and he sent assistance. It was here we began to see signs of this Narn's true make-up. What a fascinating evolution of character. The fragility of ambassadorial and racial relationships continues to unveil themselves.

Another pleasant surprise is the return of Michael O’Hare's Sinclair. He re-enters the picture by way of a video communique to Security Chief Garibaldi from the Minbari homeworld, Minbar. Sinclair warns, “there’s a great darkness coming Michael, some of the the Minbari have been waiting for it a long time.” He informs Garibaldi of a newly established group dubbed the Rangers. They are a small army that is growing in number in preparation for the war ahead. Their mission is covert and only Delenn, outside Garibaldi, knows of their existence outside.

The prophetic words of Sinclair and a glimpse of Andreas Katsulas' amazing performance.


So, G’Kar learns of the Centauri betrayal on the Narn as orchestrated by the seemingly far more disturbed Londo. G’Kar justifiably goes positively apeshit. To say Andreas Katsulas and Peter Jurasik nail their roles is an understatement. Their relationship is dynamic, emotional and at the core of propelling this story forward. To see G’Kar a broken Narn and emotionally crippled is truly moving stuff. I can’t recall the last time I felt this bad for a character in science fiction.

*

Londo is misguided by delusions of grandeur, yet images of his fate [G'Kar's hands wrapped around his throat] at the end of a “damned” existence continue to haunt him. This may explain his decision to remain in the ambassadorial post in the hopes of altering his future. Vir knows his lust for power is real and tells Londo "that is what you want." Londo sidesteps the prophecy of fate by telling Vir, "No, I have no desire to be emperor. No, I prefer to work behind the scenes. The reward is nearly as great and the risk far far less." Londo is a troubled man.

Meanwhile, we are brokenhearted for G’Kar. Betrayal is at the heart of this entry and you can hear the pain and loss in G'Kar's voice. Captain Sheridan visibly exhibits much empathy for his plight while maintaining a professional distance, but he is indeed concerned. We witness this later when Sheridan visits G'Kar following his rager and G’Kar speaks softly, “Sheridan… thank you for stopping me.”

At an emergency session of the council, Londo takes the floor as the prideful Centauri ambassador complete with his 'proud as a peacock' hair in full bloom over Centauri Prime’s control of Quadrant 14. A clearly somber and seething G’Kar announces a declaration of war by the Narn for the Centauri aggression. After 100 years the Centauri are rising up again. Meanwhile, the Shadows are quickly achieving their goals through Londo's lust for power. I would never have envisioned Londo behaving like the devil himself.

Folks, this is the pinnacle for me at this point. I continue to be thoroughly astonished by the direction this series has taken. Straczynski's story is taking on epic proportions grounded in human and alien frailty. I love it.

It's also worth mentioning beyond the performances that the computer effects are outstanding here. Perhaps it is the dark color combinations coupled with the nondescript or indistinct, fluid nature of the Shadows, but the CGI is impressive in realizing the ominous and frightening attack by the spidery-like forces.

This is one hell of an episode.

The Coming Of Shadows: [A-]

B5 S1 Ep13: Signs And Portents [Redux]

I am in the enviable position, for those of you have already seen Babylon 5, of enjoying the Babylon 5 experience for the first time.

If you're like me, and you've seen a series, you're always envious when someone gets to see one of your favorites through fresh eyes as you recall how exciting it was watching it for the first time.

I always feel that way when I hear someone is checking out Stargate SG-1 for the first time. Anyway, I was revisiting Babylon 5 Signs And Portents: Season 1, Episode 13 again, Signs And Portents because, well, it was kinda 'portent for me to check it out again. So much happened in that entry that informs and reverberates throughout Season 2 and probably beyond that I felt it was worth reviewing it with the new information I have acquired from the show. It helped me with a few thoughts concerning some upcoming entries for Season 2. I'll get back to that momentarily.

In fact the more I immerse myself in Babylon 5 the more I seem to want to write about the details.

Here is a scene from Signs And Portents. It's one of the primary reasons I have been falling head over heels for this series. Andreas Katsulas and Peter Jurasik own the frame as G'Kar and Londo Mollari respectively, and anytime they share the spotlight it is a pleasure to watch them deliver the drama. I particularly love G'Kar's reluctance to join him at the elevator. Haven't we all been there?