B5 S5 Ep21: Objects At Rest

Because You Demanded It! [As Marvel's Stan Lee always put it].

It almost feels strange to return to Babylon 5 nearly two months after finishing my thoughts on Babylon 5, Season Five, Episode 20, Objects In Motion. It feels like I hitched a ride on a Minbari Cruiser for two months only to return to visit old friends I haven't seen in months and kind of miss. It's funny how weeks can feel like an eternity. Time flies as they say. There's no doubt about it.

Well, I finally succumbed to iTunes and a download of Episode 21 and Episode 22. It kills me to do that after reviewing box set after box set on DVD, but the fact of the matter is I simply have not seen the box set on sale. On a brief getaway over the summer I lost my Disc Five from the Babylon 5, Season Five DVD Box Set and it just never turned up. I hoped. I prayed. I performed small prayers and the occasional dance in front of my goldfish tank. It just wasn't meant to be. You watch, I'll probably find it days after hitting the Publish Post button on this post.

So my fellow B5 friends please excuse any degradation in JPEG picture or MPEG video quality on any of these clips I might present to you. They have been extracted from my Dell flat screen computer. In the end I think the results were fair, but the quality did suffer a touch.

So, where were we? When we last left off there were many goodbyes. Well, I've re-briefed myself by taking a look at my last entry. I know some of you mentioned the wisdom of watching these episodes while connections and mythology for the show were still fresh within my mind. You're not wrong and I have a feeling this was a good idea. So without further adieu, Babylon 5, Season Five, Episode 21, Objects At Rest.

They never did play up the angle of former husband and wife. Not much was learned about this relationship in the end.

Our entry opens on the bridge of Babylon 5 as Sheridan and Lochley reflect back on what has been a full year together aboard the station. Wow. Has it been that long? "Where does the time go?" considers Lochley. Sheridan looks into the blackness of space and indicates time is out there on The Rim and "beyond that" the truth is out there. I knew the truth was out there just like The X-Files always said. I just didn't know it was out there. Sheridan refers to a new headquarters on Minbar for The Alliance and it looks as though he'll be leaving soon as well. I was moved by the sincerity in Sheridan's voice. These are hard things to handle going forward. I was not as moved by Scoggins in her role. I suppose she just never had the time needed to win me over and become the fully formed character I wanted to believe in. She always sort of scratched the surface.

It's kind of surprising these two were married once, but in some ways they seem to have come to terms with their relationship as friends and professional comrades.

Elsewhere Vir informs Ta'Lon that G'Kar has gone. As Vir exits, Ta'Lon enters G'Kar's room. The voice recognition system in G'Kar's quarters recognizes the voice of Ta'Lon and a message is retrieved for delivery to him by G'Kar. I'm assuming this may be the recorded message G'Kar intended for later delivery noted in Season Five, Episode 20, Objects In Motion. It would seem the message was intended for Ta'Lon. How's my memory guys? I'm going to miss the emotional currents that run through this series. Seeing some of it play out here makes me realize how much I have missed it stepping away for so many weeks. So much science fiction is fast and flashy, albeit very well-executed, but rarely deep [Battlestar Galactica], while others attempt emotional, but fall flat on poor dialogue and bad ideas [Stargate Universe], not so with Babylon 5. G'Kar asks that Ta'Lon speak for the Narn in his absence. It's a rather moving request. G'Kar has always trusted Ta'Lon as a friend and has faith in his fellow Narn's strength as a warrior. G'Kar feels he himself had become "more priest than warrior" in the end. G'Kar indicates copies of his message will be forwarded to Sheridan and the others. They will accept him. His final words are important. "Serve our people reasonably, fairly and with honor."

Meanwhile, Dr. Franklin is notifying his replacement, Dr. Hobbes, of her new responsibilities. I can't help but imagine she might have been a fine doctor on Babylon 5 for five seasons. Franklin bids farewell to Sheridan over a serene score by Christopher Franke. Clearly, this entry too, appropriately, is also about goodbyes once again. It makes sense. We'd hate to see a whole set of new threads develop with only one episode remaining.

Delenn is visited by Lennier who is offering his services to help see to Delenn's safe return home. As he looks upon a framed picture of Delenn and Sheridan you can't help but sense there is something clearly not right upstairs in the ol' Lennier wiring. He appears on the verge of a breakdown over his jealousies and personal demons. I suspect he's preparing to do something fairly boneheaded.

Sheridan is briefed by Number One who you'll recall is Garibaldi's replacement as Sheridan's right hand [wo]man. She is the new head of intelligence in place of Garibaldi. She doesn't hold a candle to the man in the humor department. She has no sense of humor. She's stiff as a board. Speaking of Garibaldi, to my surprise, he is still very much with the program, literally. Garibaldi has called a meeting as head of Edgars Industries. He has optioned to promote several mid-level employees who are unafraid of speaking up about problems within the company. He expects all to speak out, stand their ground, make their cases and if they're right they receive a bonus. And if they're wrong he will "eat you for lunch." That's our Garibaldi. Granted, I'd like to think he performed a little background check on them. No one wants a bunch of YES men, but heck who wants a bunch of bitchers, moaners and complainers either. Dr. Franklin departs the station.

Elsewhere on the station Sheridan is annoyed the media knows more than they should about his departure time to Minbar. He wants to keep things quiet remember. No fanfare. Delenn steps out the room as they prepare to leave and Sheridan is left alone with Lennier. Sheridan, now alone with Lennier, appears a bit awkward and has difficulty making eye contact. There's no question Sheridan, in his heart of hearts, suspects Lennier has a thing for his wife. Nevertheless, he does welcome Lennier to stay with he and Delenn anytime he's on Minbar, in a separate room of course. So much for Sheridan's quiet, unfanfare-like exit. ISN has broke news of their travel time and Sheridan is now expected to say a few words to all those who are there to see him off. I suspect leaving isn't easy and certainly emotional, which is why he wanted things kept hush hush. Delenn steps up and speaks on their behalf. She talks of how hard it is to say the human word "goodbye." There is no such word in Minbari, because the idea of meeting again is immerse within their culture. "We will pass this way again."

A less emotional farewell is bid to Zack, but he was a steady, good guy throughout the series. Aboard the Minbari craft Delenn inquires as tot he whereabouts of the Captain. As it turns out the Captain was instructed by Lennier to remain on Babylon 5. Lennier felt it would be "more symbolic" if Sheridan and Delenn captained the vessel for the return home. Hmmm, I will take him at his word on that one, but it feels peculiar. Sheridan looks at the move positively and considers it to be a fine idea. I can't help but feel as though Sheridan handles Lennier with kid gloves so to speak. He's got to be thinking Lennier is a bit on edge and sort of uneasy about his marriage to Delenn. Anyway, something smells fishy about this. I may be overreacting here, but it just doesn't feel right. Sheridan brings about the White Star and it's kind of funny to see the faces that populate the helm of Command and Control on Babylon 5. It's a bit like looking at an alternate universe of a comic book. There is a cast of familiar faces and new faces, promoted faces and veterans. It's interesting. Lt. Corwin, Number One, Vir, Lochley, Zack, Ta'Lon and Dr. Hobbes. This is the new face of Babylon 5. It's funny to note all of the replacements that will keep the seats warm for those who have departed from Londo to G'Kar and Franklin to Garibaldi. Lochley respectfully salutes Sheridan who in turn does the same. The White Star departs.

Sheridan goes for a stroll. He's a bit restless in knowing his departure from the station is permanent. You can understand being fidgety on that one. A coolant leak in the weapons system is discovered. Sheridan rushes to the aid of a downed ranger due to the coolant vapors. An emergency door seals him inside with the ranger. Lennier arrives and Sheridan is relieved, but finds Lennier hesitates to open the sealed door and runs away from helping him. Was the coolant leak manufactured? Was this simply an opportunity for Lennier? I don't think it was manufactured. Sheridan is stunned Lennier runs but must move to plan B. Sheridan uses the Ranger's fighting pike to attempt to shatter the glass emergency door. Lennier is clearly torn and shaken by his decision or indecision. His actions tear at him. Meanwhile, Sheridan breaks through the glass with the weapon. "I can't" declares Lennier. Lennier realizes his error in judgment and rushes to aid Sheridan. What's intriguing here is the timing of the events. Obviously, Lennier makes the right choice too late as Sheridan has inevitably rescued himself. How will it all play out? Wow. Here is the conclusion as the two meet face to face.

Will the shame of his actions be too much? To be honest, Lennier has been conflicted throughout much of Season Five, but he did appear to reacting a touch out of character. It just didn't feel like Lennier, but I suppose crimes of passion can happen even for the Minbari. Bloodshed is certainly no stranger to the Minbari based upon its history, but Lennier is a bit out of sorts. It's a tough one to reconcile.

Delenn reaches out to Lennier who has hastily vacated in his vessel out of shame. Delenn and Sheridan speak. She knows Lennier has had feelings for her. All of his writings and actions to this point indicate what Lennier has done is contrary to who he really is despite his objection to their union which is noted in his writings. His actions do seem a bit fanatical. It was, if you will, a weak moment, in Delenn's opinion. In truth he would not want harm to come to them and it is truly fascinating to see Delenn loyally advocate for Lennier at a moment of near death for her husband. Yes, he wouldn't want to harm you Delenn, but Sheridan is another story.

This scene, this predicament really spoke to me. I was having a moment one day while in the shower about this very issue. I was considering how we are judged by our actions and how we strive to do the right thing day in and day out. I have high standards, for myself and for those around me. A decision was made by someone in my life who I knew to be a decent man and who I knew made a decision that was contrary to his record of actions and behavior. I had thought about all of the good and all of the right that person had done as long as I had known them and yet he made a foolhardy decision that suddenly everyone around him was judging him by. All that had gone before that was good in his life seemed to be meaningless. It meant nothing. It was seemingly forgotten. Yet, a single action, a single decision was all that anyone was willing to define that person by. I found it troubling, so much so that it consumed my thoughts for a time. Certainly the poor decision is always relevant, but often doesn't warrant excommunication. As I said, I showered thinking of it. I suppose we all do some of our best thinking in the shower. There's something about the hot rush of water over the old birthday suit that allows us to open our minds isn't there? I had applied what happened to that man to myself. I thought what if all that I had done so far in my own life had been suddenly washed away by the stupidity of one decision. It could happen. It could happen to any of us. We're not immune. We're human. I try very hard to lead a good life, be a good man, do the right thing and yet one thing could suddenly wash it all away. It's a hell of a place to be walking that kind of thin line. I knew based upon my contemplation on that issue I was not willing to cast that man aside based upon one event, based upon a single act. He was not to be discarded to me. I pray we're all given a second chance, maybe even a third if such a thing happens in our lives. Let's just hope forgiveness is an option. I digress a bit there. Shower over. But this sequence captured those same thoughts I had some days ago.

There's a bit of Sheridan, Delenn and Lennier in all of us. It's a fascinating question and one to always keep in the back of our minds. Is there room for redemption? Is such a possibility available to all of us? I'm not so sure. Politics calls and Sheridan is willing to cut Lennier some slack in the hopes of setting things straight. Sheridan is a good man indeed. He kind of goes with the logic of 'what happens on the White Star stays on the White Star.' What a guy!

On Minbar, Sheridan is greeted by Emperor Mollari, but how? I was even more shocked to see him [over Garibaldi]. I thought for certain there was no way Londo could ever leave Centauri ever again. I suppose his keeper is still keeping tabs on him allowing him to travel accordingly with a short leash. "There's politics and then there's friendship" points out Londo. Funny, but a great fact of life.

That is an interesting moment. Clearly, Londo is hampered by his spidery, creepy-eyed keeper. I believe Delenn was significantly touched by the Shadows and their dark forces enough so that she can sense the keeper and you'll note the haze of the creature's outline in the aforementioned clip. I'm still trying to grasp the significance of that moment. Could it have been her encounter with the Drakh emissary in Season Four, Episode 11, Lines Of Communication? Londo gives Sheridan and Delenn a gift, an urn, to be opened when their child, male or female, turns sixteen years of age. Will it be chock full of bravari?

Delenn is summoned away and in her quarters a holographic image appears of Lennier to greet her. Lennier apologizes for his betrayal. He never intended harm. All of it was a mistake. Lennier will never forgive himself. He informs Delenn he is going away to seek redemption. He asks Delenn to apologize to Sheridan for him as he is ashamed to face him himself. Lennier says goodbye, in a manner of speaking, afterall there is no goodbye on Minbar. Lennier knows he will not earn her love, but he will earn her forgiveness. It's good to see some resolution to this, but you have to wonder if Lennier would allow his pain to cloud his judgment this severely. It was an odd way to go out with the Lennier thread and an unfortunate ending for such a loyal cohort. Having said that, it does clear up the visit by Morden to some degree in Babylon 5, Season Five, Episode 8, Day Of The Dead. Though his date of termination is still unknown based upon those ghostly events, he did indeed betray the An'la'shok by his horrific action. Granted, if reflection upon his death was intended to be figurative, Lennier may have indeed died in a manner of speaking after all and is looking for rebirth here.

Those one-eyed critters are certainly one strange bit of impressive science fiction indeed.

Delenn and Sheridan see Londo off. He tells them both they are his "friends." It's goodbye again, but without the politics. As Londo exits, those who he serves grant him one hour of freedom including a drink. "Now we await the passage of years" informs the creature upon Londo's shoulder. They can talk!? Inside the urn on Minbar lays a keeper sitting and waiting for the day it is to be awakened. Creepy stuff. Yikes! It's a special delivery for Sheridan and Delenn's child to be. So I suppose the question is, did Londo know thus what he brought forth to his friends? Did he bring such a vile gift unknowingly? I'd like to think he didn't realize what was inside that sealed vessel, but something tells me he may have known under orders from his keeper. Gosh, what betrayal that would be if it be so. Further, why? What plans do the Drakh have with this maneuver? Is this payback on behalf of The Shadows to get Sheridan? Is this the precursor to a third installment to a war without end? They are a patient lot as they put it.

At night, Sheridan wakes to record a message. Sheridan reflects on Lorien's life-giving power. If all remains true, Sheridan has roughly nineteen years remaining to live. His message is for his child to come and the day he or she will come of Earth age, twenty-one. Sheridan will not be there when that day comes. He shares his wisdom in the message. His thoughts are juxtaposed with images of all those who have touched his life and ours. It is a moving tribute to the show. Delenn will be his/her greatest champion and advocate. Her courage and compassion are unmatched. Wisdom and fire come in equal measure within Delenn. He really speaks of his love for her. He speaks of mistakes. We all make them. Some will be huge. You can learn from them. You can become stronger from them, but falling down is inevitable. No matter where you are home is always there for you. Home is not a place. It is where passion takes you. You will make friends and lose friends. The process is difficult, but change will result. Life is change. Everyone will find their own way, and their way may not be yours. Treasure that. In the end, it will all work out. The road is never easy. Stay true to what you believe and things will work out. "Never start a fight, but always finish it." Delenn enters and she and Sheridan recall the advice of Sheridan's father. Some of it is cliche, but it is also true. The part about mistakes certainly references what I mentioned earlier about our own imperfections.

There you have it friends, episode 21 of Babylon 5. It was like slipping into a comfortable pair of shoes. It was also a bit like never having stepped away. Objects At Rest felt good. Season Five really began to turn around for me around Darkness Ascending. On the whole, there was a gentleness and a feeling of reflection about the entry, the Lennier incident aside [strange way to go out on Lennier]. It was a pleasure seeing these characters coming to terms with their lives. I enjoyed the look back and the always shining little moments from J. Michael Straczynski. This is a fairly solid way to go. One left, can you believe it? Actually, I suppose you're finding it to be something of a small miracle I got this post finished.

Objects At Rest: B

Cowboy Bebop Session #15: My Funny Valentine

I just can't seem to get enough of her legs or anything else about Faye for that matter. Celluloid never looked so damn good. There's an almost John Byrne quality to the artistry of the image.

And yes, those would be Faye's breasts compressed.

My discovery of Cowboy Bebop continues, but on the whole has hit me fairly flat. I can't say I love it like so many of the impassioned fans around the world. There are elements to the series that impress me and I do enjoy aspects of the characters. Some of the stories just aren't grabbing me. I wish they did, but an entry like Ballad Of Fallen Angels is rare. So my less than enthusiastic response to the series continues I'm sorry to say. But then you knew I actually took on Cowboy Bebop as a bit of fairly mindless enjoyment.

Ed and Jet pull up some frozen, toxic fish. Jet had it on ice as evidence. Ed decides to take a few bites. Ein reminds Faye about her past. She ventures to teach us more in Cowboy Bebop, Session #15, My Funny Valentine.

Faye is de-thawed and revived in a lab from some kind of cryo-stasis. She was preserved because medical science couldn't help her years earlier. The once trusting Faye is now distrustful of her surroundings. She escapes the hospital. Things have changed considerably since she had been placed in the deep freeze. She's upset when she is tracked down by the man trying to help her. She can't be expected to pay for her medical bills, which are exhorbitant. She appears fairly innocent in her character too.

The man helping her crashes and he dies. Faye is upset again.

Spike walks out of the bathroom and overhears part of her story she is sharing with Ein. Jet returns with a bounty. The prize is a confidence man and Faye recognizes him as a lawyer named Whitney Haggis Matsamoto. It's a plump version of the same man that helped her upon her reawakening. He didn't die after all.

A police car rides next to the BeBop and in the pilot's seat is the doctor who once held Faye. Jet wants the police to pay him for his bounty. Faye has history with the man and helps him escape. Jet and Spike try to stop her, but she pulls a gun on them.

In space, Faye asks him, "Who am I?" Spike is in pursuit. A pretty cool space chase/ dog fight occurs between Spike and Faye and they mean business.

Faye sobs wanting to know who she is. The doctor arrives in the police car. He tells her he named her Valentine. The doctor turns out to be Matsamoto's uncle. They are surrounded by law enforcement so the doctor beats feet and gets out of dodge leaving Matsamoto behind.

When it's all over we still know as much as we did, which isn't much. I suppose the series just isn't my cup of tea or my expectations were higher. Either way, I'm probably not doing it justice for some.

My Funny Valentine: B-

Event Horizon

Event Horizon [1997] is hands down one of the scariest science fiction movies I've ever seen. Folks, it's actually downright uncomfortable to watch. I've seen it a few times and it is dark and filled with frightening intensity. I can't get enough of it though.

Just before Halloween came and went I tried to get this one up, but never finished. I went to the old At The Movies Archive to watch the video review of the film from the perspective of Roger Ebert and the late Gene Siskel. I recalled them not liking the film, but couldn't quite remember why. It turns out they loved the production values [and they are splendid] and didn't care much for what they considered to be an uneven story lacking rules within its world as Ebert put it. They felt it was weak on character development to boot. On the latter, they have a point. I won't deny it. It's hard to believe in the just twelve short years since this review, critic Gene Siskel has since passed away and critic Roger Ebert has been in considerable ill health for quite some time. Watching the review of the film I couldn't help but note how robust and healthy they looked and how things can change in a New York minute as they say. You know how I feel about the fragility of life, in this a perfectly good example why you need to be enjoying it.
*

Getting back to Event Horizon, I actually don't judge it as harshly and I do understand the criticisms of the picture. Still, I loved it! I made The One To Be Pitied watch it with me once when I first purchased the DVD. She actually liked it too, but she likes fright films. Still, I always want to watch it again and often have trouble bringing myself to do it. Still, for the faithful readers out there I brought myself to watch it again. After all I had to bring you some clips from the film. It's one of those films you want to recommend to others, but in good conscience can't, for fear others might think you a psychotic loon. For what it is, it is damn good. It is chock full of suspense. As I began clipping I realized I loved nearly every frame of the picture. I spared you from the more grotesque moments but wanted to give you a sense of the haunting mood throughout the film.

*

Director Paul W.S. Anderson doesn't get alot of credit for his movies. Perhaps he deserves the criticism as they are not always successful in their execution [no pun intended]. Anderson clearly has an affection for video games having been heavily involved with the Resident Evil [2002] franchise and before that serving up Mortal Kombat [1997]. AVP [Aliens Vs Predator] [2004] was a horrible realization within that franchise and a failure IMO. Still, I find myself drawn to a number of his films in particular the original Resident Evil, which he directed and its follow ups which he wrote and produced. They are genuinely guilty pleasures for me. Trust me, I realize there is little redeeming value to the fun. And he has a production credit on Pandorum [2009]. There aren't many filmmakers out there mixing scares with science fiction. So I'm not sure how to classify Anderson as a director. He's generally trashed by critics, but I'm not so willing and quick to write him off. There's a certain beauty to the horror in his pictures. His pictures certainly look terrific. Anderson has a firm grasp of the genre of science fiction horror and Event Horizon is a devilish gem. I think it's one of his best. Some would say that's not saying much, but I remain a steadfast defender, guilty as charged.


*

I felt this Laurence Fishburne and Sam Neill helmed space trip into the unknown was about as scary as they come. This is science fiction horror at its unnerving best. The general setup is fairly straightforward. A rescue mission [the Lewis And Clark] seeks to discover what happened to the Event Horizon, which has reappeared after being missing for seven years. In a nutshell, the vessel, using the gravity drive, has gone to another dimension [hell] and back. It has brought unimaginable horror back with it. Anderson has referenced Director Ridley Scott as an influence. There are certainly ship design elements throughout the film that pay tribute to the Nostromo from Alien. There are nods to a number of films I suppose. Hellraiser comes to mind. Still, these elements combined with Anderson's own concepts work beautifully. And whereby most folks never leave the haunted house, these poor folks can't escape with the now disabled Lewis & Clark. They are trapped! Despite the critics there is a logic that runs through the film and I certainly didn't find any of it frustrating, just frightening.

*

Apart from the technically impressive film assembled by Anderson, a stellar cast was also employed. I would even go so far as to say the cast works brilliantly in much the same way the ensemble worked for The Thing. Kathleen Quinlan, Joely Richardson, Sam Neill, Richard T. Jones, Laurence Fishburne and more make it electric. I don't care what the critics say about this film, but I will continue to champion its cause. It has an atmosphere and feel all its own. I have not seen many films quite like this one or executed with such confidence. It may have been critically maligned much like The Thing was upon its release back in the day, but Event Horizon has all of the right ingredients that make it infinitely re-watchable like The Thing. It's a production stunner on an effects and lighting level once again paying tribute to the creative team behind this one.

*

It's simply exceptional in its execution and fusion of both science fiction and horror elements. The special effects are perfect, but the idea of the ship being a living extension of hell is horrifying as delivered by Anderson. It is truly scary stuff. When the previous crew is found to have been the victims of their own self-mutilation and torture you know things aren't going to go well. This sci-fi thriller really delivers and remains a favorite of mine today despite my inability to stomach repeat viewings. In fact, it's this kind of Rated R picture that really makes you appreciate the lost art of the Rated R picture. So many pictures are dumbed down for appeal to the PG-13 masses and for the money coffers often compromising the director's vision. Granted, there are some PG-13 exceptions [I Am Legend]. Event Horizon delivers. Director Anderson allegedly had additional footage left on the editing room floor. I wonder what it might have added to an already disturbing experience. I want to say I wish it was here on the Blu-Ray, but then again on second thought.

Event Horizon: A

Cowboy Bebop Session #14: Bohemian Rhapsody

You have to love the use of color in this shot. It's beautiful.

We begin with our fearless trio of bounty hunters collecting their respective bounties. Each comes back with a queen chess figurine. All of the characters caught by Spike, Faye and Jet are absolute crumb bums. They aren't the "masterminds." No bounty is collected to begin the latest installment of Cowboy Bebop, Session #14, Bohemian Rhapsody.

None of our primary players wants to be selfless. No one is willing to cooperate or collaborate. Faye suggests pooling their info together to get the bounty, of course she's playing them as only Faye can. She's a master opportunist. Still, our boys have no interest in joining forces as a unit initially, but they relent to Faye's idea and 'fess up all they know.

One thing is certain in this particular vision of the future, it's every man or woman for themself. The outlaw life is just crawling with criminals and opportunists with little regard for anyone or anything around them.

Ed is annoying in general, but she serves a purpose in helping our criminal gang get their bounties. I must admit I can certainly see why Ed is played for androgynous. She doesn't really exhibit any kind of female tendencies. She's definitely more of a tomboy. So Ed is given one of the chess game pieces and learns it is a data chip to access the net. Ed finds a mysterious aged figure who has been playing a game.

Jet goes to the feds and calls them on their little game. They are using the bounty hunters to get to Chess Master Hex who has apparently returned to stir up trouble at the age of 98. It appears he's met his match in Ed. Hex is a programmer who aided in the hyperspace gate project centralizing their control. He was fired when he questioned the program was being rushed. He's been missing for 50 years.

Ed informs his crewmates he is playing chess against the very man they are looking for. Other bounty hunters are after him as well including a fellow named Jonathan. They have tracked him to a floating scrap metal yard in space. Jonathan damages the Bebop to knock Jet out of commission.
*

Spike and Faye are looking for him aboard the floating scrap station. Spike and Jet happen upon floating cats, dogs, vegtables, people and even pigeons. It is a curious scene. What is up with this place? Spike and Faye stumble upon Hex and so does Jonathan who wants his money back.
*

It turns out Jonathan is Crazy Jonathan who starts shooting the place up, but he gets knocked out by Spike. Spike is sympathetic to the old chess master who just likes to play games.
*

Jet explains to the suits that Hex simply forgot about all of his traps. In return for their silence he tells the suits to leave the old codger alone. Jet won't go to the press if they leave him alone. Jet, the big softy, wouldn't want Ed to lose his chess partner.
*

Meanwhile back on the scrap station, Jonathan has joined the rest of the looney toons. It's a bit of an old retirement home for crazies at this point. Drink and be merry. Ed is beaten in the end and the old man closes his eyes. I suppose just another siesta in his sweet final days.
*

Bohemian Rhapsody: C+

Firefly Ep2: Serenity Part Two

Funny thing blogging, on a creative level, nothing gives me more joy than running through the varied currents of my latest science-fiction exercise of the week and sharing it with you. That and family of course. Typing on a blank screen like some kind of canvas and filling it with pictures and visual images is somehow fairly satisfying. In fact, I think about the only thing that might give me greater satisfaction would be to find that inherent gift of Joss Whedon writing brilliance shined down upon me from the heavens from pen to paper to write something as wonderful and timeless as Firefly. Would that day ever come it would be a great joy indeed. Until such time, I shall continue to squeeze in my own personal explorations and analysis right here with my fellow sci-fi comrades between work, coaching, cooking, splinter removals, bills and the occasional trip to the bathroom.

The thrilling pilot entry continues. Serenity Part One and Serenity Part Two combine as one lengthy pilot on Blu-Ray, but I had to break it up for sanity purposes while assembling for the blog. As we all know, Part One was a thrill ride and loaded to the hilt with exciting character introductions and splendid 'verse table-setting. Here we go with the launch of Firefly, Episode 2, Serenity Part Two.

When we last left our heroes aboard the Serenity, Mal had opened a freezer box in the cargo hold unveiling one adorably naked girl in the form of Summer Glau in the old birthday suit. Who is she? She wakes screaming. She knows Simon's name as he runs to her side. He clearly cares for the girl. She holds him. "This is my sister." Her name is River. She is the final regular character to be introduced in the series. Simon takes five to fill in the crew. Simon is clearly a gifted individual. He informs all that his sister makes him look like "an idiot child." His sister is brilliant and apparently a more gifted individual. His family decided to send her to a government-sponsored school at the age of fourteen. She wrote Simon until the letters to her ceased arriving. She informed him, "they're hurting us, get me out." Simon knew he must save his sister. He came upon an underground movement that informed him the government was "playing with her brain." He indicates here that this group could inevitably aid him in getting his sister out. This is explained in greater detail visually in the feature length film Serenity, but I don't believe it plays out in the movie as it is hinted to or explained here if my recollection is correct. When Simon finishes with his story, Mal cheekily calls his story "a tale of woe, very stirring." Mal is more concerned about his crew being pursued by The Alliance. Mal is always concerned for his crew. Mal admits "we finish the job." He wants to unload the goods and "keep flying." Simon asks what will become of he and his sister. Mal suggests if Kaylee lives, Simon and River will be free to leave next stop. Inara threatens to leave Serenity if Simon and River are cast aside.

Simon confronts Mal and wants to know what Mal fears in The Alliance. Mal firmly suggests he not push him on the subject. When he does, Simon gets another big, fat, right hook.

Later, Mal interrogates The Alliance mole regarding what he knows. Mal tells the man he has left the job to a knife-wielding Jayne. Mal mutters softly to Jane as he exits. "Now you're only gonna scare 'em," says Mal, because that's the kind of guy Mal is. A line like that really speaks volumes about the character of the man that is Mal Reynolds. He is a good man left to deal with the realities of a harsh universe. After Mal is gone, Lawrence, the Alliance mole, tells Jayne that the girl, referring to River, is a "precious commodity." He continues, "long after you bury me, they'll be coming." As Lawrence talks and Jayne listens, Lawrence begins to realize Jayne isn't the sharpest tool in the shed and looks to be fairly open to the power of suggestion. He offers to make a deal with Jayne that could garner him enough funds to buy his own ship, a "better one than this piece of crap." Jayne is certainly one to consider his options. He's a player, an opportunist. Jayne inquires if his offer means "turning on the Captain." You know the answer.

On the bridge of the Serenity, Wash picks up a vessel that is "operating without core containment," translated means its passengers are exposed to a high level of radiation. Most normal living, breathing creatures would die from such an arrangement without the protection from a vessel's core. Something is different about this. There is no music. The mood is somber and Mal mentions one word, "Reavers." If I recall, this would be the one entry to give us a general sense of dread regarding the Reavers. We would not actually have the chance to meet and engage this enemy in this short series any more than they do in the second portion of this pilot. The sheer mention of the Reavers was enough to instill fear into the passengers' hearts, but it would not be until the feature length motion picture Serenity that we would see and learn more about the bloody, literally, Reavers. "God" says Mal. "Oh God oh God" says Wash.

You really get a sense of just how feared the Reavers are. They have established a reputation and you can see it in the faces of those aboard the Serenity. It is near quiet as the mood is really built up beautifully in the sequence. There is real tension. Coming face to face with the Reavers is clearly tantamount to facing death and is the least desired path. The silence is deafening. The vacuum of space has never been handled with more convincing terror than the silence employed in this sequence. Horror has never been more deftly delivered for television without actually seeing the enemy. Lives are hanging in the balance here and you can feel it.

*
The execution of the sequence is science fiction heaven. I love this stuff!

The team clearly has lady luck on their side this time around. Kaylee is coming around after being shot in the gut in Serenity Part One. She tells the Captain it's no one's fault. She asks him to remember that and the Captain tells her he'll "keep it in mind." Kaylee is a peacekeeper and a bridge builder. She doesn't actually build physical bridges, but works on bringing people together and fortifying relationships. She's a real diplomat. She is a positive force on Serenity. She was referred to by Joss Whedon as the soul of the ship and her crew. Her innocence is adored by Mal. She represents what he used to be I suspect. He loves her for it. "You just gotta have faith in people" she tells Mal. That's exactly the problem. Mal has lost his faith. That is something running in short supply for Mal and he struggles with it. Those aboard Serenity keep it alive for him.

Meanwhile, Simon and Inara talk with one another. He apologizes for his part in what happened with Kaylee. Inara understands and tells him "you're lost in the woods." It's a powerful metaphor. She continues, "We all are even the Captain, the only difference is he likes it that way." She's so right. Mal jealously interrupts. Mal exhibits real displeasure with Inara and her role as companion. Mal tells Simon he can see things clearer in the woods. Why do I understand how he feels? I imagine many of us feel that way when the world hardly makes sense. It's funny, but there is a real chemistry between Inara and Mal and the back and forth is always engaging. Each actor was perfectly cast in their respective roles. There is so much chemistry aboard the Serenity. Mal and Inara continue building walls between themselves, masking their pains and their problems with one another, rather than communicating honestly. In an odd way, it's what they know and they, like many of us, don't know how to break from the cycle. At the same time it's survival and self-preservation and ironically if it means Mal can be with her it will have to do because he does love her.

Mal meets up with Simon and explains the predicament he has while he and his sister remain on board. The Fed mole will also need to be dealt with at some point. He tells Simon his time is running out and that "Kaylee's dead." He turns and walks away. Simon runs stumbling back to medlab. He really is psychotic. This is priceless and gives us another glimpse of the man.

A cowgirl/ business woman named Patience hails Mal and the crew. She knows the drill. She knows the loot is Alliance marked. She's okay with that. Mal indicates, "I believe that woman's planning to shoot me again," alluding to the fact they share a history. Mal knows something is up. But one way or another it needs to happen. I like this moment because you really sense Mal's desperation a bit. The Alliance pretty much squeezes him, his crew and his ship. The organization's ability to extend its government tentacles throughout space serves as a real problem for the captain. Mal does everything in his power to remain outside of its reach, outside of its grip [simply sing that theme song people]. If it means being an intergalactic Robin Hood, he'll do it, but no way in hell will he relent to the realities of survival in a post-Alliance galaxy. It ain't gonna happen! He will not let it. This is a gripping example of the kind of dialogue and character interaction that dart through the terrific series.

What I love about Mal's indignant anger is that he refuses to be relent, give up or succumb to becoming some kind of down on his luck, loser. He will make his way if it kills him. I think I know of a few less than industrious people that could learn a thing or two from Mal, except for that smuggling part.

Just because it's cool!

So, the Serenity lands in Whitefall and lands with some pretty, impressive special effects I might add. As Mal, Zoe and Jayne head out they are quite aware of the possibility of an ambush by old friend Patience. The team prepares for the deal to go down by scoping out their very western surroundings. There's definitely a hint of spaghetti Western to the whole vibe. You might half expect to see Clint Eastwood make an appearance complete with that whistle sound from The Good, The Bad And The Ugly given their wardrobe, guns, holsters and general ready-for-a-showdown look. It's terrific stuff. If you asked me if I would enjoy a Western fused with Science Fiction as a genre form years ago I would have laughed. I'm a changed man. I'm a believer now. This is your typical sparkling dialogue and exactly why Firefly is special.

Zoe: "Don't think it's a good spot sir. She still has the advantage over us."

Mal: "Everyone always does, that's what makes us special."

You gotta love that! "Don't kill anyone if you don't have to." But if you have to definitely do it! Kidding aside, this is once again just a brief little bit that speaks to the heart of a man with certain ethics and morals that have been pushed aside or at least tempered with the goal of survival. Back on Serenity, Book visits the incarcerated fed. Book is knocked unconscious and even after being knocked out is given an unmerciful double-pounding. YOWZA! It is not pleasant and says alot about the enemy that is The Alliance. The fed finds his belongings and attempts to logon to a PDA-like device that accesses something called the Central Cortex, but there's no connection. He does get his gun. River awakens in medlab calling for Simon. Held at gunpoint, the fed has River and that would be all that he needs.

Outside, with Jayne taken to higher ground as cover for both Mal and Zoe, Mal and Zoe meet up with Patience arriving fittingly on horseback. By the way, Patience has such a great western-styled ring to is doesn't it. Is there anything on this show that isn't well thought out. Jayne finds one of Patience' sniper goons and takes him out. Now Jayne has Patience through the scope's cross hairs after flashing it over his partner Mal. Mal and Patience prepare to make the deal as he shows Patience a sample of the high protein food supplements. That was a pretty good surprise. I thought the gold bars were gold, but they are food stuffs and apparently just as valuable as gold. Mal informs Patience of the location of the goods and the two sort of pause in a kind of Mexican stand off. Mal asks politely for Patience and company to leave first. Now that Patience has what she needs, the little double-crossing, old granny plans on getting the bag of money back she just threw over to Mal. She's a vicious, vile little septuagenarian [I think]. As a result, a down and dirty shoot 'em up ensues and Zoe takes a hard shot to the chest after most of Patience' crew goes down. It's a wild exchange and does the Western proud.

Wash tries telling Simon to see about getting dropped off somewhere a bit more civilized than Whitefall when this is all over. Simon says not to worry, but Wash always worries especially when Zoe is out making deals with Mal. The shooting sequence is juxtaposed with the security and warmth of the Serenity. This concludes with a bit of trouble when Kaylee informs over the intercom that the fed has taken River. He's a fly in the ointment. As the fed is close to exiting, Simon leaps over one of the overhangs and jumps on top of him.

With the shoot out over, Zoe leans up off the ground. Wisely, as only a good smuggler can with sound preparation, she lives. She was protected by an armored vest, now complete with dent. "Well, you were right about this being a bad idea," says Mal. "Thanks for saying sir," retorts Zoe. Zoe has a real respect for Mal and is a true soldier who understands chain-of-command. Patience is all that is left and she tells Mal not to take another step. With one shot he takes down her horse, which falls upon her. Here are Mal's final words and they are a beaut!

The bad news is Whitefall has incoming hostiles in the form of Reavers. Seriously, when do pilots ever get this exciting? I think Lost may have been one of the few that pulled it off in aces, but Serenity Part One and Serenity Part Two are simply amazing in their pacing. This is inspired work.

On board Serenity, Wash informs all aboard via intercom Reavers are incoming and that normally means their vessel needs to move fast and move fast now. They exit in one minute's time. Between the Serenity and the Reaver vessel some serious cash went into the look and design of the science fiction portion of Firefly. It is exciting stuff to look at, a true feast for the eyes. Things are getting tense as the Reavers have entered Whitefall's atmosphere. Mal, Zoe and Jayne are on horseback and riding like the wind back to the old girl. You can sense the dread, panic and general desperation in Wash's voice. He is anxious to pull out of there before it is too late. These are people who understand the danger that lies ahead.

Simon holds the quote unquote "lawman" at gunpoint as he tries to smooth talk Simon. A badly wounded Book looks on with a big, bloody gash. This is the kind of stuff that made Firefly so damn fun. It shoots from the hip [literally] and simply blows you away. You just can't turn your eyes away.

Well, they were in a hurry and now their off! The Reaver and Serenity chase sequence is intense and mostly a tour de force of sci-fi aerial excitement. It needs to be seen on the big screen to be fully enjoyed appreciated.

There is an exchange between Mal and Inara during the heat of the chase that really sheds some light on Mal's true feelings for Inara as he touches her shoulder and tells her to leave the ship in the shuttle with the civilians. Mal has a heart of gold for those he deems worthy of showing. Wash has a plan and Kaylee knows it. The two appear to work in sync. She offers full burn of the girl's engines and Wash tells her to prepare it. Book assists the injured Kaylee. Mal calls for an "Ivan." Wash asks Kaylee how she would feel about pulling a "Crazy Ivan." She always wanted to give it a try. The Reavers prepare to hit their pray with an electronic grappler. How can one resist an electronic grappler!? Oh for cryin' out loud, it may not be the big screen, in fact, it may be the smallest damned screen going, but I just gotta show you one of my all-time favorite sci-fi moments in science fiction television. Here ya go with the absolutely fantastic Crazy Ivan maneuver!

I love how the ship reverses direction in what probably amounts to a technical marvel that defies logic I'm sure. Further, Serenity literally loads up on full burn and lays waste to the Reavers absolutely disintegrating the animals. Outta sight people! Are you diggin' this? And how 'bout the sweet stroke of Kaylee's hand on the body of the Serenity. t's true love. She caresses her like a baby and we intuitively understand her affection. To celebrate, Zoe and Wash head off for a touch of stress release if you know what I mean.

Inara tends to Book. His faith has wavered by all that he is seen this day. He appears shaken. "I think I'm on the wrong ship" he tells her. Inara places her hand on his head conversely giving Book some faith of her own. She tells him he might have it right. Either way, Book is a man in search of himself. Inara may be one of the most grounded of the crew, one of the most confident and self-assured of any of them. Clearly, this whore really has it together. The image is almost Christ-like as Inara offers her trust to Book. It's an image of forgiveness and I cannot help but feel a Christian parallel to the moment.

Simon tends to his sister. River has spent most of her time resting thus far. She didn't think Simon would come for her. He calls her a "dummy." The siblings embrace.

Mal and Jayne talk about the fed. Mal knows the scumbag offered Jayne a deal. It makes sense to me now why Jayne initially placed Mal in the site of his gun. He thought about the deal that was made by the fed. He knew if he wanted to he could take down Mal, but he didn't do it. He tells Mal here there wasn't enough money offered to turn on Mal. If I recall correctly, Jayne came to Mal nearly the same way. Jayne shot his partners with Mal held at gunpoint. So you have to imagine Mal isn't completely certain of Jayne's motivations and would certainly proceed with an element of caution. Still, he puts his faith and trust in Jayne with what little he has to offer. Jayne is like the girlfriend you got when she cheated on her boyfriend with you. Will she do the same to you next? We won't know all that transpired, but I'd hazard to guess Jayne enjoys the bad boy / outlaw status, but that down deep he's in search of something more, be it a brother, be it a family, be it acceptance and trust. He tells Mal it will be an interesting day should the right offer ever come along. "Imagine it will," responds Mal. Sadly, we'd never have the chance to find out.

Simon asks Mal where he'll be getting dumped off. Mal says they're safest on the move. Mal makes an offer to the medic of staying on board Serenity for refuge until something better comes along. Simon aks how he'd would know if Mal would ever wanted to kill him in his sleep. Mal replies, "You don't know me son, so let me explain this to you once. If I ever kill you, you'll be awake, you'll be facing me and you'll be armed." Okay. You see, he's a straight shooter. Mal is a man of honor in a world of thieves. He's playing by the rules of thieves while hanging on to his own code. Simon isn't quite sure what to make of the captain. The captain tells him "We're still flying." Simon says, "that's not much." The captain replies, in two words what it all means to him, "that's enough." That's everything to this series.

That's enough for now compadres. Stick around for joy space cowboys.

Serenity Part Two: A

Writer: Joss Whedon

Director: Joss Whedon