Bob May [The Robot]: 1939-2009

"Man, they're just dropping like flies on you."- The One To Be Pitied.

You know I was going to say 'who's next' last week when I wrote about the passing of Ricardo Montalban. I held back because I really didn't want to see another one of our beloved sci-fi legends fall. You know the rule: Things Happen In Three. So they say. So I thought, nope, I will not go there. I will not allow myself to be apart of some superstitious nonsense. I wake today to find the man in the suit behind our beloved Robot on Irwin Allen's Lost In Space has passed away at 69. It was bad enough losing Majel Barret only to be followed by and compounded by another huge loss in Ricardo Montalban and now Bob May. Damn!

Does anyone listen up there? Please stop taking our friends. You are picking them off one by one.

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Marta Kirsten, next to our beloved Robot, really was a supreme Norwegian-born babe! There's Lennier to the right!

Bob May, for me anyway, is not instantly recognizable. He was always inside the The Robot. He was the David Prowse of Lost In Space. David Prowse had the unenviable job of physically playing Darth Vader in Star Wars while getting little to no glory. The voice of Darth Vader is of course James Earl Jones and he always stole the show with that deep, thunderous voice box. Let's face it, he was the face of Darth Vader. Well, May was the man inside the suit. The voice of The Robot was Dick Tufeld. Tufeld certainly doesn't have the stature of James Earl Jones, but for those of us who loved The Robot he was definitely the man for the job. In other words, Bob May unfortunately doesn't get the credit for suc classic lines as "Danger Will Robinson!," but he did bring one of the most memorable characters in the sci-fi cannon to life for three seasons [funny both Lost In Space and Star Trek aired for three seasons each].

May donned the suit and certainly endured many hardships for three amazing seasons of that classic show. For that we thank him. I really wanted to show you a clip, but I do not have the DVDs yet. I used to have the VHS tapes, but decided to throw them away because I couldn't take the quality or the rewinding any longer. I had to take a stand. I had to move forward. On principle, I refused to place that big, fat, black cartridge into the VHS machine one more time. No way. No how. This is why I have no video clip for you of The Robot. Darn it! I really wish I had those VHS tapes [okay, perhaps not really].

Let's hope that does it for 2009.

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Update! People! I have a video. It's as if the science fiction gods were shining down upon me. I happened upon some terrific documentaries on Star Trek and Lost In Space this evening on the Bio Channel including Lost In Space Forever where I stumbled upon this fitting clip about The Robot & Bob May by sheer chance. Talk about luck. I couldn't have planned it better if made a camp fire and arranged a prayer dance. It's the perfect tribute to the man. Behold as the man, errr... Robot plays guitar no less!

Kirk & Bones: The Great Ice Planet Adventure: Part 6: The Big Thaw

With the Mystery Babe now gone. Kirk and Bones break free of the packed snow drift as the planet temperature begins to warm and they begin to thaw.

Kirk: Which way did did she go Bones?

Bones: Damned if I know Jim. I'm just trying to get the feeling back in my hands and legs.

Kirk: Look, we're free from the ice. I'm not sure which way she went, but she couldn't have gone far.

Bones: What's wrong with that woman? Couldn't she see we were in need of aid and we were in pain. Now that is cold Jim.

Kirk: Ah, Bones, it's the way of the galaxy. She's playing hard to get. It's in a woman's nature. I don't care what planet you're from you can't escape the challenge of the chase, the thrill of the pursuit, the game of love. Much like this planet, behind that icy exterior is a woman yearning to light a raging fire of passion.

Bones: Huh? Whatever. I've had just about enough of this place. We need to find help and fast. If the rapid change in temperature is any indication we could be in for a cold spell before you know it. We've got to find some way of reaching Scotty. Here, without phasers, we'll need these snazzy little ice balls just in case for protection.
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Kirk: Easy does it Bones. We have ourselves a fancy female to find. We'll need more than that for protection. Lady luck tells me we might just be able to pull it off before our next dance with death comes along.

Bones: Good grief. How in heaven's name we ever get off these planets will forever be a wonder.

To Be Continued...

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"You're outside playing with your dolls and there's still no coffee in my hand!" - The One To Be Pitied.

"Hey! Those are action figures." -The Sci-Fi Fanatic.

Folks, let it be said, creating drama with Star Trek Action figures is no easy task. Never mind tending to The One To Be Pitied.

First, there is the covert operation of filming either in broad daylight or the undercover of night. Every effort is made not to be spotted by neighbors. Granted most are good friends and know that I am making movie magic and tend to be ho-hum about the whole thing. "Oh, it's just that crazy Sci-Fi Fanatic. No bother." They must see me when I think I'm completely incognito and think, "why is he playing with dolls?" I would of course correct them on their labelling pointing out they are definitely not dolls.
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Second, there is the bit with my actors whereby they are completely temperamental and difficult to work with at times. They don't always cooperate. Wind gusts and other such elements can often wreak unmerciful havoc with an establishing shot and the next thing you know you have Bones doing a face plant into Kirk's crotch. The camera has to be placed down on the ground and every effort has to be made to get them back in position. Sometimes, it's a bitch when you're working with more than two actors and they just refuse to play nice. You can spend far too much time in the wind and cold to get just one or two shots on a bad day.

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Anyway, it's all in the name of sci-fi magic [or not].

B5 S4 Ep18: Intersections In Real Time

Honestly, this opening shot is the perfect, photographic representation of everything that is stripped down and naked in this episode.
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Sheridan lays in a confined room in less than perfect physical health to put it mildly. An interrogator visits him. An electric zapper dubbed a pain giver shackles him. They were designed for use on the Narn. In fact, if I’m not mistaken, they were used by an assassin on G’Kar way back in Season One, Episode 5, The Parliament Of Dreams. The interrogator has arrived to force Sheridan into compliance with Earth’s requirement for cooperation. He is placed in a chair to meet those needs.

We sit in our own armchairs to behold brilliance with one of Babylon 5’s finest moments ever in the form of Season Four, Episode 17, Intersections In Real Time [formerly titled One Small Room & Two Men Really Acting Their Asses Off]. There’s something to be said about a director and actors who can pull off a story with limited visual information to inform that story for its entire duration. This installment does just that and does so in spades. What a spectacular achievement. I could go back and watch this one several times. In fact, I did watch it twice.

One of the big reasons this story works so well is the casting of one Raye Birk as William the interrogator. Without the right man for the job this thing could have been an unmitigated disaster. Certainly the writing by J. Michael Straczynski, the direction and the music has got to be there and all of it indeed is every step of the way beginning with the opening music number by Christopher Franke. Franke really sets the tone. Actor Birk is a true character study. He must have had a ball portraying the company man in this fashion. He is a powerful weasel backed by company teeth. Who wouldn’t want that meaty role? I was so impressed by his performance I went to Wikipedia to find out more about him. It turns out he was on one of my favorite shows long ago The Wonder Years. God if I can remember the man, but he must have been good. He also appeared in The X-Files. I look forward to seeing him there when I get to that series for the blog. Anyway, his part is terrific and his manipulative, methodical, studied demeanor is the perfect foil to Bruce Boxleitner’s work, which is also outstanding here. Boxleitner probably doesn’t get enough credit because he has been so consistently good throughout the series. He shines here. He isn't the least bit upstaged by the remarkable Birk. Wayne Alexander also guests as a Drazi in this one. It’s certainly no great secret he played Lorien for all of Season Four and Jack the Ripper in Season Two, Episode 21, Comes The Inquisitor. All in all, Intersections In Real Time is real damn good.

The entirety of the episode takes place within the confines of a single room. It is a riveting drama attack. There are no subplots or breaks in the action to other threads along the way. The interrogation of John Sheridan is the central and only focused point of the story in play here and it is a performance feast for two men. As entertainment goes it is simply brilliant. Boxleitner and Birk make it happen. Birk is to Intersections In Real Time what Wayne Alexander was to Comes The Inquisitor two years earlier. It is a juicy turn. There is so much to share beginning with this first meeting between the interrogator and Sheridan and a simple discussion of, of all things, corned beef to manipulate the proceedings accordingly for Birk.



In a fit of hunger Sheridan snatches the corned beef from the interrogator’s hands, but then pauses to consider that it might just be poisoned. Much discussion of the actual truth is bandied about between these two men throughout the entry. The question of truth is constantly in play. What is the truth?

“The truth is fluid. The truth is subjective,” explains the interrogator. “The truth is sometimes what you believe it to be and other times what you decide it to be. My task is to make you decide to believe differently.” How brilliant is this writing? It is so insightful and once again gets to the heart of human behavior. I always thought O.J. Simpson was a perfect example of this. While he was clearly a murderer he had decided to believe certain facts and never veered from that belief. It was delusional in a sense. So we continue to be treated to the behavioral truths of the world via Straczynski. The interrogator manipulates Sheridan with real examples. The Minbari were once enemies, but no longer. “A soldier accepts that the face of truth changes on a daily basis.” The truth never actually changes. It is the perception of truth that changes because people change it and alter the reality of the truth by altering people's view of it. Truth is truth. Still, there are facts and there is truth and then there is everything else. Such things are black and white to me. Perceptions are created that may stem from truth, but are spun to generate something far different. Realities are created that twist truth and fact and we see it daily on television regarding our political leaders. This one is evil. This one is our savior. Believe none of it. Rarely are facts reported accurately. This is why the media does not report truth, but rather contorted agendas. This is why Straczynski’s media arm in the series is an excellent example of truth versus lies. Damn! This is such delicious stuff I'm caught up in the philosophy surrounding truth and I digress. The interrogator specifically plays with the truth when dealing with Sheridan and omits certain facts to create a different reality.

Watch that other hand John.
J. Michael Straczynski is on his game here. The writing is consistently fascinating, thought-provoking and yet thoroughly entertaining. That is a tough line to walk. The whole thing plays out like a stage play. I would love to see this one in a theatre.

The interrogator manipulates words, facts, and truths accordingly. This is a follow-up to the corned beef exchange and I love how Sheridan just digs in with a real sign of strength here. Don’t mess with me. I won't fold.



Pushing our buttons? Well, they really pushed my happy button with this one!
Well, it turns out the interrogator was telling the truth when he said the sandwich wouldn’t kill him, but it was harmful and loaded with toxins by the way. The omission of truth can be nearly as deleterious. The interrogator intends on breaking Sheridan physically and mentally to reach into his mind. Sheridan proves he is such a strong soldier in his ability to box up and protect his mind from harmful influence.

The man insists what he tells Sheridan is the absolute truth. He speaks the truth by limiting his words, but he does not shed light on the full extent of that which he speaks. He avoids details in word and generalizes accordingly. If I were Sheridan I would definitely be asking a lot of questions. Then again, the man is a company man for a corrupt Earth government and cannot be trusted by his very existence.

As I viewed this amazing episode I kept thinking about how limited the visuals were and how I, The Sci-Fi Fanatic, would have difficulty providing worthy photos for this blog entry to my friends here. The scenes are more or less static, but despite these limitations it is electric in its dramatic impact to the viewer. I’m reminded of Castaway with Tom Hanks and what an achievement that was for director and actor to create such a moving picture. This is no easy undertaking. Perhaps Castaway was even harder with just the one actor, but Intersections In Real Time comes close. Director John LaFia serves up an impressive effort keeping the proceedings moving within these limited confines and between the two actors for 42 minutes. It is a gripping, grueling stuff.

The interrogator looks to confirm certain facts with Sheridan concerning who his second-in-command is on Babylon 5. The exchange is pretty humorous actually. I love when Sheridan scoffs at the interrogator’s concept of harmless. The man explains, “There’s no harm in that- no reason you shouldn’t tell me.” Sheridan mutters, “Oh I’m sure there is.”

You know Sheridan would just love to put his hands around his scrawney little neck and throttle him.
Sheridan is growing weaker physically as the interrogator returns each day. Sheridan hobbles back to the chair from the floor. The interrogator plays games with Sheridan’s mind a bit mentioning his father. “Your father, he sends his regards.”

Earth government has furnished a full confession. So kind of them to do so. This is one of the many significant exchanges within those four walls.



An imprisoned Drazi is eventually brought before Sheridan. Wayne Alexander portrays the Drazi. If there was any gripe from me at all it would be that I might have preferred to see someone other than Alexander do the portrayal. His voice is so distinct and after listening to him for all of Season Four as Lorien it’s quite noticeable. Nevertheless, it’s a minor quibble. Following much torture at the hands of Earth's harbingers of doom the Drazi supports the claim that Sheridan has been under alien influence as an alibi for Sheridan. Sheridan is incensed with his government's use of torture and pleads for the Drazi to stop. This is yet another powerful moment for Boxleitner and we learn with just a few words a touch more about the character of our dear friends the Drazi.



The interrogator warns the Drazi this is his “very last chance.” He will be killed. He is dragged away and Sheridan hears the sound of the Drazi scream emanating from another room. The interrogator seeks a “sincere apology” from Sheridan. It cannot be coerced or could be picked up via a telepathic scan. The man tells Sheridan his “superiors” know others will fall in line behind Sheridan if they gain his backing and support.

The interrogator moves to the next phase of Sheridan's reprogramming by leaving a torturous tape loop playing loudly through the evening until his return the next day. When he returns Sheridan is weary and nearly beaten physically. His defenses are weakening. We note he has been removed from solid foods, living intravenously off a drip for sustenance. And now he is to be removed from the drip as well. They need Sheridan’s signature on that dotted line.

Sheridan knows his death will be inevitable once they have what they need. The interrogator tells him he will not be killed. He admits they will come for him someday, but not for some time. The government needs to parade him around for a bit until he is forgotten. They need Sheridan as a “symbol” and “warning” to others who speak or defy Earth’s iron fist of power under Clark rule. An image of Delenn reassures Sheridan as she stands behind the interrogator. His manacles are removed to allow him to sign that confession. This is pure, understated performance at its best.



I don't think I've ever heard the word "no," delivered quite so sincerely and convincingly. The man has failed and is certainly disappointed as he indicates the next move is out of his hands and exits. When he returns he tells Sheridan he is a war hero and a liability to the existing Earth government. Every word he breathes, every move he makes, every breath he takes he is a liability to them. He is a threat. Being a war hero is understandably coupled with credibility. He must be silenced. He tells him the idea of a posthumous confession can be created via technology without his help and that it is indeed “an acceptable option” to his superiors.



He is taken away. It’s his “very last chance.” Sheridan is off to Room 17. Yikes. It even sounds scary. A priest hovers over his moving gurney reciting his last rites. Delenn’s image appears in the doorway to Room 17. A black hooded figure exits the room. Sheridan is removed from the gurney, placed in a chair and another interrogation computer table is brought before him. He is locked back into place. A new interrogator arrives. The figure behind the company man removes the black hood to reveal the Drazi.

I believe this was an amazing end to an amazing episode. It had me thinking once again and I love it when we are left with no easy solutions or Hollywood conclusions that are spelled out for us. I believe the Drazi symbolized life. He was a symbol for Sheridan to stay true, stand strong on his chosen path. I also thought what if the Drazi was real. What if he was never killed? What if he worked for the Earth government and smiled at him out of support for his cause. What if Sheridan’s point was accurate? Perhaps you aren’t expendable if you never give up. Still, I believe the former is a more likely scenario. I give you a penny for your thoughts fellow Babylonians on this one. Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi, you're my only hope.

'If by some small miracle I can get my strength back, I am going to kick your ass.'
I stand humbled by this entry in utter awe and amazement of its success and how it was pulled off. The sheer focus and singularity of vision and clarity of this installment was pure genius and really worked for me. I thought it executed and delivered even more successfully than Comes The Inquisitor. I suppose it's a bit like comparing apples to oranges, but the general idea of Sheridan and Delenn [and moreso Delenn] tackling the Inquisitor is similiar. I though Comes The Inquisitor, with Intersections In Real Time now available for comparison, suffered from the occasional brake in tension and pacing to other story lines and this worked to its detriment. I loved the lack of clutter here. 42 minutes in a single room. What an achievement. Those involved had to be proud of this one. It is pure and for that it is one of the best of the series.

Intersections In Real Time: A

Ricardo Montalban: 1920-2009

Space, the final frontier. And so goes another to the stars. The beloved Mexican born, Fantasy Island [1978-1984] actor Ricardo Montalban passes to the next life at the age of 88.

It's always sad to see one of our beloved Star Trek connections go to the great beyond. Montalban was there to give me much enjoyment with Fantasy Island along with his co-star Herve Villechaize [1943-1993] who played Tattoo. Herve has since passed as well. Would these people please stop dying on me!
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Montalban was certainly renowned for the line, "Welcome to Fantasy Island," but for us science fiction fans he was notable for playing a key role in Star Trek: The Original Series. He delivered the charismatic role of genetically engineered super guy Khan Noonien Singh in Star Trek, Season One, Episode 22, Space Seed. The Enterprise would discover a 20th century vessel whereby they would revive Khan from a sleeper state. Montalban was one of the most delicious villains of the Federation and a real thorn in the side of Captain James T. Kirk. He would be one of his greatest adversaries. His portrait was so memorable he would reprise the role for one of the best Star Trek films to ever grace the silver screen, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. He also appeared in the third and fourth installments of the Planet Of The Apes series, Escape From The Planet Of The Apes and Conquest Of The Planet Of The Apes respectively.
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It's funny I should pull up the news on Montalban today. Just recently I had read a bit about his co-star from Space Seed, Madlyn Rhue [1935-2003] who played Lt. Marla McGivers. She was one of those rare beauties. She was a red shirt no less and she too befalls her own fate to the seductive ways of Khan. Sadly she has since passed away from multiple sclerosis. I just can't stand it I tell you.
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All of these wonderful actors are dropping like flies and making me feel very mortal lately. They are really putting a damper on my delusion that I might be able to live forever.
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Anyway, it's another sad day for Star Trek fandom to see the man behind one of science-fiction's finest performances depart, the recipient of one of Kirk's most famously utterred words "KHAAAAAAAAN!" gone, and yet another cold, hard dose of reality for The Sci-Fi Fanatic.

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Here is one of the final moments from Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Ricardo Montalban breathes fire and venom from the vengeful character of Khan. He was a key component to the revival of Star Trek on film.

Planet Of The Apes

It's official. I enter the new year with my own plunge of sorts viewing my first Blu-Ray disc ever. I decided upon the classic, Planet Of The Apes [1968]. The Girl and Boy Wonder watched along with me to make it an event. It's hard to believe but the film is actually rated G. Can you believe that? There is nudity, violence and a frighteningly intense score powered by one Jerry Goldsmith. Still, in all seriousness, it's pretty tame compared to the films of today I suppose. But when your kids ask you questions like, "Did he just say 'damn you, God damn you all to hell'?" or "Dad, why are the apes beating the snot out of that man?" or "eww, why is that woman dead?" that might be considered PG [parental guidance]. I'm thinking. I mean, let's face it, it's not Bambi or A Bug's Life or even Ice Age. Being a smart ass aside, Planet Of The Apes is terrific science-fiction and weaves terrific political and social commentary throughout. All of it goes way over the kids' heads. I think. They are just so smart today.

And forget about the overrated Tim Burton reimagining of Planet Of The Apes. In many ways I'm the last person to fall in line behind a Burton film. I never seem to fully appreciate his work and generally feel they fail to deliver in the final analysis. Certainly he has a fanbase out there and his films are visually trademark Burton, but their bloated on visual style and the scripts are often weak or weird. His recreation of the 1968 classic Planet Of The Apes just doesn't cut the mustard. It's okay, but kind of pointless when you have the amazing original.

I thought I'd step back in time for this one and while it is a visually stunning film it's also loaded with thoughtful commentary on human behavior. Whether it's the evolution of man or ape, the treatment of animals, class envy or any other social phenomenon this film delivers. You might think this film would be beating you over the head with social and political commentary, but it manages to be insightful and entertaining without the required ape drubbing. Case in point, as kids many of us renacted Planet Of The Apes without a thought or care about the power of the film's many messages. You're oblivious to the more complex layers of the film, which is why it delivers brilliantly on a number of levels. Rarely can a film walk that line.
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The film's screenplay was co-written with Rod Serling and it does play a bit like a colorized version of The Twilight Zone. It has that kind of serially pensive commentary within the framework of a science fiction film. Planet Of The Apes is based upon a book of the same name by late, French author Pierre Boulle [Bridge On The River Kwai no less]. The performances are splendid including that of the late Charlton Heston and the late, wonderful Roddy McDowall cloaked in ape make-up as Cornelius and along with Kim Hunter as Zira. The two really brighten the screen with some outstanding character roles. I always loved the curl and snicker of McDowall's Cornelius. By the way, it was the Cornelius doll, um action figure, that I once possessed that went on many a mission with the original Kirk & Bones. He's out there somewhere.


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Planet Of The Apes is a visually beautiful film too from the canyon vistas of Heston's initial crash to the location settings chosen for the primitive state established by the apes. Set designs, make-up, everything holds up over four decades later. It's really astonishing. On Blu Ray it is vibrant and I am humbled by the sharp picture quality of this original work. It can't hold a candle to the films made today and released on Blu Ray but it is spectacular for a film of that era. Still, it's the story and it is filled with suspense, striking music and stunning visual detail. It's interesting how many of the players involved in this work have passed on leaving the legacy of a film to speak for them and a story that endures the ages with lessons to teach without trying to hard. Things as simple as Heston's desire to leave his world behind for something different only to find himself returning to find just that. Be careful what you wish for as they say.

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Forget the apes, let's run off and start civilization all over together as fast as we can! R U with me? She is definitely one of those smokin' ultra hot hotties you'd find on vintage Star Trek!

US Astronauts crash land and find themselves on a planet turned upside down. Apes rule humans and the parable of man and animal is unleashed. When we first meet Taylor he is ironically looking for something better than man. In the end, he finds himself falling back on man's instinct to survive, use weapons and use his wits. When he rides off on the horse with the one primitive woman it's like Adam and Eve and an all new beginning. Of course there is that powerful conclusion with the Statue Of Liberty [a fitting symbol from French writer Boulle as the statue was given to the US by France as a gift of friendship in 1886]. Heston realizes he's been on Earth all along and that man, whom he had a low opinion of to begin with, has indeed destroyed the planet as represented by the fallen Statue of Liberty. The apes now rule a class-layered simian society and the ruling class prefers to keep it that way as any good, logically-thinking, powerful government would. They keep the truth buried to the masses and masque it all with falsehood. There are just loads and loads of moral lessons that are woven throughout this adventurous, risk-taking, time-travelling, sci-fi yarn.


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I must admit by today's standards it runs a little slower than most films [in particular when Heston's character, George Taylor, is imprisoned for the middle portion of the film and still it's fascinating], but it still kept my kids attention enough until the riveting conclusion that was lost on them. Still, can you imagine a film that explores characterization and story over special effects, noise and senseless, non-stop violence? You would do yourself justice to take a look at a classic in science fiction like the original Planet Of The Apes. It's out there and it's waiting for you to discover or re-discover it.
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Planet Of The Apes: A-

Kirk & Bones: The Polar Plunge

Kirk: I just love the smell of New Year in the morning.

Bones: I hear you Jim. Makes you feel alive. It's like being born again.

Kirk: Well Bones, I'm sure you're fighting that undeniable urge to strip down naked and go for a swim in sub zero ocean waters like me.

Bones: Yes. Nothing at all wrong with that.

Kirk: Perfectly normal behavior for a couple of fellows with nothing better to do but wet our whistles in these icy cool temps.

Bones: Perhaps we should take our shirts and boots off.

Kirk: My friend, we're Starfleet officers. We will wear our shirts, briefs and boots.

Bones: I suppose. Besides, our boots are screwed into our legs. This can't be any less pleasant than that. Most people would say you'd have to have plastic for brains to do something like this Jim, but not us though.

Kirk: No sir. We relish the challenge.

Bones: Damn it Jim I'm a doctor, not a ---

Kirk: Stop! I know, polar bear!

Bones: Well, actually I was going to say penguin, but right. You have the idea. Anyway, stop taunting me with such fun. The point is I just can't stand it anymore. We must plunge into the ice cold waters, harden our nipples and hope for pneumonia.

Kirk: Shall we then?

Bones: Let's.

Footnote: God bless those who like to do it, but I never could understand the Polar Plunge. Some do it for charity. That's nice. Some do it because they're just out of their freakin' minds. I would have liked to provide you with some location shooting at the local beach. Unfortunately that was just way too risky. There were far too many people to go running around with two naked dol...errr action figures, which is why special effects have been applied to my driveway. Having said that I'm not sure who is crazier.

B5 S4 Ep17: The Face Of The Enemy

This installment is a bloody good time.

The battle to reclaim Earth and the colonies from Clark gov is in full progress. Conditions grow harder and more desperate the closer to victory they get. This is “end game” as Ivanova dubs it in her narration.

Lyta and Franklin return to Mars. Garibaldi informs Edgars that Sheridan’s father is now in custody. The next phase to obtain Sheridan himself is in play. Edgars informs Garibaldi the truth is just a few days away and Sheridan may even thank him in the end. Garibaldi sincerely doubts it.

A massive line-up of guest stars populates the entry as we enter the airlock of Babylon 5, Season Four, Episode 17, The Face Of The Enemy. [formerly The Enemy Of Mine Enemy Is My Friend And Now Clearly Mine Enemy Too].

Sinclair is growing tired, frustrated and has certainly been on edge for most of the season. He is far easier to anger than ever. He is clearly a focused, driven man on a mission and lets nothing interfere with his desired goal. He wonders, “Why won’t they surrender? They can’t wanna’ die, not for Clark.” Captain Frank finally surrenders at the behest of Captain MacDougan. The propaganda machine on Earth has Earth’s military personnel believing they must not be captured. If it should happen they will not be spared. They will be executed and replaced by Minbari under Sheridan’s governance and direction. Of course, it's all a crock of shit and MacDougan gets Frank to relent and back down. At the same time Sheridan’s old warship Agamemnon arrives through a jump point. She and her crew have arrived to join the fight on Sheridan's side. Sheridan is fond of his old crew and ship and decides to board their ship to greet them. Marcus is opposed to the idea and I can’t say I would blame him. At the same time, after thinking about it, I can’t say Sheridan is crazy for wanting to go. At first I was thinking, don’t bloody do it. It’s kind of like a haunted house; if it’s haunted don’t go in, not that I've ever seen a haunted house. But again, I think it was a judgment call on his part and he was exhibiting a bit of faith in his fellow man.

On Mars, Number One of the resistance greets Franklin and Lyta. She’s none too crazy about the telepath tagging along with Franklin. And no it’s not jealousy because she’s with Franklin so just stop it! This is business and she no Lyta likey! I must admit I didn’t sense an ounce of chemistry between Franklin and Numero Uno. Nada. Granted it was a one-night stand, but it is a little surprising they shacked up in Season Four, Episode 11, Lines Of Communication. I suppose sexual chemistry is all that’s necessary. She is a frigid thing though. I'm thinking about this way too much. Speaking of cold, Lyta is required to handle their “cargo.” Yes, the frozen Psi-pops have joined them for their journey. Number One insists they have some splainin’ to do.

On the Agamemnon the Captain tells Sheridan, “The crew trusts you Captain. They believe that you’re a pain in the ass sir, but they trust you.” Excuse me, bend over while I shove this stick up your ass? Ha! I don’t think so. You ever talked like that to someone in that forum I’d think you’d get a pop. I don’t think he knew him well enough to speak with him in that manner. Marcus puts a transmission through to Sheridan from Garibaldi. Garibaldi informs Sheridan his Dad has been imprisoned on Mars. So begins the next phase of the Edgars/ Garibaldi plan.

Sheridan agrees to meet Garibaldi and do what he needs to do to get his father back. You know it smells TRAP, but I can’t blame him there either. You do what you have to for your Dad. Ivanova is concerned about his decision. Sheridan places Ivanova in charge of the roving freedom fleet. He impresses upon her it is important to maintain a human face in the command chair of the fleet. Minbari commanders would make people nervous and re-ignite old wounds and war fears. The last thing Sheridan wants is a reprisal of the Earth-Minbari War version 2.0.

On Mars, at dinner, there are clearly some trust issues between Number One and Lyta so Number One opts to leave the table. Lyta shares considerable Psi-Corps history with Franklin. She discusses a faction called the Bloodhound Unit within the Earth military. She is troubled and fears for a coming war between mundanes and telepaths. Boy, Lyta sure does have some dark, scary, probing eyes. They go right through you like black lasers.

On Babylon 5, Delenn and Lennier have returned and they will maintain order in Ivanova’s absence. Despite her inability to notice the subversive deception of her own caste’s subversion [Season Four, Episode 13, Rumors, Bargains And Lies], Delenn insightfully worries about Sheridan and whether Garibaldi can still be trusted. It's funny how Delenn is perceptive in some arenas and not in others. Clearly she needs Lennier.

On Mars, Sheridan meets with Garibaldi. This surely is one of the most disheartening moments of the series. My stomach just turned seeing two old friends, completely disconnected, face-to-face while one completely betrays the other. I was crushed, but what a terrific piece of creativity from Director Michael Vejar. The anonymous music actually works beautifully to heighten the tension. Sheridan spirals like a dying animal, the predators toppling and crippling their prey. It is tough to take.



Vejar's camera work serves up some pretty classic, up close and personal shots that have become a trademark of his personal, directorial touch. Interesting angles, strobes and visual ideas abound. Nice stuff.

Sheridan is subdued and taken down. Elsewhere, Marcus and Ivanova are aware of his capture via ISN. He is receiving- “proper care and treatment” as the report is spliced with his physical torture. I love edits like this. If that’s proper care and treatment, count us out. Delenn is startled from her nightmare. She seems very in tune and connected to the sheer brutality being endured by her man Sheridan.

Back on Mars, Garibaldi reports to Edgars demanding to know the truth. Edgars turns to him and hollers, “YOU CAN”T HANDLE THE TRUTH!” Kidding. Edgars, tells Garibaldi about the airborne nature of the virus he has created. There is also an antidote telepaths must take regularly to survive. The future is one in which normals may be able to control telepaths. They shall become a kind of “slave race” as Garibaldi puts it. Edgars plans on removing the Psi Corps element from power. They are Clark’s power base. He plans on rolling out the virus in days. Edgars explains the “telepath prob-” and stops. Now, I found that interesting. Why did he pause in mid-sentence on the word ‘problem’? He finishes with “the telepath problem will be over.” My feeling was he might know someone dear to him, Lise perhaps, that might be a victim as a result. It’s as if he knew someone he loved would die. Things that make you go hmm….

A-ha! The old transmitter in the tooth trick.
Lise hears the conversation from behind a wall. Garibaldi sits in Edgar’s office after Wade and Edgars have departed. Tilting his head back, he reaches into his open mouth and pulls out a fake tooth implant, pops the crown and reveals a wee little transmitter. At first I wasn’t sure if it was a homing device or a transmitter, but I suspected it had some role in establishing a line of communication.

Lise runs to Garibaldi who is sitting blankly inside the tramcar. He seems so distant. He tells her to leave. Moments later, our man Bester arrives to retrieve the information obtained by his own personal mole, Mr. Michael Garibaldi. I knew it was coming. I don’t think it was a big reveal, but I imagine most had a hunch Bester was the man. We recall Bester referring to Mr. Garibaldi as his “ace in the hole” back in Season Four, Episode 7, Epiphanies. The transmitter summoned Bester to his location. Bester invades his mind learning everything. We get another delicious, classic Vejar sequence. Bester concludes with his always smug, “Thank you. No that you had much choice.” Garibaldi is simply blank completely programmed according to Bester's requirements. This next scene is critical with loads of great information. I am reminded, or ironically I have not been reminded, that Bester, played by Walter Koenig, once made the very man behind Star Trek's Chekov. It's easy to forget. I mention this because I am so impressed with Koenig and the portrait of this character he has brought to life over four seasons. He has literally forged a completely unique character as envisioned by J. Michael Straczynski that bears no resemblance to the actor who embodied Chekov in the groundbreaking classic. He has really done a splendid job portraying this unique character.

*

You'll note a brief appearance by Harlan Ellison who wrote for Star Trek The Original Series in the next segment. He is credited at the end of the installment. He is notable for many reasons but is renowned for being a science fiction constant for decades. He was also a creative consultant for Babylon 5.

*

So that’s what happened to Mr. Garibaldi! WOW! It explains a lot. The title of Season Four, Episode 2, Whatever Happened To Mr. Garibaldi, has echoed in our minds. It wasn't just a physical question of his whereabouts, but more importantly his mental existence. I had a weird vibe many times from Garibaldi that just didn't make sense to me and it’s all very clear now. His behavior was so out-of-character. It also speaks volumes about how Jeff Doyle played the part. He did an outstanding job delivering exactly what he was supposed to deliver. It's no small feat to walk the line of subtle change. The fact that Garibaldi’s personality and its many attributes were accentuated brings it all into focus. He never seemed right and this is precisely why and completely believable. Further, when he did have those moments of confusion or he remembered things, I thought he might figure it out. Obviously that was Michael attempting to fight the mind wiping of sorts and it was not to be. The occasional video broadcast/ transmissions were further updating his Psi Corps programming to the point he no longer remembered who he really was. Therefore we no longer saw his flashbacks as a result because the programming was complete. Fabulous! He was imprisoned within his own body and mind. What a terrible fate. All of the damage he imposed and inflicted unknowingly on his friends and now here he was at the precipice of death at Bester’s hands. What could be worse? Well, what could be worse, Bester allows him to live. I don’t think it could get much worse. His hole is so deep to prove anything will be nothing short of a miracle for Garibaldi. Who the hell will ever believe him without a trace of evidence? Yeah, this is about as close to the bottom of the barrel as you can get. He literally has no friends. Terrible. I felt so bad for the guy. Now he must reclaim his identity and the trust of others he has lost. He may well wish he were dead. If he does manage to pull his act together he is so going to kick Bester's ass. This has been a very impressive thread throughout Season Four.

On the White Star, Ivanova learns Garibaldi set up Sheridan. She is none too happy about the back-stabbing. She declares I want “That son of a bitch shot on sight.” You see, this is the kind of thing I'm talking about. She is livid. The real Garibaldi is back and he has the fight of his life ahead. As far as the mission goes she recalls the words of Sheridan, “the person is expendable, the job is not.” I think we can all appreciate those words in our own lives. She presses forward with the fleet.

On Mars, Garibaldi seeks out Lise. Wade is dying. Edgars is now Dedgars. The murder scene is pretty nasty. Bester is a true assassin. I wonder if he did it himself? All of the vials are missing and case closed. I’m also curious how Edgars’ intentions would have turned out. Elsewhere, Sheridan is incarcerated and in seriously tough shape. ISN reports Edgars’ death as the handiwork of the resistance. To make matters worse Garibaldi’s picture is displayed all over the news as the hero who handed over Sheridan. Boy, nothing like getting the word out. He really has his work cut out for him now. He’ll be public enemy number one in a lot of quarters. What an awful position for him to be in.

*

Oh don't you just love that face!
There were some fine moments in this entry. So, to recap, Sheridan is in dire straits. Ivanova’s fleet is solid, but has lost momentum with the capture of their illustrious leader. Lise is missing. Garibaldi has no friends and is screwed major, big time. Psi Corps is back in power in a big way. Overall, it looks as though we have a major cluster here people.

*

The Face Of The Enemy: B+/ A- [the last half]

Kirk & Bones: The Great Ice Planet Adventure: Part 5: Mystery Babe

With the sun now set, our fearless heroes drift in and out of consciousness looking for a miracle or a warm body.

Bones: Do you see what I see or are my eyes playing tricks on me Jim? Is that the girl from your dreams?

Kirk: It might be Bones. She looks familiar, but she has clothes on, so I'm just not sure. Let's see if we can break free of the snow Bones. We might just have ourselves a close encounter with an alien space babe. Those are always a delicacy.

Bones: Well, perhaps we should be cautious here Jim.

Kirk: I always travel with protection. Not to worry Bones.

Bones: Good heavens Jim.

Kirk: No Bones. Not like that. You. I have you. You can give her a full exam and make sure all the readings check out first before I sample the goods.

Bones: Damn it Jim, I'm a doctor not a gynecologist! Well, maybe I could help there. More importantly some good news, the temperature is rising. I can feel it in the air.

Mystery Babe: I seek the one called Spock.

Kirk: Yes, well, funny thing, we seek the one called Spock too. Maybe you can ---

MB: You are not Spock?

Kirk: No. No I am Captain James T. Kirk of the Starship Enterprise. I seek out new life and new civilizations like yourself.

MB: If you are not Spock then I must go.

Kirk: Wait. Where are you going? Come back. I have Bones with me. You can have the best of both worlds with us!

Bones: Damn it Jim! That Vulcan is just infuriating even when he's not around.

Kirk: Don't I know it. He just cost us some well-deserved, warm-blooded, interplanetary intercourse.

Bones: Yes Jim, I would have enjoyed speaking with her as well.

Kirk & Bones: The Great Ice Planet Adventure: Part 4: Sometime Soon Scotty

And now back to our fearless heroes....hours later. Without Starfleet issued gear or weapons, Kirk and Bones are all alone on the ice planet.

Bones: I had this weird dream we were making snow angels and singing snappy space versions of our favorite yuletide classics. Believe it or not, I was even happy we were stuck here. I'm beginning to lose it.

Kirk: Well Bones, things are really beginning to look bleak. I can barely see you my friend. I can hardly move and feel as though I may nod off myself.

Bones: I know Jim. I'm not sure I can hang on much longer. I'm so cold. I can't feel a thing. I think I'm entering Stage 1 hypothermia. I'm starting to shake.

Kirk: Bones, hang in there. We need to do something and fast.

Bones: Damn it Jim, we need a miracle!

Kirk: Or a smokin' hot woman to wrap our bodies around to get warm.

Bones: Do you have no boundaries? Does anything shake your libido? Not even the cold. If we get out of this I may need to run a full scan on you you. Look, I'd have preferred an alternate kind of stiff myself, but it's really not looking likely at this point. The planetary readings indicated an extremely volatile atmosphere with extreme, sharp shifts in temperature. We can only hope at this point.

Kirk: I suppose. Until then Bones, you keep making snow angels and singing Christmas carols. I have my very own visual going and she's blonde and beautiful.

Bones: Can she sing?