Babylon 5 The Complete Second Season: The Coming Of Shadows

Great science fiction no matter how dated or how old is great science fiction that is timeless. Babylon 5 is one of those stories. Babylon 5 The Complete Second Season: The Coming Of Shadows hits a major high note. Season One felt a bit dated with groundbreaking special effects in their infancy, wooden acting and sketchy storytelling [albeit much of it setting things up], but Season Two really raised the bar in a big way. Season Two absolutely takes off and soars. It's clearly all about the writing, concept and story first and foremost. Straczynski was in full command for Season 2 and really took over the reins of his show. Second, the cast chemistry seriously grooved. All in all, the performances were splendid- regular, recurring and guest turns included. Finally, and not that it’s an essential component, but the effects team must have been working overtime because there were extraordinary improvements over the first season. There were some impressive sequences here. I was humbled. You have to tip your cap to Straczynski. There is much thought and construction that has gone into this story, the characters, the music and the mythology. He also never let up and kept pressing for the best in telling his story. His accomplishment is no easy feat. This is the stuff of sci-fi legend.

Now, I never could understand the point of grading an entire season of a show. There are so many hits and misses within a season, and to calculate an average grade just seems illogical. Take Season One, for example, there were a few strong highlights, but most of it was okay. It's hard enough nailing down an episode sometimes. They can start weak and end strong or have just a few key moments or just register off the charts as exceptional on the whole.

Looking back it’s funny that I scoffed so brazenly with a slight of hand at Babylon 5. I even took a similiar tact as I began viewing the series. The show as it unfolded was nothing like my perception of what it would be. I had a preconceived notion of Babylon 5 being nothing like this. I’m not sure what I was expecting. I had seen “that guy with the hair” and thought he looked ridiculous. I had seen the lizard-like G’Kar and thought he wasn’t alien enough for me to enjoy the show. Whatever I was thinking I was thinking wrong. Never judge a book by its cover as they say or in this case a DVD cover. Folks, I can no longer deny the magnitude of this tremendous tale and what I was allowing myself to miss. I don't know quite how to put in words what I thought I believed this show to be when I knew nothing about it, but it wasn't anything like this! I had no inkling of the tale that would be unfolding.
*

Some of the extras are just fine on this second season set. There is an introduction by series creator J. Michael Straczynski and cast including Bruce Boxleitner. J. Michael Straczynski provides audio commentary on two episodes and stars from the series provide audio for one. Documentaries include Building Babylon: Blueprint Of An Episode and Shadows And Dreams: Honors Of Babylon and more.

I'm not exactly sure where Season Two fits into the pantheon of Babylon 5's five seasons plus Crusade, but this is surely one of the best. The show took a 180 degree turn from Season One and blew my socks off. It was an unforgettable viewing experience to be sure. Season Three here I come.

*

K-Tel presents Londo & Vir singin' the Centauri classics!

B5 S2 Ep22: The Fall Of Night

"Now I'm free....I'm free fallin'."
*
I love Boxleitner. I especially love when he's pissed and says things like "straight to hell!" He's one helluva commander! I also love Ivanova as second in command. She kicks ass! She has that steely-eyed resolve. The two are indeed command and control. I love their sack and spine in hitting the Centauri with both barrels to protect Babylon 5 and the Narn vessel at all costs in the season ending installment of Babylon 5's The Fall Of Night.
*

What's funny about Sheridan's use of the line, "Straight To Hell," is, not only is it where this show feels like it's going, but those same words were uttered by Sheridan in his debut, Points Of Departure, and everything has come full circle here.

So as I immerse myself in this series Christopher Franke’s scores have really been growing on me. Apparently, as many of you already know, he was a member of Tangerine Dream. That makes sense because I’ve heard their music before way back in Ridley Scott’s Legend and his electronica reminds me of those compositions. I thought, as some of you know, the music was pretty horrid at first. It was very cold, serviceable and I just didn’t care much for it, but now I’m really enjoying his suites. His often dark European synthetics match up well with the gritty realities of the Babylon 5 ‘verse. He has a number of light moments that really underscore the tension and drama here. I’ve come to love his input and unique stamp on the project. So many scenes are either quietly complemented by his score or heighten the tension dramatically. Later Sheridan's sequence in the monorail is a great example.

So here we are at the season finale and what a season it has been. I was half-joking last entry when I said I thought we’d see Robert Rusler as Warren Keffer again in the final installment. I thought he might be finished. I really didn't expect him to rear his ugly head again. His general lack of smarts and character development marks him as the inevitably doomed road kill of hyperspace at the hands of those nasty Shadows and their devastating purple-pink firepower. Perhaps attempting to hunt down a giant black spider in space alone in a Starfury was not his brightest life achievement. It shows you how much they thought of his input. Splat! Done! Next!

I must admit folks there is so much happening in Babylon 5 it takes me roughly 2 hours to actually sit through and write down thoughts on each one of these episodes. It is wall to wall jammed with excitement. The Fall Of Night is a humdinger of intrigue and climax as only Babylon 5 can deliver it.

Previously, in Comes The Inquisitor, G’Kar warned the other alien races of potential encroachment on their worlds by the Centauri. The Centauri usurpation of other outposts, outside of the Narn, has begun. “War is spreading.”

So Londo, sporting his classic 'bad guy black' jacket, is clearly out of control. The monster is out of the box, unleashed and beyond reason. The entire region around Centauri is in conflict. The ultimate spin doctor and spin maestro that Londo aspires to be tells Sheridan he is attempting to “stabilize the region” by “establishing a presence.” Uh-huh. Sheridan cannot understand why Londo can’t see everything falling apart. I know how he feels, I just want to beat my head against the wall in frustration. Arggghhh! But, I know it is Straczynski's intention to create one of the world's greatest science fiction-styled Greek tragedies.

Garibaldi nails it a short time later when he informs Sheridan that Londo is not the same guy anymore, he sees fear in his eyes. He is at once angry with him and sympathetic. "Look into his eyes sometime. You can see fast things are moving. For Londo, it’s like being on a wild horse. You don’t want to get thrown off, so you hang on even harder. He’s trapped. You know, half the time, I’m so furious with the guy I could break his neck. The other half, I feel sorry for him."

Meanwhile, Frederick Lantz of Earth’s Ministry Of Peace arrives along with his counterpart Mr. Welles of the Nightwatch unit. Lantz is played exquisitely by Roy Dotrice. Dotrice also appeared in two episodes of Space:1999 including Breakaway. Sheridan assigns Ivanova as their personal liaison. It would seem Earth is finally stepping into the storm that appears to be spreading beyond the Centauri and Narn, but why? Well it turns out Earth has its own agenda [but of course].

Sheridan, elsewhere, has promised an incoming Narn pilot and its surviving heavy cruiser sanctuary. It has jumped to a point on the other side of Epsilon 3 where it remains in hiding. He assures the Narn [Na’Kai] he will protect him while in Babylon 5 airspace.

Mr. Welles propositions Ivanova to become a Nightwatch representative [a.k.a. snitch, stoolie, ratfink]. He urge that it will expedite her future career options. She is incensed and stands by her code of honor by sending him packing. His ovations are made without the informing the Ministry Of Peace.

Sheridan confides in G’Kar of the good news concerning the surviving Narn. G’Kar further learns of Lantz’ visit and requests an audience with the permission granted by Sheridan. G’Kar is over the moon with the news like a kid in a candy store over this new wave of good tidings.

The purpose of the Nightwatch program is becoming clearer. Its intentions are not neutral, but as oversight for Earth Defense interests. Its mission: act as a Big Brother on Babylon 5 and weed out acts of sedition or even those that might be deemed suspicious concerning alien races and their comings and goings on the station [Earthers are not immuned]. I have been tough on Jeff Conaway, but he gives his best turn to date under questioning by Mr. Welles. It’s a good sequence and he plays it well.

Mr. Lantz is meeting with the various ambassadors from the League of Non-Alligned Worlds. Citizen G’Kar requests time, but is bluntly and abruptly turned away and dismissed.

Sheridan learns the Nightwatch associates are feeding information back to Mr. Welles. Lantz arrives in Command & Control demanding to know why fighters are being trained to fight Centauri. Sheridan advises that it would be wise for station pilots to be prepared for any event. Oddly, Lantz demands such maneuvers cease and desist. They could jeopardize his “mission.” What mission? Everyone thought you were here for an analysis of the Centauri dilemma. As it turns out, the real reason for the Ministry’s visit is to sign a Non-Aggression Treaty with the Centauri. Well isn't that just swell. It's the first step to establishing an Earth-Centauri alliance for peace. I believe another way of looking at that is called turning a blind eye and implementing appeasement as they did in Europe with the Nazis. “They’ll never bother us.” Sheridan and Ivanova are stunned. There is a female mole in Command & Control who is sabotaging Sheridan’s authority and just intentions.

The situation is becoming untenable. To ease the tension and stress Ivanova presents a gift to Sheridan. She has brought him a piece of shrapnel from the Minbari Black Star that he took down. She reminds him it has been said no one could take out a Minbari War Cruiser. She assures him Sheridan Starkiller did and that the gift is a symbol that “the impossible is possible.”

*

Matters grow worse when the mole informs Mr. Welles of the hidden Narn War Cruiser. It isn’t long before Londo is notified thanks to the Ministry’s agenda. A Centauri Battle Cruiser arrives through the jumpgate and tensions are at their pinnacle. Sheridan assures the Narn of his word to protect him while in Babylon 5 jurisdiction. I had that sinking feeling for G’Kar again and was praying like a Narn to G'Quan that Na’Kai would survive.

*

Later, Mr. Lantz returns to Command & Control in protest and is quickly escorted off the bridge. Sheridan launches the Starfuries to scatter and cover the Narn warship. Londo is informed the Narn cruiser will be safely escorted to the jumpgate out of Babylon 5 airspace. Londo is cut off by Sheridan via Bab Com and he is none too happy to see his newfound authority dismissed and taken to task. Babylon 5 activates its newly installed defense grid. Sooweet action! The Centauri fires upon the Narn and Babylon 5 simultaneously and the battle is on! Babylon 5 and the Starfuries retaliate with their own firepower. The Centauri ship is inadvertently destroyed and the Narn ship makes it to the jumpgate. I’m secretly hoping that Narn ship is able to play a role in the Narn revenge and come back and kick some major hiney. This a great scene between Boxleitner and Dotrice.

*

Sheridan must stand before the council ordered to apologize and his mirror rehearsal is brilliant.

*

“I apologize. I’m sorry. I’m sorry we had to defend ourselves against an unwarranted attack. I’m sorry that your crew was stupid enough to fly around a station filled with a quarter million civilians including your own people. And I’m sorry I waited as long as I did before I blew them all straight to hell. As with everything else, it’s the thought that counts.” We never actually see the real apology.

*

Sheridan is enroute to the council meeting being held in the Zen Gardens, but is followed by a Centauri onto the monorail transport train that runs through the center of Babylon 5. On the next stop the train empties and he spots an active bomb on board. He overrides the doors while moving and jumps from the train. Sheridan falls into the weightless center of Babylon 5 [I wasn’t sure about how that was possible, but I was willing to suspend belief because it was bloody bleepin’ cool] as the train explodes behind him. Delenn turns to Kosh and a being of light emerges from the encounter suit. The god-like being takes an appearance unique to each race, as they look skyward. Sheridan takes the being’s hand and inquires, “Kosh?” as the form nods in the affirmative.

*

Later Delenn meets with Sheridan. She knows The Shadows will discover the actions of Kosh and will be fearful of the Vorlons. Still, she does not feel the Vorlons would truly act against The Shadows, but believes it to be enough to keep the dark forces at bay for a time.

*

Drazi ambassador: “And you Ambassador Mollari – what did you see?"
*

Londo: “Nothing. I saw nothing."

"He has revealed himself to those who understand," informs Delenn. So there you have it Londo. You are in such deep shit!

*

The whole androgenous-Being-O-Light-man-boy-with-supple-lips-and-whitehot-glow-upon-bald-head thing was just a leeetle bit beeezarre, but man I loved it! So strange and yet so unexpected! Can you imagine a faith so universal that the being or god everyone looked upon was in their own image. Is Straczynski telling us something here? Safe to say Yes!
*

It is the end of Earth Year 2259. The Centauri are expanding their empire with the newly formed Earth-Centauri Treaty. The Nightwatch are incarcerating people aboard Babylon 5 suspected of seditious acts against Earth. Freedoms are being removed. War is upon Babylon 5. Yup, just another happy, uplifting entry in the world of Babylon 5. Ya gotta love it!

Babylon 5 once “the last best hope for peace” is now “the last best hope for victory.” Yes another change is in the air for Season 3.

*

And, of course, as we mentioned earlier, dum dum, one-chromosome-short Keffer takes on The Shadows in hyperspace just long enough to record some footage for the news services before he bites it from the Babylon 5 opening credit roll. Yeah he definitely didn’t get developed. I was not saddened at his explosive demise. I also was not sad to see Mary Kay Adams go as Na'Toth, the replacement of Julie Caitlin-Brown. In fact, I had completely forgotten about her along the way the season was so good. G'Kar was so good going it solo I just spaced it regarding his assistant. Anyway, with the footage now on intergalactic television I guess the whole Shadows thing is definitely out of the bag at this point.

*

Classic exchanges:

Sheridan: “I want all our fighters put through training exercises three times a week from now on…”
Ivanova: “I’ll see to it personally. And if they don’t get any better I’ll start issuing live ammo. That should have a very inspirational affect.”

*

The Fall Of Night: A-

Whew! What a season for Babylon 5.

B5 S2 Ep21: Comes The Inquisitor

G'Kar: Narn of the people.

I’m really glad to see Robert Rusler was used to his potential in the series. I mean, really, what has he made 3 appearances at the most? His screen time is definitely minimal and we certainly know nothing about him. He never struck me as all that interesting anyway. It’s just funny they gave him an opening credit and then buried him in the background. I think the uncredited Jeff Conaway has been in the series more than him. How much did Rusler get paid? Knowing how tight the budget was on this series it couldn’t have been much, but at the same time he didn’t work very hard. I know- they’re saving him for the season finale right? I won't hold my breath, but it just seems like he's been forgotten.

So here Comes The Inquisitor Babylon 5 Season 2. Here’s another shining installment in the Babylon 5 legacy. WOW and what an entry it is! Certainly this is a thinking person’s show [right M!]. The writing is light years beyond the first season at this point matched only by the performances and including some impressive guest star turns since the agonizing days of the screaming Kent Broadhurst appearance in Babylon Squared. Straczynski cleverly weaves a bit of historical Earther infamy into the show and ties it to his own B5 mythology. I Loved that! Pure dead brilliant!

There are two potent segments in play here. The story begins with ousted ambassador, now Citizen G’Kar relegated to Narn leader of his subjugated race. He is expounding to the various alien races in the Zocalo that they could be next. Vir watches with a heavy heart and we know he is the discarded moral compass for the Centauri's one darkened Londo Mollari.

G’Kar later meets with an arms smuggler attempting to run weapons through B5 to feed an underground armed Narn resistance to the Narn homeworld. Mr. Chase is an interesting character and judging by the various close-ups and tilted cameras, the director, Mike Vejar, does a great job of creating a visual style that emphasizes what is in process isn’t exactly on the up and up. I really loved alot of the camera work and lighting in this episode.



Garibaldi catches up with G’Kar and the two have a moving exchange. Garibaldi tells him they’ll be no gunrunning through B5 on his watch and when G’Kar relents Garibaldi appreciates his honesty and gives him a tip about a friend’s transfer station in Sector 90 near a jumpgate that might help the Narn cause. G’Kar lights up with a smile. Small victories as they say.

Garibaldi: “I don’t want those weapons coming through the station otherwise this place is gonna go straight to hell.”

G’Kar: “We are already, as you so quaintly put it, going straight to hell. You cannot escape what’s coming.”

Yikes! I love that all the characters like to say "straight to hell!"

In one of the episode's most stunning pieces Vir and G’Kar, played with much aplomb by Stephen Furst and Andreas Katsulas respectively, meet in the always-uncomfortable 'elevator moment'. Given the Narn/ Centauri war it’s even more uncomfortable than normal. It is a simply fantastic, heartbreaking exchange for both. While I am a huge, unabashed G’Kar supporter, proponent, advocate, Vir takes the cake here as he is clearly riddled with guilt over the Narn devastation at the hands of the Centauri. The silence is deafening, as the dissenting conscience of Vir scrambles and fumbles for the right words standing before the seething anguish of G'Kar. The pain is palpable. Katsulas brings such emotional resonance to his part in this show. His talent absolutely bursts through all of that make-up and latex. His could be the most amazing role by someone as an alien I’ve ever seen in a science fiction series. Composer Christopher Franke’s score is understated and lets the scene breathe until its climax. It is powerful, stunning stuff. How does Straczynski do it?



When G’Kar’s ability to lead comes under question by his fellow Narn, he is tasked with finding out about families back on the homeworld to prove his worthiness. He must complete the task within 24 hours or step aside. G’Kar turns to Sheridan for help who understands it is in B5’s best interests to keep him in that role for balance and calm. Interesting to see guys like Sheridan and Garibaldi play backdoor politics throughout the episode in order to maintain stability or aid in doing the right thing while breaking with code. Sheridan assigns Garibaldi the mission of getting the Rangers involved. It would appear this is the first time the Rangers take proactive action rather than stand idly by waiting in the shadows [ewww, bad pun there].

Nice eyebrows Vir. Ya gotta alove those old Grandpa Ben Centauri brows.

The second thread in Comes The Inquisitor, and just as compelling, centers on Delenn and later Sheridan. Delenn is summoned by Kosh and informed she will undergo interrogation by an inquisitor. Kosh intends to determine if Delenn is worthy of the burden she will bear and whether she can be trusted to see it through.

Delenn: “How will I know who it is?”
Kosh: “You will know if you survive.”

Ah that's comforting. We know from Kosh’s always enlightening words Delenn is in for a harrowing journey. He is looking for confirmation that she can be trusted in handling the “coming storm” for the right reasons.

A Vorlon transport ship arrives at B5. A human interrogator of British decent meets with Sheridan, top hat and cane in hand [visual allusion to late 19th Century England]. Sheridan clearly finds it odd that he has been dispatched from Vorlon space. He understandably begins to probe the new arrival. He blocks Sheridan’s overtures for answers with “you’re not ready for the truth.”

A meeting has been established for Delenn in Grey 19. The Inquisitor’s name is Sebastian, the Vorlon's examiner of choice. At first, I thought Wayne Alexander might be delivering an over the top performance, but instead he is deliciously evil and his British pomp is perfect for the execution of questioning. Delenn is informed of the rules. She is free to leave at anytime, but in doing so she would admit defeat and inadequacy and would be forced to answer before the Vorlon. In other words she is a free and willing participant of the inquisition.

Delenn must answer a series of questions and if the answer is unacceptable she receives a technologically advanced form of shock treatment exponentially increased each time from the wack of his cane. The most fascinating is “who are you?”

This sequence is edge-of-your-seat engaging. The harsh, cold Englishman is in direct contrast to Delenn’s soft, gentle but fight-ready soul. The philosophical analysis is terrific because I began asking the question, “Who am I?” I kept applying such contemplations to myself. Sebastian is like that of a drill sergeant. He works to break her and tear her down. Delenn needs to be ready and strong for the coming war. Weakness will not do and will not be tolerated, yet only when she begins to question does Sebastian relent. Curious.

Sebastian: “Who are you?”
Delenn: “I am Delenn” [electrocution continues]
S: “And you have a destiny?”
D: “Yes.”
S: “NO! Be a nice Minbari. Conform! Be quiet! Admit you are inadequate!”
D: “NO!”

Delenn demonstrates true courage and stamina. Sheridan arrives in Grey 19 after being alerted to Delenn’s status by Lennier. When Sheridan enters he becomes part of the inquisition. [All part of the plan-the 'teaching' by Kosh.] “You’re linked at the hip,” announces Sebastian confirming my own belief that the destinies of Delenn and Sheridan’s feel inextricably linked. Delenn comes to Sheridan’s aid who is also being tortured. Delenn demands all life is valuable. Her destiny is life.



The inquisitor informs them both. “How do you know the chosen ones? No greater love hath a man than he lay down his life for his brother. Not for millions. Not for glory. Not for fame- for one person, in the dark, where no one will ever know or see. I have been in the service of the Vorlons for centuries looking for you- Diogenes with his lamp looking for an honest man willing to die for all the wrong reasons. At last, my job is finished. Yours is just beginning. When the darkness comes know this. You are the right people in the right place at the right time.” WHEW! WOW! Signs and portents for sure! I just love the poetry in Straczynski's writing. It really is a beautiful thing.

And in the end, we learn, that fine English gent, that king of torture, king of pain is serving his penance to the Vorlons. Plucked from his ugly existence, the Vorlons show the unidentified killer of late 19th Century London the way. Sebastian was their fitting inquisitor. His alter ego was none other than Jack The Ripper. WOW! This is another exceptional entry deftly penned by Straczynski.

*

It's also worth noting the camera direction in this episode is outstanding thanks to Director Mike Vejar. I know Janet Greek and Jim Johnston rank up there I'm sure with the Babylon 5 faithful, but Vejar has contributed some fine contributions and this is clearly one of them.

*

Comes The Inquisitor: A-

B5 S2 Ep3: The Geometry Of Shadows Redux

I was looking for a Techno-Mage, I may have taken a wrong turn. Sorry to have troubled you.

I went back to review scenes from Season 2’s The Geometry Of Shadows that essentially seemed fairly innocuous upon initial viewing, but in retrospect I knew there was much more than met the eye. The story centers on the arrival of the Techno-Mages who utilize smoke and mirrors through science to achieve magic.

Londo spots the Techno-Mage arrival and shares the following with Vir:
“Great maker!…a Techno-Mage. Looks like a human. We used to have them back home long ago. They use science to achieve the effect of magic. I haven’t seen one in years. They almost never travel. They don’t like to leave their places of power. To see even one of them is a rare thing. To see more than one at a time is considered a very bad omen. Three... This is definitely not good.”

You can’t help but laugh a little at this scene given all that transpires following The Geometry Of Shadows. It’s definitely another episode I appreciate more now.



This scene speaks volumes about Londo, his quest for power and lends more insight into the Centauri. Again, Stephen Furst as Vir has one of those shining moments.



Later, there is a scene between Londo and Sheridan whereby Londo offers his services in introducing the Techno-Mage to him. Londo's agenda, of course, is to actually meet the Techno-Mage himself. Londo is a masterful politician [or at times attempts to be] trying to manipulate Sheridan for his ulterior motives, but Sheridan is no slouch. Sheridan is a perfect example of never mistaking kindness for weakness. He is savy, unimpressed and clearly aware of the manipulation at hand.

Londo: “I could be of some small assistance.”

Sheridan: “And what would you get out of it?”

Londo: “Oh, a clear conscience and a peaceful sleep.” Uh-huh. I can see Sheridan rolling his eyes.

Interesting points:

Over 100 Techno-Mage are emigrating to an unknown location.

Sheridan mentions God’s presence in creation. Just hearing that sounded so definitive, so powerful and further exemplified the sheer balls in Straczynski’s writing to take risks, take a stand and be unafraid to tell his story.

The Techno-Mage [Elric] tells Sheridan:
Elric: “That is why we are going away, to preserve that knowledge.”

Sheridan: “From what?”

Elric: “There is a storm coming, a black and terrible storm. We would not have our knowledge lost or used to ill purpose. From this place we will launch ourselves into the stars.”
The final moments of The Geometry Of Shadows is the primary reason I wanted to watch this one again. I kept playing Elric’s words over and over in my mind and wondered if I missed anything. Michael Ansara is excellent as Elric. Some of these guest stars turn in some excellent performances thanks to the great material Straczynski has provided them.

Londo [following several spells by Elric]: “Does this torment end when you leave or am I going to have to spend the rest of my life paying for this one mistake?"
Elric: “Oh, I’m afraid you’re gonna have to spend the rest of your life paying for mistakes…. You are touched by darkness ambassador. I see it as a blemish that will grow with time. I could warn you of course, but you would not listen. I could kill you, but someone would take your place, so I do the only thing I can. I go. I see a great hand reaching out of the stars. The hand is your hand, and I hear sounds, the sounds of billions of people calling your name.”

Londo: “My followers.”

Elric: “Your victims.”

It’s interesting Elric points out to Londo that forces at work behind recent events would unfold with or without him. Clearly, Morden and The Shadows found their susceptible pawn in Londo, but would have found another to ensure the inevitable storm would come.

A very bad day to be born to the purple.
On the separate thread regarding the Purple versus Green Drazi war, I was particularly moved by the fine performance of the actors behind the make-up [especially the Green Drazi played brilliantly by Kim Strauss. What a distinctive voice!]. As nuts as they are, they deliver the message to Ivanova with conviction and it is a captivating thread in and of itself. I almost believed Green Drazi made sense for a moment.  The Geometry Of Shadows is a pivotal installment in the second season.

The Geometry Of Shadows: B+

B5 S2 Ep2: Revelations Redux

Almost moving forward again. I'm trying to be expeditious getting through them to get back on track.

Okay friends, so I’ve revisited a few key episodes and it seems as though I’m often taking one step forward and two steps back. This much is true, but I’m caught up in the language and the details. I’m hanging on every word more than ever. I'm appreciating scenes that I once took for granted. I will indeed go back to the very beginning someday to view this story fully enlightened eyes. I definitely glanced over or discarded certain material when I should have been paying closer attention.

Season 2 Revelations is a harbinger in its own right. This is the beginning of a great sadness. G’Kar, more than anyone, is keenly aware of forces at work and is troubled by what's to come almost as if he senses the future. These are desperate times for G’Kar. There is an assortment of powerful moments here that propel The Shadows arc. I erroneously did not lend my full attention to its many details, nuances, subtext. I see this now. I am such an addict.

Revelations begins when G’Kar on a scouting mission narrowly averting death thanks to the sacrifice of his fellow Narn who lure The Shadows’ vessels off G’Kar's ass and allow him time to escape through a jumpgate back to B5. His investment in the Narn bible, the G’Quan, only serves to shore up his belief that an ancient evil has returned. Making matters worse, Londo secretly bears similiar concerns that certain pieces of the puzzle just don't add up. He knows there may be something to that which G’Kar speaks. Despite his own reservations, Londo turns his back on the potentially devastating reality in turn denying his own moral compass in greedy favor of his desire for Centauri glory. Londo would rather turn to the unknown arms of a potentially lethal enemy. His sense of right and wrong is blurred and overruled by his intense hatred of the Narn and his desire for power rather than fortify a coalition for a common good. He is driven by this and The Shadows know it.

It is disturbing, yet delicious material. Londo's fall is compelling television like none I've ever seen, [better even than, dare I say, the fall of Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars one could argue]. Could redemption be a possibility or is his future to be damned? A series that is a revelation indeed.

Revelations: B+

B5 S1 Ep22: Chrysalis [Redux]

A couple of boneheads. I'm sorry I couldn't resist.

This is my final planned look back into Season 1. Just when you thought it was safe to go through a new jumpgate I find myself needing to revisit the past yet again. My third re-review of Season 1 comes in the form of season finale Chrysalis.

It's interesting to go back and see some of the subtext in the performances particularly between Kosh and Delenn. Straczynski weaves much of his story into the exchanges and some of those messages I breezed over the first time around. “Yes. Thank you. Now I will keep the promise. Goodbye. You will not see me again,” Delenn informs Kosh in her pre-cocoon, large-boneheaded state. It resonates with me more to see there is some sort of inextricable bond there between them, something shared and founded in their past. Before undertaking the transformation Delenn tells Sinclair to see her because “there are things you should know,” but that he does not have much time. Sinclair is jarred by visions of his torture by the Minbari.

Elsewhere we have the always amusing and creepy Morden visit the fragile psychological footing of Londo Mollari. Ed Wasser and Peter Jurasik are always a pleasure to watch.



All of the many fascinating setups in Straczynski’s amazing story come to a head here launching the story headlong into Season 2 for the next phase in his visual novel.

I think Sinclair captures precisely what Straczynski began unraveling here. With everyone at a crossroads, characters are given the free will to choose the right path, yet often it is the path to darkness revealed as the road chosen for many of these players and Straczynski unabashedly relishes it. This scene is one of those turning points and one that illustrates how these characters seem unable to avoid their respective destinies despite being given every opportunity to change their course. They are trapped by fate.

*

"Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!"
Thinking about it, Chrysalis is a perfect title for this final installment of Season 1. Apart from the obvious physical change Delenn enters into setting up changes for the next season there is more here than meets the eye. Londo is also undergoing his own change and it is notable here. With the support of his newfound associates he is beginning to consider embracing the path to power here. Garibaldi is also in a chrysalis of his own [actually comatose but you get the idea]. His body is fighting and the question of survival is at stake for him and how that affects his decisions early in Season 2. G’Kar too has changed. No longer does he present the bellicose-laden rhetoric that informed his character earlier in the season, but rather replaced with a softening of the true G-Kar. There is unrest on Earth signaled with a change in presidential leadership. And in general, Chrysalis marks a significant departure of sorts for the show itself. Big changes were on the horizon. I don’t think I’m reading into this or overanalyzing Straczynski's intentions here too much either. This is surely by intention as I’m finding almost everything in his story is thoughtful by design.

Yes, we feel 'a darkness' in our bones indeed. So the militarized Narn outpost in Quadrant 37 is wiped out by the purple-pink firepower of the black-fingered hands of The Shadows. There are no survivors. “10,000 of our best warriors dead. It’s as if some great hand reached out of space and just erased them,” says a perplexed Na’Toth. It is here we see G’Kar first acknowledge signs of a return by an ancient evil far more powerful than any race.

One of the many well-designed spacecraft created for the Babylon 5 space opera.

The Earth President is assassinated with the explosion of Earth Force 1 and all witness it in horror from Command & Control. Evil forces are at work and it culminates in the swearing in of Morgan William Clark as the new Earth President aboard Earth Force 2.

Sinclair, looking worse for the wear, is visited by Kosh. “And so it begins. You have forgotten something.” The omniscient Kosh alerts Sinclair who runs to Delenn, but he is too late to speak with her. She is now changing and so too is this show.

G’Kar: “This has been a black day for both of us Lt. Commander Ivanova, a black and terrible day.”

G’Kar to Na’Toth: “Tell the commander he was right. We were at a crossroads and there is no going back.”

And again Sinclair’s final performance with the final words as the episode closes: “Nothing’s the same anymore.” A dark episode indeed.

Chrysalis: B

B5 S1 Ep20: Babylon Squared [Redux]

"Not The One" [for Straczynski either].

Friends. I cannot help myself. I keep pulling my Babylon 5 Season One box set out of the drawer and going backwards, which is not helping me in my mission to move forward. Damn! I keep wanting to revisit information and re-examine scenes I did not appreciate enough, or give the weight to, that I should have on the first go round. I will get this out of my system soon and move ahead. I think. Or could I be stuck some strange time anomaly? This is a truly fascinating series.

The level of strategy, planning and preparation that went into this series boggles the mind. Babylon Squared from Season One speaks volumes about what Straczynski was trying to achieve with the novelization of his series. There are hints of many delicious things to come. This is where you knew Straczynski was a genius. I look forward to reading about the making of his story and when he conceived the idea when I actually finish. Some day that will happen.

This scene with Garibaldi has a touch of James Cameron's Aliens. The future is unnervingly chaotic and exciting.
So Babylon Squared [redux]...

Yup, ya gotta love the old tachyon emissions in Sector 14 trick. Tachyon emissions are very high here and that nasty time anomaly has sent me back to take another look at Season 1.

This was the second episode, next to Signs And Portents, from Season 1 that really began to pull me in and get my blood going.

It was interesting to watch O’Hare again after a full season of Boxleitner. I definitely prefer the latter. I think it's pretty undeniable the replacement was a fine executive decision by the Straczynski-meister.

Babylon 4 vanished 24 hours after going operational four years earlier in Sector 14. By the way, I love the Babylon 4 design, and it definitely has its own distinct look separate and apart from B5. I was definitely hard on the B5 station design in the very early going perhaps due to a lack of patience. I admit it. Fortunately, thanks to a much-improved special effects/ CGI team, it really began to take form. Furthermore, a variety of angles/shots gave glimpse to more information on the intended vision. I will even confess that I have since purchased a pewter model verison of B5 so that I can gaze lovingly at it as I watch the program. It's the bigtime kid in me! So, I definitely rushed to judgment prematurely on that one. So, yes, I think both stations are really cool and I even wish they had Titanium Ultra versions of both hanging on store shelves next to Battlestar Galactica ships. I can dream. : )

One of the scenes I valued more given all of the events that have occurred since initially viewing this episode is the Sinclair flash forward. This is the sequence where Babylon 5 is being overrun by an invading force. I suspect it is The Shadows boarding the station though we never actually see them. If this is a snapshot of The Great War I am anxious for its arrival indeed. It is unnervingly chaotic and exciting. Further, as I mentioned earlier, Doyle has a kind of Bruce Willis vibe [it's not intentional- he looks like him and offers a similiar likeable affect] and he gives his best Die Hard performance here. I look forward to the possibility of this sequence being fleshed out and expanded upon in the future. I hope it comes to pass. It’s wild to re-wtiness elements of the series with new eyes. Scenes I gave little thought to appear much more profound now. I will definitely rewatch the entire series someday. You can't say that about many shows.

Kent Broadhurst plays Major Krantz [of Babylon 4] and quite frankly his performance is atrocious. Watching it again, it is absolutely cringeworthy. With Babylon 4 shaking apart at the seams thanks to the time anomaly he looks at Sinclair and Garibaldi with the crazed stair of a madman. He delivers quite possibly the worst performance of the series with this one frantic utterance, “We’ve become unstuck in time commander, that’s why we have to get out of here.” If you watch closely, Sinclair looks back at Garibaldi with what looks like a near roll of the eyes as if to say, “this guy is a nut.” The whole scene is funny because it's not executed well. Broadhurst offers a classic cult B5 moment just the same and aids in making O'Hare look like a great actor.

When I had initially reviewed this episode I had acknowledged Tim Choate’s performance as Zathras as a real highlight. This was one of the main reasons I came back to the episode and my opinion has not changed. I also found some of what he was saying to have more of an impact on me based upon the events of Season 2. It really is a special, meaty role. Seeing it again speaks volumes about The Shadows/ The Great War arc and where it’s headed. I did not fully understand the events of this episode the first time around.



So, The One helped reveal B4 in order that its crew could survive. We see The One appear, like a ghost, made unstable by the time anomaly. Zathras hands him a time stabilizer. [I could use one of those myself. I often feel like time is moving way too fast.] When Sinclair tries to touch The One he is blasted back clearly indicating the two cannot meet within the same time space. Let’s face it, if you’re reading this, you've watched the show, and you know The One is a future version of a battle-weary Sinclair. It’s an exciting revelation, but one I suspected prior to his removal of the spacesuit helmet.

This is the final segment featuring Choate as Zathras. It’s quite amusing. He sleighs me. His intentions are at once noble and self-serving as he wishes to pull B4 through the time anomaly to save the galaxy and perhaps be recognized in history as a hero.

"Zathras annoyed by frantic and yelling Kent Broadhurst."


In the final moments, Zathras is disabled by falling debris and utters these final fateful words to Sinclair just before departing the crumbling B4: “You have a destiny.” Moments later, The One appears before Zathras. He is there to rescue him. “Zathras trusts The One.” We are now aware of his survival and narrow escape with the mention of his character in Season 2's The Long, Twilight Struggle.

The second thread is happening simultaneously. During Season 2 we see Delenn literally rejected by the Grey Council and essentially banished as an outcast. Existing somewhere between the Minbari and the Earthers Delenn has come to feel very much alone. Of course she is blessed by the presence of her loyal attache and friend Lennier. Still, it is here in Babylon Squared where she first rejects the council’s ovations to make her one of The Nine. “We are grey. We stand between the darkness and the light,” declares Delenn. There is a feeling of neutrality about the council itself to be sure. Nevertheless, Delenn is hardly excited about the prospect of leaving her freedom on B5 behind for the confines of The Nine. She reflects upon the calling of her role in overseeing the prophecy. It is the calling of her heart to oversee the Earthers. Watching Mira Furlan’s performance is special. She nearly hints to a bit of Earther selfishness at the prospect of being couped up in the Great Hall. She knows she would never again leave there and she cannot allow that to happen. Delenn is the first to refuse her role within The Nine in 1,000 years. She has tasted the freedom of B5 and she is also aware of the change that is to come [see Chrysalis Season 1]. So it is interesting to see her rejection of the Grey Council and does lend some understanding of their rejection of her later in the series. Also, her role and the role of the Minbari concerning the future of the galaxy is indeed pivotal and curious.

It is a thread like this one that really permits the philosophical side of Straczynski's writing to shine. Take, for example, his optimism concerning humanity as expressed through Delenn. "They do not seek conformity. They do not surrender. Out of their differences comes symmetry. Their unique capacity to fight against impossible odds. Hurt them, they only come back stronger. The passions we deplore have taken them to their place in the stars, and will propel them to a great destiny. Their only weakness is that they do not recognize their own greatness. They forget they have come to this place through two million years of evolution, struggle, and blood. They are better than they think and nobler than they know. They carry within them the capacity to walk among the stars as giants. They are the future. We have much to learn from them."

The One. When precisely did Straczynski decide to relegate O'Hare to special guest I wonder?

As we know now, The Earth-Minbari War was halted by the Minbari, not because they lost, but because they saw prophecied an unfulfilled destiny by the humans. Delenn is the biggest advocate for the Earthers, which places her at odds with her own kind. They buck boneheads so to speak. Can you imagine Londo turning to Lennier and declaring, “you are such a bonehead.” Rather than take offense Lennier might reply, “why, thank you.” Better yet, “stop being a bonehead.” You see, that’s a tough one. "I'm afraid I cannot do that." How bout Lennier with "I've got a bone to pick with you!" followed by Londo's "You most certainly do." Or... I'm sorry, I got a little carried away there. Anyway, Delenn is forewarned that if she leaves the post offered her she may lose it. She knows consequences may be forthcoming. So, later in Season 2 when she is rejected by this body of nine it makes sense given her rejection of this prestigious, time-honored position here. Like Londo, she has chosen her path. Much of the story is weighted with self-determination, free will and the tenets of philosophy that fascinate Straczynski. Terrific stuff.

In the end, the council is split 4-4 on how to contend with Delenn’s use of free will. Her friend bestows upon her the gift of a triluminary. It is a special gesture and the instrument necessary for the cocooning. “These are curious times Delenn. I feel a great change in my bones. A new beginning, an end, I cannot say,” worries her friend. “We are surrounded by signs and portents and I feel a darkness pressing at our backs.”

The episode brilliantly pulls together Sinclair and [what we believe is] Delenn for the final scene. A scar-faced, grey haired Sinclair and the arm of Delenn appear on a deserted B4. The One tells her, “I tried, I tried to warn them, but it all happened just the way I remember it.” The question is whether that’s good or bad. Delenn tells him, “I know. It’s time. We have to go. They’re waiting for us.” Who is “they?” Could it be The Rangers? I am loving this show.

Babylon Squared: B+

B5 S2 Ep20: The Long, Twilight Struggle

There is beautiful work in this gritty tale right down to the make-up.

Where the hell was I when Babylon 5 was on TV? Where the hell did I go? Did I just check off the planet for a few years? Did I just disappear and forget who I was only to turn up 5 years later clutching a bottle of paint thinner? What the hell was I thinking? Look what I've missed all these years. It isn’t right. It’s troubling actually to think I spaced it and lost out on all of this delicious science fiction. Interplanetary politics, backroom deals, packs with the devil, space battles, alien races and Boxleitner. Whew! This is a tremendous series and it is mesmerizing to watch. My jaw is open at times hanging on every word and every delivery. I am in awe of events that transpire and the consequences that follow. I am enjoying the structure of this series and the serialization of various arcs [The Shadows, Psi Corps, Earth Defense Force, et.] as much if not more than, dare I say, Stargate SG-1. I never thought I would say that, but there it is. Babylon 5 is nothing like I envisioned. What I envisioned I'm not sure, but it wasn't this.

On the whole and maybe weighted toward the second half of Season 2 there is so much information, so much detail. It’s a tremendous, epic mythology that has been brought to life on a visual canvas. There’s also nothing light about the material. I am blown away. Be forewarned people, I have no option but to revisit a few episodes before moving forward. There are forces at work that are pulling me backward.

We arrive at Season 2 Episode 20, The Long, Twilight Struggle, and what a struggle it is for especially for our dear Londo and G’Kar. You can see the pain in Londo as he fights every fiber of his righteous body to do the wrong thing. G’Kar is such a sympathetic figure to me. His pain is palpable. I just wanted to curl up into a fetal position for him by the end of this one. It was excruciating. How does Minbar and the Earth Alliance stand by and not want to bring the full weight of their arsenal upon the Centauri? It's rhetorical. I know the answer, but I just wish they'd damn well do it. The Narn is facing extermination and everyone sits idly by and watches. I suppose it’s much like events in our own world. You'd think the genocide of the Markab would be a wake-up call. Straczynski is a true genius.

We Are Family [sing it!]: G'Kar and Uncle G'Sten.
So, the vile Lord Refa summons Londo to Centauri Prime, while G’Kar meets with his uncle G’Sten at B5. G’Sten informs G’Kar the Narn are re-strategizing and preparing to thrust an all out assault on the Centauri supply world of Gorash 7. The Narn plan is to strike with sharp intensity so the Centauri will pull back. Unbeknownst to the Narn, Refa has intercepted those plans. Refa wants Londo to send his “associates” to Gorash 7 to wipe out the Narn fleet when they arrive, while the Centauri applies its full arsenal against the Narn homeworld in an offensive slaughter. Refa intends to wipe out the Narn utilizing methods outlawed by all civilized races in the form of Mass Drivers [planetary bombers].

Londo is distressed by the plan. You can visibly see and feel his discomfort. Not to mention, Londo is worried about the strength of the Shadows and he should be. Why the Centauri do not question who these “associates” are, their capabilities and the potential havoc they could wreak upon their own world, is a mystery. Now that is a bloodlust for power. Londo expresses his preference to avoid reliance upon the Shadows. Gee, I wonder why Londo? He impresses upon Refa that the Centauri should carve their own destiny without aid. Hmm, perhaps that old sinking feeling is setting in. Refa presses Londo. Londo concedes to the pressure reluctantly and vows it will be the last time he calls upon the assistance of his "associates." Why do I get the feeling it's not going to be that easy.

Later, Refa invites Londo along to oversee the Centauri victory over the Narn and the destruction of the Narn homeworld. It is a haunting image of Londo watching from the window of his vessel the fruits of what his command has enabled. He is deeply disturbed by inner demons and he exhibits his stomach-churning choices as he looks away.

On B5, G’Kar visits wounded Narn strewn throughout the medlab and Dr. Franklin informs him of information given to him by one of the Narn who has died. Dr. Franklin tells G’Kar the deceased Narn was interrogated and the Centauri probed him about Narn homeword defenses. The red flags are waving for G’Kar. He knows the Centauri are thorough and unlikely to finish a job however small, yet he learns their ships have peeled away from various Narn outposts. Why? G’Kar knows and informs G’Sten to pull away from Gorash 7 and retreat back to the Narn homeworld. It looks like a trap yet G’Kar cannot convince G’Sten to go back and protect their home.

And so, despite the urging of G’Kar and his insistence the Narn leave the sector of Gorash 7, the fate of his people sealed, they are instead simply wiped out by the black-fingered hand of evil that is The Shadows. It is a slaughterhouse and retreat is futile. The lethal force of purple-pink firepower kills all. The spiritual G’Kar is deep in frantic prayer, but he knows his people’s fate and his prayers are unanswered. What God does G'Kar pray to?

Upon word of the attack, Narn fighting begins on B5 between, you guessed it, the Narn and Centauri. Yeah, I’d have a problem with mass genocide too. Four days of bombardment later, the Narn surrender and G’Kar’s long, lonely, twilight struggle continues.



Oh poor Londo, how far you have fallen.
Londo calls for an emergency session of the Advisory Council and the League of Non-Alligned Worlds. Londo, despite knowing the atrocities he has committed, with a sure hand commands the audience with his false power. His demands before the council include:

The disbandment of the Narn ruling body who will face arrest and trial for war crimes. [Earth requests a presence but is denied.]

Prevention of acts of terror by Narn upon the Centauri. Such action will result in the execution of 500 Narns for any one Centauri killed.

A provisional ruling council by the Centauri will rebuild a “civilized” Narn government to be a colony under the rule of the Greater Centauri Republic.

Last but not least, Ambassador G'Kar shall henceforth be named Citizen G’Kar.



G'Kar, having a very, very bad day.
In a second thread, Delenn’s friend Draal [now played by a different actor- poor Straczynski really had to do some juggling from time to time] has appeared before her and Sheridan as a holographic image from Epsilon 3 where he is keeper of the Great Machine. With B5 orbiting the planet, and being a mere hop, skip and a jump away, he has requested a visit. It has been one year and Draal offers Sheridan an alliance with Epsilon 3, but it is agreed the information will be kept from the Earth Alliance and between Delenn, Draal and him alone. Hmmm... another secret weapon in the old Babylon 5 back pocket? Good idea. They're gonna need it.

One last note of interest, Draal calls for old friend Zathras [Babylon Squared Season 1] off camera, so we never actually see him. This thread is certainly very important. What does the future hold for B5 and its planetary protector Epsilon 3? The partnership looks to be establishing B5 as a protectorate. We were first alerted to the planet’s defensive power and its secrets [what they are we're not sure because they're secret] in Season 1's A Voice In The Wilderness parts 1 & 2 . The two-part episode established B5’s link with the station and the planet's care in the hands of a Minbari to prevent its destruction. Clearly Epsilon 3, now allied with B5, will continue to play a part in the coming Great War or beyond. Finally, the mention of Zathras ties this emtry not only to the aforementioned two parter, but with Babylon Squared where we first met Zathras. If you recall, Zathras saved Sinclair [not The One] and became pinned by a girder on the unstable Babylon 4. Zathras told Sinclair to "Go" with the others. "You have a destiny." If you remember, The One appears before him in a blue spacesuit. Zathras expressed relief, "Zathras knew you would not leave him. Zathras trusts The One." It's wonderful to see Straczynski come full circle on some of these ties that bind the show. So we definitely receive the first sign here that Zathras is still very much alive.

The Epilogue: Delenn introduces Sheridan to The Rangers, fighters of the coming darkness, army of light. The Rangers have been under Delenn’s command. It is in this moment she transfers equal authority to the now trusted Sheridan. Sheridan and Delenn's association and their roles in the fate of Babylon 5 seem to be closely tied.

The Long, Twilight Struggle: B+

B5 S2 Ep19: Divided Loyalties

Babylon 5 continues its strong second season with Divided Loyalties. It's worth noting that I have said very little about Claudia Christian as Ivanova. I have been drawn to the more masculine tensions between the various races and that has been reflected in my entries. Still, Christian has really grown on me over the season. I think the show would not be the same without her place in it. She is both warm and tough as nails and she plays both sides with her steely Russian resolve very well. I particularly enjoyed her performance here and it was a real highlight. [Beware here comes the male in me] She's also strikingly voluptuous, bodacious and I LOVE those hot lips!

Patricia Tallman, as Lyta Alexander, returns. It is her first appearance since the pilot, The Gathering [which I will be watching soon]. She was the first telepath ever assigned to B5. She’s also the only human to ever scan Ambassador Kosh following an attempted assassination on his life, and it has left an indelible mark on her own mind. She left the station following the incident, according to Garibaldi, and was never quite right.

Lyta has arrived to inform Sheridan there is a traitor aboard B5. The traitor is so deeply programmed not even the affected individual would be are aware of her objective. Lyta has the password to scan all personnel aboard B5 and detect the plant. The paranoid Lyta refuses to be alone with anyone. Sheridan rejects her request initially to take it under consideration first. Lyta has escaped Psi Corps en route to Mars. She’s been trying to penetrate Vorlon space. Of course, as the story goes, those who attempt it never return, but she is drawn to the Vorlons since touching Kosh.

I love pouty Ivanova.
Lyta informs the inner circle [Sheridan, Garibaldi, Ivanova and Dr. Franklin] of a sleeper Psi Corps program in development on Mars creating telepaths directly loyal to the Corps. That programmed personality is so deeply submerged it cannot be identified even by a deep scan.

Meanwhile, Ivanova offers Talia Winters accommodations in her quarters while her room is under repair. Talia informs Ivanova that she is the only one she trusts. Is it me or did it seem like their was some form of female chemistry between the two outside of friendship? I thought the body language was pretty intense during a few moments here. I was thinking kiss at one point.

Late at night [isn’t it always night on B5? I think my internal clock would be royally screwed], Lyta is being transferred and the power shuts down as an attempt on taking her life occurs by someone with a PPG. Even as you watch you know what's coming and you know who it is. It's one of the few times on B5 I haven't been surprised. A guard is killed and one injured. Lyta escapes and turns to Delenn for help. Delenn arranges a meeting with the Sheridan four.

Under the pressure of a potential scan, Ivanova is deeply troubled. Her crisis of conscience is revealed when she breaks into Sheridan’s room and awaits his arrival. She informs him of the stunning revelation that she is a low level telepath [P1], thanks to her mother. Her mother trained her to control her powers and to avoid detection by Psi Corps. Ivanova fears she will be discovered. Sheridan does his best to assist Ivanova. I didn't see that coming. I always took Ivanova's guarded, bad attitude towards telepaths as: a]. part of her personality. b]. what they did to her mother. Straczynski did a nice job taking that thread to the next level.

The inner circle reconvenes and reconnects with Lyta whereby Sheridan consents to the scans. Here is that absolutely classic scene featuring none other than our dear Garibaldi to lighten the load.



I laughed out loud. I may have been drinking something at the time and almost spit. ‘The One To Be Pitied’ heard me in the other room and hollered; “There’s something wrong with you.” [Hey, that’s fine you just keep watching those ridiculous, so-called reality shows.] Anyway, Ivanova inevitably must concede to a scan. She ain’t happy and lets Lyta know it. She naturally blocks her at first, but then relents allowing her secret be revealed unhappily to Lyta.

In the end, Talia enters the room and is almost instantly fingered by Lyta as the mole when she sends the password. Talia opens fire, but is restrained by Garibaldi. So much for "love in the afternoon" between Garibaldi and Talia, but that’s okay. The two took their on screen romance off-screen and married in real life. So, Talia reveals herself to be a stone cold assassin, a complete Psi Corps bitch! She was the one who had been programmed from the start [beyond her control]. I suspected as much since she exhibited signs of deception back in Season 2's Spider In The Web. Sheridan remarks how close she was to becoming part of the inner circle. Whew! That was a close one. They were just days away from bringing her in. So that’s all she wrote for Ms. Winters, but she isn’t dead, just in custody remember, so perhaps it's not the last we've seen of her.

Andrea Thompson delivers a nice turn and really lets loose in the part especially in those final minutes. The sequence between Ivanova and Thompson is quite good. Ivanova’s reaction was disturbed and she plays it with genuine affect. Afterall, Ivanova was very reluctant to let down her walls to a telepath and it took her nearly two seasons to do so. The storyline was handled with genuine logic by Straczynski. Her acceptance of Talia was a real step for Ivanova especially given her secret and her make-up. When Talia exhibits her true colors, Ivanova is emotionally betrayed. It’s ironic, because Ivanova’s instinct about her was right all along and it wasn’t until the end when she feels so violated on a number of levels. Ivanova's reaction is one of disappointment in herself as much as it is in Ms. Winters. Good stuff. The wounded Ivanova is precisely why I have grown to love her character. She has definitely supplanted Ms. Winters as the show's new certified hottie in my book!

The secondary thread continues to witness Delenn and Sheridan developing feelings for one another outside of their professional relationship. There is an undeniable attraction between the two characters. I love her smile, but truthfully that head bone may get a bit problematic if things get intimate.

The epilogue sees Lyta visit Kosh one last time in the alien sector. She has kept her knowledge of him locked away and Kosh knows this and reveals himself to her again. Bright light shines down upon her face. It's a bit of heaven for Lyta.

Divided Loyalties: B

Delenn: “I find this notion of the press a fascinating, but sometimes troubling concept.”
Sheridan: “Join the club.”
*
Sheridan: “Why is it everytime you finally get things calmed down and everything’s going great life decides to kick you in the butt.”
Delenn: "But what?"

Sheridan: "What?"