B5 S3 Ep7: Exogenesis

"Excuse me, did you say you want me to come to your bedroom?"

I was quite excited about this one. You just take one good look at that nasty back-burrowing space bug and you can't help but consider the possibilities that this one might well be a terrific, Alien-esque creepfest. Well, it was not to be. By the way, I thought the Straczynski concept was a good one on the whole and certainly anything but straightfroward. Part of the problem I think might have been that I was looking for unoriginal, exciting even disgusting and just didn't get the fan service. I know I shouldn't be lowering my expectations for such a heady series. If I wanted something that straightforward I should have hit the archive classics like John Carpenter's The Thing.

Here we have Babylon 5, Season 3, Episode 7, Exogenesis [or Nasty Little-Legged Space Critters]. The whole slimy, centipede-like creature burrowing into the back concept really had gi-normous potential. The promise of it never quite satisfied my expectations. It was interesting science-fiction just the same but just didn't quite send it for me.

So it's official for one Lt. J.G. David Corwin [Joshua Cox]. A party is thrown in honor of his promotion or is it in the honor of receiving an actual character name with a speaking part?

I love the fact J. Michael Straczynski takes 'time outs' in his episodes to assemble our favorite cast of characters together so they can unwind over small talk and a cocktail. Sometimes the talk isn't small at all. Sometimes it’s actually big talk. I love those light, intimate moments between characters at the bar or at the table over dinner. Straczynski has a way of relaxing us with a fine meal for a few minutes before rattling our brains with the next intense shoe drops. He delivers those like a sharp shot to the family jewels at times. All is quiet before the storm as they say. I am forever humbled every time those credits roll with ‘Written by J. Michael Straczynski’ and I wonder how on Earth he manages to keep the quality up week after week at such a high level. This entry may not be among his best but it has its moments.

I’m not sure why Ivanova passed on inviting Marcus to the social. Was it her fear of her own attraction or caution of the unknown? Let's face it, you need to work hard to earn Ivanova's trust and loyalty as it should be. But I agree with Sheridan on playing it cool. Better to keep their relationship with Marcus and their new alliance under the radar for the time being.

The one thread I did enjoy in this entry was the whole concept of the “new” employee. Sheridan questions Ivanova about the 'new guy'; in essence, can Lt. Corwin be trusted within the inner circle? Under orders from Sheridan Ivanova must probe Corwin. Funny enough, he is invited to her quarters for a little intercourse. Not that kind silly rabbit! Of course that's what Corwin thinks. He misleads himself into thinking it might just be a hot date. A guy can dream can't he? Of course I'm sure there are a few ladies out there who might find Corwin a tasty after dinner cordial themselves.

Corwin’s eyes bug out [as he imagines the big nasty] at the potential for the request of his presence in her quarters! Great moment! Still, it’s comical because Corwin’s behavior is so very Boy Scout and ‘chain of command.’ He is goody two shoes honest! He's the kind of fellow that follows Earth law down to the letter without question. It's his inability to ask questions that make his colleagues nervous. He sees things black and white, while Sheridan, Garibaldi and Ivanova are forced very clearly to navigate their sticky universe in the grey. It is uncertain he would be able to comprehend the rule-bending nature of the politics in play that are required to violate Earth law in order to protect Earth. So, Lt. “I think I have a date” Corwin picks up flowers en route to Ivanova’s accomodations to engage in another terrific Claudia moment. She has such a tough-as-nails affect that Corwin nervously tells her the flowers were sitting outside her door unable to tell her that he bought them. She sticks the proverbial knife in the heart and tells him 'anyone who would pay for expensive synthetic flowers must be dumb.' Ouch! She knows how to hurt a guy.



I must say Joshua Cox clearly feels more natural in the cute guy role for the show then Warren Keffer ever did. Cox has also eased into it more gradually. He was brought to the fore of 'recurring' without it being forced down our throats. We weren’t beat over the head with him in the credits [LOOK AT OUR NEW GUY ISN'T HE HUNKALICIOUS!] and saddled with huge expectations, but rather slowly introduced to him. After awhile, the more we saw him, the more we wondered does that guy have a story to tell? I feel like his role as part of the story could work out much better and be more interesting. I certainly don't know Straczynski’s long term plans for him. Hell, he could wind up Drazi roadkill for all I know. Perhaps he's simply the Gary Jones [Stargate SG-1] of the series never to stray too far.

Whenever I hear Marcus speak with that delightful English-accented dialogue, I often wonder if he wasn’t a creation for Straczynski to indulge himself with a poetic style reminiscent of Shakespeare. It all seems to roll off the tongue and is alot of fun to hear. He can make nonsense sound terrific! Marcus is alerted that Ranger 1 on Minbar has recommended a heightened state of alert and should pull back from the Earth base of operations. Shadow vessels are being spotted in Sector 800. They are gathering, creating a border on the edge of Centauri space. How these things actually move around and still believe they are undetected in their operations is beyond me. It’s like a 900 pound gorilla with tentacles in the middle of the room, but instead it's a damn space spider the size of the Sydney Opera House. Marcus requests the Rangers drop a long range scanner in Sector 800 and get the ‘F’ out fast! Marcus’ liaison, Samuel, is missing. And now, Marcus himself, is being tailed. Marcus finds Samuel, but something isn’t right. His behavior has changed. His body has clearly been snatched! Samuel was dedicated to Marcus’ cause but now stares blankly with a kind of empty affect. Marcus looks for a man named Duncan [a nice turn by Aubrey Morris] who is also missing. Criminey! It’s like Invasion Of The Body Snatchers!

Marcus approaches Garibaldi in typically colorful style.
Marcus: “An increasingly large number of people in Down-Below aren’t acting normally.”
Garibaldi: “If they were normal they wouldn’t be in Down-Below.”
Marcus: “Well thank you Mr. Garibaldi, one of the leading minds of the 14th Century!”
Garibaldi: “Ivanova’s right- you are a pain in the ass!” [Hey, throw Ivanova under the bus why dontchya!] It’s funny how Garibaldi gets engaged in station problems based upon his own perception of what is serious and what isn’t. He’s a funny fellow. He cracks me up. I like his character alot.

Elsewhere, Dr. Franklin notes an anomaly on a man’s x-ray in medlab. He pulls snot slime from the dead man’s back and the slime wiggles. Damn! That space booger's alive! Marcus comes along and convinces Dr. Franklin to tag along throughout the station to investigate and play I Spy. Anything to get out of medlab and have Richard Biggs earn his keep. What they find in Duncan’s quarters is quite unpleasant and they are surrounded by those alien-human, backbitten folks and held hostage. I do like the idea of an alien race of nasty little space critters being of a higher intelligence than my earlier expectations would lead you to believe. You certainly wouldn't expect a centipede to be smart.

Some of the entry tips the cap to standard science-fiction fare with a touch of the classic coupled with original ideas. There's a bit of homage to in there. So, Franklin and Marcus are held in the Down-Below by those inserted with the alien parasite [Vendrizi if I have that right]. Marcus asks Franklin about Ivanova [always a good time to ponder your sex life when in peril] confirming any suspicions there might be an interest in her for him. He feels she has “a key as yet unturned.” I bet she does buddy and wouldn’t you like to turn it. I'm sure it would be “fascinating to find out,” as he puts it. Anyway, start thinking of a way to get the hell out of there.

Granted, I know the writers will pursue a love connection for these characters from time to time, but I definitely felt a lesbian groove for the voluptuous Ivanova in her dalliance with Talia in Divided Loyalties. Perhaps she’s a switch hitter, but there is a masculine quality to Ivanova's personality that I felt drew her to the softer feminine aspects of her same sex as if to fill a void in her life. She logically has that space in her life since her mother died for whom she was clearly close. Given the male-driven galaxy for which she works it kind of made sense to me which is why Marcus just really doesn't or at least feels a bit contrived. Whoa! I was starting to get deep there I think.

Eventually Marcus escapes while Franklin is in Brown 87 attempting to save a dying host at the Vendrizi's behest. Marcus rescues Franklin but discovers the hosts are merging with the Vendrizi voluntarily. Those whose lives are in jeopardy, at an end or simply directionless are joining with the creatures to extend life and aid the creature's own desire for survival. The alien legacy is to preserve memories in effect preserving the past, present and future from the coming dark age. I love those Shadows allusions. Even when you have a standalone story like this one, elements of the larger arc remind you that the Shadows are there waiting in the wings.

This a really sweet sequence between Marcus and Duncan as Duncan bids farewell. Marcus is beginning to win me over with his unusual mix of quirky, heroic and romantic. I genuinely thought this was a really sweet moment between the two.



Now, the dialogue for Duncan really hit a nerve for me. I've seen Blade Runner maybe 20 times and I own a copy of the Vangelis Blade Runner Original Motion Picture Soundtrack [I love the score!]. Speaking of homage earlier, the script provided for Duncan, while not precisely the same, immediately reminded me of this terrific moment extracted from Blade Runner. You can also hear the dialogue in the audio track on the CD itself which is in heavy rotation in my car. The Duncan goodbye felt very much like a nod to this scene and at least captured the spirit of what Ridley Scott was conveying in his film classic through always underrated actor Rutger Hauer [one of his best ever performances hands down alongside Night Hawks]. The whole idea of how life is fleeting and how we all want to make the most of this short thing called life and how it is essentially a gift. I don't mean to be cheesy, and don't get me wrong, I love Babylon 5, but this segment from Blade Runner is stunning, moving cinematic poetry and is certainly on a level all its own. While it's like comparing apples to oranges it says alot about the quality of Babylon 5's science fiction. If it wasn't intentional it's a funny coincidence. Scott's scene is considerably darker but both are powerful in their own rights.



In the end, Ivanova alerts Sheridan of her Corwin probe and sadly affirms, for now, she cannot be certain of his loyalty. Oh and Franklin tells Ivanova to give Marcus a chance and immediately she deduces those roses given to her from Corwin allegedly found outside her door were actually from Marcus. She seeks Marcus out on the station and plops the roses down in front of him in the Zocalo. “Keep ‘em,” she storms off. Are you sure you want to turn that key pal? Of course, Marcus looks to be open to a good challenge. Happy-go-lucky Marcus is tickled pink by the roses and merely smiles with thanks. Ha! Just like a fellow-clueless.

Londo and G’Kar are noticeably absent in this one and their lack of presence is clearly felt. Given last episode’s events I imagine the plan was to a: allow Londo to heal and b: G’Kar to serve some time for that sentence.

Duncan: “Maybe we all need to wake-up, become special before it’s too late.”

Exogenesis: C

Dust Is The Drug!

There is no other explanation for these indulgences other than the fact it's just kind of fun for me to have a good time while I'm watching Babylon 5. Certainly this is one science fiction series quite worthy of cool music videos. My kids come along and say things like "what the heck are you doing?"

Anyway, I'm off and running with the next episode, but I loved listening to Roxy Music [a riff on Love Is The Drug] while enjoying the always amazing Andreas Katsulas. The physical drama Katsulas delivers as G'Kar through all of that latex is simply astounding. The man is an amazing actor.

B5 S3 Ep6: Dust to Dust

"Ahhh! Is that my hand!?" Now that is significantly F***ed up!
*

The Babylon 5 locomotive steams along with the latest installment, Season 3, Episode 6, Dust To Dust [or Londo Receives His Much Deserved Ass-Kicking]. Now I don't normally condone violence but Londo is lucky he made it this far. Off we go.

*

The nefarious Nightwatch unit continues to step it up a notch with their Babylon 5 surveillance program. There is an almost Nazi-like oversight being cultivated among security troops on the station. Shopkeepers are getting harassed for the sale of ‘Indict Clarke’ merchandise. The unit is clearly becoming more militant in its methods as freedoms begin to get trampled. Thankfully Captain Sheridan is clearly in charge and he lets one fellow know it.

Walter Koenig’s Bester returns. There were a few moments where I asked myself what if Bester was actually a good guy? Bester’s re-arrival and scanning presence places everyone on edge on the Sheridan War Council potentially worried he could potentially uncover key information on a host of issues [The Shadows, Santiago, et.] that might further aid an already corrupt Earth Alliance. There are a variety of options considered before allowing him aboard.

Garibaldi: “We kill him before he has a chance to tell anybody.”
Ivanova: “Can we wound him just a little? We could blow up his ship.”

I enjoy Ivanova’s nasty little KGB streak. This is a powerful sequence with Ivanova taking actions outside her purview [or perhaps not; she is the Lt Commander]. When she makes a decision, she makes a decision and sticks with it. This is stunning stuff. I think it’s one of Ivanova’s many powerful moments to date. Her move is ultimately extreme, but an argument could be made justifying its within character as she is keenly aware Bester might discover her own telepathic power and might attempt apprehension essentially taking everything she's ever worked for away from her. Ivanova is extremely sensitive in this area and has always been throughout the series. She reacts often in self-defense and self-preservation of herself and her colleagues trumping the law when necessary. She is extremely loyal to her friends and her mission/ passion for justice [at times willing to bend the means to justify the ends]. Then of course there is the whole bit with her mother's fate to boot. This is a pretty moving sequence from Christian. Those eyes and those lips are a killer! I love pouty Ivanova!



By the way, how about those seemingly innocuous comments like “the defense grid is acting up.” What? Well, that can’t be good.

Sheridan + Delenn + Garibaldi + Ivanova + Dr. Franklin + Psi Corps suppressant drug + 4 Minbari telepaths = 100% Bester proof. In other words, "don't screw with us!"
Delenn’s plan to counteract Bester involves having four Minbari telepaths in their presence while in Bester's company to nullify his scanning powers. He agrees to take the drug that will properly and temporarily suppress his abilities while on Babylon 5. This is a tasty little sequence with the cast and Koenig. Koenig plays the part with smug nastiness and a cocky little swagger.

Vir, the anti-Centauri, returns. Vir is a cultured fellow with a good heart and seems to be quite satisfied in his new role working amongst the religious caste of the Minbari on Minbar. He is a very trusting and honorable fellow.

Delenn, with Lennier aid, mediates between the Centauri [Londo & Vir] and the Drazi [another exceptional turn from Kim Strauss, the world’s greatest, most underappreciated alien actor]. Londo increases his Centauri colony demands from a previous offer and the Drazi are outraged. With little concern, Londo storms from the meeting. The exchange between Lennier and Vir about Londo is telling.

Lennier: “A darkness carried in the heart cannot be cured by moving the body from one place to another. I don’t think there is anything that can be done for him now.”
Vir: “That’s because you don’t know him. Someday he’ll surprise you.”

This is clearly a hint of things to come for Londo. If anyone knows how troubled Londo is and how lost yet salvageable he might be it would be Vir and his faith in Londo remains. The hope of some form of vindication down his fated path still remains. The moment reminds me that despite the Jeckyll and Hyde persona that Londo has walked, deep down there were many moments where he knew what he was doing was wrong and despite his adoration for the Centauri as its conquistador of alien races he didn't truly believe he was doing the right thing.

Are drugs really the key to enlightenment?
"Dust is the drug I'm thinkin' of, can't ya see dust is the drug for me" [riff on Roxy Music's Love Is The Drug]. Psi Corps puts a political spin on their presence giving the impression they’ve been trying to shut down the manufacturer of the powerful narcotic Dust. It’s a big problem for telepaths, or is it? Apparently, powers are heightened to a state of psychic rape for telepaths. Telepaths can die, but the power that results is of significant interest to Psi Corps as we come to determine.

G’Kar manages to purchase Dust from the seller of a shipment that has slipped aboard Babylon 5 that Bester is hunting down with Garibaldi. G’Kar believes he can use Dust on the Centauri. There is a great deal of history opened here as well. The Dust pusher indicates the drug has not been tested on the Narn as there are no known Narn telepaths. G’Kar indicates that isn't exactly true. He sheds light on the tragic past of the Narn and how Narn telepaths were wiped out by the Centauri ages ago during the first Centauri occupation and Narn extermination. Any known telepaths and their families were eliminated, but they did exist. G’Kar decides to test the drug on himself despite having never been tested.

Able to lift Ambassadorial Assistants with a single hand! Hey listen, it's Vir people! That's no easy feat!
So G’Kar takes the Dust plunge and utters “Mollari.” In a state of ecstasy complete with blackened eyes he makes his way to Londo’s quarters. The results are at once horrific, but also enlightening to G’Kar as he learns the truth behind the current fate of the Narn at the hands of Londo and his “associates.” Based on his absolutely off-the-charts head-trip, I’m thinking never again if he can help it. Addiction to this government-manufactured drud will not be in his future.

Bester is a creepy little guy, but he knows how to make a strong case for his questionable mission and is always amusing thanks to Mr. Chekov, I mean Koenig. Still, never trust the Psi Corps! Garibaldi and Bester bring in a stool pigeon from the Down-Below. Despite his abilities being suppressed, Bester plays the idiot informer like a fiddle using his badge and uniform to get him to sing like a canary. He pretends he is reading his mind eventhough he is unable to do so. I was a little surprised Garibaldi fell for it. I expected a little sharper reaction from him on that. It seemed a little out of character for Garibaldi to be surprised into thinking Bester was actually scanning. I like to think Garibaldi has been in a few interrogations in his day and is alot sharper. Anyway, they continue working together and their temporary partnership is an entertaining one. The whole “piñata” metaphor was classic and once again Bester comes up with a great comeback. "So you think of me as something bright and cheerful full of toys and candy for young children. Thank you. That makes me feel much better about our relationship."

If I were Garibaldi my return volley would have been, “actually, I was referring to the fact I'd like to string you up like a candy-filled donkey and beat the snot out of you.” In the end the Dust is confiscated.

Later at Londo’s room, G’Kar knocks Vir unconscious.

*

A gruesome site and a potential new Centauri doll variant for the Babylon 5 shop!

A bloodied Londo grovels before G’Kar thanks to a punishing beating suffered at his hands. The Dust allows G’Kar to begin scanning Londo as we learn Londo was selected for the ambassadorship aboard Babylon 5 because no one wanted the job. Much begins to be shared with G’Kar as he invades his mind to learn about more about his connection to Mr. Morden.



G’Kar sees visions of his father hung from the tree of which he spoke in Season Two's And Now For A Word [I cannot recall the tree type] reminiscing back to the days of Centauri occupation when he was but a mere pouchling. I particularly like the set pieces here replete with pink. The haunting colors and artificial vibe give it an otherworldly dream-like quality. You know it's not quite right or real and that's why it works.



A Narn elder appears to G'Kar and makes an emotional, powerful plea for him to take a higher path to stop the bloodshed and save not only his people but others. Death is not the answer, but rather honor. G’Kar must be greater, nobler.

“I am who I have always been.” “I have always been here.” We hear these phrases often and sure enough you know the Vorlon is close. Kosh stands nearby as G'Kar awakens from his Dust binge. Kosh consistently reaffirms to the players involved within the Shadows war of destiny, fate and predestination. These things are seemingly pre-determined and inescapable. G’Kar awakens in pain over what he has done and what he has seen.

G’Kar is brought before the court of Babylon 5's judicial arm and sentenced to 60 days in the station brig. Sheridan speaks on his behalf and Garibaldi attempts to offer solace with the G’Quan. G’Kar accepts his punishment standing on his own two feet and tells Garibaldi he is closer to the source than ever before.

Elsewhere Vir and Londo are pretty banged up and licking their wounds. Londo is happy Vir is enjoying his new assignment and expresses his own strong belief and confidence in him. “It should never be a joke to them Vir.” We know now what has shaped Londo's world view [or galactic view] including the fact his assignment was perceived as but a joke once upon a time. Who wanted to work on Babylon 5? After all, the other stations had met their own doomed fates. It illustrates why Londo is so sensitive and overly ambitious at being taken seriously. He'd be like Joe Pesci in Good Fellas if he were an Earther. He’s like an abused school child out for revenge; a chip on his shoulder with something to prove. He’s out to shape a legacy based upon his own prior treatment. He angles to make a name for himself among those who took him lightly at the expense of any race standing in his way. This is at the heart of Londo’s journey, but at what cost?

The epilogue:
Bester and Garibaldi happily part company in the end following their brief collaboration.

Bester: “For what it’s worth Mr. Garibaldi I enjoyed working with you. We made a good team. Perhaps we’ll do it again sometime.”
Garibaldi: “Not a chance.”

In the final moments Bester rejoins a Psi Corps counterpart and their exchange indicates the Dust shipment and its arrival on Babylon 5 was very much a part of a manufactured Psi Corps masterplan to locate a telepath of “acceptable strength.” I'm not sure Bester would need his powers to scope out the candidate which may explain why he was so willing to sacrifice them while aboard Babylon 5. They weren't needed in this particular mission.

G’Kar sits alone in his cell with those words ringing through his mind. “We are fighting to save one another and some of us must be sacrificed if all are to be saved.” Once again, another potent episode complete with moving discourse from the pen of J. Michael Straczynski.

Finally, could the latent gene still exist within the Narn race? Could G’Kar have latent Psi-powers? Hmmm… I don’t think so, but the thought has crossed my mind.
*

Dust To Dust: B+

Ancient Space Disco Ball Remixes

The mind works in funny ways sometimes, but this was just something that was playing in my head so I just had to try it for a laugh. If you didn't know I'm a pretty avid music fan along with my love for science fiction. I like music alot and just about any category will do. This was more or less an experiment. The end result was okay given it was done on the fly. I slowed down the sequence a touch.

I'm digging the Minbari keyboardists!



Please folks that is not Barry Gibb. Perhaps the 5th mystery Gibb brother Marcus, but not Barry. By the way, Ivanova is very sexy in slow motion.



I'll tell you what, that ship Straczynski and company created is such a psychedelic spectacle it is undeniably one of the coolest I have ever seen in sci-fi.

B5 S3 Ep5: Voices Of Authority

Welcome to the dancefloor! Stayin' Alive! Stayin' Alive! "Well, you can tell by the way I use my walk I'm a woman's man no time to talk!" These First Ones are stayin' alive and apparently they've been around alot longer than the 70s.

“Code 7R” and the War Council is called alerted for yet another emergency session. Secrets seem to be hard to keep on Babylon 5. Zack is certainly curious about “Code 7R” and G’Kar has apparently caught wind of the Rangers when he corners Delenn and inquires with her about the ongoing closed-door meetings in yet another solid entry of Babylon 5 Season 3.

Babylon 5, Season Three, Episode 5, Voices Of Authority [or Bow Down Before Our Ancient Space Disco Ball], continues the natural rhythms of a show that clearly found its groove in Season Two.

Delenn: “Wars are won or lost before they’re fought through preparation added to strategy and the selection of proper allies.”

Delenn reminds the group of the last Great War one thousand years ago. It was believed the First Ones went away, beyond the galactic rim forever, where no human or Minbari has ever gone before [queue Star Trek theme-paying a little homage to William Shatner's narration there in my head]. Over the course of millions of years The Shadows have been fought to a standstill by the ancient races referred to as the First Ones. The Vorlons [one of them] remained. Though tired of warfare and perhaps ensconced Delenn believes some may still be here, near us and among the stars in our system.

We get a bit more on our man Marcus. Marcus was trained on Minbar. He has learned these races are old, powerful and dangerous. They do not want to be troubled. They are a bit like a grumpy old uncle, a kind of nasty Winter Warlock if you will.

The War Council believes an attempt to contact the First Ones is needed. Draal, from Epsilon 3, reappears within the council chambers to caution the group while also excited by the possibilities. I don’t know about you, but John Schuck who plays Draal [a role previously portrayed by Louis Turenne a.k.a. Brother Theo] is dreadfully annoying. I didn’t care for the actor the first time we met him in The Long Twilight Struggle. He’s just terrible. I know I’m being hard on him, but I cringe when I see him. Maybe he reminds me of someone loud and annoying. Anyway, Sheridan agrees to travel to Epsilon 3 to determine, with Draal, which race would be suitable for first contact.

To complicate matters, The Ministry Of Peace, Nightwatch division, has sent a liaison to the station under the authority of the Babylon 5 Senate Oversight Committee in the form of one beautiful blond bombshell Ms. Julie Musante [Shari Shattuck]. She is their new political officer. Sheridan is less than pleased about Earth’s latest envoy slash lackey. He must cancel his trip to Epsilon 3 thanks to his latest bureaucratic nightmare. She is indeed easy on the eyes, but damn, she’s hell on wheels! He assigns Ivanova to the Epsilon 3 mission. Ivanova asks if there is anything else he needs. His retort, "a glass of whiskey, a gun and two bullets."

Ms. Musante, escorted to her quarters, uses her assets to get Zack to keep her informed on anything Sheridan is unwilling to inform her on and reminds him he works for the Nightwatch.

Later, over a fine meal, Ms. Mussante continues to annoy while looking extremely hot. She can dish it out in intellect and sex appeal! She has an answer for every question Sheridan poses. She bats those eyelashes and tells Sheridan, “I think I could come to like you…quite a lot.” Okay. Maybe some protection with that whiskey, gun and two bullets would be good. Translation: "I would like to go to your room and boff your brains out!" as she literally throws herself at the Captain. I suppose we can overlook a few minor shortcomings given her other fine skills and abilities if you will. I know, I sound so sexist! I'm Terrible!
*

Such a beautiful face.
Meanwhile down on Epsilon 3, Ivanova steps into the Great Machine. “Whatever you do, do not stray from the path,” urges Draal. This is all quite strange, because apparently if she strays and cannot return to the path she can die. It’s kind of like a dream. Can you actually die in your dream? Apparently here you can. The machine points to Sigma 957. This was the planet G’Kar warned Catherine Sakai about back in Season One's Mind War. Remember those always poetic words of Straczynski as delivered by G'Kar here in Mind War.

*

By the way that Sakai is an attractive lady. Whatever happened to her? Is she with Sinclair down on Minbar?

*

Sigma 957 is an alleged First Ones stronghold. While inside the machine she witnesses images from the past including Earth Force One's explosion and a transmission by Clark speaking of his desire to murder Santiago. We also hear the voice of Morden who is clearly in cahoots and entrenched at the highest levels of power within the Earth government. All is not well for the Earthers and the government is clearly exhibiting signs of major infection by The Shadows. Ivanova is stunned by what she has seen and directs Draal to record the message and the images.
*

Hello luscious!
Back in Sheridan’s quarters, Ms. Mussante is annoying butt also… naked! Sweet! Ivanova appears in Sheridan’s quarters via Epsilon 3 hologram to alert him to her findings. Sheridan ducks into his room to speak with Ivanova leaving a naked Mussante in waiting for further intercourse from Sheridan. Eh hem! Ivanova leaves Sheridan with the naked truth, “good luck Captain, I think you’re about to go where everyone has gone before.” Tough life Captain but someone's gotta do it!

"Get a room! Oh that's right I am in your room. Damn!"
G’Kar grabs Garibaldi’s attention and is frustrated at being kept in the dark concerning the secrets of Babylon 5 or as he calls it “a gathering of forces.” G'Kar clearly finds it difficult to come to terms with the fact he's no longer an ambassador who is on a need to know basis. He’s dying to know.



Ivanova moves to visit Sigma 957 via the White Star with Marcus [fluent in Minbari]. The ship is within Sheridan’s command, but is operated in large part thanks to a contingent of religious Minbari who are readily on hand. Who would have thought Starkiller and the Minbari would be engaged so closely to achieve the same goals, never mind his growing connection to half-Minbari Delenn.

A Nightwatch meeting convenes whereby Ms. Mussante is more than happy to strut her stuff and stomp all over due process to enforce the latest Earth restrictions. So it’s official. She’s a wacko, albeit with a very high sex drive.
*

Talking Heads but not Burning Down The White Star!
Positioned over Sigma 957, Ivanova makes contact with a giant flying disco ball. The ship is devastatingly cool with its discotheque effects. This thing has got to have some filthy rotten firepower to match The Shadows! I was completely humbled by the spectacle the effects team and designers came up with here. It is an original psychedelic creation. A giant stone head appears before her inside the White Star and doesn’t say all that much. The arrogance permeates the ship and it's a clear sign they've made contact with one of the First Ones. Ivanova attempts to communicate with it by informing the alien entity of the coming Shadows. At first, their reaction is one of indifference as they prepare to leave. Ivanova comes up with some good old fashioned human reverse psychology. She jumps into action informing the race of its parallels to the Vorlons, but also by telling them how much superior the Vorlons are. It is priceless.

*

This reminds me of sitting in one of those planetariums when they turned it into a Led Zeppelin light show.
Back on Babylon 5, Sheridan and Garibaldi review the Clark transmission. Sheridan will deliver it to General Hague. The communique has an official code buried within it that will legitimate its authenticity. The news reports the information is being analyzed, but by whom?

Greased Lighting! This was an unexpected exchange for me. I never saw it coming. Where’s Rizzo to smooth things out when you need her?



Sheridan: “No problem making first contact?”
Ivanova: “No problem at all. They’ll be there when we need them. That’s one down and what?several thousand more to go.”
Sheridan: “Yeah, if this war’s gonna be as bad as Delenn says we’ll need all the First Ones we can find.”

Back on Earth Clark is calling the uncovered transmission an alien conspiracy. Santiago’s family is demanding an investigation. “It’s a mess, but the truth is out,” relays Sheridan to Ivanova.

Sgt. Zack Allan, what the hell are you thinking? You idiot! The last thing you should be doing is asking Ms. Mussante what a “Code 7R” is. Are you freakin’ nuts kid? Plant the seed with an unknown variable why dontchya, great job! What a pisser. It’s like near sabotage pal.

*

"I was hoping you were Ms. Mussante."
The final scene is in the late hours as Garibaldi attempts sleep. There is a visitor at his door. The whole thing sends us in yet another new direction. Stumbling to answer, the door opens. It is G’Kar.

G:Kar: “I told you I could help.” [He hands Garibaldi the Book of G’Quan] “Read it!”
Garibaldi: “I don’t read Narn.”
G’Kar: “Learn.”
Garibaldi: “He hates me. They all hate me. That’s why they’re doing this…to make me crazy.”

I’d really like a copy of the G’Quan myself. It looks like a fascinating read from all we’ve seen of it to date. It is an old guide filled to the hilt with wisdom and more importantly loads of great pictures and drawings. Very cool.

Voices Of Authority: B+

B5 S3 Ep4: Passing Through Gethsemane

One of many creepy moments in a powerful entry.

Wow! Babylon 5, Season Three, Episode 3, Passing Through Gethsemane, really stayed with me long after watching it. I actually ended up watching it twice. The message was so powerful in the story it was a bit like going to church when your pastor delivers his most powerful sermon of the year. It had that engaging quality to it. The writing was really something to behold.
*

The story begins over a chess match between Brother Theo, played by Louis Turenne, who quite simply is brilliant in the role. I've really enjoyed his recurring part though I made little mention of it upon his first appearance in Convictions. One Brother Edward is watching the match. Character actor Brad Dourif guests in the role. I'm always hot and cold on Dourif. Either Dourif [Deadwood] is the kind of quirky, eccentric character I’m not crazy about [Grima Wormtongue in Lord Of The Rings] or plays a part I really love [Billy Bibbit in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest]. Well, he plays the part pretty straight here, being a religious man, and it is a pleasure to watch his craft unfold. Despite my reservations he can unquestionably perform with the best of them.

Ambassador Kosh arrives in Bay 13 and the Vorlon ship contorts to create a doorway [love that Vorlon technology]. Lyta Alexander has returned. According to Lyta she essentially hitchhiked to the edge of Vorlon space. We know she has been drawn to Kosh since the beginning. Her story has it she was left floating in a lifepod with five days life support. Lucky for her she was saved and found herself on the Vorlon homeworld. Sheridan and the others inquire about her experience there, but she cannot discuss what she has witnessed. She tells them most would not believe what she has encountered anyway. How convenient. Try us Lyta. I guess we’ll have to wait and see. As luck would have it, Lyta will be working for Kosh, but be based out of Babylon 5. Her association with Kosh is of her own free will [unlike Sebastian of Comes The Inquisitor]. Kosh will also protect her from the nefarious Psi Corps. I'd have to admit I'd be just fine with Kosh as my bodyguard.

Garibaldi has this to say: “Nobody’s ever been to the Vorlon homeworld and back again, yet she goes, comes back like she just took a trip to the corner store and now she’s working for Kosh. Is anybody else as creeped out about this as I am?”

Yup! Creeped Out!
Meanwhile, oddly, a black rose drops from the bag of Brother Edward. Someone is toying with the new addition to the cloaked brotherhood.

A conversation between Garibaldi and Delenn sheds some interesting light on the state of criminal justice in the Babylon 5 world of Earth society. It appears to be a kinder, gentler Earth [on the surface]. Mind wipe or “death of personality” has replaced the electric chair. Criminals receive a new personality to supplant their past and will do community service for the rest of time. It's kind of like a nicer version of the lobotomy if there was ever such a thing.

Delenn: “But you don’t agree?”
Garibaldi: “No, I’m an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth kinda guy ambassador.”
Delenn: “So you support the system that would leave everyone blind and toothless.”
Garibaldi: “No, not everyone- just the bad guys.”

Now that’s my Garibaldi. He refers to the old code of Hammurabi of Babylon without actually saying it [interesting connection eh?].

In medlab, Dr. Franklin performs a physical on Lyta. Curiously she is in better health now than she was the last time she left Babylon 5.

Yikes, creepy wall scribbling, not a good Sign- literally.
Poor Brother Edward is showing signs of psychosis or is it? Arriving at his quarters he sees words on his wall that appear painted in blood. I always hated the 'wall-painted-in-blood' trick! You get the heebie jeebies! He alerts Garibaldi but when they return the message has vanished. You see, that's when you get the heebie jeebies! It's not right.

This sequence sees Londo attempt to work Lyta over and unsuccessfully charm her into giving him information about the Vorlons. Londo looks so pathetic when he tries these stunts, but they are fun to watch, and he wouldn't be Londo if he wasn't trying.



This is quickly followed by a moving exchange between Delenn and boy toy Lennier meeting with Brother Edward over the meaning of the soul. The Minbari believe it to be a "non-localized phenomenon.” The body is merely the shell that houses the soul, hence the concept of Minbari souls taking human bodies. Lennier eloquently explains the concept and keeps it succinct. It's the next part of the scene that was profoundly thoughtful, touching and noteworthy for me as portrayed by Dourif. What would you do?

I love that Straczynski constantly sets forth the idea that events are in motion and people can alter their course if they so desire or can they? Why can’t people stop and make things right? People just can't stop themselves damn it!

When Brother Edward arrives in Brown 17 he is touched by a Centauri telepath as he exits the elevator. He hears voices, sirens and sees the message again, “Death Walks Among You.” Edward finds a dead woman with a black rose stuffed in her mouth. Running through water, a tear runs from his eye. Ah, I started getting the mind wipe connection here. I know-I’m slow. Brother Theo attempts to dissuade Edward’s desire to probe into what these images mean. Edward accesses the station computer to cross-reference information like the black rose. The computer matches on the black rose killer, Charles Dexter. Brother Edward WAS/ IS Charles Dexter and was the recipient of the “death of personality” April 3, 2251. What a great story and the twists continue for Babylon 5.

Sheridan, Theo and Garibaldi uncover the truth. Edward now knows he was once a murderous monster or as he tells Theo, “the stain remains with the soul.”

Creepy Centauri telepath!
Garibaldi finds the recorder that was left running that Theo lost while on Brown 17. He is being set up to remember his past. The blood red writing is a chemical that disappears. The intercom played on Edward’s psyche. The Centauri telepath was hired to break down Edward’s mind wipe. The children of Dexter’s victims want revenge and have come for him. Edward is missing and the Centauri will not relinquish information under questioning. Sheridan implements plan B. Garibaldi slides a bag over his head [whatever works in the name of justice] and Lyta enters to peel away his mind. The Centauri struggles but passes out. Lyta has the information. Edward is on Brown 42.
*

Creepy Brother Edward mode! My heart just broke for the guy. If Straczynski wanted me to feel bad for a murderer it worked.
I thought the darkened lighting was brilliant. Director Adam Nimoy and his team employed some terrific techniques to capture the mood. This image exemplifies the lighting effort as Edward’s face is skewed complete with red eye sockets. It really played on the whole concept of Edward as the monster underneath. It was really well executed by the creators here. In the end, Edward answers the question of whether or not he would have the courage to face destiny. He answers it by facing the victims of his former self's actions and proving he did indeed have the courage to face it. I thought Straczynski’s one misstep was to make a point regarding Gethsemane here. He didn’t have to go back to it. That scene was so powerful earlier on and resonated with me so much Edward’s actions spoke volumes and did not need to be spelled out for us, especially fans as smart as those who would seek out Babylon 5. The question I have, how do we reconcile whose soul was at play here, that of Charles Dexter or Brother Edward? Is it one and the same or a moving force like that which Lennier described earlier. My head hurts.

Always great to see Straczynski turn the tables on us by socking characters in the gut, even if they aren’t aware of it. Garibaldi [not unlike myself] exhibits much sympathy for Edward despite voicing his stance on the mind wipe as punishment to Delenn earlier. Everyone certainly approached Edward with sympathy while knowing he was indeed formerly a killer. Dourif is terrific just as Wayne Alexander was terrific in Comes The Inquisitor.

The subject of forgiveness is brought to the fore in the final minutes and it is a gigantic twist.

Straczynski’s words shine through Sheridan: “You take away a man’s life, memory, payment for his crime. It’s still not enough. Where does revenge end and justice begin? Forgiveness is a hard thing isn’t it Theo?” More than you know Sheridan.

And with those words Sheridan’s feet are held to the fire when he turns to meet the latest addition to the order in the form of the very man who murdered Brother Edward. Sheridan is visibly shaken but must put his words to the test as he painfully extends his hand after first denying the the new brother a handshake. Going back to Sheridan’s words earlier, “I believe in a little bit of everything. I’m eclectic, open-minded.” Indeed. He at least proves those words true.

Eww! Creepy gill implants!
The epilogue moment sees light beaming from Kosh’s encounter suit with his head placed by the side. Lyta absorbs light beams through her eyes and mouth. Her breathing is aided by those creepy gill implants. It’s all very odd indeed. Is Lyta changing? One thing is certain she looks like a damn addict.

*

This is a powerful work, which left me thinking about a lot of things, including the fact that the mind wipe could be applied to anyone, even one of our beloved characters. Still, I don't really believe that simply for the mere fact that our favorite characters are filled with way too much passion and that seems to nearly absent following the "death of personality."

Passing Through Gethsemane: A-

While some of my grading may be on par episode to episode, each one is populated with very different ideas and can be like comparing apples to oranges despite being graded similiarly and liking them for different reasons.

B5 S3 Ep3: A Day In The Strife

Just another night on the town, or rather the revolving space tube.

The impressive character exchanges continue. Yes, it's just another day in the life or rather strife to be exact. One of the things I enjoy most about Babylon 5 is the endless interpersonal relationship struggles or friendhsips that happen for better or worse. I guess when you're stuck on a space station with nowhere to run you're going to get that. There were so many splendid little moments in Season Three, Episode Three, A Day In The Strife I began losing count. My video camera was working overtime. We get scene after scene in the day-to-day operations amidst the general chaos of Babylon 5 and the dialogue and drama between characters is flawless. It was yet another pleasure to watch it all unfold.

Unrest is building aboard Babylon 5 following the terror bombings in Convictions. The Transport Pilots Association is up in arms over the delays.

Sheridan greets the arrival of Na’Far, with bodyguard Ta’Lon, who has arrived to replace citizen G’Kar as the new Narn liaison to the newly assembled, Centauri-controlled Narn government. Na’Far is essentially a puppet of the Centauri. His hope is to remove G’Kar and thereby remove the primary influence on the armed Narn resistance.

Meanwhile, Garibaldi meets with Ivanova and informs her that he took a little looksy into Sheridan’s personnel jacket when he first arrived. I love how the good guys are always breaking the rules. I'm actually kidding, but it does seem necessary in this fairly uneven world of political power plays.

“I like to know who I’m dealing with and who knew he’d turn out to be okay. According to his files, Sheridan’s a good tactical thinker. He can take an inferior defensive force and turn it into an offensive force capable of taking on a better-equipped enemy. He did it with the Black Star. He did it with the Mars Riots. He’s the one chance we’ve got to make it through this thing alive.”

I’m thinking that’s a fairly vital skill people. Yeah, I'd kinda want Sheridan on my team too.

This is a fairly chilling reminder of the Jekyll and Hyde that is Londo Mollari.



"Captain, I believe I just received a name. Yes sir, it is official. I have confirmation!"

Joshua Cox sports his best haircut to date and actually lands himself a speaking role in one of his meatiest appearances thus far. By the way, it not only talks, but I believe Joshua 'Tech No. 1' Cox has just been promoted in the credits to an official name. He now answers to Corwin.

An alien probe enters Babylon 5 airspace and begins circling the station. It has presented 600+ intelligence questions to the station crew to answer within 24 hours or face annihilation [I remember feeling that way in school]. Yup, just another day in the strife. Theoretically, if the station can return the correct answers they will receive much needed medical technology. If they cannot complete them in time Babylon 5 will be, as Ivanova puts it, hit with a “500,000 megaton weed whacker.” Oh yeah and they cannot simply destroy the probe of course. This is a terrific thread taking Darwin to the next level combining the alien and the technological.

Later, Londo meets with Delenn in an attempt to relocate Vir as a diplomatic envoy to Minbar. It is fascinating to watch Londo try to manipulate Delenn but with little success. Despite Londo’s roller coaster persona he continues to be such a sympathetic figure in no small part to Jurasik’s amazing talent. Still, Delenn is as shrewd as they come and her presence is all thanks to the amazing and beeautiful Mora Furlan. Lesser actresses would have destroyed this character. At the very least they wouldn't have had nearly the presence or range of physical emotion that Furlan can employ. It seems effortless.



Oh! This is another great sequence about friendship and human behavior. This is the beauty of the show. It is Straczynski’s ability to write dialogue that is so true to human nature. I love this exchange between Garibaldi and Dr. Franklin [and man they love to eat together!]. Hey look, I warned you, I told you there were a lot of scenes I just loved.



Over a drink, Ta’Lon meets up with Sheridan. If you recall, Sheridan first saved Ta’Lon from the alien abduction they both survived in All Alone In The Night. Elsewhere, Na’Far meets with G’Kar and the discussion goes less than smooth. Performance perfection continues!



So, following the Garibaldi/ Franklin sequence we witness Dr. Franklin in action. He’s overtired and on edge and reaches for the narcotic that keeps him going. Garibaldi’s words haunt him and ring true as he puts them away. He swore he was not an addict, but as his problems unravel he cannot deny the craving for relief he requires. He inevitably takes the injection to stave off withdrawal.

There is also a scene between Londo and Vir and most notably this line to Vir had me laugh out loud. “You have been promoted. You will earn more money, receive more attention, women may even come to find you attractive…in time.” Viciously funny! Londo is so torn between love for Vir and a desire to remove him from the pressures that continue to build upon his shoulders.

The Narn confront Na’Far in the corridors of Babylon 5 as a traitor and G’Kar intervenes in time to prevent bloodshed. If there is anything G’Kar will not stand for it is Narn-on-Narn violence. G’Kar agrees to return to Narn if it means Narn are left alone.

Garibaldi is not so keen on G’Kar’s decision. Like many of us, Garibaldi has a soft spot for the lizard guy and like everyone else, he knows he will be killed if he returns to his homeworld.



So, like I said, there were so many powerful meetings in this episode I began to lose count. In fact, I need to buy two new batteries for the camera.

Oh God, here’s another. When G’Kar attempts to leave his brethren but they stop him with a little love. Show him the love!



Furthermore, the Narn not only managed to keep G’Kar in their camp, but gained another in Ta’Lon. It is noted by G’Quan that an unsheathed sword must draw blood before being coveted again. He honors the word and cuts his own hand experiencing the pain required for freedom. It’s pure damn poetry people I tell you!

In fact, this is poetry that is also beautifully real. When Garibaldi reconnects with Dr. Franklin he apologizes to him for being presumptuous about a potential addiction. It is so sincere and then, ashamed, Franklin lies to his friend unable to exhibit weakness or let anyone know it. JMS is keepin' it REAL! We make mistakes. We have frailties. We suffer consequences. Straczynski lays it all out. These are people like you and me. And when Vir walks off Babylon 5 so bloody REAL! I couldn’t believe it! I was like NO WAY! You can’t go! Come back! Bloody hell Londo- stop him ya bastard! What’s wrong with you?! What an ass! Really amazing stuff.

Classic exchange between Sheridan and Ivanova:

S: “If that thing blows at least it’ll save me from one more annoying conversation.”
I: “Always finding the good in every situation.”
S: “Absolutely! If I didn’t I might end up like you.”
I: “Hey, what’s that suppose to mean… I swear if we live through this somebody’s gonna’ find their automatic shower preferences reprogrammed for ice water."

Ivanova can be tough as nails, but deep down she's a big ol' softy and an absolute sweetheart! Come on, look at that face!

A Day In The Strife: B