Ricardo Montalban: 1920-2009

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

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

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

Planet Of The Apes

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

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

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


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

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

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


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

Kirk & Bones: The Polar Plunge

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

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

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

Bones: Yes. Nothing at all wrong with that.

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

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

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

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

Kirk: No sir. We relish the challenge.

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

Kirk: Stop! I know, polar bear!

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

Kirk: Shall we then?

Bones: Let's.

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

B5 S4 Ep17: The Face Of The Enemy

This installment is a bloody good time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bones: Good heavens Jim.

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

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

Mystery Babe: I seek the one called Spock.

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

MB: You are not Spock?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bones: Damn it Jim, we need a miracle!

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

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

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

Bones: Can she sing?

B5 S4 Ep16: Exercise Of Vital Powers

Haven't we all had nights like this? Take it easy on New Year's Eve or this could be you.

The liberation fleet is succeeding by usurping back control of the various colonies from Earth’s dictatorial hand. Up next on the menu: Earth.

On Mars, Garibaldi is convinced Sheridan is on a power trip. In a bit of a new reveal we learn Mars almost killed Garibaldi three times. Now he’s back for more. He’s a true glutton for punishment. Garibaldi is blindfolded on his journey to convene with William “the big guy” Edgars.

“I can’t believe I’m back on Mars. I gotta be out of my mind.” Hmm… perhaps you are Michael. In fact, this show continues to push the boundaries of my mind as we enter Babylon 5, Season Four, Episode 16, Exercise Of Vital Powers [formerly titled Garibaldi Exercises More Poor Judgment As He Further Screws Up His Life And Everyone Else's In it].

On the station, Franklin is doing the very best that he can to bring back those telepathic Popsicles. The problem is as soon as they awaken they immediately bond with the nearest computer system. They’re also not very friendly when they snap to. They’re quite nasty actually. These extraordinary powers bring to mind Season One, Episode 6, Mind War. Talia Winters old flame had some significant control issues with his telepathic abilities. He was clearly a living experiment thanks to the Psi Corps. I suspect they aren’t connected somehow.

Zack asks Lyta to scan the victim of a crime. Her payment is standard commission plus 10% stress fee for reliving the attack. I love that kind of detail. Zack agrees. Now, while standing in medlab she scans a telepath patient of her own volition that Franklin had been attempting to revive with no success. The man’s eyes open WIDE. We hear the sounds of those creepy Shadows vessels. Franklin turns to see Lyta standing at the glass with the patient standing on the other side of it and reaching his hand onto the glass to touch her. She breaks from her scan and the man falls to the floor. Franklin is not troubled, but instead pleased by this development by displaying a soft smile.

Back on Mars, Garibaldi meets with Lise. She tells him he shouldn’t have come. Maybe that was the message she was trying to leave him previously that he deleted. Edgars enters and offers Garibaldi a drink, but remembers that’s not such a good idea for someone now clean and sober. He knows this of course because apparently he’s done a full background check on him. Edgars has people in high places who clearly shouldn’t be accessing his background records unless laws and access are completely different in the future Babylon 5 'verse. Ordinarily accessing criminal history records via a police system for personal use and non-criminal related investigations would be a violation of the law. Edgars doesn’t look too concerned about that sort of thing. Still, he could have gotten the information from any number of computer sources given the number of avenues that appear to exist in this future.

Garibaldi is no dummy. He reverses tables on Edgars and knows almost as much about him including his political influence back on Earth. Neither Edgars nor Garibaldi is fond of Clark. Edgars is clear he was behind Santiago’s assassination. Edgars believes Clark needs to be stopped from within, not via “military action” as Sheridan believes. Garibaldi and Edgars have a mutual need for each other to contend with their Sheridan issue. First, Edgars feels there are some trust issues between he and Garibaldi that need to be ironed out. Oh, minor details. Really, come on, why would something like trust between strangers be an issue when dealing with political assassination or governmental coup d' etat.

Wade is of course Edgars’ toadie or whipping boy if you will. He’s played quite well by Mark Schneider. His performance along with that of guest Efrem Zimbalist, Jr. [as Edgars] combined with recurring cast member Patricia Tallman are all terrific here.

Speaking of Lyta, an excited Franklin approaches her for help with the telepaths. He's not angry, but energized by her recent discovery. She apologizes for her involvement, but he insists it’s not necessary. She is surprised by his appreciation and he thankful for her intervention. She confirms she heard the sound of the Shadows vessels while connected to the patients. “It sounded like the scream a Shadow vessel makes when it goes by.” Yikes. That is a creepy ass sound. The hair on your back raises and, well let me tell you, that’s not pretty. She let go qickly and instinctively when she heard it. Franklin really needs her help and she reluctantly agrees.

On Mars, Garibaldi is abducted [again] while sleeping. Cloaked men take him to a room. I think they were men. It’s a guess, because they were cloaked. A female telepath is sitting awaiting his arrival. I hate interviews. I’ve never been to an interview in a darkened room nor do I ever want to do one like that. Sometimes though it feels like there is a bright white spotlight on you during those interviews. Edgars communicates via a linked sound system and comes off as a disembodied voice. She is there to provide a non-invasive surface scan to ensure his answers to a series of questions are truthful.

How do you feel about telepaths? “I don’t trust them. Never have. Never will.” Do you believe they are a menace to society? “The biggest we’ve got.” What happened to you when you disappeared from Babylon 5? “I don’t remember anything.”

The telepath appears to nod into the darkness with approval until this last inquiry.

“One more thing. Are you still in love with my wife?” Why would you lie to this? You know you’re being scanned. Garibaldi’s reply, “No, no I’m not.” LIES LIES LIES YEAH! You can hear that Thompson Twins song can’t you? The telepath nods disapprovingly to confirm he is indeed lying.

Later Lise greets Edgars and inquires about Garibaldi to which he replies; “I think he’s put it all behind him. I think he’ll be a fine addition.” LIES LIES LIES YEAH! Queue the song again!

"Say goodbye to Hollywood, say goodbye my baby!"
As the female telepath prepares to leave with the intention of getting paid, Wade the toadie greets her with a fistful of lead and shoots her dead [so much for that payment and possibly stress pay to boot].

Back in medlab on Babylon 5, Lyta works with Franklin entering the patient’s mind slowly. The Shadows’ creepy chatter begins [not the screaming, but the chirpy, cricket-like chatter]. Their sounds do leave an indelible mark of shivers on the mind don’t they? Now this was really something. Remember those creepy X-Files-like fellows from Season Three, Episode 14, Ship Of Tears, well here they are again.



What the hell are those things apart from big damn ugly? Clearly, if not a relation to The Shadows, they are somehow “dark servants” of The Shadows.

Random thought while watching Babylon 5: One thing is clear in wathcing this series and that is there isn't a single minute that goes by that doesn’t serve Straczynski’s story in play. Whether material serves the series as a whole or a single thread within an episode there isn’t an ounce of fat to trim from his lean tale. No time is ever wasted time. I suppose that is the art of great scriptwriting. It is the fine art of Straczynski storytelling to be sure.

Garibaldi meets with Edgars. “I assumed I passed.”

Classic line:
Edgars: “Do you know how the ancient Greeks defined happiness?”
Garibaldi: “Not off hand, but I’d be willing to bet it involved three goats and a jug of wine.” Ha! Now that is the classic Garibaldi we know and love. He's in there. He's just off.

Edgars points to a potential world run by telepaths. What then? Would it not be like George Orwell’s 1984 and big brother? Edgars sees that possibility as real. This is a stirring exchange. This excerpt, taken out of context, could be applied to almost any period of time and almost any political reality today. It is a frightening reality. Take a look around. It’s out there. This is a stirring segment.



These are powerful political observations well articulated by Straczynski. The holocaust comes to mind. Wake up Europe. Wake up Americas! It’s happening as we speak. “Nobody takes power. They’re given power by the rest of us, because we’re stupid, afraid or both.” Wow! That is a scary truth. That is some of the most potent writing of the series right there.

So Edgars points out the mega-corporations are running things. “We just don’t show ourselves much. People wouldn’t understand. So we let them think they still have a voice.” Tell us something we don’t know. Clark is clearly an amateur according to Edgars. Edgars plans on impacting change behind the scenes and is fearful Sheridan’s military intervention will ruin everything. Clark will become paranoid, panic and rush Edgars’ timetable. “Once you decide you’re in all the way I’ll tell you the rest. We’re gonna’ change the world Mr. Garibaldi.” This whole section between Garibaldi and Edgars is dialogue intensive, but there’s a lot of meat on them there bones worth tasting. There's a lot of life and political truth to it.

Meanwhile, Clark’s forces have been defecting to Sheridan’s fleet. Sheridan is informed Delenn will be returning to Babylon 5. He checks in with Franklin as well who is getting annoyed with the boss man. I can relate to that. He believes he can neutralize the implants within the telepaths for periods of time. He demands to know why he needs these telepaths so badly. Sheridan tells Franklin and the man looks defeated and somewhat shell-shocked.



That's a moving sequence. It’s funny how friendship finds itself in unexpected places on the show. Surprisingly Franklin feels much the way Garibaldi had felt concerning Sheridan and his potential change here, perhaps not to the same degree. I never noted a huge change in Sheridan to be honest. I never really felt that different about him. I suppose he is a little more driven and less compromising, but Garibaldi, and now Franklin, keep pointing to his changes. Now I’m beginning to wonder if there isn’t something to it this series is leading to. Boy, Franklin sure is getting gray by Season Four.

Back on Mars Garibaldi and Lise have it out. Perhaps a mud-wrestling contest in their skivvies could have made it more entertaining a la Duran Duran's Girls On Film. Garibaldi can’t understand why she’s with Edgars never mind old flame Franz. She is worried for both Garibaldi and Edgars. So let's get this straight, they aren’t actually lovers, but they do have a lover’s spat. She even throws Franz back in his face. Ouch! Still, I like this scene between them.



Edgars meets with Wade the whipping boy. We see three telepaths in a secret room dying from what looks like, Necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating disease [a more common form is MRSA or methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus]. That’s just God-awful stuff. Though, flesh-eating disease is not a virus, but rather of the bacterial kingdom. How do physicians and scientists come up with these names and keep them straight? Anyhow, they will die soon. They have been off some kind of “drug” for five days now. “It will be over soon,” comforts Edgars to the dying man. To the side, Edgars tells Wade to “put them all down” like they're cattle. He adds, “There’s enough pain in the universe already. Let’s not add to it until we have to.” Uh-oh. That doesn’t sound good.

Later, Garibaldi tells Edgars he’s in. Edgars indicates he better not be in and he’ll need to prove it by not sleeping with Lise. Kidding. Edgars tells him, “Give me Sheridan.” He wants to hand him over to Clark. Garibaldi agrees to give Sheridan to Edgars but not to Clark. He can’t do that. Now I’m thinking, ‘that’s stupid.’ Obviously Edgars will hand him over to Clark himself. I don’t get Garibaldi sometimes. Garibaldi adds, “You get to Sheridan through his father.” New information alert: Apparently Sheridan’s father has a rare blood disorder that needs medical attention from time to time. They should be able to smoke him out via this avenue. Confidential medical records, hell, what's confidential anymore in the world of Babylon 5? “You get him. You can get Sheridan.” Garibaldi believes he can help.

The final moments with Garibaldi on the tram are quite sad and lonely. “I can’t feel anything anymore. I don’t know what I care about anymore except Lise. It has to be done. I hope he can see that someday.”

Garibaldi is traveling down a dangerous road. He is messed up.

Exercise Of Vital Powers: B

Kirk & Bones: The Great Ice Planet Adventure: Part 3: Snow Angel Dreaming

Kirk: Boy, this is fun Bones.

Bones: I'm sure glad we left all of our vital gear back on the Enterprise. Looks like we'll have as much time as we'd like down here.

Kirk: Yeah, with no way to reach Scotty we should have plenty of time to enjoy this Winter Wonderland.

Bones: Sure wish we had some Christmas tuneage Jim.

Kirk: That's alright. We can sing our own songs.

Bones: Great. How bout' Rudolph The Red Nosed Galileo or Rockin' Around The Ferengi Money Tree or Silent Klingon.

Kirk: I was thinking Santa Android or Tribble, It's Cold Outside. Actually, it's not really a Christmas song, but more of a winter number. I always loved God Rest Ye Merry Romulans, Frosty The SnowGorn or The Little Drummer Borg.

Bones: Haha. This is way too much fun. Seriously, let's keep it traditional.

Kirk: Fair enough, but after we sing Jingle Bells, let's build a snow woman with really big snow boobs.

Bones: Damn it Jim, what's wrong with you?

The One To Be Pitied

No, that's not The One To Be Pitied. That's the very first Sci-Fi Fanatic turkey ever made!

It's been a tough week for The One To Be Pitied [so I gave her a blog entry]. She had her appendix taken out after being rushed to the hospital on Monday. She survived. She's in pain though. I am waiting on her hand and foot and that is definitely usurping my blogging time. Recovery time is about 7-14 days and she tends to milk it every step of the way. You know how it goes. It's more like 14 days. Perhaps I should be the one to pitied. I'm kidding. I know people have it a lot rougher out there and I'm thankful for alot of things. Fortunately The One To Be Pitied will be around to torture me for a very long time. I'm also lucky to converse with like-minded people like yourselves. What we have in common far outweighs what differences we all might have. Now if we could only get everyone to agree. My aunt, whom I mentioned when I spoke about Majel Barrett Roddenberry's passing last Thursday from leukemia, learned the very next day her leukemia went into remission. Funny life. It's like Ying Yang on this planet. It really is.

Anyway, so I made my very first turkey ever because, well, because no one else was going to make it. It came out pretty good. It looks really, really good, but it was a little dry. I like the dark meat over the white meat. How bout you?

The Boy Wonder tried to teach his grandmother Bakugan. Apparently it didn't go so well. He told me in the kitchen with a smile, "I tried to teach gram Bakugan - failure." I laughed. He has given her a manual to learn the game for next time. Picture that.

Anyway, Christmas Eve was a fairly successful night considering I opened many canned vegetables and resorted to Ben & Jerry's for dessert. The way I look at it folks, life isn't always perfect and I'm thankful for the little things like, family and friends and Star Trek and Battlestar Galactica and Babylon 5 and....well, you know. I thought it was as good a time as any to get sentimental. I suppose I was moved by the spirit.

Hope you all have a nice holiday season and a Merry Christmas.