Written by Michael Angeli
Directed by Robert Young
“God’s will be done!”
Wow…now wasn’t THAT quite an intense episode. Where to begin…
1—The sexual aspect of Galactica. Some people think it’s superficial titilation, but they couldn’t be more wrong. It’s all about the base desires of humanity: lust, love, a connection, a release. The survivors of humanity are clinging to their most basic needs, and the sexual needs permeate the entire series…and this episode in particular, what with the drug-like nature of the link between Baltar and Number Six — counterpointed by Helo and Boomer giving in to their own urges on Caprica. It’s compelling, erotic stuff — and properly adult, without resorting to exhibitionism or racy content for its own sake.
And as for that scene with Number Six and Adama…wow!
2—God and religion. Whatever statement Galactica is trying to make about it, religion is slowly becoming a disturbing force on this series. It’s like a Republican fantasy gone mad, and Number Six’s repeated talk about God’s will and blasphemy shifts between terrifying and provocative. The key to its successful use is that she is COMPLETELY convinced of the truth behind her beliefs…and perhaps we all find that sort of total conviction frightening. Again, it’s well explored in this episode, especially during Baltar’s prayer breakdown in the holding cell, which gives James Callis more scope for his already considerable acting abilities.
3—Boomer’s communion with the Cylon raider. I shared Tyrol’s stunned reaction to her astonishing insight into the machine…and knowing what we know about her doesn’t make it any less disturbing.
4—Major Cottle, the Medical Officer, is one twisted, pragmatic, sardonic son-of-a-bitch. I LOVE HIM! More of Cottle, please!
In actual fact, the plot of this episode is pretty pedestrian, but it exists simply to link a collection of amazing set pieces. I can live with style-over-substance when it’s this good.
9
