Written by Jeff Vlaming
Directed by Edward James Olmos
“Come on! If there aren’t privileges to being an XO’s wife, then what’s the point?”
In the words of my friend James, this was quite a ride!
THE GOOD
*This was a farce — straight out of Shakespeare, complete with double takes (both Baltar and Apollo suffer whiplash in this episode!), double entendres, ridiculous conversations, classic set-pieces, and an amazing conclusion that manages to both tie everything together AND leave open juicy follow-up plot threads.
*The Caprica scene was short, once again, but absolutely stunning. The Cylon conversation in the park — and Caprica Number Six’s bitterness, jealousy and apparent desperation — is startling, for what it does and doesn’t reveal. If the Cylons are after what I think they’re after, there are going to be some unpleasant consequences.
THE GREAT
*Ellen Tigh is one twisted, conniving, alcoholic, nympho bitch queen, and I can’t wait to see more of her. She’s a force of nature via the cesspit from hell, and she’s going to be nothing but the utmost trouble. Especially for Colonel Tigh, who’s been struggling so impressively with his own addictions (courtesy of an increasingly powerful series of performances from Michael Hogan). And…is Ellen a Cylon? After her test apparently comes up clear, Baltar’s “I’ll never tell” to Number Six’s questioning of its authenticity is sublime…
*Baltar’s Number Six is certainly taking a strange, disturbing interest in Starbuck…AND in Mrs. Tigh. What don’t we know…or are about to find out? Stay tuned…
*New sets, new angles in the gorgeous space shots, and a super action scene in the C and C…we’re back to the intensity of 33, especially in the relationship between Adama and Tigh.
*Holy paranoia, Madame President. Mary MacDonnell is certainly putting out big time on the acting front, and I’m thinking whatever the President is taking for her cancer, it’s not doing anyone any good, especially her!
THE ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS
*Adama himself (Edward James Olmos) directs this episode, and it’s without a doubt the best directed show this season. Just watch some of the two shots, such as Number Six moving in and out of profile, or the confrontation scene in the lab, with its zany artistry. Not only is Olmos deserving of his Academy Award nomination, he should also be getting a call from the Emmy Awards…he deserves it for orchestrating this stunning madness.
So what’s my rating for this episode? You’ve got to be kidding…
10
