Tuesday, November 02, 2004

Battlestar Galactica: Water

Following on from the reasonably strong opening to Battlestar Galactica last week is 'Water'. With water supplies almost exhausted after an act of sabotage on the Galactica, Adama and Roslin send out ships to search for water amongst the desolate planets in the neighboring systems.

Overall it's a strong episode which further explores the mindset of the cylons. We are told that the cylons have a plan, but what this is remains a mystery. Certainly, the actions of the various cylon agents comes across as slightly contradictory, which illustrates a level of tension between the different models. With two Boomer agents (that we are aware of) operating independently of one another, a Number Six on Caprica and a vision of Number Six in Baltars head, it is hard to see the motivation for each of them. The impression I get is that because the agents are sentient, this means that they are capable of choosing, and those choices could easily come into conflict with their missions.

But I think I'm getting well ahead of myself, and perhaps reading just a tad too much into it!

The episode, at last delves into the sleeper agent mentality of Boomer which illustrates both a sinister and innocent side to the character. It also offers a glance at the reluctant relationship of Roslin and Adama which seems destined to be a bit of a roller coaster ride.

It was also nice to see the Baltar/Number Six relationship that dominated the opening ep, reduced to a supporting role. This area could become a little tiresome if played on too much.

On the down-side I felt the actress playing Boomer sometimes struggled with the subtlety of the role she had to play. This may have been down to the direction, but I'll see how it plays out.

Summary - another strong episode, with reasonable performances from all involved. Quite reminiscent of early Babylon 5. Scores 7/10.

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