Thursday, August 25, 2011

Stargate SG-1, Season 1, Episode 16


"Enigma"
images used above are courtesy of Gateworld and MGM

Overall Rating: Fair

SG-1 arrives on a planet in the midst of major volcanic activity.  A few people are found, barely alive, near the stargate.  Given refuge at SGC Omac, the leader of the survivors, states that the planet is called Tollan.  Tollans are human, and their technology is much more advanced than any on Earth.  Some members of the U. S. government want to force the Tollans to stay on Earth.  Many members of SGC want the Tollans to be free.

The story is about an advanced society not wanting to share its techno-goodies with a less advanced society.  There is Stargate SG-1 info that is applicable to future episodes. 

Acting performances are fine, with two standouts.  First, Tobin Bell as Omac.  Anyone speaking with Omac is usually scowling within the first minute of conversation.  Omac is arrogant, condescending, patronizing, and brusque.  Such types are usually cliche.  However, Mr. Bell’s portrayal of Omac never crosses that line.  Mr. Bell presents Omac as exhibiting bad behavior, not as being solely defined by bad behavior.  There is more to Omac than just his attitude.  Well done, Mr. Bell.

Next, Tom McBeath as Colonel Maybourne.  Maybourne replaces Colonel Kennedy, who is last seen in “The Enemy Within.”  Kennedy was promoted.  The two colonels are very different.  Kennedy had a “mad scientist eager to dissect” vibe.  Maybourne comes across as coldly corporate, with an undercurrent of ruthlessness.  He views the Tollans as assets for acquiring.  Something to extract information from, and discard if they are of no more use.  Very nice, Mr. McBeath.

The opening scene on Tollan looks very impressive.

16th episode broadcast.
16th episode in the DVD set.

Failures:
The timeline between the M. A. L. P.’s arrival on Tollan, the volcano, and SG-1's arrival on the planet, does not track.

After examining the Tollan’s devices, and not understanding their purpose, SGC gives the devices back to the Tollans.  I don't think so.

The Tollans do something that serves no purpose other than demonstrate their advanced technology, which they do not want to share with Earth.  Why show off what the devices can do?

Samantha Carter is subjected to scifi insta-love, aided by advanced technology.  I question the necessity.

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