Stargate SG-1, Season 7, Episode 20

"Inauguration"

images used above are courtesy of Gateworld and MGM

Overall Rating:  Very Good

Commentary by:

Peter F. Woeste — Director of Photography
Michael Greenburg — Executive Producer

The commentary is very informative and interesting.   Lots of behind the scene information.   The commentary stays on point with what is on screen.

Review:  

Henry Hayes has just been inaugurated as the new President of the United States.   At the White House, he makes his way to the oval office as his Chief of Staff runs down some situations needing Hayes' attention.  And, also alerts Hayes that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Francis Maynard, is waiting for him in the oval office.  General Maynard is there to brief President Hayes about the stargate program.  The United States Air Force has, for years, sent people to planets around the galaxy via alien technology?  Hayes thinks it’s a joke.  It’s not a joke.

While Hayes is processing this paradigm shift in his understanding of reality, viewers also get a surprise.  Robert Kinsey (”Heroes: Part 1”) was Hayes' running mate, and is now the Vice President of the United States of America.  Kinsey has long known about the stargate program.  Still trying to gain control of SGC, and in the process boot out Hammond and O’Neill, Kinsey does his best to convince Hayes to take his side.  Balancing the argument, General Maynard supports the current SGC personnel.  To his credit, Hayes isn't immediately swayed by either Kinsey or Maynard to take their side.  Clips are used, as Kinsey and Maynard recount past SGC events to Hayes to support their positions.

Like another clip episode, “Politics,” this has a strong story framework, and excellent performances by the actors.  The clips are used logically.  And, this isn't a filler episode.  President Hayes' decision about keeping or changing SGC's leadership and personnel will affect future episodes.

William Devane is excellent as Henry Hayes, a leader who is well aware of his power as the President of the U.S.A., but not corrupted by it nor losing touch with his humanity.  Mr. Devane portrayed President John F. Kennedy in a made for TV movie, The Missiles of October (1974), and this is given a wink and a nod.  Ronny Cox returns as Robert Kinsey and continues to provide a stellar performance as the less than stellar character.  James McDaniel is solid as General Maynard, showing quiet strength and steely determination.  Robert Picardo returns as Richard Woolsey (”Heroes: Part 2”), and does a great job.  Don S. Davis appears as General Hammond, strong as always.  The rest of the regular cast appears only in clips.

Failures: 

None.