Battlestar Galactica (2004)The contemporary remake of Battlestar Galactica is some of the finest science fiction that has ever graced television, and is very nearly my favorite. While other genre shows have their legions of dedicated fanbases, BSG is universally loved by every geek alive, and it's appeal isn't limited to those of us who know what the frak FRAK is. Anyone who cherishes fiction as a means for both entertainment and contemplation will find much to love in Battlestar Galactica. It is steeped in heady philosophical ponderings and weighty themes that defy genres even as they give credibility to science fiction as a source of intelligent, compelling story-telling. For a conventional sci-fi story about humans beings fighting for their very existence against killer robots, it all seems surprisingly original.
The extraordinarily fleshed out characters and nuanced performances practically demand that you take this seriously. The sweeping epic focuses first and foremost on the characters and their relationships to one another, making us feel that much more connected with the universe. Despite this, there's something about the mythology that's far more engrossing and sublime. There's a real sense of purpose and immediacy to the actions these characters take. The world they inhabit feels very real, somehow; filled with an ominous melancholy that permeates every scene. The special effects are also astounding, with computer graphics and camera effects that repeatedly put many FILMS to shame, even in a single episode! The set designs are impeccable, never once was I ever lead to believe they were filming anywhere except for on location....yes, even in deep space onboard a Battlestar. And the score is remarkable as well; suitably mournful, heroic, or even divine as the occasion demands.
Though almost every character is likable, the heart of the show is embodied by President Rosalyn and Admiral Adama...the leaders of the remaining 39 thousand members of humanity who are the only survivors of a nuclear attack on the 12 colonies of planets by the suddenly aggressive, genocidal Cylons. Their parental concern for the people they're trying to protect and the firm resolve in their command is underscored by a strong, indelible respect for one another. Their mutual affection is never acted upon, but that unspoken love gives complexity to an already interesting battle of powers.
And the Cylons, personified by 12 skin-job models that resemble human beings, (four of which were hidden amongst the crew of Battlestar Galactica until recently, and one of which has yet to be revealed) are much more than your typical sci-fi villains. They may have a plan, but as their allegiances shift within their own ranks, and individual models determine their own set of rules.....it becomes more and more uncertain of what their final goal actually IS. Both humans and cylons are looking desperately for the legendary 13th colony, but it seems clear that the Cylons have a bigger agenda than merely finding earth before the humans. The Cylons belief in one God, as opposed to humanity's belief in the pantheon of Greek God's, is a fascinating juxtaposition. Hopefully the difference in beliefs, and the meaning of the repeated Cylon phrase "All of this has happened before, and will happen again" will be resolved in the last remaining episodes. I rest assured that I will be wholly satisfied with the conclusion these writers cooked up, since they apparently figured out the last episode while they were writing the first SEASON. They obviously had a clear idea where they were headed from the beginning....and this level of confidence in the story is absolutely inspiring.
Battlestar Galactica may not reinvent the wheel, but its' dense mythology, exquisite narrative, and powerful performances makes this an unforgettable dramatic series. Don't write it off because of the sci-fi elements, it's as intriguing and culturally relevant as anything you'll find on television today.
Rating: A