FADING OUT.... Jan. 20, 2002

A Look at the end of THE INVISIBLE MAN Series

The last few episodes of the original Sci-Fi Channel show THE INVISIBLE MAN have been bittersweet for fans who are well aware that the series will be ending its run in a couple of weeks. While it is still presumptuous to assume what the fate of the characters will be in the finale, all recent evidence indicates a poignant end. What is most disheartening is that the show is only now showing a brand new potential in its storytelling ability.

A major theme that is associated with Darien's invisibility is that of a conflict between good and evil within one man's psyche. This theme has, sadly, been underused up until recently by the series. In one of its most mature outings, I-MAN weaved together a medley of stories involving a priest contaminated by Quicksilver, Darien's growing immunity to the counteragent, and a family struggling with the effects of domestic violence. Never before has Darien's potential to become forever imprisoned by Quicksilver Madness been more apparent. By Claire's own admission in the episode's closing scene, no one knows what can be done--if anything. The plot is a bit dark but necessarily so to gain audience empathy for the characters' ordeal.

Another interesting development is the examination of spiritually in recent episodes. This look at religion comes at the appropriate time for characters such as Darien and is timely for general audiences. The recent turmoil that America has faced has given shows such as this an opportunity to explore modern spirituality. It only makes sense that in the mist of so much drama (fictional and otherwise) that people would be making peace with their religious beliefs. THE INVISIBLE MAN is fading out but stories such as this will not be forgotten.

Next week: Arnaud returns.

FADING OUT.... Jan. 20, 2002

A Look at the end of THE INVISIBLE MAN Series

The last few episodes of the original Sci-Fi Channel show THE INVISIBLE MAN have been bittersweet for fans who are well aware that the series will be ending its run in a couple of weeks. While it is still presumptuous to assume what the fate of the characters will be in the finale, all
recent evidence indicates a poignant end. What is most disheartening is that the show is only now showing a brand new potential in its storytelling ability.

A major theme that is associated with Darien's invisibility is that of a conflict between good and evil within one man's psyche. This theme has, sadly, been underused up until recently by the series. In one of its most mature outings, I-MAN weaved together a medley of stories involving a priest contaminated by Quicksilver, Darien's growing immunity to the counteragent, and a family struggling with the effects of domestic violence. Never
before has Darien's potential to become forever imprisoned by Quicksilver Madness been more apparent. By Claire's own admission in the episode's closing scene, no one knows what can be done--if anything. The plot is a bit dark but necessarily so to gain audience empathy for the characters' ordeal.

Another interesting development is the examination of spiritually in recent episodes. This look at religion comes at the appropriate time for characters such as Darien and is timely for general audiences. The recent turmoil that
America has faced has given shows such as this an opportunity to explore modern spirituality. It only makes sense that in the mist of so much drama (fictional and otherwise) that people would be making peace with their
religious beliefs. THE INVISIBLE MAN is fading out but stories such as this will not be forgotten.

Next week: Arnaud returns.

TBS original movie
INVINCIBLE
Starring: Billy Zane, David Fields, Byron Mann

Okay, the infamous "made for tv movie"...often causes one to cringe but not this little critic. As cable flicks go this wasn't bad (trust me I've seen BAD). It had a lot of things going for it, that is if you can forgive the fact that plot isn't one of them...Granted the premise rocks: You have Billy Zane playing the role of Os a dark figure who is converted to the side of good after an encounter with the "White Warrior." It is his task to bring together and train the four mortal warriors who will save the world
from the Shadowmen, which are led by Os' former kinsmen Slate (David Fields). If this sounds like some Kung Fu/Mojo/Anime sort of thing ....it is. As in many Asian influenced fantasies the theme revolves around the idea of
"fighting with love." There is a great deal of spiritually played out throughout the story--some of it profound, most of it cheesy. What makes this review particularly difficult is that-for all its problems-I LIKED this film.

Maybe it was the sheer charisma of the Os character (this was one of Zane's better roles of late) or maybe it's because I'm a fan of Asian storytelling. What ever the case I couldn't bring myself to completely pan this film--it was
fun and I am a firm believer in fun for fun's sake.

You can almost review this movie in two different lights. It has been buzzing around the entertainment world that this premise could be made into a series, and in all honesty this film does have more of the "series pilot" feel than a stand-alone film. To put it bluntly as a stand-alone film INVINCIBLE, well, isn't all that invincible. Os was the most compelling character ...actually he is the ONLY compelling character. The four warriors, each of whom
represent a natural element, were neither interesting or identifiable. It would be possible that a series could develop these characters a great deal more but at the moment Os (and perhaps Slate) are the only keepers.

My Double Quick Run Down: Although it opens to lackluster
reviews--well, my lackluster review anyway--this film does show that Asian film arts are becoming more and more popular in North America. INVINCIBLE may be the first of many movies and series of this genre that will continue to improve .....well, I can hope can't I?
Overall rating: 7

Nov. 15th, 2001
ANDROMEDA/ "All Too Human"

This show is quickly becoming the who's who of scifi guest stars, oh, and it's also developing into a mature drama.

This was a well plotted episode that juxtaposed three separate stories around one main theme, the life and
death situations one makes in battle. While Dylan and Beka defend a colony under siege, Tyre, Rev Bem and Harper wait to rendevous with Romie on the Maru. Romie has been sent to retrive an informant (Bruce Harwood/ Byers of THE LONE GUNMEN) who has proof that his government has allied
themselves with the Magog. Things quickly go wrong which leaves Romie stranded and on the run from a deadly security officer (Roger Cross/ Joshua of FIRST WAVE), the Maru dead in the water--literally-- and the Andromeda unable to rescue any of their crewmates. This episode utilized so many wonderful storytelling elements .....I almost don't know where to begin. Awesome fight scenes, point/counterpoint debate (and EVERYONE had a point to make and made it well!), great guest stars and great performances ....Did it have it all? Maybe not but it's really close.

My Double Quick Run Down: On a sidenote ....we get a little bit of post Commonwealth history in this episode (cool, I love extras). After the fall people turned to A.I.'s to help them restore law and order. Everything was peachy until the A.I.'s cold logic (i.e. killing the sick and elderly during a food shortage because they weren't contributing members of society) got to the humans who revolted against them. The ironic twist (and the thing I liked best about this story) was that the one person to react "emotionally" was ....Romie, an A.I. Oh, and she can be a vengeful little vixen when she wants to be. While Dylan chooses to save the five billion innocent colonists
from their attackers and virtually abandons the Maru, Tyre and the others must choose who will live and die as their ship sinks into the sea. In both of these situations the crew members look at their situation with "cold logic". Dylan is a soldier and reacts like an officer at war. Tyre,
with his Neitzchean-survival-of-the-fittest ideology, suggests they sacrifice an unconscious Harper because he's dying slowly anyway--he changes his mind of course.
Overall, this was a character driven plot ....the very best
kind when you have driven characters.

Overall rating: 9
Next week: The Andromeda must face a Neitzchean pride while delivering medical supplies...and Tyre's loyalty is put to the test.

Coming to the Scifi Review Page .....

Reviews of SPECIAL UNIT 2 and TRACKER!

Oct. 16th
A QUICK LOOK AT NEW SCIFI SERIES
....what hit, what missed and what was embarrassing to watch

ENTERPRISE
(Or What Happens When You Give Humans the Keys to Your New Space Ship ...Road Trip!) UPN
--Possibly the best new scifi series out there. It gives a person hope for prime time television let me tell you. Surprisingly enough one of it's best story telling features is simply being a prequel. It opens the door for all those who may not be as familiar with the impressive history behind the various series that have come before. The characters are endearing--as well as aggrivating at times but that I can forgive since they are interesting characters. (Come on you gotta love a guy that takes his dog with him into outer space--Archer (Scott Bakula) is going to be a very popular captain).
Rating: 8
Side Note:: Okay, people are arguing back and forth about the opening song (yes, SONG) of the show. Some say that having a song is not really STAR TREK because the shows always have instrumental themes. Some say that a song is okay but just not that particular song. And others still say that the song is a different kind of theme for a different kind of Trek. I personally like the song in question, "Faith of the Heart", especially this particular
version of it. However, if you want to sound off on this debate check out scifi.com's Scifi Wire page and take their poll ....The ENTERPRISE song, keep it or lose it?

MUTANT X (Or X-Men + Dark Angel - Drama...yeah I know, mean)
WGN
--Intially I wasn't too impressed with this show. One of this series' failings is that it can't help but be compared to other series in this genre (the genre being one of genetically altered humans coming to terms with their abilities and those who would seek to destroy them) which
includes powerhouses like X-MEN and DARK ANGEL. However, the second episode started to come around a bit. It's not that the show doesn't have it's good points

....focus the plot and you'll have some nice drama, develop the characters (most especially the younger ones) and you have some ....well, "Developed" characters. So far the most intriguing character, Adam, has been under used ...and he's the leader of Mutant X!! Come on, you've got potential now
use it.
Rating: 6+/7-

WOLF LAKE (Or My Neighbor Is A Werewolf ...great, now CBS will rework the show as a sitcom!) CBS
--This series started out as a wonderful concept but as a show it is still only ...a concept. Disappointing, that pretty much sums it up. Great cast (including Lou Diamond Phillips, Tim Matheson, Graham Green, and Scott Bartow) but they feel misused by the storytelling ...speaking of the
storytelling some of it is so incoherent I have to stop and ask myself, "Did that just happen or am I having a stroke?" Not a good sign. Basically, the show is trying to be TWIN PEAKS. Let me give the Powers That Be at CBS some advice. The only thing that can be TWIN PEAKS is ....TWIN PEAKS! I
don't hold out much hope for this series and it's too bad. I hate it when good ideas go bad.
Rating: 4

THE SEASON PREMIERE OF EARTH: FINAL CONFLICT

Although I knew that this premiere would be minus one Liam Kincaid (Robert Leeshock), I decided to keep an open mind about what the PTB at WGN had in store for us in season five. Maybe they would beef up the roles of really good regular or reoccuring characters, maybe they would ntroduce new resistance members, or fascinating aliens ....or maybe not. This pains me, I am a fan of this show, I love this show which is why I can't let this slide

...The episode seemed-in short-to contradict everything we had learned (at a painstakenly slow pace) over the last three seasons! And when did Renee Palmer become a mystic warrior? Last season she was a CEO now she's impervious to alien powers. When did that happen? But the kicker was
the kiss between Renee and Kieller. Renee gets conformation of Liam's demise (which I will expand upon in my run down) and 15 SECONDS later she's kissing some guy she barely knows.

...it was silly and it was cheap. Granted, Renee and Liam weren't really a "couple" but it was obvious that the lady had some strong feelings for him. Didn't the writers think that it might be a slap in the face of Liam fans? Poorly handled indeed, give the guy a respectful end he was your protagonist for three seasons.

My Double Quick Run Down: Here's a thought I had while I trying NOT to think about this episode. In season two it was confirmed that the only thing that--as far as the Taelons knew--could combat an Atavus was ...a
Kimera. Remember? When Da'an reverted to an Atavus, Liam helped turn him back into a Taelon. This was something Zo'or later said only "the Kimera could do". Okie Dokie then. Knowing that it makes even less sense that you would kill off your only connection to the Kimera people. Which brings me back to the "so-called" demise of Liam. Why do I say "so-called"? Because there was no physical evidence, no body, no remains. As horribly vague as Liam's demise was it does leave an opening for a guest spot in the future--which it looks like they need Now.
Overall rating: 6

Oct. 15th
THE PREMIERE OF YU-GI-OH!
......or How anime made North American cartoons cool again.

Now you're probably saying to yourself, "Scifi Stara is reviewing ....a cartoon? What? Was there absolutely nothing on!" To that I say, get a grip scifi purists. This just isn't animation, it's Asian animation. And as anyone who's ever seen Anime can tell you--there's a big difference.

Take Yu-Gi-Oh for instance. The premise deals with the game players of Ancient Eygpt whose toying with the forces of light and dark brought about dangerous consequences. Only through the intervention of a brave,young pharaoh were they able to trap the evil in "the millenium puzzle". Ingriuing already isn't it. Thousands of years later a young boy named Yugi, whose grandfather is a master dueler (a.k.a card game master), unlocks the secrets of the Millenium Puzzle. Becoming Yami Yugi, The King of Games, he is now the world's only hope against the return of the ancient shadow forces.

Why am I reviewing this? Because it impressed me, it has the styling of an anime with a family entertainment feel. The overall message (yes kiddies there's a message, remember it's a family show)deals with the struggle between
Faith and Power. Faith wins in the end, of course. My Double Quick Run Down: Normally I don't pay much attention to "kid shows" but this one caught my eye. I'm glad that I gave it a go and reccomend it to anyone--whether or not they're an anime fan.
Overall rating: 8

This series can be seen on the WB

Sept. 30th
Well, I'm Baacckk! And have I got just the sort of scifi tv goodies to satisfy the Fan-atic in all of us.

A Look at STARGATE SG1's 100th Episode!!

"Wormhole Extreme"
In the same vein as the enjoyable flick GALAXY QUEST, Sg1 celebrated it's 100th episode by making fun ...of themselves. The spoof featured a return of the endearing--and somewhat tragic--character of Martin. Remember him?
The little conspiracy theory dude who almost blew Sg1's cover and then turned out to be an alien himself ....who'd a thought. Traumatized by the war that killed all but a handful of his people, Martin self medicates to the
point of amnesia in order to escape the truth. But it's never that easy to elude one's past ....not in tv and certainly not in scifi. Haunted by strange
flashes of memory Martin is inspired to write a script, which (amazingly enough) sells to a major television studio. Hence the birth of WORMHOLE EXTREME, an almost painfully cheesy scifi series with a plot that is
all too familiar to those at the SGC. Concerned that Martin is once again being made a pawn by his alien comrades or even by the NID, O'Neill and Teal'c are sent to work undercover at the studio while Daniel and Sam work surveillance (as well as on the backburner for most of the episode, tsk tsk). What particularly sold this story for me was not the tongue-in-cheek attitude but the incorporation of behind the scenes figures into the plot. Scifi
favs, the DeLuise brothers (of SeaQuest fame), returned to their acting roots for the special. With real life producer/director Peter DeLuise as, what else, the director of W.E. and Michael DeLuise as the hapless actor portraying the O'Neill-based character. As for critical analysis? Simple. This was something created to be a guilty pleasure. Don't take it too seriously, don't be too critical and you'll enjoy the ride. (And right about now we could all use a little fun).
My Double Quick Run Down: Some may disagree (after all this is critiquing) but I found the "Behind the scenes look at the making of Wormhole Extreme" to be the funniest part of the episode. A lot of humorus comments and
inside jokes ....take a closer look and maybe you'll find something that everyone else missed--including your's truly.
Overall rating: 9

OF SPECIAL NOTE: SG1 HAS ...I repeat HAS ....been renewed for a sixth season! Surprisingly enough though it was not by Showtime. No,no, the Scifi Channel are the ones who took it upon themselves to continue the series--and aren't we glad they did. Syndicated episodes will begin appearing on
the Scifi Channel around the first of the year with the new season picking up in early 2002.

Hey all you scifi fans out there. Sorry I've been away for so long but it's been HECTIC lately up my way and I fell behind. Well, if you ask me the best thing to do is to just get back up on the saddle again and take a look at some scifi tv reviews ....

Scifriday for August 24

THE INVISIBLE MAN/"Father Figure"

I don't know about the rest of you I-MAN fans but I've been curious about Darien's father for the longest time. However, I didn't see this one coming.
...In a twist of fate Darien and Bobby are assigned to track down an infamous government assassin, a "killer of killers" known as Perdue who is revealed to be none other than Darien's long lost father, Mason Fawkes. Wow, sounds pretty good huh. Actually it was but, unfortunately, I must
nitpick.
This episode wasn't really one that stood on its own. However, it did promise us the possibility of a intriguing future storyline as well as a new reoccurring character. For me this shows that this program is maturing in that they are more carefully plotting out their storylines. While this particular episode was not a stand out it is essential to the development of future scenarios--which is just cool.
My Double Quick Run Down: What is that one element that all on screen relationships (especially those seen in genre tv) are dependent on?
...No, not love--although it's grand. It's BANTER. You got to love characters with the kind of chemistry that allows them to banter well. This is what Fawkes and Hobbes utilize in their friendship which leaves the fans smiling (and that includes this particular scifi fan-atic).
Overall rating: 8
Next week: Pre-empted for the Farscape chain reaction ...well, at least it's for a GOOD reason.

FARSCAPE/"Fractures"

Okay, please be warned. This is going to be "shippy" (A.K.A. What Scappers do when they get mind-numbingly cheesy) but bear with me. This episode seemed like the beginning of a new era of Farscape storytelling. (warned yah)
David Kemper was once quoted as saying he felt as if he was writing a great novel ...so this is just the opening of a new chapter if you will. Regrettably, I must admit that the whole "escaped prisoners come aboard, wreak havoc and then immediately die" plot didn't really fly for me but there were some goodies to be found amid the chaos. For example: the reunion of the two crews, the re-introduction of Moya John and Aeryn, the reveal of Talyn John's message to Moya John and, finally, Moya John's decision to confront Scorpius and the Peacekeepers head on to stop them from
developing wormhole technology (all very promising story elements).
My Double Quick Run Down: As "epic" as the conclusion of the episode was trying to be, I couldn't help but be reminded of the line in MORTAL KOMBAT that goes: "Three people in a leaky boat are going to save the world?"
Of course in the case of Farscape I guess that would be: "Eight people on a temperamental leviathan are going to save the universe?" Just a thought.
Overall rating: 8
Next week: The Farscape chain reaction (yeah) ...followed the next week by hiatus (boo).
Special Note: Tune into the first season of Farscape--now in syndication--on the Scifi Channel every Mon.-Thurs. at 7p.

STARGATE SG1/"Between Two Fires"

Political intrigue abounds in this episode as the SG1 team investigate the death of a Tolan official and discover a conspiracy between the Tolana Chancellor and Go'auld baddie Tannin (played by Peter Wingfield of HIGHLANDER fame). Wonderful debates concerning the role of government and the abuse of power in desperate situations were balanced skillfully with an action-packed plot. The reoccurring character of Nereem was given the spotlight as he found himself having to choose "between two fires". He could either let his people work with the Go'auld in exchange for a promise of survival that may not be fulfilled or destroy the new weaponry they created for Tannin. The later would be a signing of their own death warrant but would allow worlds like Earth to continue fighting. Nereem chose
self-sacrifice ...I wonder, what would we have chosen?
My Double Quick Run Down: Daniel and Carter pointed out that Tannin could not have gained his new found power in such a short amount of time Without some help. Hmmmm, does this mean that Tannin has aligned himself with Daniel's old buddy Osiris? Could very well be and if it is we're in for
a rip-roaring ride.
Overall rating: 9
Next week: The SG1 try to make an alliance with a new, mysterious alien race.


SCIFRIDAY FOR AUGUST 4

THE INVISIBLE MAN/"Germ Theory"
Well this last Friday was a night of revisiting old clichs and of breaking clichs. Unfortunately the I-MAN chose the former. What seems to be an ordinary infection for Darien turns into an experiment in quicksilver producing bacteria (eww). Of course Claire abandons all the usual safety measures in order to study the phenomenon--she doesn't even try to figure out how to cure the infection until it's almost too late. Funny how scientists never seem to think things like that through. Eventually many more members of The Agency are infected and things go from bad to worse. This episode could have been emotional and introspective except for one little thing--no drama. Never did one believe that the agents were in any real mortal danger. Like Bobby said, Claire would do that "genius thing" and save them which she did with the help of Alex who conveniently arrived at the eleventh hour.
My Double Quick Run Down: The bright spot of this episode for me was . . .Eberts. Eberts taking Bobby under his wing among the trenches of a filing cabinet war was the most interesting part of this episode without a doubt.
Overall rating: 5
Next week: Alex is given an opportunity to save her kidnapped son.

FARSCAPE/"Infinite Possibilities Pt. 2: Icarus Abides"
I found myself staring blankly at the end credits of this episode with one thought running through my mind, "Well, I never saw THAT coming". Although as a fan I am dismayed by the loss of Talyn John, as a writer I found this to be one of the most impressive episodes of ANY television show I have ever seen. The performances alone were sparkling. Oscar winners have nothing on the cast of Farscape and this episode proves that. One of best moments for me was the last scene between Crais and Talyn John. These two came full circle from being enemies, to reluctant crewmates, to men who truly respected one another. Amazing. Bravo for an excellent production all around.
My Double Quick Run Down: This episode of Farscape accomplished that which rarely happens today in scifi--impact. Full contact, gut wrenching, emotional impact. So often we feel little or no loss at the demise of a character because either 1.) the character has been put in a situation that you know they will some how find a way out of in the last minute (see I-Man above) or 2.) even if the character dies they are immediately revived in some miraculous way. In this case there was no saving Talyn John, there was no reprieve and I have a brand new respect for the show due to its bravery.
Overall rating: 10
Next week: Back on Moya. With John II in a coma, D'Argo must find a way to save Moya from a self destructing ship.

STARGATE SG1/"Rite of Passage"
Ahhhh life with teenagers, first date, first kiss, genetic experiments conducted by the Goauld. . .Okay, so the SGC is not exactly the Brady Bunch but this episode did showcase the family dynamic that this close-knit organization has. Stand out performace by the under ultilised Teryl Rothery as Dr. Janet Fraser. The usually calm, professional doctor went gungho (emphasis on GUN) and toe to toe with a Goauld to save her adopted daughter, Cassandra. Way to go Janet! . . .Of Special Note: There are a lot of fans out there who are in favor of a pairing between Daniel and Janet. To be honest I never saw the connection between the two until this episode. Nice little moment shared by them. Could this mean a possible relationship in the future? Impossible to say but it does give Daniel/Janet fans a spark of hope.
My Double Quick Run Down: Nice to see back burner characters come into their own. Let's hope they keep it up!
Overall rating: 8
Next week: Daniel's Unas friend is captured by slave traders.

SciFriday Review for July 27

THE INVISIBLE MAN/"Flash to Bang"

This episode was . . .gee, I forget! That's right folks the I-Man falls victim to amnesia and to his top nemesis Arnaud. Darien minus memories was an endearing slant on the usually glib, sarcastic agent. At times he was almost childlike in his manner and observations. Arnaud was drawn into the plot nicely as he tried to manipulate Fawkes into believing that they are brothers! (oh the irony) Unfortunately the rest of the team were left on the back burner for most of the episode. Although I understand that Darien needed to be in the center of the plot, I did not feel that the story itself was introspective enough to support such a singular focus. Great end though, wrapping up with the collaboration of Arnaud and Chrysalis.
My Double Quick Run Down: Nice to have to good ole Darien back but the new evil dream team is something anyone would want to forget!
Overall rating: 7
Next week: An experiment leaves Claire in a state of madness.

FARSCAPE/"Infinite Possibilities Pt. 1-Daedalus Demands"
One of this series' best guest stars, Kent McCord, returns as the alien alternate of John's father. This episode is everything a cliff hanger should be. They have brought back not one but two interesting character aspects, The Ancients (who gave John that pesky wormhole tech everyone is hot
for) and Furlow (who bartered for wormhole technology and now wants to make a quick buck--how capitalist). The Scarrans have made allies as well as new strides in dangerous technology. Talyn is blinded and under attack
while Rygel has been wounded in a fire fight. Whew! And I'm not even to the actually cliffhanger yet! Wow, what a scene to end on. Aeryn with a gun trained on John who has once again succumbed to the neural clone's control... "to be continued" has never been more powerful.
My Double Quick Run Down: Like all you other Scapers out there I'm just chewing at the bit to see what happens next!
Overall rating: 9
Next week: We continue the story as the Scarrans make their way to Dambada.

STARGATE SG11/"Red Sky"
One would think that an episode that begins with the team being mistaken for elves (and not the cookie making kind either) would be humorous. How wrong you would be for in this scenario the writers put in a nice twist to develop
a truly dramatic episode. The drama builds nicely as the team struggle to correct the damage they have done to the planet of a peaceful race. Unlike other times the SG1 cannot rely on their allies--in this case the Asgard--to
get them out of a jam. A refreshing turn of events as our human explorers have to rely on their own ingenuity and live with the consequences of their actions. Overall an episode that allows all the actors--most especially
Richard Dean Anderson (O'Neill)--to grab onto the plot and run with it. Wonderful storytelling all around.
My Double Quick Run Down: Red sky at morning . . .SG1 take warning. Next time be more careful!
Overall rating: 9
Next week: Dr. Fraser's daughter is infected with an alien virus.

A LOOK AT YOUR SATURDAZE FOR JULY 21

THE CHRONICLE/"Here There Be Dragons"
To quote a friend, "Be kind to dragons . .. " That is exactly what the roving reporters at The Chronicle are trying to do. This episode shows the new series' ability to take ancient myths (such as Ye Old Fire Breathing Dragon) and twist them to suit their own story telling needs. Hopefully this is an attribute that they will keep and develop in future episodes. A major guest star George Takei (STAR TREK) adds fuel to the fire--so to speak-- but leaves me a little wary. While I think that this show could very easily persuade major sci-fi personalities to make an appearance (and should), I have this fear that focusing on that too much will cost them their storytelling ability. I hope that they continue to bring in big names but do not rely on them to carry the plot.
My Double Quick Run Down: That charming little bit of a charming little quote belongs to web page master, Mel, and can be found on our quote page.
Overall rating: 7
Next week: The reporters find an abandoned baby at the office.

THE OUTER LIMITS/
Featuring: Jeremy London. Maybe it was the fact that I was fighting off allergies or maybe it was because it was just bad (I'm leaning towards the later), but all this leafy, little tale had me itching for was the end credits. It seemed as if they were trying to create a modernised "monster that came from beyond" theme but not as much fun as the hokey classics if you ask me. If it had been done as a spoof it might have been humorous--I repeat, "might have been". My major Pet Peeve with this story? Cruelty to animals. Even if it's just implied, it's a big no-no with me. When the she-plant went after the cat I deducted five points right there.
My Double Quick Run Down: The plight of anthologies: when they're good they are really good, but when they're bad they are oh so bad. Do you need a topic? How about . . .a thought provoking morality tale concerning our future as a society as we develop more and more advanced technologies . . .There, talk amongst yourselves.
Overall rating: 2

SCIFRIDAY REVIEW FOR JULY 20

THE INVISIBLE MAN/"Bad Chi"
Call this the case of the poison PIN . . .well, needles actually which most people dislike but acupuncturists can't get along without. An overall enjoyable episode that deals with how the Agency pulls together when Darien is compromised. Because Darien is, temporarily, out of the game Alex is teamed up with Bobby for a large portion of the episode. I'm still on the fence when it comes to her. Half of the time she grates on my nerves but on other occasions I really enjoy the interaction between her and Bobby (By the way, did anyone else notice how Claire seemed a bit jealous of those two. Hmmm) My biggest problem with the episode was little Miss Charlie's motivation: her plan was to remove the bad chi threatening her spiritually elevated mentor by having someone killed? I don't know that much about Asian practices but that didn't track for me.
My Double Quick Run Down: I'm just waiting for Eberts to announce his new protocol for hostile situations involving acupuncturists . . .call it Operation Prickly Porcupine.
Overall rating: 7
Next week: When Darien has an accident he awakes with amnesia--and in the hands of Chrysalis.

FARSCAPE/ "Scratch & Sniff"
Well, it was hyped as one of the season's zaniest episodes and Boy Golly was it ever! At times it was hard to follow considering that it was being told in retrospect by a hung over and frustrated John II. Nice to see the Moya crew put their differences aside--okay, sorta--and help each other out. The interpersonal-relationships between these characters and the John twins are developing nicely (as is John II's own unique attributes) and promises more surprises for the future. Interesting to see D'Argo get jealous of John II and Chiana. Is there the possibility of a relationship between those two shipmates? We shall see. Speaking of Chi. We saw another glimpse of her premonitions, which can only be foreshadowing for a bigger reveal--possibly a latent psychic power?
My Double Quick Run Down: John II and D'Argo can party hardy but they should leave the detective work to the Hardy Boys, Chiana was "killin' em softly"--well, Fe'tor anyway, Jool's adventure was a real "scream", and Pilot put his foot, er, claw down (nice to see the fella take charge)
Overall rating: 8
Next week: When Talyn is blinded and left defenceless to a Scarran attack, it is up to John and Aeryn to build a super weapon to save the ship.

STARGATE SG1/"The Fifth Man"
This week the SG1 faces that foe which has plagued many a sci-fi heroes over the decades . . .the government. John De Lancie returns as the Pentagon baddie whose investigation of the SGC may not be entirely on the up and up (ya think?). One of the most intriguing elements to this story was seeing Hammond's tough, but fair, persona get even tougher! I believe we were given a clearer understanding of Hammond's personal dilemma in this episode. He is first and foremost a military man defending Earth from a much more powerful foe and, yet, he is also a compassionate man who has developed deep friendships with the people he commands. Fortunately for our favourite intergalactic travellers Hammond is a man who always chooses people over protocol. However, we are also left with the brooding question . . .how long will political enemies of the Stargate Project allow Hammond and his people to interfere with their agendas?
My Double Quick Run Down: Doesn't it seem that the higher ups are always kicking ya when you're down, or up, or in a chair, or getting coffee, etc. etc. etc.
Overall rating: 7
Next week: An accident concerning the Stargate leaves an alien world on the brink of an environmental disaster.

A Look At Your Saturdaze . . .for JULY 14

FARSCAPE/"Meltdown" (special night and time)

We're back on Talyn as the crew attempt to stop their hybrid ship from flying into a Siren Sun. The resulting chemical leak causes another episode of crew insanity but without the brooding aftermath many fans felt after the infamous "Crackers Don't Matter". However, the adrenaline filled crew weren't the only ones flying high. John/Aeryn fans had to love the playful and loving interaction between one of scifi's great couples (about time!). Call me a romantic fool . . .I won't stop you.
My Double Quick Run Down: John and Aeryn bonded, Stark bonded with Talyn--literally, Crais needed to be bonded--by a straightjacket, and Rygel is going to need . . .a girdle after all the food he ate (hey, it's a type of bonding)
Overall rating: 8

THE CHRONICLE/series premiere
Lunch dates with Satan, "pig-boy" researchers, alien websites on the internet . . .and that's just the premiere! THE CHRONICLE is a promising show and promise is never a bad thing, trust me. There are a lot of aspects to this series that if developed well could gain it a nice fan base. It did feel a bit shaky to me but then every new show has to find its legs before it can really get into the running. The show itself is much like the character of Tucker, a new face trying to make it among highly established and respected competitors. You have to give the show some credit. It is trying to carve out a niche in scifi that is sometimes difficult to pull of well--humor. Was it laugh-out-loud funny? Not always. However, I did find the staff psychic's prank phone calls to Miss Cleo's hotline worth more than a mere chuckle.
My Double Quick Run Down: Bloodsuckers and cell phone activated tumor monsters are different but those reporters are . . .weird.
Overall rating: 7 (because I too like to keep an open mind)
Next week: The reporters hit the streets when a dragon is seen in Chinatown.


SciFriday for JULY 13th

THE INVISIBLE MAN/"Den of Thieves"
Darien returns to his old lifestyle in order to trap a terrorist and ends up back in a world he thought he had left behind, prison. A ditty that tries to show the difference between the Darien that was and the Darien that now is which, ultimately, falls short. Simply put this episode lacked some of the momentum of previous episodes of this same theme. (Nit Pick--Did anyone else think that the whole "terrorist uses an EMP device as a weapon" plot sounded like that show with the girl named Max and that guy Logan? Nah, probably just my imagination). The scene I found most impressive was the brief glimpse we saw of Darien reading The Bible. One of Darien's best qualities is his study of human spirituality and philosophy and this is a "good" example of that.
My Double Quick Run Down: Crime doesn't pay but then neither does government work so I don't think the boys should hold out any hope of a raise on this assignment. Overall rating: 6
Next week: An acupuncturist turns the tables on Darien and Bobby. (Or Never trust anyone with a thing for needles)

FARSCAPE/"Incubator"
Think of this episode as two sides of the same obsession, wormhole technology. While Scorpy tries to find the one secret still eluding him, John II (of Moya)is steadily driving everyone else nuts with his singular focus. Nice twist having the neural chip version of John becoming "the little voice" inside Scorpy's head. Also the reveals into Scorpy's past leave us with the question, what is he really after? (a nice little mystery to build the season on) Here's my problem with the episode--yes, unfortunately I do have one. The Linfer connection did accomplish the task of informing the Moya crew of the still impending Scorpius threat but her subsequent demise was all too predictable. My Double Quick Run Down: Scorpy freaked out over wormhole tech while the crew of Moya just generally freaked out. (Can't y'all just get along?)
Overall rating: 7
Next week: The Moya crew travel to a planet where losing your inhabitations can be deadly. --For clarification I call the John on Moya John II because I am of the belief (at least for now) that the John on Talyn is in fact the original John. I also find myself, in retrospect, seeing subtle differences between the two but that could just be me.

STARGATE SG1/"Ascension"
I'm a sucker for a benevolent alien story so this episode had me from the start. When the team investigate a supposedly abandoned planet Carter is followed home by a new "friend". Overall this plot utilized a blending of humor and drama that SG1 fans have come to expect from their favorite intergalactic explorers. Guest stars Sean Patrick Flanery (Young Indiana Jones) and John De Lancey (Q!)gave an extra punch to a charming vignette. Of special note: I found Teal'c's love of STAR WARS especially humorous.
My Double Quick Run Down: Sam had a long needed flirtation, Orland was easy on the eyes but hard on appliances, Jack and Daniel stuck to their guns as the Pentagon prepared to fire one, and Teal'c proved that STAR WARS is truly universal.
Overall rating: 8
Next week: A new member is added to the SG1, can he be trusted?



THE INVISIBLE MAN "Insensate"
Armin Shimmerman steals the show as Thomas Walker, a man who has lost his five senses due to Kevin Fawkes' experiments--or did he? An intriguing and surprising turn of events following the touching reunion with Kevin in the previous episode. The introduction of "the man with no name" gives Darien and Bobby a new (and mysterious) foe to be on the look out for. My Double Quick Run Down: Any character based on The Who's TOMMY (Tommy can you hear me?) is going to be memorable.
Overall Rating: 7
Next Week: When an undercover mission goes awry (when don't they?) Darien goes back to prison.

FARSCAPE "Relativity"
Aeryn's mother, the commander of the retrieval squad, catches up with the crew of Talyn and is forced into a confrontation with her long lost daughter. A gripping episode that reveals not only the crew's own developing dynamic but Aeryn's final (emotional) break from the Peacekeepers. The appearance of fan fav Harvey was just the cherry on top of a well rounded episode. My Double Quick Run Down: Xhalax was a tough mama but Aeryn was tougher, Crais and John shared an adventure with some "pinacoladas", Stark didn't save the day but he saved Rygel (yeah), and Harvey made us all wish we each had an evil genius living in our subconscious (okay, maybe not).
Overall Rating: 9
Next Week: Scoripus reveals his past to Crichton.

THE OUTER LIMITS "In the Blood"
Featuring: Greg Evigan (TekWar) and Cameron Daddo (FX: the series) Really wanted to like this because the initial concept of Trans-Space was very intriguing as was the theory that the universe is itself alive. However, (and I hate to say it because I am a fan of these performers) I could not invest myself in the crew members' interrelationships. My Double Quick Run Down: the performances were good, the theories were good, but somewhere a ball got dropped (sorry).
Overall Rating: 4
Next Week: A flesh-eating plant disguises itself as a human woman in order to find a mate (I'm serious).

COMING SOON TO SCIFRIDAYS!!!
We play catch up with the new season of STARGATE SG1 as they approach their 100th episode.
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A See Through Review of SciFi Channel's THE INVISIBLE MAN

"Brother's Keeper"

Although this emotionally driven episode lacked some of the usually good-natured fun that most I-MAN plots utilise (not enough of that classic Darien and Bobby banter), I nonetheless found myself drawn into the power of the quiet performances. The concept of "resurrecting" Kevin Fawkes (in order to remove that pesky gland) through an RNA experiment was well supported by the reveal of the Simon Cole fiasco in "The Other Invisible Man". This was truly an opportunity for Vincent Ventresca to stretch his acting chops by giving the audience another glimpse at a character who was killed off early in the series. Ventresca played the brothers off each other well--most memorable moment being the scene with Kevin watching the video of Darien. The focus fell naturally onto Kevin who not only had to deal with the fact that he died--talk about your bad day--but also with the aftermath of Arnaud sabotaging his experiment (i. e. Quicksilver Madness). The episode brought fan favs Hobbes and Claire into the story subtly and with great success. I found the romantic connection between Kevin and Claire especially charged. Those who say a kiss is just a kiss should take special note of the scene between those two. Could this have implications for Claire and Darien? Most probably, which means that fans will have to wait and see--not an easy feat when the star can go invisible. My quick run down goes like this: Arnaud was fun, Bobby was comforting (nice), Darien was full of angst, and Kevin and Claire were hot. My only problem with the story was Kevin's change of heart at the end when he decided not to help them remove the gland. Seemed like a contrivance which it was since without the gland there is no INVISIBLE MAN.
Overall rating: 8 (due entirely to the performances)
Reviewed by: Stara