BSG News, Articles, Reviews Misc. tidbits about the show (Possible Spoilers) [Archive]

morjana

January 9th, 2005, 07:32 AM

{Mod Insert}

In here you will find all of the latest News, Articles and episode reviews that many have posted for your enjoyment

Please be awae that someof these posts do contain spoilers for BOTH Season One and Season Two.

If you have News Item, an Article or an Episode review that you would like to share please add it here and be sure to provide a link for folks as no copyrighted material can be reproduced here.

From Zap2It:

http://tv.zap2it.com/tveditorial/tve_main/1,1002,271|92632|1|,00.html

TV News

'Battlestar Galactica' Begins at the End of All Things
(Sunday, January 09 12:02 AM)
By Kate O'Hare

LOS ANGELES (Zap2it.com) Writers are only people, after all. On Sept. 11, 2001, they were glued to their TV sets, made the same phone calls, shed the same tears, felt the same knot of fear in their bellies, wondered how it would all turn out and whether the world, let alone the New York skyline, would ever feel the same.

Also, like all artists, they find their experiences and feelings filtering into their work and becoming part of scripts and manuscripts that speak to those who hear or read them.

So although Sci-Fi Channel's "Battlestar Galactica" was originally created in the 1970s, its rebirth as a miniseries in 2003 meant that writer-producer Ronald D. Moore brought to bear all his experiences when reimagining the tale of humans on far-distant colony worlds nearly destroyed by the Cylons, an artificial life form they created. "Battlestar" launches as a series on Sci-Fi on Friday, Jan. 14, with back-to-back episodes, preceded by a half-hour special called "Battlestar Galactica: The Lowdown."

As to whether the events of 9/11 and the subsequent war against terrorism influenced his writing, Moore says, "It always has, right from the get-go. The miniseries was informed by a lot of 9/11 memories, 9/11 feelings, and the series continues on that route. The series is definitely about this time and place in America.
"We have a band of survivors on military ships. They're at war. They're worried about things like terrorists in their midst, who they can't identify, because Cylons can look like people. They have questions of security. There's questions of freedom and democracy and civil liberties, the hard choices you have to make.

"That's what I think sci-fi should do. Science fiction is supposed to question things that are going on in society, think about things that are relevant. It's not just escapism. The show is trying to be relevant, to provoke debate and make people think about the world they live in."

As the series opens, the Cylons, some of which are robotic and some of which look human (and there are even some that are programmed to believe they are human), have nuked and occupied the 12 human colonies. The Battlestar Galactica, commanded by Adama (Edward James Olmos), which was about to be turned into a museum when the attack came, now leads a ragtag fleet of civilian and military ships carrying all that is left of humanity -- not quite 50,000 souls -- on a journey to find the possibly mythical human home world, called Earth.

The story takes place partly among the fleet, as the survivors struggle to stay alive and evade the Cylons that relentlessly hunt them, and partly on the occupied human colony world of Caprica. There, pilot Helo (Tahmoh Penikett), left behind when his co-pilot, Sharon "Boomer" Valerii (Grace Park), returned to Galactica with survivors, finds the last person he expected to see.

Meanwhile, on her ship, President Roslin (Mary McDonnell) battles cancer as she works to hold the fragmented population together. On the Galactica, Adama keeps control as he struggles with mixed feelings for his son, pilot Lee "Apollo" Adama (Jamie Bamber), and pilot Kara "Starbuck" Thrace (Katee Sackhoff), who was engaged to Lee's late brother.

Scientist Dr. Baltar (James Callis), who betrayed humanity, carries on an internal life with the beautiful Cylon Number Six (Tricia Helfer), who resides in his thoughts. And Sharon, revealed to be a secret Cylon at the end of the miniseries (there are 12 human Cylon models, with copies of each), panics when she realizes she may not be in control of her own actions.

"I didn't even realize that the first time I read for the character," Park says. "They rewrote the ending, because I don't remember that being there. It's awesome. She's a totally mischievous, naughty, bad character."

"That was [executive producer] David Eick's idea," Moore says. "Because it was a late addition, it was perfect, because there was no indication anywhere in the miniseries that this was going to happen. So this was his really nice surprise, that this very human character, this vulnerable girl on her first combat mission, who's lost her co-pilot -- we discover she's a Cylon."

Moore's "Battlestar" also deals with issues of faith. The Cylons have their own religion, and it differs from their creators'.

"Their usage of God and higher powers," Olmos says, "wow, it's frightening. You start to realize, wait a minute, why wouldn't they feel that way? They've gotten to the point of reproducing themselves, cloning to an exactness and transferring thoughts and brain capacity from one body to another. They're way ahead of us."

"It's about the role of faith in society," Moore says, "how it can be used for good or for evil, and different faiths, and what happens when they collide. The religious aspect of the show is one of the more interesting textures of it. Complicated philosophical debates go on. There are certain theological issues that are posited and argued about -- Cylons and humans, why the Cylons believe in one God and the humans believe in many. What does it mean when one God tries to drive out the many?"

Although "Battlestar" is set in space, ships' engines and weaponry don't interest Moore as much as the workings of the human heart.

"We're not doing bumpy-headed aliens," he says. "We're not doing planet-of-the-week stories. We're not doing mind control, body swapping, time travel, all the usual things. This is a drama. It isn't about gee-whiz scientific ideas week in and week out. It's about people and characters in a desperate situation, and it happens to be in a scientific backdrop."

|*|(*)|*|(*)|*|

Morjana

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keshou

January 9th, 2005, 08:03 AM

"That's what I think sci-fi should do. Science fiction is supposed to question things that are going on in society, think about things that are relevant. It's not just escapism. The show is trying to be relevant, to provoke debate and make people think about the world they live in."

and

"We're not doing bumpy-headed aliens," he says. "We're not doing planet-of-the-week stories. We're not doing mind control, body swapping, time travel, all the usual things. This is a drama. It isn't about gee-whiz scientific ideas week in and week out. It's about people and characters in a desperate situation, and it happens to be in a scientific backdrop."

These quotes really impress me. If all this translates to the screen, I'm going to be a happy camper. This sounds really intriguing.

I re-watched part of the miniseries last night (on NBC) and I'm looking forward to the premiere of the series. I think Ron Moore did a great job on the miniseries - I liked it even better the second time around.

:D

D.C.

January 10th, 2005, 06:36 PM

I agree, the mini-series was great and I'm glad they're doing the show as a drama. Also one of Australia's major free-to-air commercial networks has picked up the show, so we're definately going to get to see the series in Australia. (The mini series as well, but that's already been released on DVD here.)

GateAngel

January 11th, 2005, 06:22 AM

Another article about BattleStar: Galactica

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=1952&ncid=763&e=10&u=/variety/20050110/va_tv_re/battlestar_galactica

Not sure I like the reference to fans concerns as 'overheated bleating'.

Beckmen

January 11th, 2005, 06:56 AM

I liked the mini. I want to watch it on DVD before the season premiere, but both netflix and blockbuster online have it on Wait status. Grrr...

yaaayoubetcha

July 21st, 2005, 07:03 AM

i'm generally not big on tv tie-in comics, but this intrigues me....

bsg comics (http://www.newsarama.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=38545)

Sci-Fi

August 23rd, 2005, 04:01 PM

From Cinescape:

Toy News

Battlestar Galactica Card Game (http://www.cinescape.com/0/editorial.asp?aff_id=0&this_cat=Toys&action=page&type_id=&cat_id=272624&obj_id=49465)

August 22, 2005

By: NEWS EDITOR
Source: WhizKids Games

WizKids Inc. has announced its agreement with Universal Studios Consumer Products Group to develop a collectable card game (CCG) based on the new SCI FI Channel's series.

Game play will mirror the intrigue of the television show: Players won’t know whom to trust, who the Cylon agents are or where the next attack will come from! Players will battle for ownership of resources and influence in order to control the fleet.

The game, slated for release in early 2006, features characters, ships and familiar scenes from the miniseries and television show.

:p ;) :) :D

yaaayoubetcha

August 24th, 2005, 08:57 AM

good luck to them...

but i've found that other than decipher star wars, nobody has really had any luck adapting books/movies/tv to a ccg with any success.

Nate

August 27th, 2005, 05:53 PM

decipher had a major success with trek before wars,

Nate

August 27th, 2005, 05:55 PM

AS for wiz kids i would much rather see a clix game based on it could be alot of fun..

yaaayoubetcha

September 7th, 2005, 10:08 AM

a clix game could be cool...but there's not enough development to allow them to go either all ground or all space, and i think trying to setup a 2 map setup...or even just open tabletop like pirates would be too difficult to do well....

wizkids now has a BSG message board up....not much info there...but they'll be adding more as more info becomes available...

http://www.wizkidsgames.com/wk_home.asp

unfortunately, you have to register to get to the forums....but it's free and they don't spam you with crap. the forums are under the 'community' heading.

Sci-Fi

November 21st, 2005, 05:39 PM

SFC Posts Deleted Scenes for 201-209 (http://scifi.com/battlestar/episodes/season02/201/)

:p ;) :) :D

Agent_Dark

November 21st, 2005, 05:59 PM

Oh sweet :D

MASON

November 21st, 2005, 06:04 PM

Nice!

More "canon" fodder. :p :rolleyes: :D

Hawat

December 6th, 2005, 08:29 AM

Apple has made deals with NBC, USA and Sci-fi networks to allow select shows be available for purchase and download. For Sci-fi, this means Battlestar Galactica. The mini-series, season 1 and season 2.0 are available on the iTMS for $1.99 a piece.

http://playlistmag.com/news/2005/12/06/nbc/index.php?lsrc=mwrss
http://www.engadget.com/entry/1234000430071201/

airdish

December 6th, 2005, 02:34 PM

Does anyone have a link to or a copy of the new preview that scifi has been running?

Chricton

December 6th, 2005, 02:57 PM

I noticed this earlier today. Awesome news. Only furthers the shows popularity.

Agent_Dark

December 6th, 2005, 04:12 PM

Anyone know what kinda res or bitrate or filesize (ie quality) they are?

Vee

December 6th, 2005, 05:23 PM

I guess that's cool. I'm not really into the whole downloading scene though. Apparently I'm roaming with DVD dinosaurs. Still, it's pretty cool to get the eps for download the day after they're broadcast. But I can't afford an iPod and I don't know anyone who can. :S

voigtstr

December 6th, 2005, 06:28 PM

nice but my 40gig iPod doesnt do video :(

userfriendly

December 6th, 2005, 07:55 PM

too bad :p guess, you have to buy a new one.

anyway, it's christmas soon - what ipod would you suggest to buy? (if only for bsg lol) :D

voigtstr

December 6th, 2005, 07:59 PM

too bad :p guess, you have to buy a new one.

anyway, it's christmas soon - what ipod would you suggest to buy? (if only for bsg lol) :D

go for the largest capacity iPod video they make... your choice of black or white :)

Sci-Fi

December 6th, 2005, 08:04 PM

From Hpana:

Katie Leung & Grace Park Nominated for Outstanding Newcomer Award (http://www.hpana.com/news.19158.html)

Posted by GERI
Source: News Tip

Cable television channel for Asian America, AZN Television, today announced their list of nominees for 'Outstanding Newcomer Award' and Harry Potter actress Katie Leung and Battlestar Galactica actress Grace Park has been nominated.

Also on the list: Actors Keiko Agena (Gilmore Girls), Lynn Chen (Saving Face), Henry Cho (Comedy Central), Roger Fan (Annapolis), Mindy Kaling (Office, Curb Your Enthusiasm), Sung Kang (The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift), Ravi Kapoor (Crossing Jordan), Liza Lapira (Huff), Rex Lee (Entourage), Katie Leung (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire), Marie Matiko (Art of War, The Civilization of Maxwell Bright), Max Minghella (Bee Season, Syriana), Diane Mizota (Memoirs of a Geisha, Three Wishes), Parminder Nagra (ER), Grace Park (Battlestar Galactica, Romeo Must Die), Dat Phan (Last Comic Standing), Navi Rawat (Numb3rs) and Brenda Song (The Suite Life of Zack & Cody), singer/songwriter Kevin So, and hip hop band At Last.

Can vote HERE (http://www.azntv.com/axa/)

:p ;) :) :D

userfriendly

December 6th, 2005, 08:06 PM

thanks. but... largest capacity? excuse me, i am not that much into that DRM stuff, but... can't i use another hard disk for backup and such? is there a connector for a larger screen?

userfriendly

December 6th, 2005, 08:08 PM

ah, i just found an description... i think i need a mac mini, too :D looks sweet

MASON

December 6th, 2005, 08:21 PM

ah, i just found an description... i think i need a mac mini, too :D looks sweet
Just go for the 20" iMac. with Front Row included and the DVDs of BSG Season 2.0 arriving on the 20th of December (thank you mysterious $25.00 amazon coupon) you're way ahead of anybody with a video ipod. :D

Who am I kidding, I've got a 12" Powerbook and 4G 40GiB iPod, but hey, Season 2 will be here in two weeks. And then ep211!!! :D

Oh, and one more thing...

Death to DRM!!! :mad: Never bought from iTunes, never plan to... Rip your CDs... Beware of Sony's evil rootkits! :)

walterIsTheMan

December 6th, 2005, 08:29 PM

MASON

December 6th, 2005, 08:43 PM

Does anyone know the video quality of the files when played on the computer? Because I don't have a video iPod but if the quality is good I still might purchase the episodes for watching on comp.

PS - To mods: It is ok to discuss this, right? Since it's legal episode purchasing and downloading?:S

Apple wouldn't be doing this if it weren't totally legal.

I've read over at www.TUAW.com (The Unofficial Apple Weblog) that the quality is fine when you've got your iPod hooked up to your non-HD TV, and the playback is excellent on the iPod itself, but you won't be too impressed if you watch it on your computer or an HDTV.

userfriendly

December 6th, 2005, 09:11 PM

oh. well, i want to buy season 2 dvd, too. but i thought it would be nice if i could watch every new episode one day after airing, too, and not wait for the next dvd... (as i am in germany and have no "scifi channel" or "sky one")

inquiry: i don't need an ipod for this? (even if the quality would be lower, that doesn't matter that much as i buy the dvds anyway)

MASON

December 6th, 2005, 09:15 PM

inquiry: i don't need an ipod for this? (even if the quality would be lower, that doesn't matter that much as i buy the dvds anyway)
No, all you need is the iTunes6/Quicktime7 bundle, and, I think it would be preferable to have, an S-video cable so you can hook your computer up to your TV (or you could just watch on your computer, for two bucks, you may as well try it out on one episode).

userfriendly

December 6th, 2005, 09:19 PM

i have no tv, just a big screen on my workstation :D

thank you, i'll look for that software bundle.

Shep'sSocks

December 6th, 2005, 10:11 PM

Sci-Fi

December 7th, 2005, 12:02 AM

The "Lowdown" or "BSG Special" scheduled times:

Jan 2 at 10pm-10:30pm EST/PST and repeated Jan 3 at 12:30am-1am EST/PST. Central times are 9pm-9:30pm and repeated at 11:30pm-12am

:p ;) :) :D

Ses

December 7th, 2005, 01:02 AM

ohh thanks for the link
*voted for Grace* :)

userfriendly

December 7th, 2005, 02:16 AM

oh... and i already thought i am just too dumb to find it in the store -.-

thx for the info socks... and... why can't i install the u.s. version...? :rolleyes: mhmm... i wonder...

Shep'sSocks

December 7th, 2005, 02:30 AM

It's copyright thing, I gather. I barely want anything from iTunes Oz. That's a download I've wasted.

Agent_Dark

December 7th, 2005, 02:30 AM

Is that a BSG only one? Or is it for SG1 and Atlantis as well like last time?

Hawat

December 7th, 2005, 06:41 AM

Let me clear up some of the confusion.

1. Downloading shows on iTunes is perfectly legal. Yes there is DRM: you can back-up the movie, keep it forever, and move it to your iPod (5th generation, or video iPods, are the only ones that can play it.)

2. You can watch the video on your computer. Windows or Mac. All you need is iTunes and Quicktime. (Quicktime now comes bundled with iTunes)

3. Video specs: 320x240 resolution, 190MB, 608kbits/sec data rate, 44.1kHz audio rate. What this means is, if you can connect your iPod (or computer) to a TV, you're looking at a slight quality loss, but very watchable.

madk99

December 7th, 2005, 07:33 AM

Can someone enlighten me? I've seen several references to the "Lowdown". What the frak is it??

userfriendly

December 7th, 2005, 07:56 AM

It's copyright thing, I gather. I barely want anything from iTunes Oz. That's a download I've wasted.

maybe they first have a look on how good it sells, then expand the offer to other shops than the american one. i really hope bsg gets into the european itunes store :)

the overall costs (2 euro or dollar * 20 episodes) do correspond to the costs of a dvd, but at least i get the stuff i am addicted to before the dvd is available...

Vee

December 7th, 2005, 08:26 AM

Can someone enlighten me? I've seen several references to the "Lowdown". What the frak is it??
It's basically a behind-the-scenes special. They have clips of upcoming episodes, interviews, and various other things. They're usually pretty cool to watch. I had not heard about one coming up this January, though. Interesting.

MASON

December 7th, 2005, 09:02 AM

Can someone enlighten me? I've seen several references to the "Lowdown". What the frak is it??
"Battlestar Galactica: The Lowdown", Read: Possible Spoilers.

madk99

December 7th, 2005, 09:47 AM

"Battlestar Galactica: The Lowdown", Read: Possible Spoilers.
Maybe I'll tape it and watch it later -- if I can hold out that long.

capricacitygal

December 7th, 2005, 03:33 PM

sweet I can't wait for the new season this will keep me happy till the 6th

capricacitygal

December 7th, 2005, 03:36 PM

Thanks for the info I voted for Grace

capricacitygal

December 7th, 2005, 03:55 PM

sweet

voigtstr

December 7th, 2005, 05:42 PM

I checked last night, but wasnt able to find BSG listed on the Australian iTunes Store (we've only just got iTunes store btw, a year or so behind the U.S.).

Its possible that no agreement was made (or even saught) with channel 7 / southern cross television.

Agent_Dark

December 7th, 2005, 06:33 PM

I've heard something about being able to purchase a pre-paid credit card on the net that is accepted as US one? So you are able to use it for iTunes and stuff?

voigtstr

December 7th, 2005, 07:27 PM

I've heard something about being able to purchase a pre-paid credit card on the net that is accepted as US one? So you are able to use it for iTunes and stuff?

Possibly although those cards sold in Australia may only be usable on the Australian iTunes

Liverpool_chicK

December 7th, 2005, 08:33 PM

I know that in Canada, they are planning on airing the 2nd season lowdown before they start the second season here. Which will be nice to see. :D Which happens to be in the middle of January, (thank god for downloads).

Shep'sSocks

December 7th, 2005, 09:59 PM

kiwigater

December 7th, 2005, 11:36 PM

I'm not entirely sure that's true. For instance, I have both iTunes and an iPod, bought/downloaded perfectly legally in the US, and I then created a iTunes store account IN the US, with a US credit card. All is good so far. Now, I have relocated to NZ, and am still able to login, buy and download music (haven't tried TV shows) off the store. All of it goes thru my US account and credit card, but my ip addy is in NZ.....

It's interesting that they don't pick up the disparity. I purchased a download manager I had trialled and really liked the other day, and they cancelled my purchase after a week or so because of the NZ ip addy, but the US credit card - it was quite amusing, when I emailed asking why they replied saying they suspected me of fraud! :eek: :p Lucky it really WAS my card :p

Anyway, I guess the upshot is YAY, BSG on iTunes :D But meh on dl-ing it :S I'm suspicious that the quality isn't as good as I'm used to. NZ isn't that far behind with BSG anyway..... *twitches and drools* :p

Shep'sSocks

December 7th, 2005, 11:47 PM

I suspect it's the US credit card that helps there. Sadly, I don't have one of those. :(

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 03:15 AM

I suspect it's the US credit card that helps there. Sadly, I don't have one of those. :(
It's not the U.S. credit card, it's the fact that the credit card originally had a billing address in the U.S. I'm a Canadian, so like my fellow Commonwealthers, don't have access to video content purchases in the iTunes Music Store, however, I was able to browse and download the free tracks from the Canadian iTMS, while living in London, U.K. So it's not about your IP, but where they think your payment is coming from.

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 09:53 AM

This is odd, I pre-ordered the first ten episodes of season 2.0 with amazon.ca (http://www.amazon.ca/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000BNI90Y/ref=amb_asin-coop-1_131682401/701-8241248-5699512) a few weeks back, and the shipping date still reads:

Shipping estimate: Dec 23 2005
Delivery estimate: Dec 28 2005 - Dec 29 2005

However, when you go back to the item page, it's now listed as being set for release on May 25, 2006

Does anybody know what's going on? I have a few guesses, but I just hope I still receive my order.

Chricton

December 8th, 2005, 11:16 AM

The set is delayed in Canada, only because the first run of episodes havn't even aired yet. It makes sense. They wouldn't release the set before the episodes even aired. Ratings would tumble.

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 11:25 AM

The set is delayed in Canada, only because the first run of episodes hasn't even aired yet. It makes sense. They wouldn't release the set before the episodes even aired. Ratings would tumble.
I figured as much. Lucky me, I'll be one of the few Canadians to see the second season before it airs in Canada, it makes you wonder how I've been contributing to these forums without having seen the second season...hmmmm. ;)

Chricton

December 8th, 2005, 11:36 AM

I received mine today from half.com. Awesome set. The longer Pegasus is pretty cool.

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 11:38 AM

I received mine today from half.com. Awesome set. The longer Pegasus is pretty cool.
Fantastic!!! Glad to hear you received yours already, were there any deleted scenes for Pegasus, or did they all get used in the extended edition?

madk99

December 8th, 2005, 11:45 AM

I figured as much. Lucky me, I'll be one of the few Canadians to see the second season before it airs in Canada, it makes you wonder how I've been contributing to these forums without having seen the second season...hmmmm. ;)
The answer is obvious... Are you from the future??

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 11:48 AM

The answer is obvious... Are you from the future??
how did you guess??? :eek:

Hawat

December 8th, 2005, 01:41 PM

Unfortunately I don't know exactly what causes it to use the Australian iTunes instead of the US version. I didn't know there were so many international fans here, my apologies.

Some people say it's your IP address, some say credit card. I can only offer this suggestion: When you log into the iTunes store, scroll to the bottom of the page and change the location to US. I have no idea if this will change the content.

One last comment, this content would never replace the DVD for me. I find it the most useful for catching episodes I miss. When the season is done, I'll buy the entire Season 2 dvd set.

Chricton

December 8th, 2005, 01:47 PM

The pegasus episode is indeed extended. I think it clocked in just over an hour.

Sci-Fi

December 8th, 2005, 02:10 PM

From Channel Canada:

BATTLESTAR GALACTICA Continues to Chart on Course (http://www.channelcanada.com/Article1159.html)

The series Newsday called “The Best Show on Television” and Time magazine voted as one of the top six dramas on the small screen, Battlestar Galactica, returns to SPACE for a much-anticipated second season. The ultimate battle between man and machine resumes January 14 at 8pm ET.

Executive produced and developed by Ronald D. Moore (Carnivale, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine) and David Eick (American Gothic), Battlestar Galactica is a gripping saga of humanity’s last remnants and their struggle to find a new home while fleeing from their deadly Cylon enemies. This stunning re-imagination of the 1978 cult classic hit series has redefined the space opera with its gritty realism. It has distinguished itself by the intensity and present day relevance of its stories and performances of its ensemble cast. The series confronts everything from religion, politics and sex to what it really means to be human.

Season one concluded with Commander Adama (Edward James Olmos) shot at close range by Lieutenant Sharon Valerii (Canadian actress Grace Park), who, unbeknownst to her and the Galactica crew, is a humanoid Cylon. Will Adama survive? Are there more Cylons among them?
Shot in Vancouver, B.C., the series also stars Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck), Jamie Bamber (Apollo), James Callis (Dr. Baltar), and Canadian actors Tricia Helfer (Number Six), Michael Hogan (Tigh) and Tahmoh Penikett (Helo). Season two features special guest appearances by Richard Hatch (Battlestar Galactica: The Classic Series) and Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess). Production of a third season of the series was recently announced.

SPACE will also present a special half-hour inside look at the new season in Battlestar Galactica (Season Two): Behind the Scenes on Saturday, January 14 at 7:30pm ET. The SPACE production team gets exclusive interviews and a behind the scenes tour on the set of the hit show.

:p ;) :) :D

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 02:12 PM

Some people say it's your IP address, some say credit card. I can only offer this suggestion: When you log into the iTunes store, scroll to the bottom of the page and change the location to US. I have no idea if this will change the content.
That works, but you still need a U.S. credit card to purchase content.

I just took a look at the preview clips you can view, and the quality is good, it's just that the resolution is low, and they've cropped the files to fullscreen rather than widescreen format, so you're going to lose some of the image.

d3u5

December 8th, 2005, 02:15 PM

Awesome. I can't wait for longer Pegasus.

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 02:15 PM

Nice!

BTW, where do you find all these news clips?

captainpash

December 8th, 2005, 02:17 PM

Go Canada. Last years lock out made me want to kill the NHL players, but now we have hockey again. I love space as a channel. It used to be star trek 24/7 but now it has alot more.

Jonas

December 8th, 2005, 08:23 PM

MASON

December 8th, 2005, 08:42 PM

Who is actually planning on getting this? Personally I just dont see the point because you know that they will put out a entire season 2 set eventually with extras. I might rent it so I can refresh my memory before the season resumes, but not buy.
I only caved when a mysteriously generous $25 gift certificate arrived in the mail from Telus (mobile company) which made it cheaper to buy than the iTunes full season. I would've held onto the coupon, but it expired in January... So otherwise, I hear ya, it's a cash grab on Universal's part.

Liverpool_chicK

December 8th, 2005, 09:10 PM

On the Space website, they have video clips from the set. However the one with Tahmoh going behind the scenes of second season does not work. It once did, cause I got to see it during the summer. The others do work and are somewhat interesting. The Tahmoh one was a good one, it was trés funny. He visited with Grace on site, it appears to be shot sometime during(or after) the epi Home pt.1.

userfriendly

December 8th, 2005, 10:40 PM

That works, but you still need a U.S. credit card to purchase content.
dammit http://zmage.spot-design.net/smiley/irate.gif

... and they've cropped the files to fullscreen rather than widescreen format, so you're going to lose some of the image.
they DARED to...?! :eek: WHAAAT...?! BUTCHERS...!! :S

mhm :rolleyes: dvd it is then... and waiting it is then... :(
but then again, waiting is something i have learned the past months :D

DOIKECARTER

December 8th, 2005, 11:30 PM

Does anyone have a link to or a copy of the new preview that scifi has been running?

I don´t know whether these are the previews you are looking for but....have a look at them:

http://lasvegas.cox.net/cci/tv/coxmain/television/scifi_bsg.html

Blue Banrigh

December 9th, 2005, 02:24 AM

I don´t know whether these are the previews you are looking for but....have a look at them:

http://lasvegas.cox.net/cci/tv/coxmain/television/scifi_bsg.html
Thanks for that.

DOIKECARTER

December 9th, 2005, 02:43 AM

Thanks for that.

The credit is not mine. It was posted in lauraroslinfanficgroup. Terrific previews, aren´t they? I Loved Roslin one and I´ve downloaded to my PC to watch them again and again....

Sci-Fi

December 9th, 2005, 04:29 AM

To clear up any confusion, those are the Canadian broadcast dates that is starting from episode 201, not the U.S. resumption dates for the 2nd half of BSG which is still Jan 6, 2006.

:p ;) :) :D

Chricton

December 9th, 2005, 05:48 AM

OK, guys, got some possible bad news. Last night, I was re-watchign Pegasus, and I noticed the episode ended at 45.xx. I remember seeing something past an hour on my sisters DVD player my first play through. I go back to her player, and for some reason the numbers were jumping around.

somehow, the episode is NOT longer. It had been so long since I had seen it I only THOUGHT some scenes were new, and since the timer was fooling me, I didn't really think twice. Now unless its somehow hidden on the disc, we may have another "Threads" type issue going on here.

The extra scenes are also not included in the deleted scenes area. The back on the box (that hold the last disc with two episodes) only states the time as one hour 20 some minutes, making both episode their original lenghts. And this in fact a legitimate set, not some asian copy or bootleg.

On a side note though, it's nice that the set inccludes more than an episodes worth of deleted scenes.

MASON

December 9th, 2005, 06:32 AM

Sci-Fi

December 9th, 2005, 07:16 AM

From Cox Las Vegas:

4 Sneak Peek Videos (http://lasvegas.cox.net/cci/tv/coxmain/television/scifi_bsg.html)

Baltar and Number Six
The relationship changes.
President Laura Roslin
Dealing with death and a lot of mess.
Two Battlestars
Galactica links up with the Pegasus.
Capt. Lee Adama
Does he want to live anymore?

:p ;) :) :D

Chricton

December 9th, 2005, 07:28 AM

I checked the DVD on my computer with two different DVD extraction programs, and there is nothing on the disc that would make me believe an extended episode is hidden in there somewhere. The content is abnormaly large for just 2 episodes (close to 6 Gigs), but that could just be how little they compressed the data (the image quality for these two episodes is amazing, especially when hooked up to an HD Up-Converter).

IMO, hold off on the pre-order. Wait and see when the set is officlaly released if anyone else reports this problem (which they probably will).

userfriendly

December 9th, 2005, 12:17 PM

Baltar and Number Six
The relationship changes.
thank the gods... will he be a chip in her head now?

President Laura Roslin
Dealing with death and a lot of mess.
yeah, finally... uhm... fine... i mean, i hope she'll be fine... seriously :D

Two Battlestars
Galactica links up with the Pegasus.
yay! hopefully they have enough civilians who are qualified to replace the crew, which is completely made of cylons *cough* not!

Capt. Lee Adama
Does he want to live anymore?
do the writers want him to live? :D

anyway, can't await it :eek: january, oh january... oh hallowed be thy sixth day
(uhm, sixth... *ting tingting ting ting* oh the "six theme", there is it again, aaarrrgh)

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 9th, 2005, 12:25 PM

Man is NBC Universal really getting on my nerves. I first noticed that when when NBC aired the last 3 episodes of BSG's first season.

SlytherinGal

December 9th, 2005, 02:08 PM

i sooo cannot wait until the new eppys start :D

kiwigater

December 9th, 2005, 03:32 PM

Yeah, I just downloaded one of the latter eps of the first half of season 2, watching it now.... I hate that they've made it full screen :( And you can't watch it full screen (as in full monitor) on the computer, the image gets quite pixelated, it's not tooooo bad tho. Having said I'd choose to pay to download the eps if it were available, I sorta felt like I should give them a chance. However, the quality and the cropping is enough to put me off :S

BubblingOverWithIdeas

December 9th, 2005, 04:57 PM

Would someone please be so kind as to post a breakdown of each promo for those of us whose computers can't run them? Except maybe the Le-centric one 'cause most know all about that one by now.

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 9th, 2005, 05:39 PM

I believe that NBC Universal is degrading BSG. Possible Cures: Show Stargate on NBC and more advertising of SG1 and SGA, on networks other than SciFi.

yay, 2,100 posts!!!!!!!!!

Sci-Fi

December 9th, 2005, 08:25 PM

BSG Costuming Thread (http://www.sg-command.net/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=3325&POSTNUKESID=8ca55746abbf1b083da85800697ff787)

SG-Command.Net has a very interesting and creative thread on BSG uniforms, props, and costumes. Check it out.

Link to Pictures of the BSG Pilot Pistol and Holster (http://photobucket.com/albums/v625/lostncybr/New%20Battlestar%20Galactica%20Costumes/BSG%20Pistol%20Kit/)
Before:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v625/lostncybr/New%20Battlestar%20Galactica%20Costumes/BSG%20Pistol%20Kit/DSCF0017.jpg
After:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v625/lostncybr/New%20Battlestar%20Galactica%20Costumes/BSG%20Pistol%20Kit/DSCF0022.jpg

Somebody discovered that the Colonial Marine Helmets are "Giro Bad Lieutenant Snowboarding Helmet" (http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=47810124&parent_category_rn=4501607&vcat=REI_SEARCH)

:p ;) :) :D

Vee

December 10th, 2005, 08:47 AM

Wow, they have some pretty cool stuff. I love the dog tags. Wouldn't mind getting a pair of those.

Thanks for the link!

Qasim

December 10th, 2005, 05:03 PM

http://www.syfyportal.com/article.php?id=2159

Just how bad is piracy affecting television shows like "Battlestar Galactica"? Enough to make network executives realize they have an untapped market, and even more than enough to do something about it.

"Every week, there are 436,000 illegal downloads of 'Battlestar Galactica,'" Zucker said. "Clearly, someone is downloading it and watching it on a smaller screen. Ever since iTunes went online with video, there have been 500,000 downloads per week. It's pretty clear people want to watch this stuff. Now, given that we are selling 'Battlestar Galactica' for $1.99, there is finally a legitimate model in place."

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 10th, 2005, 05:24 PM

Yeah, I found some thing like this a while back (it's actually from BSG's first season)

links (I found these via Google):
(PDF link- right click the link to download and view) www.hyperreal.org/~mpesce/piracyisgood.pdf
http://www.mindjack.com/feature/piracy051305.html

Google Search:
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=internet+piracy+%28battlestar+galactica%29&btnG=Google+Search

ToasterOnFire

December 10th, 2005, 05:37 PM

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 10th, 2005, 05:50 PM

I think they are only for the iPods. I would buy an episode to actually tell ya, but i'd rather buy the season dvd.

Agent_Dark

December 10th, 2005, 08:36 PM

I have to give kudos to apple for getting on board the legal video dl scene and offering TV shows for such a great price. But are the BSG dls from apple the same quality as the dls one can get illegally online? I was under the impression that the apple dls look great on that little ipod screen but get much worse when you play them on a full monitor.
I believe they are about half as good quality as a 'normal' illegal episode. Still very watchable if you play it back through a non-HD TV (due to the poorer resolution) but you'd definitely notice the quality loss on a normal computer monitor or a HDTV.

I think they are only for the iPods. I would buy an episode to actually tell ya, but i'd rather buy the season dvd.
Nah, all you need is the iTunes/Quicktime bundle to watch it on your computer - don't need an iPod at all. But like I said before, you'll probably want to hook it up to a regular TV.

Blue Banrigh

December 11th, 2005, 06:25 AM

Were these sidearms specifically designed for BSG? My brother pointed out to me that in X2 some of Stryker's soldiers carried something similiar.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v715/bluebanrigh/xmen.jpg

Sci-Fi

December 11th, 2005, 07:33 AM

Were these sidearms specifically designed for BSG? My brother pointed out to me that in X2 some of Stryker's soldiers carried something similiar.

Believe the pistol, as seen in the mini-series and mostly used by Helo and Boomer on Caprica, was the only firearm that was "Galactized". The rest (handguns and rifles) are pretty much off-the-shelf, but relatively obscure firearms.

Starbuck in "Resistence" used a pair of Skorpion vz 61 or Tec-22. Ruger MP9 was used on Caprica by many resistence fighters.

Posted this before but one can visit "Hell in a Handbasket" and see what guns they have ID'ed so far:
http://www.hellinahandbasket.net/archives/002014.html
http://www.hellinahandbasket.net/archives/002261.html
http://www.hellinahandbasket.net/archives/002276.html
http://www.hellinahandbasket.net/archives/002298.html

Somebody even spotted a classic Luger in Adama's quarters/display case. Personally, it doesn't bother me that the guns they are using haven't been modified or "Galactized". I rather have them spend their budget where it counts than to try to make props look exotic or futuristic.

:p ;) :) :D

Sci-Fi

December 11th, 2005, 04:23 PM

From PR Newswire:

AFI AWARDS 2005 Official Selections Announced (http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/12-11-2005/0004231617&EDATE=)

Sixth Annual AFI Almanac Names 10 Most Outstanding Motion Pictures and TV Programs of the Year

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Film Institute (AFI) today announced the official selections of AFI AWARDS 2005, AFI's almanac which records the year's most outstanding achievements in film and television, as well as significant moments in the world of the moving image.

AFI AWARDS is the only form of national recognition that honors the film and television creative ensemble as a whole-those people in front of and behind the camera-acknowledging the collaborative nature of film and television.

Unlike any other film or television award currently given, the AFI AWARDS 2005 selections were made through AFI's unique 13-person jury process in which scholars, artists, critics and AFI trustees discuss, debate and determine the most outstanding achievements of the year, as well as provide a detailed rationale for each selection. Two AFI juries-one for motion pictures and one for television-convened in Los Angeles for two days of deliberation. The jurors have remained confidential until today. (Complete list is below.)

AFI will honor the creative ensembles for each of the honorees at a luncheon on Friday, January 13, 2006, at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The jury rationales for each selection will be revealed at this event.

"AFI is proud to honor these 20 collaborative teams. As the institute recognizes and celebrates excellence across the century, these honorees will be part of the record that documents America's enduring cultural legacy," commented Jean Picker Firstenberg, AFI's Director and CEO.

The honorees are listed below in alphabetical order:

AFI MOVIES OF THE YEAR -- OFFICIAL SELECTIONS

BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN
CAPOTE
CRASH
THE 40 YEAR-OLD VIRGIN
GOOD NIGHT, AND GOOD LUCK.
A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE
KING KONG
MUNICH
THE SQUID AND THE WHALE
SYRIANA

AFI TV PROGRAMS OF THE YEAR -- OFFICIAL SELECTIONS

24
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA
DEADWOOD
GREY'S ANATOMY
HOUSE
LOST
RESCUE ME
SLEEPER CELL
SOMETIMES IN APRIL
VERONICA MARS

:p ;) :) :D

voigtstr

December 11th, 2005, 04:52 PM

Also the episodes arent available on the Australia iTunes store.

Sci-Fi

December 11th, 2005, 05:08 PM

From Seattle PI:

Vancouver: A sci-fi film fan's paradise (http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/movies/251525_hollywoodnorthact3.html?source=rss)

British Columbia is a 'super, natural' set

By CANDACE HECKMAN AND ATHIMA CHANSANCHAI
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER REPORTERS
Monday, December 12, 2005

Click on the link to read the entire article

SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY (Caprica City) -- One day, this place gets bombarded by megalomaniacal aliens. Nuked by the Cylons the next.

Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully discuss the latest alien abductions, while the Governator drives up and down campus staircases, crashing in the mall.

Such terror, however, does little to faze the students at this academic sanctuary nestled in the forest atop Burnaby Mountain.

So many productions are being filmed around Vancouver all year long that we, the P-I-parazzi, need only pay attention to the signs: white trailer trucks parked along streets, lots of similar old cars or futuristic new ones parked in one place. There are obvious signs of American conquest, such as the Stars and Stripes hanging from buildings.

Production companies also post cryptic signs with neon orange or pink arrows pointing their cast and crew to a location. Lately, because fans have wised up to this system, some arrows merely point to a pickup place from which vans take workers to the shoot.

Driving away from our hotel, we noticed an orange arrow marked "Quixote."

We jumped to follow it around a corner. Then, we spotted another, this one marked "DMA."

Candace studied the production list, but couldn't figure out what the signs were about. After driving in downtown circles, we saw no more arrows and abandoned our short-lived and futile quest.

It was time to live one of our sci-fi fantasies -- to visit Caprica City, the devastated colonial capital in the new "Battlestar Galactica." Walking into the Convocation Mall at Simon Fraser University gave us an otherworldy sense of déjà vu.

Sandau ho-hums about film productions on campus, not being a sci-fi or comic book fan, although she and her boyfriend watched in 2001 when the crew of "Stargate SG-1" filmed the episode "Pretense," about the destruction of an advanced race of humans called the Tollan. Sandau's friendship with Christopher Sayour, the stunt double for Tom Welling (Clark Kent), forces her to watch "Smallville."

LOCATIONS, LOCATIONS, LOCATIONS

Gastown -- "I, Robot," "Legends of the Fall," "Look Who's Talking," "Rumble in the Bronx," "Intersection"

Yaletown -- stands in a lot for New York City

Plaza of Nations, 750 Pacific Blvd. S. -- science museum in "X2: X-Men United"; 2010 Stargate port in "Stargate SG-1"

Vancouver Public Library, 350 W. Georgia St. -- the cloning company building in "The Sixth Day"; a Caprica City building in "Battlestar Galactica"

Robson Square, 800 Robson St. -- often stands for Washington, D.C., in "Stargate SG-1," "The X-Files" and "The Commish"

Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby St. -- "The Accused"

Stanley Park -- "Happy Gilmore," "Jumanji"

Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University, 2005 Sooke Road, Victoria -- the Luthor Mansion in "Smallville"; Professor Xavier's School in "X2: X-Men United"

Cloverdale -- a small town 20 miles southeast of downtown Vancouver that stands in as Smallville in the show of the same name. The Talon coffee shop in the television show is actually the Clova Cinema

Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby -- Planet Tollana in "Stargate SG-1"; the Caprica City market and museum in "Battlestar Galactica"; FBI headquarters in "The X-Files"

Vancouver Film Studios, 3500 Cornett Road -- where "Battlestar Galactica" and other major films are shot. It's not open to the public, but you can sometimes see activity around the lot, plus the Roots factory outlet is next door on the corner of Boundary Road and Grandview Highway

The Bridge Studios, 2400 Boundary Road -- across Boundary Road from Vancouver Film Studios, it's where "Stargate SG-1," "Stargate Atlantis" and "Dead Like Me" are filmed along with other productions. Not open to the public

Lions Gate Studios, 555 Brooksbank Ave. -- where "Catwoman," "Elektra" and "Scary Movie 3" were filmed. It's a large studio with constant production, but it's not open to the public

:p ;) :) :D

userfriendly

December 12th, 2005, 12:41 AM

neither in the european store :(

but anyway, i ordered my miniseries & season 1 dvds yesterday, the season 2 dvd(s) will follow.

regarding the topic: the people who sell these dvds (i ordered the uk version) have gotten my money only because i was able to see the episodes. hadn't it been for p2p filesharing, i wouldn't have seen them until they were aired in german free tv (which hasn't happened, and even then it would have had ugly german synchronization).

the above mentioned article (the pdf) states an interesting aspect regarding new distribution models. it is a good read.

scifi maniac

December 12th, 2005, 01:48 AM

they just started to air the mini in my country so season 2 will take some time humpf.... so i just ordered my set at www.playusa.com . it includes shipping

madk99

December 12th, 2005, 07:53 AM

they just started to air the mini in my country so season 2 will take some time humpf.... so i just ordered my set at www.playusa.com . it includes shipping
I've been trying to figure out which country you're in. I know a little about languages but I can't figure out what language "humpf...." belongs to.;)

Chricton

December 12th, 2005, 12:20 PM

Yes, I saw this on Aintitcoolnews about 30 seconds ago. Awesome. Good list, too. I watch 60% of it.

aAnubiSs

December 14th, 2005, 07:19 AM

$2 USD is too much for an online release in poor quality. $1 is a much better number, IF the quality is atleast the same as the 350MB XviDs.

MASON

December 14th, 2005, 07:25 AM

$2 USD is too much for an online release in poor quality. $1 is a much better number, IF the quality is atleast the same as the 350MB XviDs.
I imagine the quality will change as the iPods get higher res screens, but Apple will likely hold to the same price.

I know what you mean, though, I'll hold out for DVDs until the quality improves.

Sci-Fi

December 14th, 2005, 10:43 PM

From The Arlington Advocate:

Jeffrey Carver's new book "Battlestar Galactica" (http://www2.townonline.com/arlington/artsLifestyle/view.bg?articleid=389719)

Battlestar Galactica

By Helene Newberg/ Correspondent
Thursday, December 15, 2005

Click on the link to read the entire article.

Although the miniseries on which Jeffrey Carver's new book "Battlestar Galactica" is based came out in 2003, Carver said he'd never written a book so fast in his life.

While finishing the first draft of "Sunborn," the long-awaited fourth volume in his series "The Chaos Chronicles," Carver received a call last March from his editor.

"I figured he wanted to know how the book was coming - and I was pleased to be able to tell him, 'I just finished the first draft. Today, in fact,'" he recalled.

Instead, Carver was asked if he could write a novel, based on a DVD of the miniseries, by mid-June.

"At that point, I coughed because I'm a notoriously slow writer. But this was different, because it was someone else's story, and I would be turning it into a novel, not creating something out of whole cloth," he said.

Even having both the plot lines and dialog from the final video project, Carver was left with plenty of holes to fill in. The process of translating a teleplay into a final product often results in lots of footage, and background information, left on the cutting room floor. The script "is constantly being changed at the studio while the thing is being filmed. The script for this miniseries and the final product onscreen were very, very different from each other. A lot was cut, a lot was moved around with the cutting from location to location. It was hard just to find where I was in the script as I was watching each scene," he said.

"Battlestar Galactica" is fast-moving and suspenseful. The miniseries spawned a series now in its second year, which Carver, who doesn't subscribe to the SciFi Channel, hasn't seen. Also, the publisher has lined up writers for future titles in the series. Notably, Craig Shaw Gardner, another Arlington writer, has been tapped for the second book in the series.

"I've read and loved science fiction all my life. It's a literature of tremendous imagination, and it helps us, as readers, to prepare mentally for changes we all face in the future. It's also a wonderful way to explore the nature of what it is to be human - by exposing us to the alien, and by putting human characters into new and unexpected situations. When I began writing, I never seriously considered writing anything else," said Carver.

Carver will be appearing at Boskone, an annual Boston-area convention sponsored by the New England Science Fiction Association, in February. His Web site is starrigger.net.

:p ;) :) :D

Agent_Dark

December 14th, 2005, 11:08 PM

So it's a novelisation of the mini-series?

Sci-Fi

December 15th, 2005, 04:46 PM

From Christian Science Monitor:

2005 Gift Guide: TV series on DVD (http://www.csmonitor.com/2005/1216/p14s02-altv.html)

December 16, 2005

Battlestar Galactica: Seasons 1 & 2 ($59.98, $49.98 )

This is not your father's "Battlestar Galactica." It's not your children's, either. With its sex scenes and violence, this revisionist version of the 1970s show earns its late time slot on the Sci-Fi Channel. In fact, the only reminders of the old series are some of the spaceship designs and the plot about a fleet of humans fleeing their destroyed worlds with their aggressors, the Cylons, in hot pursuit. By shunning the "Star Trek" model (no alien monsters here), creator Ronald D. Moore has fashioned a space drama rather than a space opera. This thoughtful allegory about 9/11 is one of the best sci-fi shows ever. Extras: Moore's erudite commentary on each episode will add mileage to these discs.

Click on the link to see the rest of the selections.

:p ;) :) :D

Astrofighter

December 15th, 2005, 09:08 PM

I don't know I have every episode except for two on my computer including the miniseries...and have a geforce 6800gt...plus getting a brand new high end monitor for my x-mas...which means i will set them up in a double kick ass system...but onto...

MY POINT!

I would rather have it all on my computer than in DVD's or at least have it on my computer then burn it to a disk to save space and watch that way...its what I did for the entire B5 series and movies (ohh yeah). If they started pinching us on the downloads or if I got a notice of being caught I wouldn't mind paying $2-$5 an episode that is DVD quality. I mean if you break it down to what they get in advertising and then you say put it in some good encrypted format that will only work on the computer so people can't burn it over to mpeg then yeah I think its reasonable.

BruTak

December 19th, 2005, 06:32 AM

I've noticed that the producers seem to be avoiding American made weapons, and using European ones.

For example the Colonial Marines in "Bastille Day" were using the silenced variant of the FN Herstal P90, with waht looked like a British made SUSAT optical sight attached.
The firing party at Zak Adama's funeral used SA80 asssault rifles, current issue for the British infantyman.
the pistol Galactica-Boomer used to try and kill herself appeaed to a member of the Glock family.

Sci-Fi

December 19th, 2005, 09:14 AM

From AskMen.Com:

Grace Park (http://www.askmen.com/women/actress_300/323_grace_park.html)
http://www.askmen.com/women/actress_300/pictures_300/grace_park/grace_park_150.jpg

Tricia Helfer (http://www.askmen.com/women/models_250/259_tricia_helfer.html)
http://www.askmen.com/women/models_250/pictures_250/tricia_helfer/tricia_helfer_150.JPG

Click on the links to read the features.

:p ;) :) :D

voigtstr

December 19th, 2005, 06:08 PM

Sci-Fi

December 19th, 2005, 09:29 PM

Even More Resurrection Ship Spoiler Pictures (http://vipertown.net/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=988)

*WARNING: Spoiler Alert*

Click on the link to see the pictures.

:p ;) :) :D

Sci-Fi

December 19th, 2005, 09:32 PM

From DVD Talk:

Battlestar Galactica - Season 2.0 (http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/read.php?ID=19354)

"Mankind's true nature will always assert itself." - Number Six

Lengthy review, but a good read.

:p ;) :) :D

Blue Banrigh

December 19th, 2005, 09:45 PM

Shiny things go boom! Sweet!

dec55

December 19th, 2005, 09:53 PM

Finally the gorgeous Grace Park is on the cover on the DVD!!!!! Yippie!!!!

MASON

December 19th, 2005, 09:53 PM

Even More Resurrection Ship Spoiler Pictures (http://vipertown.net/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=988)

*WARNING: Spoiler Alert*

Click on the link to see the pictures.

:p ;) :) :D

Meh! Too bad we couldn't have merged out threads... I can't figure out how to delete mine now, as it's but a redundancy now. :S

Great snaps, though. :D

Blue Banrigh

December 20th, 2005, 01:30 AM

Meh! Too bad we couldn't have merged out threads... I can't figure out how to delete mine now, as it's but a redundancy now. :S

Great snaps, though. :D
The mods can do that (I think, actually I'm pretty sure they can). Just PM one of them.

Sci-Fi

December 20th, 2005, 06:31 AM

From MSN:

*Warning: Spoiler Alert*

Battlestar Galactica season 2 - "Resign" (MSN Video) (http://video.msn.com/v/us/v.htm?f=45%2f64&i=29888d68-a25c-471d-9d34-a337938f4798)

Led by starship commander Adama (Edward James Olmos) and politician and possible presidential successor Laura Roslin (Mary McDonnell), the crew of the Battlestar Galactica searches the galaxy for the mythic 13th Colony of Kobol.

Note: the above caption doesn't describe the video.

:p ;) :) :D

Chricton

December 20th, 2005, 08:52 AM

Finally, an all out battle. Looks awesome.

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 20th, 2005, 01:09 PM

From SciFi Wire:

http://www.scifi.com/scifiwire/index.php?category=0&id=33802

Galactica's Moore Develops More SF

NBC Universal Television Studio has signed a two-year development deal with Ronald D. Moore, executive producer of SCI FI Channel's original series Battlestar Galactica (http://www.scifi.com/battlestar/), to create and develop series, with an emphasis on SF projects. Moore has already set up the fantasy series Pen and the Sword for NBC and the supernatural series Warehouse 13 for SCI FI. Moore will continue to oversee Galactica, which returns with new episodes on Jan. 6.
...

Oreo

December 20th, 2005, 02:14 PM

This better not mess up BSG.

But two year deal? ahaha Like it will live that long.

Oreo

December 20th, 2005, 02:18 PM

The captain doesn't explain the show either.
Laura IS the president.
And they already found Kobol.
And the 13th colony is Earth.

Sci-Fi

December 20th, 2005, 10:57 PM

From Now Playing Magazine:

Best of 2005: TV - Battlestar Galactica: “Pegasus” (http://www.nowplayingmag.com/content/view/2775/47/)

Cindy White
Wednesday, 21 December 2005

Click on the link to read the entire article.

Who could have predicted that a science-fiction series based on a short-lived Star Wars knockoff from the late ’70s would become one of the best dramas on television? Yet this Galactica’s deft combination of complex characters, thrilling action and thought-provoking storylines has launched the show to the top, in quality if not in ratings. And no episode has more skillfully showcased all of these elements than the mid-second-season finale.

With the introduction of the Battlestar Pegasus (a remnant from the original series) and its iron-fisted commander, Admiral Helena Cain (Michelle Forbes), the writers have raised the stakes physically, psychologically and spiritually. After this episode, nothing will be the same for any of the characters.

Fortunately, Galactica will be back in January to pick up where “Pegasus” left off. But in the meantime, fans are left to ponder lofty concepts like morality, justice, human (and Cylon) rights and the existence of the soul. It would be ambitious territory for any television series, let alone one set in outer space. (Sci Fi Channel)

:p ;) :) :D

Sci-Fi

December 20th, 2005, 11:23 PM

DigitalBits Reviews BSG Season 2.0 (http://www.thedigitalbits.com/reviews3/spinsheet122005.html)

Battlestar Galactica
Season 2.0 - 2005 (2005) - The SciFi Channel (Universal)

Program Rating: A

Disc Ratings (Video/Audio/Extras): B+/B/B-

DVD review by Bill Hunt, editor of The Digital Bits
12/20/05

Lengthly review, but worth the read. Click on the link to read the review.

Some excerpts:

Season 2.0 picks up literally moments after the end of the first season's cliff-hanger ending, and manages to keep you on the edge of your seat for most of its ten episodes, skillfully weaving the series' complex story threads and character developments into genuinely gripping drama, all while managing to introduce new story elements and conflicts along the way. In the ten episodes included on this DVD release (which represent the first half of the show's sophomore season), you'll learn whether Adama survived or not. You'll watch as Colonel Tigh, in Adama's absence, makes just about every bad decision he could possibly make, throwing the fleet into chaos. Apollo, Roslin and Starbuck will each face more difficult personal choices, further testing their loyalties and faith in the things they've come to believe in. Helo and Tyrol will have to deal with the fact that they each love Boomer, who they now know is an enemy agent. You'll learn more about the Cylons' nefarious plans for Humanity, and the identities of at least two more of their agents. Surprising truths will be revealed about Baltar and the nature of his visions of (and relationship with) Number Six as well. And the crew of the Galactica will be stunned by the arrival of unexpected reinforcements against the Cylons, which may herald the fleet's salvation... or its destruction.

One of the things I most love about this new Battlestar Galactica, is the way it's reinvented the genre of TV science fiction. You'll notice that nowhere in the previous two paragraphs have I mentioned time travel or dilithium crystals or warp drives. Not to knock on other sci-fi franchises, because I've thoroughly enjoyed them in the past, but this is not a show about futuristic technology and convoluted, high-concept plot twists. This Battlestar is, first and foremost, driven by its characters. They are all flawed people in their way, but they're very human and they're exceptionally well written and acted. Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell continue to set a high standard in terms of the acting quality, but virtually the entire supporting cast has raised their performances as well. What's interesting to me here is the way that the personal conflicts tend to fuel or play into the show's larger conflicts. For example, we often see the crew of the Galactica, and the rest of the citizens of its fleet, fighting with one another and doubting each other and back-biting and second-guessing and even killing one another... and it's exactly these things that the Cylons (including Six) use to justify trying to wipe Humans out. Later, when the actions of Adama and his people are questioned by a superior military officer, you realize that she's absolutely right in which she's saying. While the things that the Galactica's crew have done were necessary (and seemed right) at the time, were these people still members of a larger military service, a lot of them would probably face charges of dereliction of duty or even treason.

I also really like the way that series creator Ron Moore and his writers raise real and difficult issues - something great science fiction has always managed to do - usually without you realizing that they're even doing it. A given episode is never about a single issue, but in the course of 42 minutes, the characters have often had to struggle with problems that are greatly troubling and all too real. For example, as a military officer, how do you respond when you've been ordered to do something you know to be wrong or morally questionable? How far do you (or can you) go in the name of trying to save your people, before you become as bad as your enemy? As a member of a free society, where do your responsibilities lie? When is it okay to break the law or disobey authority? Is it ever okay to torture? It's interesting that of all the shows on television today, Battlestar is the one that's most unafraid to consider these issues, given the current and very real problems we face in the world today. This series dares to consider religious issues too. While the Humans on this series worship multiple gods, the Cylons feel justified in their actions because they believe they've been divinely ordained by the one TRUE god. We see the strength and resolve and solace people find in religious faith, but also see how they can be manipulated with their faith, and see the kinds of terrible deeds some with extreme beliefs are able to justify in the name of that faith. Thankfully, Battlestar is never preachy. It rightly treats these issues as complex, and seldom shows bias or takes a stand on any of these issues. It simply raises interesting questions and dilemmas, and makes you think about them as the characters themselves struggle with them.

To be fair, there are a couple of weaker episodes in this set - episodes that just don't stand up to the quality and dramatic tension of the rest of the season thus far. Many of the series' various on-going story elements come to a boil in the season's seventh episode, Home (Part 2), and so the two episodes that follow it (Final Cut and Flight of the Phoenix) feel somewhat narratively disconnected from the rest of the season (although both episodes still contain a number of great character moments). But this batch of episodes ends very well indeed, with a surprisingly strong mid-season cliff-hanger (Pegasus), than manages to both serve as an homage to the original Battlestar TV series, and also to super-charge the show's dramatic energy and direction for the upcoming remainder of the season (which is set to begin airing on The SciFi Channel in January). You'll be happy to learn that SciFi has recently picked up Battlestar Galactica for a third season as well, so the adventure continues.

:p ;) :) :D

MASON

December 21st, 2005, 05:23 AM

But two year deal? ahaha Like it will live that long.
Them's be fightin' words...

;)

capricacitygal

December 21st, 2005, 06:20 AM

cool

madk99

December 21st, 2005, 07:14 AM

Unfortunately, it is often the case that a bunch of "me too" projects really waters down the quality overall. I hope that because RDM is still a principal in the NBC projects that BSG will not suffer. But remember what happened to the quality of "Hill St. Blues" when Stephen Bochco started work on "NYPD Blue":(

FeloniousMonk

December 21st, 2005, 08:29 AM

That's a deleted scene, not a spoiler. :p

Sci-Fi

December 22nd, 2005, 04:28 AM

Time Magazine's Best of 2005: Television (http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1141640,00.html)

CBS makes our television critic's list this year with How I Met Your Mother

By JAMES PONIEWOZIK
Friday, Dec. 16, 2005

-1-
Battlestar Galactica
(Sci Fi)

Most of you probably think this entry has got to be a joke. The rest of you have actually watched the show. Adapted from a cheesy '70s Star Wars clone of the same name, Galactica (returning in January) is a ripping sci-fi allegory of the war on terror, complete with religious fundamentalists (here, genocidal robots called Cylons), sleeper cells, civil-liberties crackdowns and even a prisoner-torture scandal. The basic-cable budget sometimes shows in the production, but the writing and performances are first-class, especially Edward James Olmos as the noble but authoritarian commander in charge of saving the last remnants of humanity. Laugh if you want, but this story of enemies within is dead serious, and seriously good.

Click on the link to view the rest of the list.

:p ;) :) :D

Vee

December 22nd, 2005, 08:03 AM

Well that hardly surprises me. It is the best show on television. :) Although I'd have comments to make on the rest of the list, but this isn't the appropriate forum.

LaCroix

December 22nd, 2005, 08:11 AM

Natron

December 22nd, 2005, 12:02 PM

Just saw this on Digg and downloaded it. I haven't had a chance to watch it yet as I am in the middle of watching Serenity with commentary. I did skim through it and it looks to contain some new stuff.

iTunes URL: http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewTVSeason?id=110899839

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 22nd, 2005, 04:21 PM

That's a pile of bull. It's not free, in order to download it you have to have an iTunes Music Store account. You can't simply register, you have to have a credit card (which is step 2, Step 1 is putting your e-mail, password, and all that good stuff), and it is required.

Natron

December 22nd, 2005, 05:53 PM

Just watched it, and it is a very good recap of the story so far. It does kinda hint at the future, and it's safe to say it leaves you wanting more.

And I think someone is a little cranky. And where exactly is money being spent to get this video? That's right...it's FREE.

Carbito

December 22nd, 2005, 06:46 PM

Bah! Its not available in the Australian iTunes store. :(
Are we misssing out on anything good?

Natron

December 22nd, 2005, 06:58 PM

Well, about 90-95% of it is basically retelling everything that has happened, which is really well done. It would be really good to show someone who hasn't seen the show before, and is interested in watching January 6.

I have no way to make it an unprotected video file, so I'll try to list stuff that was new.

*SPOILERS*

Trisha Helfer saying that Six gets to kill a cylon. Gina killing Cain maybe?

Several shots from the promos that have been airing.

Edward James Olmos saying "the back ten is gonna make the front ten look like it was standing still."

Mary McDonnell talking about/not talking about what Roslin begins to know about Baltar.

Shots of Gina (on Pegasus) choking Baltar.

Katee Sackhoff saying she thinks Starbuck, by the end of the season, will find herself in a "very hair situation."

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 22nd, 2005, 07:09 PM

And I think someone is a little cranky. And where exactly is money being spent to get this video? That's right...it's FREE.
If it was free, then I would have downloaded it and watched it already, but it's NOT, only people with an iTunes Music Store account can download it, and I don't have credit card, and if I did, I'd have better uses for it (like by software for my Palm and my computer).

mrtvr4

December 22nd, 2005, 07:10 PM

Those Grace Park comments seem very similar to the ones for another mens magazine. (they are the same).

Still, can't get enough! :)

Natron

December 22nd, 2005, 07:32 PM

If it was free, then I would have downloaded it and watched it already, but it's NOT, only people with an iTunes Music Store account can download it, and I don't have credit card, and if I did, I'd have better uses for it (like by software for my Palm and my computer).
I'm just saying that to get this video, there is no money being spent. Sure you have to have an account, and download iTunes, but you don't spend any money to do any of that.

I guess you do need to own a computer though...

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 22nd, 2005, 07:41 PM

But in order to have an account you need a credit card, and I don't have one.

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 22nd, 2005, 07:46 PM

It is the best show on television. :)
eh, no it isn't, Stargate (both shows) is the best show on television.

DigiFluid

December 22nd, 2005, 08:34 PM

I love my Stargate, but BSG is easily the better of the three.

Natron

December 22nd, 2005, 08:49 PM

But in order to have an account you need a credit card, and I don't have one.
That doesn't make it "not free." I understand that you have to have a credit card, but last I checked, it didn't cost money to get a credit card.

I do understand if you are too young to get a credit card.

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 22nd, 2005, 09:20 PM

That doesn't make it "not free." I understand that you have to have a credit card, but last I checked, it didn't cost money to get a credit card.

I do understand if you are too young to get a credit card.
If you look at my profile (here at the GW Forum) you will notice that I am 18, however, I have no use for a credit card at the moment.

Vee

December 22nd, 2005, 09:29 PM

If you look at my profile (here at the GW Forum) you will notice that I am 18, however, I have no use for a credit card at the moment.
Well clearly you do have use for one if you want to download from iTunes. ;)

Vee

December 22nd, 2005, 09:41 PM

eh, no it isn't, Stargate (both shows) is the best show on television.
I love Stargate, else I wouldn't be here. But BSG is my favorite show hands down.

Natron

December 22nd, 2005, 10:09 PM

If you look at my profile (here at the GW Forum) you will notice that I am 18, however, I have no use for a credit card at the moment.
I am 22, and I don't have a credit card. I do have a debit card, which can act as a credit card, that is also my ATM card. So I got it just for having a bank account.

Odin's eyes

December 22nd, 2005, 10:21 PM

Please no arguement over what show is the best. :(
In a time when Lost is considered sci-fi by the general public we need to stick together. :p:D

Vee

December 22nd, 2005, 10:48 PM

Please no arguement over what show is the best. :(
In a time when Lost is considered sci-fi by the general public we need to stick together. :p:D
I've no desire to get into an argument about it either. I'm merely pointing out that everyone is entitled to their opinions.

Easter Lily

December 22nd, 2005, 11:31 PM

It IS a great show... ;)
But it's just someone's opinion... just like every other ranking exercise... It doesn't necessarily change minds but it probably means more publicity and hopefully more money for the show which can only be a good thing.

dec55

December 23rd, 2005, 12:36 AM

Grace should get at least a 90 on the natural beauty scale.....the woman
is just gorgeous and stunning......her facial soft appearace works better than
any make up....who ever did that scoring is totally off......

She also scored higher on Maxims beauty scale I think......the woman
is just sooo fine.

MASON

December 23rd, 2005, 07:56 AM

Well clearly you do have use for one if you want to download from iTunes. ;)
<sigh> logic is a dish best served cold. ;)

DOIKECARTER

December 23rd, 2005, 01:30 PM

the fifth man

December 23rd, 2005, 08:34 PM

She also scored higher on Maxims beauty scale I think......the woman
is just sooo fine.

I totally will agree with that. Grace Park is definitely a beautiful woman. Lovely to watch onscreen, and not a bad actress to boot.:)

Battousai the Manslayer

December 23rd, 2005, 11:46 PM

Grace should get at least a 90 on the natural beauty scale.....her facial soft appearace works better than
any make up....I'm not sure, but in this picture it looks like airbrushing.

Sci-Fi

December 25th, 2005, 01:45 AM

From The Star Ledger:

Honor Roll (http://www.nj.com/columns/ledger/zollerseitz/index.ssf?/base/columns-0/113548922410520.xml&coll=1)

by Matt Zoller Seitz
Sunday, December 25, 2005

Click on the link to read the entire article.

The best show of the year? What the #!@*)!! do you think?

My Top 10 list this year should probably carry an asterisk. While there were at least 10 programs, or groups of programs, worth watching every week -- and many more worth checking in on (see my "Honorable Mentions") -- my No. 1 selection, David Milch's HBO western "Deadwood," towered so far above the rest that I was tempted to put every other program in a tie for 10th place. That's not a knock against "Battlestar Galactica," "American Experience" and other formidable titles, just a frank admission that "Deadwood" is not just another program; it's a work of art, the next evolutionary step in series television, and the first drama since "Hill Street Blues" that I feel privileged to have been alive to see. For more evangelizing, read on.

3. "Battlestar Galactica" (Sci-Fi): Everytime a new sci-fi series comes on the air, the producers trot out the same tired boilerplate about how theirs isn't a really sci-fi series, but a serious drama that just happens to include sci-fi elements. "Battlestar," now in its second season, is arguably the first high-profile sci-fi show since "Farscape" and the syndicated "Star Trek" series that earns the right to make such lofty claims. In fact -- brace yourself for heresy, kids -- this hard-edged, heavily allegorical series one-ups all preceding sci-fi series by refusing to coddle any of its protagonists in order to make them "relatable." Like 1970s movie heroes, the "Battlestar" crew can be stubborn, deluded, manipulative, childish and dishonest, but the show never cares if you approve; it only asks that you find their behavior believable and interesting, and find cultural, political and theological insight in the series' broad-brushstroke action plots.

:p ;) :) :D

Sci-Fi

December 25th, 2005, 02:02 AM

From The Star Ledger:

2005 saw some provocative twists on the traditional (http://www.nj.com/columns/ledger/sepinwall/index.ssf?/base/columns-0/113548924710520.xml&coll=1)

by Alan Sepinwall
Sunday, December 25, 2005

Click on the link to read the rest of the article.

Idiot box? Nah. Vast wasteland? Forget about it. The best television of 2005 managed to entertain at the same time it was stirring up debate about pressing social issues, including a space adventure that's really a 9/11 allegory, a foul-mouthed Western that looks at the roots of law and order in America and a high school drama about a cute blonde private eye whose cases always seem to revolve around the widening gap between the haves and the have-nots. Here are my picks, in descending order.

1. "Battlestar Galactica" (Sci-Fi): Our nation suffers a brutal attack by a group of religious zealots who believe they're God's chosen people. The military, civilian government and media spar over the proper way to wage war on the terrorists. The president starts invoking God at every turn to drum up voter support. Opinions are split when it's revealed that soldiers have been torturing prisoners of war.

The latest installment of "Frontline"? Try the remake of a cheezy '70s space opera. Producer Ronald Moore and a heavyweight cast led by Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell have reclaimed science fiction from the people who only saw it as an excuse for special effects and technobabble; they're using the spaceships and robots to comment on modern life in the way that sci-fi masters like Philip K. Dick and Rod Serling used to.

:p ;) :) :D

Liebestraume

December 26th, 2005, 10:20 PM

... Producer Ronald Moore and a heavyweight cast led by Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell have reclaimed science fiction from the people who only saw it as an excuse for special effects and technobabble; they're using the spaceships and robots to comment on modern life in the way that sci-fi masters like Philip K. Dick and Rod Serling used to.
Bravo! Especially the highlighted part. :)

Sci-Fi

December 27th, 2005, 02:21 AM

From TwinCities.Com:

These episodes were keepers (http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/entertainment/13490193.htm)

BY MATT ZOLLER SEITZ
Tue, Dec. 27, 2005

Click on the link to read the rest of the article.

There's no such thing as a TV show that hits a home run each week, or even a triple. In fact, most of TV slides along the spectrum of excellent to competent to awful more freely than critics care to admit. This is surely a byproduct of having to crank out 12 to 24 episodes a season. Under such circumstances, getting it perfect takes a backseat to getting it done.

With that in mind, here's my list of the year's best individual episodes. It comprises installments of sitcoms or dramas that brushed against perfection in every aesthetic department (writing, direction, acting, photography, editing) while simultaneously reminding us of what makes the series tick.

"Battlestar Galactica: Pegasus." (Sci-Fi)

The midpoint of the show's second season saw the ragtag, fugitive fleet learning that a second battlestar, the Pegasus, survived the Cylon genocide, only to develop a darker facsimile of civilization than the Galactica's. Because the Pegasus had no civilian fleet to protect, its values were built on the hardest aspects of warrior culture. Discipline and loyalty were bound up with intimidation and paranoia; order was maintained through shockingly casual "interrogations" of suspected enemies that were basically legalized beat-downs and gang rapes. Alternately chilling and inspirational, this episode recontextualized the Galactica fleet's existence and gave its civilian and military members a reason to put aside their differences and reaffirm the values that bind them.

:p ;) :) :D

shockwave

December 27th, 2005, 05:46 AM

I agree, Pegasus was great. BSG is consistantly good (wish sg1 and sga were like this as well)

skull24

December 27th, 2005, 02:08 PM

Here's a link (http://www.geocities.com/skull24/artist_needed_sample_script.html) to a story I wrote a few days back. The time line can either be from the first Cylon war or the same has the current time line as TNS (The New Show). You guys can tell me wearther its good or not. I hope you like it.

You might have some confusion why the title of the page says "Artist Needed Sample Script". Hopes this explains why that is. Well, I'm looking for a person(s) to make this script into a short comic but right now. I'm not trying to advertise on this forum. I just wanted to explain.

skull24

December 27th, 2005, 03:30 PM

Ron and Dave are going to get a pay raise. LOL, the sci-fi channel will proabliy just give them more seasons and show development deals. I wonder if the stars and crew of the show are going to ask for pay raises? The Desperate Housewives stars and crew did after their success in 2004. Anyway, I wish them the best of luck in future shows.

Carbito

December 27th, 2005, 03:57 PM

This is great news, good to see this show getting some recognition.

d3u5

December 27th, 2005, 04:00 PM

For those who doesn't live in US and can't download it from iTunes...

Download it on BSG-CZ.net (http://bsg-cz.net/) video quality really sux, but sound is quite good.

[21:01 minutes, 43,7MB, video res. 160x128]

thx to azarhal from Galactica Actual...

azarhal

December 27th, 2005, 07:02 PM

d3u5 are you a member of all BSG related boards too?

MASON

December 27th, 2005, 08:23 PM

Deus, Azarhal, thanks a million, I've been waiting for someone to do this... :)

See you guys over at GA... BTW, did we lose all our previous threads and posts in the upgrade to 2.0?

d3u5

December 27th, 2005, 10:38 PM

d3u5 are you a member of all BSG related boards too?

:) I see you're... Nope, just GW, GA and RA...

DOIKECARTER

December 27th, 2005, 11:10 PM

Thank you, thank you, thank you............

Agent_Dark

December 28th, 2005, 02:14 AM

shockwave

December 28th, 2005, 03:38 AM

file is corrupted
WMP doesn't want to run it

d3u5

December 28th, 2005, 04:38 AM

Err, did that file play properly for anyone else? I got some DirectShow errors trying to render it...

file is corrupted
WMP doesn't want to run it

Then stop using WMP and try to install these video codecs (http://www.free-codecs.com/download/Codec_Pack_All_in_1.htm) and Media Player Classic (http://www.free-codecs.com/download/Media_Player_Classic.htm).

Qasim

December 28th, 2005, 05:21 AM

Yep its free but Apple sucks so I would never sign up for iTunes

azarhal

December 28th, 2005, 05:27 AM

The file is in Divx 6.0. you need that codec to play it.

and you can try vlc (http://www.videolan.org/vlc/) player, that was i use and it has it own set of codec. so you just install that.

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 28th, 2005, 10:31 AM

Yep its free but Apple sucks so I would never sign up for iTunes
Thank you for agreeing with me.

Qasim

December 28th, 2005, 05:08 PM

Thank you for agreeing with me.
Where exactly did I say I agreed with you?

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 28th, 2005, 05:42 PM

Where exactly did I say I agreed with you?
you would never sign up for iTunes

Qasim

December 28th, 2005, 05:45 PM

I suppose but I didnt agree on the point that it wasnt free

Chlex

December 29th, 2005, 11:11 AM

I was thrilled when they had the Scifi Inside BSG available on iTunes! I already had an account, so it took all of three seconds to get the vid... I found it amusing that they sent you an actual receipt for $0. :p

I wish they'd put SG stuff on iTunes :rolleyes:

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 29th, 2005, 11:23 AM

I was thrilled when they had the Scifi Inside BSG available on iTunes! I already had an account, so it took all of three seconds to get the vid...
Let me guess, you have a Cable Connection.

Sci-Fi

December 30th, 2005, 02:04 AM

From The Calgary Sun:

Celebs on the rise in 2006 (http://www.calgarysun.com/cgi-bin/publish.cgi?p=117801&x=articles&s=showbiz)

Tara Merrin
December 30, 2005

Click on the link to read the entire article and about other celebs.

• TRICIA HELFER

Alberta actress and former supermodel Helfer will go from Battlestar Galactica to babysitting battling hot chicks in 2006 when she hosts Canada’s Next Top Model, set to air in mid-May on Citytv.

“With the success of America’s Next Top Model, the show is getting tons of buzz already,” says Pugliese. “Helfer’s a big star — she’s going to give Tyra (Banks) a run for her runway.”

:p ;) :) :D

Ses

December 30th, 2005, 02:18 AM

Oh awesome! *loves the Next Top Model shows* :D

yaaayoubetcha

December 30th, 2005, 06:41 AM

Canada’s Next Top Model, set to air in mid-May on Citytv.

nobody tops Linda Evangilista. :sam:

ToasterOnFire

December 30th, 2005, 06:56 PM

I think I remember earlier BSG TV trailers proudly stating Time thought BSG was the best show on TV, so it's top ranking here isn't too surprising.

However, Wondershow Zen at #6??!! I can't decide if that show is too profound for me to comprehend or just insane. :D

Carbito

December 31st, 2005, 05:07 AM

Is the iTunes video the same video that is available on AOL at http://us.video.aol.com/video.index.adp?mode=2&pmmsid=1446919 ?

azarhal

December 31st, 2005, 06:10 AM

Is the iTunes video the same video that is available on AOL at http://us.video.aol.com/video.index.adp?mode=2&pmmsid=1446919 ?

Yes

NowIWillDestroyAbydos

December 31st, 2005, 04:20 PM

nice

Sci-Fi

December 31st, 2005, 05:49 PM

From the New York Times:

Sci-Fi Nights (http://www.nytimes.com/2006/01/01/arts/television/01tv-cover.html)

By NEIL GENZLINGER
January 1, 2006

Article covers all 3 SFC Friday night shows. Click on the link to read the entire article. Some excerpts:

"At the core of it all is a chuckle," Amanda Tapping said. Or sometimes, many chuckles: another favorite memory is of a guest appearance by the expert cut-up Dom DeLuise in Season 3. "I don't know how they got shots of us not laughing," Ms. Tapping said.

Robert Cooper, executive producer of the series, agreed. "We don't take ourselves too seriously," he said. "I wouldn't say it's full-on tongue-in-cheek, but we do have a unique sense of humor."

Mr. Cooper said that at one point he expected Season 9 to have one main purpose: to bring the series to a close. "We thought, 'Maybe it's time to fold up the suitcase,'" he said. The plan was to phase out the original "Stargate" and shift energy to its spinoff, "Stargate Atlantis." But "Stargate SG-1," which is bolstered by a core group of fans called Gaters, proved more durable than that: a 10th season is now in the works. And so instead of winding things down, Season 9 has been used to pep them up, with new characters and ideas. "We decided to sort of reinvent the show," Mr. Cooper said. "We have the best of the old and the best of the new going forward."

Dave Howe, executive vice president of SciFi, said the three series on Friday night have drawn a surprisingly broad-based audience. "It's not the sort of very male geeky kinds of guys that you'd expect," he said. "It's actually people who love soap operas, people who enjoy watching character dramas."

David Eick, executive producer of "Battlestar Galactica," said that type of audience is just what he's after. "If we were only to succeed in capturing a sort of groupie fan base, I would consider the show an abject failure," he said. "It's a drama first and a sci-fi show second."

"Battlestar," with a sexier, more grown-up edge than "Stargate," is about a spaceship trying to survive after the destruction of most of mankind by robotic creatures called Cylons. But Mr. Eick said the coming season will explore how not all threats come from without.

"People are going to see how we have met the enemy and he is us," he said. "We'll explore how the Cyclons aren't as threatening an enemy as our own dysfunction is."

:p ;) :) :D

K07

January 1st, 2006, 11:14 AM

Being a collector of all sorts of stuff, I'd be all over some BSG toys if and when they happen. I remember reading someone was making some action figures but I'm not sure who. Every Google search I've done leads me to the '78 series guys. The closest I've come is on rebelscum.com where I read Hasbro is making some BSG ships and Stargate stuff mixed into their Star Wars micro assortments. Any help regarding when that'd be coming out and who/ if/ when the figures are coming is appreciated.

tsaxlady

January 1st, 2006, 10:28 PM

Here are scans of the new TV Guide article "The Ultimate Power Couple"

beware of possible spoilers

Page 1 (http://img454.imageshack.us/img454/5838/bsg8ty.jpg)
Page 2 (http://img454.imageshack.us/img454/9681/bsg24rp.jpg)

Blitz

January 2nd, 2006, 07:51 AM

HEHE

I love the end bit where they say how they want the series 2 end

k8tbug1

January 2nd, 2006, 07:58 AM

HEHE

I love the end bit where they say how they want the series 2 end

That was great!!!

Sci-Fi

January 2nd, 2006, 11:36 AM

From TV Guide: Roush Review:

Battle Scars (http://www.tvguide.com/TV/Roush/Review/)

by Matt Roush

"Has the whole world gone mad?" wonders Commander Adama (Edward James Olmos). Indeed, humans are their own worst enemies as Sci Fi Channel’s thrilling Battlestar Galactica resumes (Fridays, 10 pm/ET) with a taut two-parter pitting Adama against ruthless Admiral Cain (Michelle Forbes). The action is fierce, with assassination plots and threats of execution. But it’s in the moral ambiguities that Battlestar excels.

:p ;) :) :D

keshou

January 3rd, 2006, 06:38 PM

Nice article. EJO and MM sound like they have a wonderful working relationship. Nice to see how much they all respect EJO but doesn't surprise me. He just oozes integrity. :p :) at EJO's prediction for the end of the show.

And interesting stuff in that little sidebar on Helfer/Six.

I've wanted to know more about how the Cylon consciousness is transferred when they die.

Sci-Fi

January 3rd, 2006, 08:15 PM

"Battlestar" Season 2.0 Primer On Battlestar Fodder (http://www.tvfodder.com/battlestar/)

A primer for all the episodes so far in Season 2 of the SciFi Channel's mega hit "Battlestar Galactica" is available on Battlestar Fodder.

Test your knowledge by answering these questions:
Who does Colonel Tigh have to rely on to save the Galactica when Cylon Centurions board the ship?
Who kills the first Sharon?
Who does Kara (aka Starbuck) get busy with on Caprica?
Who gets killed on Kobol when President Roslin goes looking for the Tomb of Athena?
What's on the deleted news footage that is so important to the Cylons? Who do they name the Blackbird after?
What color are Gina's gloves on the Pegasus? (Trick question!... She's not wearing gloves!)

If you are drawing a blank on any of these - or just want to refresh your memory on what's been going on far across the heavens - The Fodder Network is here for you!

A summary of each episode is available to get you set for the return of Season 2 this Friday. We've been waiting what seems like an eternity for the season to resume. (They had time to release the DVD set for crying out loud!) Thank the gods it's back!

:p ;) :) :D

Natron

January 4th, 2006, 06:45 AM

Sci-Fi

January 4th, 2006, 07:45 AM

From The Philadelphia Inquirer:

Resolved: See more TV (http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/entertainment/gossip/13544721.htm)

by Ellen Gray
Wed, Jan. 04, 2006

BATTLESTAR GALACTICA. 10 p.m. Friday, Sci Fi Channel.

I WOULDN'T recommend this to everyone, but one of my New Year's resolutions is to watch a bit more television.

Specifically, I'm thinking of the Sci Fi Channel's "Battlestar Galactica," currently tops on my list of Series That Got Away.

It returns Friday for what they're calling its "winter premiere" with a two-part episode that I actually sort of understood, thanks to the half-hour premiere Sci Fi aired Monday - still available for free on Apple's iTunes - and some Googling of episode guides.

I haven't had to work this hard since I started watching "The X-Files" toward the end of its first season, and I'm still not sure how I'll fit in one more Friday night series around CBS' "Numbers" and NBC's new drama "Book of Daniel," but I'm going to try.

If my job didn't involve watching the pilots for dozens of new shows, I'd probably never know about most of the stuff I'm missing most weeks, even as my DVR and I try to keep up with all the shows I'm actually watching.

But it does, and I do, which is why I've been feeling guilty about missing so much of "Battlestar," which is the kind of sci-fi-for-grown-ups I've always claimed to enjoy.

The grown-ups are definitely one of the draws in "Resurrection Ship," which finds Cmdr. Adama (Edward James Olmos) and President Roslin (Mary McDonnell) uniting against Adm. Cain (Michelle Forbes), who's rapidly shaping up as an uncommon enemy, one who in her own way could be as dangerous to the fleet's future as the robotic Cylons, which are basically humanity's creation run amok.

And, yes, at some point there's a smooch.

Did I mention that Roslin is supposedly still dying of breast cancer?

While I'm not crazy about contemplating a future in which we're capable of creating a race of creatures that then turn on us but still apparently can't cure cancer, McDonnell's performance does help ground "Battlestar."

Like all the best science fiction, it's ultimately about what it means to be human.

Being only human myself, I haven't yet figured out how to both have a life and be the watching/writing/podcasting entity that 21st century TV criticism seems to demand - Cylon technology, perhaps? - so I'm not sure how many of my Series That Got Away I'll be reconnecting with in 2006.

Click on the link to read the rest of the article.

:P ;) :) :D

Qasim

January 4th, 2006, 07:48 AM

Thanks for that good read

Sci-Fi

January 4th, 2006, 08:01 AM

From The Kansas City Star:

Dancing, laughing and loving with stars (http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/entertainment/13540633.htm)

by AARON BARNHART
Wed, Jan. 04, 2006

Click on the link to read about other shows.

Assuming your kids didn’t disconnect the cable box to make way for the Xbox 360 they got for Christmas — and assuming they’ll even think about stopping their monthlong game-a-thon to let you watch TV — here are the highlights and lowlights of the new slate of programs coming our way in January.

“Battlestar Galactica” (9 p.m. Friday, SciFi). What a surprise to follow the continuing transformation of a middling ’70s show into a first-rate science fiction series. As its second season resumes, we find the crews of the Galactica and Pegasus still trying to decide whom they hate more, each other or their alleged enemy, the Cylons. And if the post-9/11 allusions haven’t breached your consciousness yet, try this: The Cylons are living among them. For those who care, the two “Stargates” also return to SciFi on Friday (“SG-1” at 7 and “Atlantis” at 8 ).

“Monk” (Jan. 13, USA). The executives at USA can’t stop putting this show on the schedule, then taking it off again, then putting it back on, then taking it off … it’s like they’re a bunch of obsessive-compulsive schedulers over there.

“24” (Jan. 15 and 16 on Fox 4). If you’re an ultra-devoted fan of this show and of the brilliant Bob Odenkirk-David Cross series “Mr. Show” that aired on HBO in the mid-1990s, you’ll be missing sleep this week. That’s because, in addition to the first four hours of the new season of “24,” airing over two nights on Fox, the complete “Mr. Show” is being released on DVD on Tuesday, Jan. 17. Perhaps it’s a coincidence, but the most prominent “Mr. Show” alum on TV right now is Mary Lynn Rajskub, who plays “24’s” Chloe, the techno-savant with a bad attitude.

:p ;) :) :D

Cyn

January 4th, 2006, 10:11 AM

Thanks, Sci-Fi!
It's great to read of all the deserved critical acclaim for BSG.
Just a little, tiny part of me worries about backlash, though I'm trying to keep that way in the back of my mind whilst I continue citing these great reviews when preaching to the unconverted.

Pegasus3c

January 4th, 2006, 11:09 AM

I looked around Hasbro's website and found the stargate toys displayed. Don't have the site in front of me but there was a death glider toy picture and a stargate mentioned I think.

K07

January 4th, 2006, 12:17 PM

I hate Hasbro. Their marketing and a lot of their toys suck. I pray Sideshow or some other smaller company decides to get license to this and make some actual figures worth getting, not micromachines without any detail....

Sci-Fi

January 4th, 2006, 01:57 PM

From Scripps Howard News Service:

Rebellious Starbuck in for another rough ride (http://www.shns.com/shns/g_index2.cfm?action=detail&pk=GALATICA-TV-01-04-06)

By DAVE MASON
04-JAN-06

Click on the link to read the entire article. Some excerpts:

Katee Sackhoff says she often feels the urge to strangle her "Battlestar Galactica" character _ the rebellious, childish Starbuck.

"Many, many times," Sackhoff said in a phone interview from Los Angeles. "I think it's way (Kara 'Starbuck' Thrace) acts toward people. I think, 'Will you just stop kidding around and tell him (Lee "Apollo" Adama, played by Jamie Barber) that you love him?' It's the way she is with Colonel Tigh (Michael Hogan), and the way she picks on the other pilots. Tough love can only go so far. I think, 'Will someone please hit her?' And usually someone is glad to.

"I have fans come up to me and say, 'I hate her.' And I say, 'That's good. You should love or hate a character,' " Sackhoff said. "But there are moments of deep sadness for her. Every time she takes a step forward, circumstances make her take a step back."

Sackhoff admires the pilot she plays on "Battlestar Galactica" for being a strong survivor who never breaks her word. "And I love her honesty."

Starbuck's strength is put to a test when "Galactica" returns with new episodes at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) Friday on Sci Fi.

Sackhoff said her Starbuck character has a sense of bravado that masks her insecurity, traits that she believes existed in the first Starbuck in the original "Battlestar," as played by Dirk Benedict. She sees her Starbuck as a more flawed character. An upcoming episode, "Scar," will explore Starbuck further.

"It's a complete departure from whom she's been for two seasons," Sackhoff said. "I went to (executive producers) Ron Moore and David Eick and said, 'I don't get it. I don't like it.' I thought, 'What happened to my character? She's drinking all the time.'

:p ;) :) :D

Orion's Star

January 4th, 2006, 04:03 PM

"It's a complete departure from whom she's been for two seasons," Sackhoff said. "I went to (executive producers) Ron Moore and David Eick and said, 'I don't get it. I don't like it.' I thought, 'What happened to my character? She's drinking all the time.'

:p ;) :) :D

Oh cool, now she and Tigh can bond over their common alcoholism. I'm so looking forward to that.

Carbito

January 4th, 2006, 04:32 PM

It will be interesting to see how/why Starbuck changes in the second part of this season. Only a few days to go :D

Darren

January 4th, 2006, 11:03 PM

President Roslin gets tough on 'Battlestar Galactica'

Just when things look grimmest for the rag-tag “Battlestar Galactica” fleet, well, they get grimmer.

In the Friday episode of the stellar space drama, which kicks off the second half of the second “Battlestar” season, Commander Adama and President Roslin discuss severe options regarding Adm. Cain, Adama’s hard-headed new superior. Wait, President Roslin — the formerly mild-mannered education secretary — talking about taking tough action against the top military leader, even as the collection of beat-up ships and fractious crews known as the Colonial fleet prepares to take on its biggest Cylon target yet?

Full story:
http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/entertainment_tv/2006/01/president_rosli.html

CKO

January 4th, 2006, 11:20 PM

thx for that link Darren... twas very interestin' to read... gettin' more and more excited bout the later half of S2... sounds like lots of things are gonna be happenin'

Sci-Fi

January 5th, 2006, 11:54 AM

From Newsday:

'Battlestar' isn't alien to our civilization (http://www.nynewsday.com/entertainment/tv/ny-ettvtwo4575404jan06,0,1828304.story?coll=nyc-tv-bottom-promo)

BY DIANE WERTS
January 6, 2006

Click on the link to read the entire article.

Life is so messy. It gets messier by the month, more complicated, chaotic, morally ambiguous. Yet science fiction often hits TV in tidy form. Settings are sparkling, people never interrupt each other, epic conflicts neatly fit a flow chart. That may suit fantasy action but hardly genuine human drama, forever churning with fuming exchanges, mixed emotions and clashing values.

This passionate mix is what "Battlestar Galactica" continues to deliver in breathtaking fashion as its second season resumes on Sci Fi tonight. While desperately fleeing a race of undercover androids who've nuked the known universe, space-age humans are trying to re-create civilization, with all its fiery political discord and thorny ethical quandaries. The ideals of freedom stumble over security needs which collide with dwindling resources and frayed nerves in this underrated adult odyssey from producer-writer Ronald D. Moore. It's elegantly grimy and exquisitely thought-provoking in equal measure.

Last fall's cliffhanger discovery by the Galactica survivors of a previously unknown second refugee battlestar added fresh trust dilemmas to the already agitated mix of political rivals, gonzo soldiers and ordinary folks in their ragtag fleet of society's remains. Galactica's principled commander Adama (Edward James Olmos) faced a shooting match with the new Pegasus ship's ruthless admiral (Michelle Forbes) over whose rules and expedient exceptions would trump the other guy's - especially when it comes to the soulful android Cylons, whom viewers have come to realize may be more "human" than the people who spit at them.

BATTLESTAR GALACTICA. TV's most provocative drama is back on track in a two-part return strutting its exhilarating fusion of ethics, action and spirituality. Tonight at 10 on Sci Fi.

:p ;) :) :D

starbucker1

January 5th, 2006, 07:29 PM

Now Playing magazine has started up their weekly Galactica reviews again. First up, Resurrection Ship, Part 1:

http://www.nowplayingmag.com/content/view/2884/47/

They like it! They really, really like it!

Cool.

Qasim

January 5th, 2006, 07:31 PM

Thanks for this

Sci-Fi

January 7th, 2006, 11:09 PM

Special Interviews with Battlestar Galactica's Katee Sackhoff, Commander-in-Chief's Mark-Paul Gosselaar and South Beach's Vanessa Williams, Plus News, Reviews and More (http://www.tvguide.com/News/PodCast/)

Episode 32 is, oddly enough, located at the bottom of the podcast list.

:p ;) :) :D

Minniyar

January 8th, 2006, 01:34 PM

This is a great podcast, I was laughing out loud during parts of it. Some nice spoilers in it too.

Sci-Fi

January 9th, 2006, 08:31 AM

From MarketWire:

Zoic Studios Helps Resurrect a Bigger, Bolder "Battlestar Galactica" (http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release_html_b1?release_id=105554)

New Episodes Feature Epic, Feature-Quality Spectacular Effects

PRESS RELEASE

CULVER CITY, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 01/09/2006 -- For the January 13th episode of "Battlestar Galactica," entitled "Resurrection Ship, Part 2," visual effects company Zoic Studios worked on a scale greater than anything previously imagined for the small screen. Choreographing and executing all the effects for the episode, Zoic used a combination of live action greenscreen and CG animation to create a uniquely memorable viewing experience. Audiences can enjoy the cinematic proportion of the effects in this thrilling episode, which airs on SCI FI Channel on Friday, the 13th at 10pm et/pt.

"The shots we envisioned for the battle were epic," says Zoic CG Supervisor Chris Zapara. "There are very large ships in a close range brawl, with the audience in the middle of the mayhem. We have mile-long spacecraft sharing the screen with thousands of fighters, missiles and salvos, all of which need to interact. As a counterpoint, we see the same battle from far away through the eyes of a dying pilot. We have to show the same events, but without the scale reference, and have it evoke a very different emotion."

Although effects like these may have been seen before on the big screen, Zoic believes that what they have created with "Resurrection Ship, Part 2" is bigger and bolder than ever presented on television. Life is messy; battles especially so. Zoic Studios did their best to ensure that their shots reflected a more accurate cosmic chaos: one with dust floating, chunks flying and light spilling every which way.

Battlestar Galactica is the gripping saga of humanity's last remnants and their struggle to find a new home while fleeing from their deadly Cylon enemies. Redefining the space opera with its gritty realism, Galactica has distinguished itself by the intensity and present day relevance of its stories and the command performances of its ensemble cast. The series confronts everything from religion, politics and sex, to what it really means to be "human."

"This show, though it has always had great visual effects, is ultimately about the characters and their plight," says Zapara. "This battle is a desperate, all-out attempt to stop the Cylon fleet, and our shots show just how desperate a decision it is. I'm all for spectacle, and I think we certainly achieved that, but in context I feel our work really emphasizes the emotional impact of the story."

About Zoic Studios:

Zoic Studios is a leader in producing visual effects and CG animation for commercials, feature films and episodic television. Built on a foundation that allows maximum flexibility and creative product for its clients, Zoic Studios continues to focus on its own visual evolution. www.zoicstudios.com.

Contact:
Jessie Nagel
@ Hype 323.938.8363 x102
Email Contact

SOURCE: Zoic Studios

Lp ;) :) :D

Chricton

January 9th, 2006, 03:00 PM

Awesome, can't wait

justinbrett

January 9th, 2006, 03:41 PM

I just read on the site below that ten has bought the next season of BSG and will air it in Feb or March. It is good news and hopefuly they will give it better treatment than they did with season 1.

Mind you, this is so late we will probably be able to purchase the US DVD to watch the finale before it screens here (I had the UK DVD last time before the finale!)

http://www.lucylawless.info/latestnews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1135846542&archive=1136143499&start_from=&ucat=38&

Zinfer

January 9th, 2006, 09:10 PM

Is there anyone out there with a "Good" version of the Sci Fi Battlestar Galactica insider video?
That other thumbnail version of the vid absolutely sucks for quality. I saw there was a MUCH better quality video of the Stargate SG1 insider. Any other links please?

Liverpool_chicK

January 9th, 2006, 09:14 PM

Look for a torrent version of it... So much better quality...

mrtvr4

January 10th, 2006, 08:02 AM

They will only air it after they run out of reality TV shows :P

yaaayoubetcha

January 10th, 2006, 08:05 AM

they do good work.

Easter Lily

January 10th, 2006, 07:24 PM

I have a little bit more respect for Channel 10 than I have for Channel 9... I'm just glad that Ch 9 didn't buy BSG in the first place.

Sci-Fi

January 10th, 2006, 10:31 PM

From TV Guide, The Watercooler:

TV Guide on Sci-Fi Friday (http://www.tvguide.com/TV/Watercooler/default.htm?rmDate=01092006)

G.J. Donnelly and Michael Peck

Click on the link to read about the rest of the shows reviewed.

Stargate SG-1
I can't remember anything so poignant on SG-1 as Sam doing the puzzle with youthful Orlin (Cameron Bright) in the hospital (mental facility?). The poor sod sacrificed his memory to help curb the Ori plague, and for what? To end up in a rec room at Bellevue. My gut told me Orlin's fate would be sad, but the way it played out was especially moving. Indeed, the second half of the "Four Horseman" story arc was one of the best and most touching stories of the entire SG-1 saga. Everyone had a chance to shine in scenes of wit, courage and compassion. Not many actors can do righteousness as well as Louis Gossett Jr., but Christopher Judge comes close. Listening to Gerak and Teal'c roar imperiously at each other before the Jaffa council was a blast and a half. Come to think of it, Gerak was a blast — or rather, a burst — when he erupted into flames for saving Landry and the other plague victims. But he died a free man, so nerts to you, Ori. The Mitchell-Jackson repartee at the expense of the captured Prior (Mitchell called him "a dark-side encyclopedia salesman") was terrific, and the cameo from Don S. Davis' General Hammond was another nice touch. However, Bright's performance as Orlin was the ace. A less-gifted actor would have turned the adolescent Ancient's subdued personality into something wooden or one-dimensional, but Bright communicated wisdom and loss beyond his years. Along with the equally terrific Amanda Tapping, the lad turned a great episode into a classic. — G.J. Donnelly

Stargate Atlantis
Does any actor have more fun with a role than David Hewlett? This week an injection of the Wraith enzyme turned McKay into the Neurotic with the Golden Arm. Determined to get a hold of the crystals to access the Stargate (and get reinforcements to rescue Sheppard and Co.), McKay shoots the enzyme into his arm and turns into Superwhiner, tossing aside the meatheads Ford assigned to guard him with the greatest of ease ("That's what happens when you back a brilliant scientist into a corner!"). Of course, highs must come down, and Big Rodney is in for a mighty fall when he enters withdrawal. Delirious with paranoia, he accuses Beckett of being jealous of his genius and demands that everyone stop whispering so loudly. "I feel not unlike the priest in the Exorcist," the Scottish doc tells Weir. Back aboard the Hive ship, this sharp-eyed viewer couldn't help but notice that many of the Wraiths had dreads, though none looked anywhere near as cool as Ronon. Despite this and a minor subplot involving a planted prisoner, Sheppard's efforts to escape the Wraith vessels weren't nearly as compelling as McKay's jonesing. Still, one can hardly gripe about a story that ends with two Hive ships blowing each other to bits. — G.J. Donnelly

Battlestar Galactica
Everybody else as happy as I am to have this show back, in an era where sci-fi series tend to get dropped before you've even had a chance to really get to know them? Or just because your inner geek loves a genre series that's actually good? OK, just checking. My inner geek's real insecure. Anyway, here we go, getting right back into it as Galactica squares off against Pegasus and Starbuck shows up just in time to nearly get toasted by her own people. And just as quickly, we get Cain talking about how the finer points of law don't matter in a time of war. (Funny how, between this and the abuse of Cylon Boomer and the Number Six prisoner, the most politically topical series on TV is one that takes place in space, ain't it? Shhhh — don't tell the thought police.)

And the tension doesn't let up for a second, even as Cain promotes Starbuck to captain, and the writers, I'm happy to say, surprise me by avoiding the cliché of having our favorite pilot say she doesn't want it because she doesn't need no stinkin' rank. If you'll permit me to continue to gush, it's also a testament to this show that they get a genuine stomach turn out of me as Tigh hears the tale of Cain stripping the civilian fleet of its parts and talent, and ordering the deaths of two families in the process. All of which brings us to Cain and Adama essentially taking out hits on one another. And there we stop for the week. First word that came to mind: cliff-hanger. OK, that was the second one, and it wasn't a surprise since this episode did, after all, have "Part 1" in its title. First real word that came to mind: Damn. — Michael Peck

:p ;) :) :D

Qasim

January 11th, 2006, 09:48 AM

http://www.trektoday.com/news/100106_01.shtml

Michelle Forbes almost didn't accept a role on Battlestar Galactica for the same reason she turned one down on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: "It was, again, about wanting variety in my career."

Speaking to TV Zone (via The Great Link). Forbes said that she was very impressed by recent BSG episode "Resurrection Ship" when she saw it, calling it "a fine example of sophisticated storytelling and I was thoroughly impressed when I watched my copy of the episode."

Sci-Fi

January 11th, 2006, 11:03 AM

From MediaLife:

Rumble in space: 'Battlestar Galactica' (http://medialifemagazine.com/artman/publish/article_2147.asp)

Premiere of critics' favorite down 16 percent

(NOTE: *Updated* BSG earned a 2.1 overall rating.)

By Abigail Azote
Jan 11, 2006

“Battlestar Galactica” remains one of Sci Fi Channel’s most-watched programs and a favorite among critics as well. They continually praise it for its gripping drama and intelligent content.

Yet the series may be showing hints of aging, at least judging by last week's debut for the second half of season two.

Airing Friday at 10 p.m., "Galactica” averaged 1.55 million viewers in the 18-49 demographic. Among 25-54s, where it's been particularly strong, “Galactica” averaged 1.73 million viewers.

That represents a 16 percent decline for both demos as compared to the debut of the first half of season two, which began in July. The declines are even steeper compared to season one’s premiere ratings, down 16 percent among 18-49s and 23 percent among 25-54s. Season one’s premiere averaged 1.9 million and 2.2 million in those demos, respectively.

Even so, last week’s performance was good enough to land “Galactica” in No. 11 among all of ad-supported cable in the 18-49 demo. Among 25-54s, it ranked No. 5. And it was up 10 percent among 18-49s from where it left off in September, when its last episode averaged 1.41 million viewers. Among 25-54s it was up 7 percent from the last original episode’s 1.61 million.

Whether the show is actually weakening is unclear. It could well be that July's premiere did better because it was in the summer, when competition from broadcast networks is lighter. Another factor could be the three-month hiatus since the last episode. Viewers tend to straggle back after such long layoffs.

What has not cooled is the adoration of critics. “Galactica” made many publications’ list of top programs for 2005, including the Chicago Tribune’s. Newsday called it “TV’s most provocative drama.” And last Sunday the American Film Institute named it one of the 10 best TV shows in 2005.

“It’s a complex show, dense and well executed. It has nicely done what a lot of classic cult series have done—create a universe of its own,” observes Robert Thompson, director of Syracuse University’s Center for the Study of Popular Television.

Meanwhile, in other cable ratings for the week ended Jan. 1:

Top five networks in primetime (18-49s): TNT, USA, TBS, Spike, Lifetime

Top five networks in primetime (total viewers): TNT, USA, TBS, Nick at Nite, Lifetime

Top movie (18-49s): TNT’s “Remember the Titans” (Sunday 8 p.m.) 1.75 million

Top sporting event (total viewers): USA’s WWE Entertainment (Monday 10 p.m.) 4.71 million

Shows making the top 10 among 18-34s, 18-49s and 25-54s: MTV’s “Real World/Road Rules: The Gauntlet II” (Monday 10 p.m.); USA’s “WWE Entertainment” (Monday, 9 & 10 p.m.)

Show on the rise: “Real World/Road Rules: Gauntlet II,” MTV, Monday 10 p.m. The MTV reality show free-for-all promised tougher challenges but delivered two elimination rounds already where contestants opted to pretty much just give up. But that has not kept the show from being popular, ranking No. 1 among 18-34s this week. The show averaged more than 2 million viewers in the demo, up 78 percent from the week prior.

Show on the decline: “Monk,” USA, various times. The USA original series is coming back with new episodes next week, and just in time. The show’s ratings dipped this week, with the highest-rated repeat averaging 2.8 million viewers. That’s down 26 percent from the previous week’s highest-rated show.

:p ;) :) :D

Speakfire

January 11th, 2006, 11:30 AM

Shame the ratings have gone down a little bit, thogh I suspect as the article stated it has to do with the timing of the premiere. Hopefully the critical raving will entice more people to check it out. One thing that's kinda hard bout getting hooked on BSG is that you almost *have* to go back and watch all the previous episodes to havea clue whats going on. It's not a series you can comfortably jump right into the middle of

RussTC3

January 11th, 2006, 11:57 AM

Well to be fair, the 2.2 rating, which it seems is what BSG did receive, was up from the 2.0 of Pegasus, and up in the key demos.

A 2.2 for Sci Fi isn't a bad rating.

Also, there is no mention of SG-1 and Atlantis, so it's obvious that BSG did better than both those shows.

It's just down from the 2.6 of the season 2 premiere, but if everyone remembers back that far, the next week the show dropped to a 2.0.

Did more people tune into the first half hour, but didn't stay to watch the rest of the episode?

This week's episode will be key.

Sci-Fi

January 11th, 2006, 02:33 PM

Pick up this week's TV Guide and collect all 16 Exclusive SCI FI Friday Fan Cards, on newsstands today.

Also, enter to win a video iPod with an entire episode of Battlestar Galactica at http://www.tvguide.com/scifri.

:p ;) :) :D

Speakfire

January 11th, 2006, 02:47 PM

that link is dead for me.

Sci-Fi

January 11th, 2006, 04:58 PM

that link is dead for me.

Sorry...that was the url I was given. Check the TV Guide website later this week or next week for any updates.

:)

SG-1ssm

January 11th, 2006, 09:34 PM

2.2 is an ok rating. Now the best rating I have every seen on Scifi was a 4.0 and that was for the SGA promo. The best season ratings overall for a Scifi show (as of resently) would be SGA season 1 (the ratings jumped to 3.0-3.5 every 2 parter, etc.)

andrewag

January 11th, 2006, 09:55 PM

Damn, I was hoping Paytv could have picked it up. FTA just screws scifi.

Carbito

January 11th, 2006, 10:04 PM

Thats good news I guess, I was under the impression that they where not going to air the second season.

I still think that BSG would have been treated better by Seven.

Darren

January 12th, 2006, 09:03 AM

It's workin' now.

HirogenGater

January 12th, 2006, 09:36 AM

I'll be sure to check it out, thanks.

Cyn

January 13th, 2006, 12:20 AM

http://www.trektoday.com/news/100106_01.shtml

Thanks for the article, Quasim.
I've always found the Star Trek:TNG and beyond trajectory of Michelle Forbes career a mystery.
I couldn't understand why she left TNG in the first place--her character, Ensign Ro Laren certainly was memorable. Did she prefer to do films or theatre 'cause I can't name a single thing I've seen her in other than TNG and now, BSG?
I've always enjoyed her work in science fiction television. I wonder if, like many actors, she believes science fiction to be "beneath" her?
If so, it's too bad because often science fiction or fanstasy vehicles are the only the place to find bada** woman characters like those she plays so well.

somedude

January 14th, 2006, 07:39 PM

Thanks for the article, Quasim.
I've always found the Star Trek:TNG and beyond trajectory of Michelle Forbes career a mystery.
I couldn't understand why she left TNG in the first place--her character, Ensign Ro Laren certainly was memorable. Did she prefer to do films or theatre 'cause I can't name a single thing I've seen her in other than TNG and now, BSG?
I've always enjoyed her work in science fiction television. I wonder if, like many actors, she believes science fiction to be "beneath" her?
If so, it's too bad because often science fiction or fanstasy vehicles are the only the place to find bada** woman characters like those she plays so well.

Well, she had a stint in Fox's 24 as Lynn.

Cyn

January 14th, 2006, 07:53 PM

Well, she had a stint in Fox's 24 as Lynn.

That's cool...but lots of time between acting gigs, no?
She's really good. Maybe she'll have some more acting offers after the BSG role. She's certainly compelling to watch.

Sci-Fi

January 14th, 2006, 09:51 PM

From The Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club:

Lucy Lawless to appear in 10 episodes in S3 (http://www.lucylawlessfanclub.com/)

"I want you guys to know that, barring earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes, I’m likely to be doing a 10-episode stint on Battlestar Galactica later this year. I’m not looking to guest on other people’s shows per se, but, in this instance, the plot twists and character development proved to be irresistible to me. It won’t get in the way of my doing other projects, but we’ll keep you up to date as things go along."

-- Lucy

:p ;) :) :D

SlytherinGal

January 14th, 2006, 11:23 PM

oh great! and lemme guess, she will be playing that reporter too..as in Final Cut...i swear, she is a cylon

Hatcheter

January 14th, 2006, 11:26 PM

oh great! and lemme guess, she will be playing that reporter too..as in Final Cut...i swear, she is a cylon

You did see the final shot of that episode, right?

She is a Cylon. We saw another copy of her on Caprica.

scifi maniac

January 15th, 2006, 03:39 AM

She just doesn't want to be stereotyped or always be remembered as Ro Laren instead of Michelle Forbes the actrice.

That's also the reason why Famke Janssen (X-men 1,2,3/ Goldeneye) turned down the role of Jadzia Dax in DS9.

Funny seeing as they're both the same sort of women.

rarocks24

January 15th, 2006, 12:46 PM

The Battlestar Galactica, commanded by Adama (Edward James Olmos), which was about to be turned into a museum when the attack came, now leads a ragtag fleet of civilian and military ships carrying all that is left of humanity -- not quite 50,000 souls -- on a journey to find the possibly mythical human home world, called Earth.

Okay, so she doesn't watch the show. If she watched the show, the last word would be -----------KOBOL!!!!!!!-----------

KOBOL KOBOL KOBOL KOBOL KOBOL KOBOL KOBOL KOBOL

Read it again, KOBOL.

Gosh.

JamesM

January 15th, 2006, 01:39 PM

Kobal isn't Earth. Kobal is just part of the journey to finding Earth.

Hatcheter

January 15th, 2006, 09:43 PM

Was it neccessary to bump a year-old thread?

Sci-Fi

January 15th, 2006, 10:47 PM

From The New Yorker:

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE (http://www.newyorker.com/critics/television/articles/060123crte_television)

A battlestar is reborn

by NANCY FRANKLIN
Issue of 2006-01-23

Click on the link to read the article. Some excerpts:

It’s easy for people who aren’t science- fiction enthusiasts to laugh at the genre - its earnestness, its lingo, its fans’ awestruck romance with the idea that God is in the details of equipment and uniforms and security codes and how many moons orbit Planet X and why it’s called Planet X in the first place. ...

While the two “Stargates” are essentially adventure series (they double as employment schemes for the very attractive), “Battlestar Galactica,” which the producers describe as a “reimagining” of the short-lived late-seventies series of the same name, begins with apocalyptic disaster and involves the quest for a new home for mankind, or what’s left of it.......

The journey in “Battlestar Galactica” is born not of the urge to explore strange new worlds but of the need to survive; space isn’t the final frontier for these characters - it’s the last chance......

But what interests people who normally don’t care about science fiction is how timely and resonant the show is, bringing into play religion and religious fanaticism, global politics, terrorism, and questions about what it means to be human. (There are also a couple of funny jabs at the media, particularly at talk-show airheads who don’t, or can’t, distinguish between news and entertainment.) There’s no woozy space-aginess in the show, no theremin or symphonic music - the score consists mainly of taiko-inspired drumming, sometimes to the point of tedium, as if you were at a never-ending Iron John weekend. “Battlestar Galactica” is frank and graphic about sex and death.....

You’re never quite sure yourself how much to invest in certain characters - will they turn out to be Cylons, or drug-addled wackos?

There have been a couple of good episodes focussing on the realities of being stuck in space - the need for water, and the need for fuel. The characters are well drawn and have unfolded in a way that could keep people watching for several more seasons.....

The story isn’t ridiculous - something that viewers are on the lookout for in science fiction more than in any other genre - and it raises questions that nag at you in the same way that life on Earth does. “Battlestar Galactica,” refreshingly, is as real as science fiction gets.

:p ;) :) :D

rarocks24

January 16th, 2006, 07:03 AM

Kobal isn't Earth. Kobal is just part of the journey to finding Earth.
re-read it. She said they're on their way to the human homeworld. The human homeworld, established in Home, is Kobol. Earth is the 13th colony, picked perhaps for the soul purpose that they CAN see their brothers.

Qasim

January 17th, 2006, 07:23 AM

http://www.newyorker.com/printables/critics/060123crte_television

It’s easy for people who aren’t science- fiction enthusiasts to laugh at the genre—its earnestness, its lingo, its fans’ awestruck romance with the idea that God is in the details of equipment and uniforms and security codes and how many moons orbit Planet X and why it’s called Planet X in the first place. Does it have something to do with the number ten, or is it meant to be a leaning cross, or is it a reference to the mark on Captain Blah’s forehead in the second episode of the third season of “Star Bores”? (Usually, a writer’s answer to such questions is “I called it Planet X because I liked the name.”) Making fun of science fiction became even easier after William Shatner, in a 1986 “Saturday Night Live” sketch set at a “Star Trek” convention, exploded at fans who asked him insanely pointless questions, “Get a life!” At first, even civilians who had never owned a “Star Trek” trading card or a toy phaser were a little stunned by this slap at the faithful; it’s amazing that Shatner ever worked again after inflicting that Vulcan nerve pinch. But his admonition was eventually incorporated into the fans’ self-image; you see self-aware, amused references to it in sci-fi blogs when someone goes on about something in a way that he knows may brand him as a geek.