Season 1 Reviews
L.D.U. - 7

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L.D.U. - 7
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Vanishing Point

I never really know quite where to start my reviews half the time. I usually pick a random topic or point I liked in an episode, but sometimes you just go with the flow. So I will just say, that while this particular episode is not as stellar as previous ones; it does push the overall story arc and showcase how rich the production values and talent really are. Overall, the story just seemed a little off. It is not something I can put my finger on and say it was one bad twist or stretch of dialogue it just seemed to be missing that extra punch.

What I did like about the story were the intrinsic sub-plots running through the episodes that served to develop some of our characters. For one, Sara and Norbert had a nice connection going on. It was like a natural friendship growing between them, albeit, in a short period. This episode also gave Sara, or rather Leslie Silva, a chance to expand and do something to get her mind off of what is going on in Sara's life. I also wanted to make note of the Neil and Mark story that ran through the episode. I find it notable because it was concentrating on why and how Mark ended up leaving in the original timeline. It was a nice touch to see that Neil was doing something to keep his brother at home and not tear the family apart. Other than Holly, Neil really has not done much with the knowledge he has, this time he does. It's obvious that Mark is a screw up is heading toward self-destruction. Although, he may take more than himself down when he does go down.

While the character development was very helpful, the thing I enjoyed most out of this episode was the banter between Peter Weller and Sebastian Roche. Simply put, they were a riot. The Buck Rogers routine had me dying with laughter. If the writers keep giving the cast moments like these, with the clever in jokes and references at sci-fi and pop culture, it will take the show to a whole new level. Ah, who am I kidding, it already is. I just think it is a great touch to do little nods like that to other sci-fi shows. I am hoping to see an X-Files joke at some point and some other shows.

The other things that I enjoyed in this episode, as well as in the entire series, are the quotes that are sporadically placed in the episodes. Throughout the series we have all seen the white screens with the quotes popping up, and I wanted to say this now. I haven't said anything so far because it keeps slipping my mind. Anyway, I just want to say that the quotes are an excellent idea and I truly believe they should continue doing them. It not only gives the audience a chance to catch out breath, it also prepares for the next act. I give this style and intelligence points for keeping it up.

Overall, the production values and ideas pushed forward for the story arc show how much of a gem this show really is. The production values were outstanding in things such as the plexi-glass cages for the inmates to the slick injectible gun. I give kudos to production designer, director of photography and everyone else for a superb effort. The special f/x and cgi were prominent in this episode as well. However they were used in the proper dosage and beautifully done. For once, a show like Odyssey 5 does believable f/x work that rivals some of the cinematography work of big budget movies. The only other show that does f/x on this level is Farscape. Stargate SG-1 has not even hit the level of clarity and sharpness or cinematic feel that Farscape and Odyssey 5 have. I did like the idea of the prison itself being a synthetic, which is an interesting suggestion brought into the arc of the show. Yet, it shows that there is a corporation out there pulling the strings and running programs like the lockdown units. Teasing just how far these synthetics and sentients have infiltrated our world. While the story might have been a little off kilter, I enjoyed the production values, the humor and the style of the episode. I even enjoyed the story even though it is not on my favorite list. It was a great idea; it just did not quite come out right. We all know from experience, that even the best shows have an off episode here and there. What is important is that we dont forget they do have strong points in them.

Copyright 2002 - DrkAngel_113
 
No reproduction or redistribution without my expressed permission.