DVD, Stargate SG-1 S1 (Thor's Hammer)
This was better than the more 'passive' stories like 'The Nox', and it was interesting to have the Asgaard introduced, although it would have had more impact if I didn't already know they were just Grey Aliens. Here their mystery is strong. The downsides were that not much happened really and the scenes set in the 'labyrinth' were very set-built in feel, despite the nice lighting in the pool area. Felt too much like an indoor set despite being high-walled - not like the temple in the first episode which was far better (possibly they used the film set which would explain it).
Lush, expansive outdoor scenes, with some beautiful visuals, help to contrast with the caves, although they still end up looking too light. Unas was a great monster, but was disappointing in what he did, plus there was a bit of inconsistency in that he gets killed the first time, but subsequent times the bullets just make him stumble backwards. He can come and attack much quicker. A nice touch to have it voiced by James Earl Jones though, even if he makes you think of Darth Vader!
The atmosphere is created more in the dialogue of ancient myths than in the actual execution, where, as usual, the actors are forced to wander slowly through or they'd run out of set. Again, they keep the ongoing story alive by having the device relevant to the predicaments of Sharray and Scarra, and Daniel's agonising decision to save Teal'c instead of keeping the technology going. One problem: the Goauld have sent missiles and weapons against the Earth Stargate so why couldn't they just send such things to blow up the statue of the hammer? That Stargate doesn't have an iris. Even so, some good stuff, even if the music makes things seem a bit ponderous sometimes.
***
No comments:
Post a Comment