Week 4 - August 5

Winner: Battlestar Galactica ("Resistance")

All of the stops have been officially pulled as, in an exemplary show of great entertainment, all three Sci-Fi Friday shows were in top form. Rivaling last week's "Atlantis"-"Galactica" toss-up, this week featured a near three-way tie--that is until the last 15 minutes of "Battlestar Galactica." As with last week, it was its dramatic conclusion that put "Galactica" on top.

In episode 2.4 ("Resistance"), the focus starts on the decline of Colonel Tigh's leadership ability. In the wake of the near-fatal shooting of his emotional mentor (Commander Adama - Edward James Olmos), Tigh has regressed to an alcoholic, and begins taking advice from his manipulative wife. His having declared martial law sent a shockwave of discourse throughout the fleet--prompting the need for armed Marines to ensure transports continue to supply the Galactica. Meanwhile, President Roslin and crew sneak off the ship, determined to continue their religious quest.

One would think that with so many simultaneous plot lines, "Battlestar Galactica" would be over complicated. However, the writing on this show is so good and the transitions so well-timed that, by the end of each episode, you're left with not only a feeling of completion, but one eagerness to watch next week's episode. I think this is where "Galactica" is superior to the "Stargate" franchises. "Sg-1" and "Atlantis" are very entertaining, but their linearity and simplicity keep them from reaching the higher-level of science fiction as "Galactica."

Notable Scene: Another (however, less dramatic) assassination aboard the Galactica. I guess Specialist Cally isn't as timid as she looks.

Going into week 5, its "Battlestar"'s Showdown to lose. Of all three promotional trailers, it looks to be the strongest, yet again. We'll have to see what the addition of Ronan Dex (Jason Momoa) will do to "Atlantis." As far as "Sg-1" goes, this season is turning into one of mediocrity. I'm hoping once the Sg-1 team is assembled, the show can find its niche, again.

Standings:

"Stargate Sg-1": 0
"Stargate Atlantis": 1
"Battlestar Galactica": 3