Rewatch: Letters from Pegasus

[twinsarein.livejournal.com]

Atlantis is preparing for the arrival of the hive ships. McKay has an idea to tell Earth about the imminent danger. He thinks he's able to generate enough power to keep the stargate open for 1.3 seconds, enough to send a substantial amount of data. There's even enough space to include personal video messages and Ford takes the task upon him to record them. Meanwhile Sheppard and Teyla are off to spy on the Wraith ships. On a planet Teyla has visited before, she warns a friend, Orin, about the culling that will soon take place there. She promises him a rescue with the puddle jumper and Sheppard reluctantly agrees. The two find out the Wraith force approaching Atlantis is even more powerful than expected and after a short revisit to the planet, they find themselves locked out from returning with the stargate. They are forced to watch the horrors of a massive culling.  [Poll #1781093]

Btw, there is a three part episode coming up in two weeks.  I'm planning on watching that one part per week.  Is there any objection?

Comments

[twinsarein.livejournal.com]

Poor Ford. He brings up the unpopular suggestion of using the kid's ZPM from a much early episode. It doesn't go over well at all. However, he was just doing what a good soldier is trained to do - look at all the options, not just the morally easy/right ones.

I never noticed how superior Teyla looks in so many episodes - this scene being no exception as she talks about going out with dignity. I'm not liking her as much as I did the first time around. I hope the feeling is just temporary, on my part.

Then Rodney drops a bombshell. I 1.3 second communication window. Ford is really taking some hits in this scene. He gets chastised for being 'too analog.' How exciting to be able to get that much information through to Earth, though. I can't blame Elizabeth for wanting to try it. Especially with Rodney's assurances that he's made it as safe as he can.

[twinsarein.livejournal.com]

Some time on a planet warning friends of Teyla, and she makes a promise that she shouldn't have, putting John in an uncomfortable spot.

Then, back on Atlantis, Rodney reveals that all of the data they want to send actually fits into .3 seconds. That's a whole extra second. I like that Ford was given the project to oversee the video messages.

Back to Teyla and John - they run into a shitload of Wraith. Whoa, a serious amount of ships. Scary stuff. And the puddle jumper is stuck on the planet. Oh noes!

Aaaand, back to Atlantis. Phew, we're really jumping around today. Carson was hysterical. Fungus and then crying. Great!

Teyla seems to be hypocritical. She's doing the same thing she accused John of doing. Just sitting there and watching everyone else being culled as they wait for her friends. She choosing who to save and what battles to fight. Isn't that what John said he and Ford were trained to do?

[twinsarein.livejournal.com]

Zelenka did a great job is speaking his native tongue, and his response to Ford's inquiry if any of it would require security clearance was a wonderful touch. I had to admit to wondering if they'd be able to find someone back on Earth to translate before they approved it. *g*

Ooo, John doesn't like waiting and watching all that the Wraith are doing. And the bizarre new equipment...what's that all about, anyway?

Onto Rodney's golden video, except it's more of a ramble than we were expecting. He is covering quite the gamut - except for leadership, that is. *g* Ten the cool Asian girl. Back to hysterical again. Watching her chase Rodney around as he hopped around the lab because of a cramp. Funny stuff, tonight.

Again on the planet, Teyla is privileged to watch a well muscled and highly oiled actor...I mean a disgusting Wraith getting practically within touching distance. Good thing the Wraith couldn't smell her.

And now the Pony-tailed Guy - Kavanagh. Ick. He's nothing but a tattletale. Hee, and Ford calls him on it. Yay! Heh, Rodney is in fine form. I like all the tangents he's flying away on.

You know, when Ford did his part, I was worried that this was going to become a clip show, but it's been so much more than that. There is a little of it at the end (and don't I love how often Rodney is featured in that piece), but they rest is all new and all original. Elizabeth's part was hard. That's got to be one of the worst duties of someone in a leadership position.

Everything wrapped up well. Teyla and John rescued several people from the culling, they got back to make their report, and people who'd been struggling to make their messages were able to finally get out what they wanted to convey.

Then, we got to see the cool wormhole effect. You know, the first time around I had no idea that the blond woman at the end was Samantha Carter. I'd never seen SG-1, still haven't, but I have seen all of SGA, so know her from when she took over the leadership role.

Is this the first time Rodney mentions her as a former love interest? It's the first I remember, and he brought her up twice tonight before she showed up for the last 20 seconds of the episode. I'm glad I'm able to appreciate things like that a little more now.

[helenkacan.livejournal.com]

Oops. Sorry, I was late getting started.

Well, the audience is in the thick of things when Rachel L does the "Previously on" intro, aka the dart flying through the city and the resulting message of doom which ended the previous episode.

Okay, morning conference time. Rodney's not crazy about the time they have, but John's trying to see the sunny side. Besides, it's not "time to panic ... yet".

Hee! Carson wants a reiteration of the request for recommendations "other than panic". Gee, Elizabeth, it's just no fun when your people aren't allowed to panic.

Okay, blatant ethics violation, when Aiden suggests taking the Dagan ZedPM. Rodney agrees, especially as it's "nearly depleted" anyway. Whoa, look at Elizabeth and her rejection of the idea. Not now, not "never".

Of course, Teyla slips in the "death with dignity and honour" stuff.

Oh, thank goodness. Rodney HAS an idea. Other than panic. Oookay, so a high-compression data message through the Stargate. Though, uh, Rodney does mention there are risks. And, then, we get John bickering with Rodney about those risks. But Rodney retorts with "Desperate times call for desperate measures".

And talk about data compression on a massive scale. "All that." Yup. In only 1.3 seconds.

Mmmm. Love the reactions on John's and Elizabeth's faces. Rodney has a go and then they all go through those massive conference room doors.

John on warning Earth: "Even if it's the last thing we do."
Elizabeth: "Especially if it's the last thing we do."
I love the way the writers have used this echoing dialogue technique in several episodes so far.

And cue opening credits.

Yuck, it's another exchange of info and the fact that the hive ships are moving in and out of hyper-space may be for ::shudders:: feeding purposes.

Yay for Radek figuring out their most likely path to Atlantis. So John wants to lie in wait to spy on them. Yes, John, you definitely do have your moments! Though, what a hardship. You won't even "stop at the duty-free".

Oooh, lovely lilting music with a heroic touch to it. And Elizabeth has learned to be very specific with her orders where John is concerned. Huh. I wonder why? [NOT!] ::giggles:: I love the facial expression on John's face when he acknowledges her.

And then they meet the people on world ... whatever and Teyla offers an invitation to "one family" which John's not crazy about. Note his wary expression. And he's countermanding Teyla's promise. But she forges on anyway. John semi-concedes: "If we have time."

Meanwhile, back on Atlantis, Rodney's devised an "extraordinarily efficient algorithm". Of course he has; he's Rodney. Carson's not too thrilled, and Aiden smiles. Then they learn that Rodney's chopped off the time to only .3 seconds. Woo-hoo. What can they do with than whole extra second?

Elizabeth certainly has an answer: personal messages. Awwwww, Aiden's been given the responsibility, because – after all – Rodney's so busy with everything else. With not enough time to send anybody a message. Oh, Rodney. Why? [Yes, yes, we all know now, but then....]

[helenkacan.livejournal.com]

Hey, it's 'jumper in space time. And a little disagreement between John and Teyla. I guess it's more striking because they do not usually disagree. But, hey, John, aren't you being hypocritical about this not supposed to be a rescue mission, when you let all those Athosians come to Atlantis?

And Teyla's further probing leads to a very interesting answer. When she pushes him about saving someone close to him, his reply is very black-and-white: "Not if it jeopardizes the mission". Really, John? So being The Man now has made you realize that you shouldn't have tried to save your buddies, Holland and Dex? And there are a few more uncomfortable moments between them.

Uh-oh. Seems as if they've got company. And the music reminds me of stuff from Star Wars. Imperial theme, anybody? Including the ship passing overhead the shuttle. ::Waves hi to Princess Leia:: Um, Teyla looks awfully composed. Until she realizes all those ships are heading for her friend's world.

Meanwhile, back on Atlantis, Aiden's forgotten the first rule of photography: make sure the lens cap is off!

Right, Aiden, tell your grandparents about your pretty routine life, as we see all the super extra-weird Wraith stuff.

Meanwhile, back in the 'jumper, it was cool seeing Teyla dialing, though reluctantly. But it's too late; they're stuck there.

Hi, Carson. Boy, lots of mechanical things seem to rattle you. The Chair in Antarctica, I can understand. But a video camera? And, then, his Mum's "petunias"? Okay, Take 2. Carson's such a softy. This may take a lot longer than Aiden anticipated.

Back on the world (with more militaristic music), John and Teyla are waiting for Orin and his family, though John is getting very impatient. But I'm glad Teyla convinced him to land and cloak the 'jumper there. Then we have another tense conversation between them. Yeah, John, I guess the "situation" has changed, so you don't leave them behind.

Teyla brings up the earlier ethical indiscretion about potentially stealing from "children". And Teyla certainly doesn't think much of John's explanation that he and Aiden are military and concerned about survival. Um, John. Face it, Teyla's got you beat when it comes to length of time trying to survive. John asks what else she wants from him and her answer is illuminating and puzzling at the same time. "Too much, I fear."

Whoa! Those culling beams are so bright.

And here's lovely Radek with his message, uh ... mostly in Czech. Um, Radek, I can't understand what you're saying (way too many words) but – if it matches the pictures – you can't just say things like that.

I love the interspersed description with the spires breaching the ocean top. And, then, he says (in Czech) "the sun". And that he will remember it always, until the day he dies.

Oops! Aiden's just asked if he mentioned anything inappropriate that would require security clearance. Oh, Radek. I guess it's time for Take 2 with you, too.

More horrible multiple culling beams, as Teyla and John continue to wait. Interesting to see how troubled John is because they can't do anything. Well, not if they want to live. But, as Teyla reminds him, if they can save this one family, then that will have been "something".

Back in the recording studio, it's Bates who can't find the words to talk to his kid brother. And it's good to see how Aiden takes him to task because they differ in their interpretation of the reason for making these personal messages.

But, wait, heeeeere's Rodney. With a personally recorded One. Hour. Message?!? Directed at "humanity in general, my sister". Uh, Rodney, you have a sister??? And there's "gold" in your words. ::giggles:: But it makes sense that his be the last message sent so, if the gate cuts out, everyone else will have had a chance. Why, Rodney, that's mighty generous of you.

::giggles:: Yes, Rodney, make sure your hair is all in place. Before you blab to the entire planet where you are – in your attempt at a mockumentary – and all those terrible things you've experienced.

[helenkacan.livejournal.com]

Back to Teyla and John who just HAS to go check out the really scary super-beam. It seems as if Rodney's not the only curious cat on Atlantis. And, also, PTB: so Teyla has to stay in the 'jumper while John goes out. If anything happens to him, she can't fly the 'jumper. Oy.

It's now Take 2 (or more) for Rodney. Who's recording for just the SGC. Yadda, yadda. Bring out the flashcards.

Switch to Elizabeth who's leaving a message for Sgt Markham's parents. And for next-of-kin of others who have died, including Dr. Dumais.

Aww, Miko. Yup, telling your parents you're "keeping busy" with your job will fill them with pride. Until she sorta, kinda goes into hero worship of her boss, one M. Rodney McKay. Oh, the disparity between her words and his actions might be a wee bit over the top.

And, hey, Rodney's back talking about his first kiss, April Bingham and catching mono which was so worth it. Huh. Blonde with short hair. We don't know anybody else who fits that description. Nah. Oh, wait, we do and Rodney brings up Sam. If she's watching. Uh-oh. Rodney's digging himself into a grave, especially if Sam does see this video. Okay, cut. And he returns to his pontification on "Leadership". ::sighs::

Back in the 'jumper, Teyla's rearranging stuff when a Wraith with a face mask crosses her path. And he's sensing ... something different. Okay, correct me if I'm wrong. If the hatch is down, can't the Wraith ... uh ... see inside the 'jumper, because there's light escaping from there??? Or am I just confused and the stealth-mode can be extended beyond the physical form?

Oh, joy. NOT. It's Kavanagh. Ready to start snitching'n'bitching about Atlantis peeps. Even Aiden can't stand to stay and watch.

Back in chaos-land, John's taking a closer look at the super-beam.

Okay, Rodney, now tell us ALL about how you feel about ... dogs. And your el-cheapo father. But he does have a moment's thought about his dog. Before he goes on to a much more beloved subject, aka cats. Aww, Rodney. Such a domestic scene between you and your cat. ::groans:: Oh, no. He's back with the flashcards and ::sighs:: "Leadership". Again.

[helenkacan.livejournal.com]

And Teyla's just surprised a few people. Too bad they're not her friends. Wow, the guy can't believe he's actually safe inside while terror reigns outside.

Elizabeth is doing a windup recording to all the families of expedition members. Aww, she's talking about heroism. The music becomes more grand and we see: Rodney with the energy-sucking mass, Teyla fighting against a Wraith, Rodney shooting at the super-Wraith, Kolya falling back into the wormhole, and John causing the detonation in space.

Then she talks about resourcefulness and we get Carson with Perna, John with the stones from the last epi, and Rodney getting the shield up just in time to protect the city from the storm.

It's reassuring to have her record that they faced their future together.

Meanwhile, back in the 'jumper, Teyla is trying to see what she can see. And spots John, so goes down the hatch to get him. And I guess my question is answered. The cloak was extended beyond the hatch.

Uh-oh. We're back to the time crunch. Orin's family isn't there, but they can now dial out. Wow. Teyla utters an ultimatum and, even better, backs it up with action. John can leave her behind, so she can search in the morning. Orin is "family" to her but John just doesn't get it. But, incredibly, she does get through to him. John presses his lips together and agrees.

Hey, Carson. Which Take is this? But he seems to be all over being flustered. Until he, too, gets carried away and mentions "Earthlings". Oh, Carson. You're so cute.

Oh, dear, are we back to Kavanagh? Again? Um ... is this cruel punishment? For the viewers, that is.

::giggles:: We're back with Rodney. And things he'll miss, Canadian (Niagara Falls) and other (like not knowing how The Sixth Sense turned out). And, then, he finally realizes he's not talked to his sister. Okay, scrap everything he said before, 'cuz this is important. Hey, I'm predicting what Rodney says ("Family is important") and, surprisingly, I'm starting to cry. Oh, Rodney, you DO affect me so. And the music is lovely. Tentative and soft. Of course, the moment is not long, because Rodney returns to – wait for it – "the subject of Leadership".

It was a neat trick to show static on the screen.

Okay, back in the 'jumper, John spots movement outside. Now, I've got a huge grin on my face ... and am crying even more.

Uh-oh. Orin with way more people, followed by the super-beam. The survivors look shell-shocked amid the screams outside. And then nothing but silence.

Okay, time for John to spring into action. Dial the gate and get out of this disaster. Pretty bleak looks on Teyla's and John's faces.

Finally, back on Atlantis, Elizabeth, Rodney, Teyla and John are getting all caught up. "How bad is it?" "Bad."

Rodney is so subdued. We're not used to seeing this side of him.

But, oh, John. My heart aches for you when you decline the opportunity to record a personal message. How awful was your family life? Intrigue, intrigue, intrigue.

Still, John does record one message and – here I go again – I'm crying. For Sumner! Well, at least for his death. And, hey, John's talking about more than one kind of "burden" here. We certainly saw it during the episode.

We finish with Elizabeth, leaving a message for Simon. Her voice is trembling, full of emotion. She lets him go. And the music is, once again, soft and tender.

Carson again, with a far more medical goodbye than a filial one. And Aiden, Bates, Radek (I think I caught "beloved"), Miko (with that shy wave), Elizabeth and John.

Okay, wooooooormhole time. We're at the SGC and Sam recognizes the transmission is from Atlantis. I like the look of wonder on her face.
And that's a wrap. I believe this episode was a minute longer than normal SGA ones.

[helenkacan.livejournal.com]

Final observations:
There was no audio commentary on this one. Well, it was a self-explanatory episode. I think the burden of command finally caught up to John on an emotional level. Until now, he's been able to go with his battle-readiness training but - this time – not so much. IMO (which of course you can disregard), I think he was really left hanging without the feeling of family that nearly everyone else (well, except for Kavanaugh but, then again, he had an agenda) alluded to in their recordings. Even Rodney. But, to John, Teyla's request seemed to be very difficult to honour.

In retrospect, TPTB had SO much wiggle room to create a backstory for the character of John but didn't. So, it's no wonder that it's so much of a challenge – and a joy – to write from his POV.

Anyway, I'm done. My butt hurts and I have to get ready for a church conference tomorrow. Rest? What's that.

[rissabby.livejournal.com]

Even though I have not kept up with the re-watch, I enjoy coming by and reading the comments.

If anyone is interested in translations of Radek's Czech; over at Gateworld they have done transcripts of all the episodes including translations. Mouse over the Episodes tab and there's a drop down menu to SGA, the seasons, and then onto individual episodes.

This is the site link http://www.gateworld.net/
This is to that epi transcript http://www.gateworld.net/atlantis/s1/transcripts/117.shtml

I found Radek's speech to be very moving and worth going to read.

AFAIK the transcripts were only done for SGA. We are an awesome fandom.