This is most definitely my favorite episode, at least so far. Maybe because it's because I am such a huge John and Aeryn shipper, I don't know. But I have watched this episode so much that not only can I recite entire scenes from memory, but I have started to fuzz out the sound on my tape. That should give you some clue as to how much I loved this episode.
Well, we finally got somewhere with John and Aeryn. Personally, I'm amazed the powers that be let it come this far so early into the first season. Not that I'm complaining! It shows how much of a risk this show is willing to take. Most television shows finally resolve the sexual tension and it slowly dies a horrible death till the couple have to break up. And so far, this problem has been avoided here. The John and Aeryn scenes are fun to watch at first, and then by the time Aeryn had to kill John to buy them some time to fix the environmentals, I was yelling at the TV for her to save him. Finally faced with the threat of death, they kiss, and it goes a little farther than just that... Most surprising about this is that it's Aeryn who initiates the kiss, it's Aeryn that starts undressing... Even the last scene when they try blaming it on the heat of the moment, and too much pure oxygen, it's one of the best scenes, ending with that little glance at each other as John's leaving, and Aeryn's smile. Absolutely wonderful.
Another good point was the developments with D'Argo. With the chance to find his son, he goes with Staanz to the Luxan ship for the map fibers, and gives that up to save John and Aeryn. He considers it a failure, while it's actually one of his stronger character developments.
There are also quite a bit of little comedy gems in here. Especially with Rygel. I love the little Muppet. He's a perfect contrast to Zhaan, who just seems to be having One Of Those Days. He's funny from start to finish, and his games with Staanz and Kcrackic were just wonderful. And Staanz's hyperactivity and fast talk were just great. Then they throw in that lovely little tidbit at the end, and poor D'Argo has to wriggle his way out of it. Not to mention him walking in on John and Aeryn- that scene was just classic.
GRADE: A
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