This is back to some classic SG-1. Retelling the episode is just boring, so here's why I'm pleased with this episode:
All round, this is the way I want my SG-1 episodes: Suspenseful, exciting, ancient tech from strange planets and no Jaffa!
- They're keeping the Ori arc going in the background by using the threat of the Supergate to explain why they HAVE to go to a specific planet.
- Carter gets to show off her intellect again by finding a way to get through the "blocked" Stargate, something we've missed since she spent the first 6 episodes of season 9 off-screen. Also, this leads to her getting to be part of solving the Khalek problem in the end.
- The scene with Daniel in the control booth and Khalek strapped to the table, where Daniel exposes him as the spawn of Anubis, and Khalek does his "holy crap I'm evil"-speech is just chilling. I actually got goosebumps. Props to Neil Jackson.
- Woolsey, who usually is the writers' tool for preventing the good guys from doing what needs to be done, gets to have a semi-good point. Don't get me wrong, I hate the guy and want him to die, but what he tells Landry is sort of a good point and Landry acknowledges that. Still, Jackson is of course MORE right. And the conversation between Daniel and Woolsey at the end of the episode is dead on.
- Khalek is awesome. His nonchalant demeanor towards Woolsey ("Dick"), his efficient, deliberate movements when he starts breaking loose and neutralising everyone around him... I'm very pleased. Even his death is awesome; first the surprise bullet from Daniel and then the barrage from him and Mitchell? What a way to go!
- Anubis was my favourite Gua'uld, and even though Khalek wasn't HIM, it was good to revisit that particular villain.
- Ascend-o-meter! Giggle.
All round, this is the way I want my SG-1 episodes: Suspenseful, exciting, ancient tech from strange planets and no Jaffa!