Battlestar Galactica
by Andrew Campbell
Okay, I know what you’re probably thinking; geeky sounding TV show recommended by one of your geeky colleagues – but you are most definitely wrong – at least on one of these assumptions. And for those who are old enough to remember the cheesy 1970s version of the show please leave your preconceptions at the door. Battlestar Galactica is a revamped drama series that deals with terrorism, genocide, politics and religion. It has the weight and intelligence of the West Wing; enough dysfunctional and intriguing characters to engross any Sopranos fan; and a series of relationship issues that would fascinate any Sex and the City addict. Simply look past the spaceships and give it a chance – and you will be treated to one of TVs greatest triumphs.
The show begins as a cat and mouse chase through space. Mankind is about to be wiped out with the last 50,000 people running for their lives from the robot race they created decades earlier (cylons). There’s no aliens or neon-glowing swords on display, this show is all about people that don’t seem much different to any of us. They drink, smoke, argue and make heaps of mistakes – all the good stuff that makes for fine TV viewing.
It contains an inspired cast including Mary McDonnel (the President of the remaining human race) and James Olmos (the Commander of the military); together they have to preserve the morale of a depleted human race and from the more imminent threat of the cylons.
What makes the show even more intriguing is that there are only 12 cylon models that all appear in human form. This brings a fantastic element of paranoia to the show, as every character is potentially an imposter with his or her own agenda. What’s more, these robots aren’t dull tin cans; they are fully fleshed out characters; which have evolved to have a conscience and their own religion that is very similar to Christianity. They are every bit as human and complex as us.
Besides the rich array of characters on display there are also plenty of award-winning action sequences to enjoy. They make each 50-minute TV episode that feel like a Hollywood blockbuster – it makes perfect HD viewing.
So if you’re looking for a new show to dedicate some time to don’t overlook this gem. Yes, its sci-fi exterior initially put me too off but once I tried it I was treated to one of the best things I’ve seen on TV – give it a try and I’m sure you will feel the same way.
Tags: Advertising, Andrew Campbell, Battlestar Galactica, Christianity, Copywriter, Cylons, Digital Agency, Direct Marketing Agency, Edward James Olmos, Entertainment, Geek, Manchester Advertising Agency, Manchester Design Agency, Marketing Agency, Mary McDonnell, PPC Agency, Sci-fi TV series, Sex and the City, Sopranos, TV
