Sci-Fi Friday Presents - Space : Above and Beyond ; The Dark Side of the Sun
“Shane is chosen to lead a mission against a group of Silicates, artificial intelligence rebels who not only killed her parents years ago, but determined to destroy all human life.”
The official premise listed above is not entirely accurate of this episode but is the synopsis on the DVD set. The premise is more like this. The 58th squadron are assigned to what appears to be a routine sentry posting at the Icarus mining colony on Bunuel. However, little do they know that Silicates, artificially intelligent beings, have taken over the facility. Vansen is confronted by her demons of the past and the looming cloud of despair hanging over her present and future.
This episode centers on Shane Vansen, played very effectively by Kristen Cloke. Kristen covers the depth of emotions so well it's hard to see where the character begins and ends. Her subtely and body language really bring out her talent. At times, the emotion feels a bit forced but the evolution of Vansen through this episode is incredible. Vansen goes from questioning her ability to come back alive, leading the 58th to breaking down when confronted with her tragic history. Then when she gets answers, you can feel the surge of her rage and intensity. Her whole presence and body language shifts as her switch was flipped. Kristen here had a much more impactful episode than West did in the previous one. The ending of the episode with Vansen, still haunted by the Silicates is incredible and shows they will forever stay with her. As Kristen carries on in upcoming episodes, she'll get even more comfortable in this character.
It was fantastic to see that West played a pivotal role in this episode with Vansen. His remarks, were timely and appropriate after what he recently went through. The line “We've got another family to keep alive.” was so apt and well-delivered. His intelligence and mind for strategy on display in this episode. He's developing into his character nicely; the whole cast is actually!
Speaking of which, Wang and Damphousse received much needed development with the group. Especially in interacting with Hawkes who played the role of us, the audience, getting key information about the Silicates history. We are far removed from the lingering background characters from the Pilot and second episode. Wang picked up quite a bit with his love of football and Elvis impersonation stories. As well, Damphousse was able to show her intelligence and knowledge with the group. Damphousse definitely needs a bit more attention and interaction; the chemistry with the group is dynamic and fun. All these character defining moments are best when they are intimate before and after the important scenes. This is the core of what makes these episode and series so much fun to watch. The influence of this series is pretty obvious to most familiar with Stargate SG-1, Battlestar Galactica.
The visuals continue to show their age, but at this point I'm accepting them for their intent and not quality. I liked the setting in a mining facility, the drop ship and some time on the Saratoga. The subtle reference to the USS Colin Powell may be dated, but for those of us at the age to remember him this is a fun touch. I have to admit, the light up football being thrown into the expanse of space was hilarious! Otherwise, the visuals in Vansen's dreams of floating into the sun furthered the theme of the episode. The one of Icarus flying close to the sun. It's appropriate the episode carried that theme through the Vansen character so very well. The score and musical aspects tie the bow around this episode beautifully. I absolutely love the score to this episode and this series.
Overall, The Dark Side of the Sun is a step-up from the previous episode. We're hitting the main characters stories right away; I don't mind as it allows deeper stories to unfold and the characters to grow on us. Special shout out to guest star Kimberly Patton for doing a decent job as the de facto leader of the Silicates. I'll give this 9 /10 Hammerheads.
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