The Last Flight of Galactica

I have finally seen the final ten episodes of Battlestar Galactica and am feeling a little sad that it is all over. I know that the conclusion has elicited mixed reactions. My conclusion- I enjoyed it. The build up to the finale was more of a slow build up than a slam bang in your face finish. At times somes of the story strands seemed rushed in order to up everything before the final episodes.

Nearly all the characters had their storylines resolved well. Helo and Athena were possibly most short changed. The resolution for their arc was good, but they were on the periphery. I suppose it wasn't going to be possible to give every character an in depth send off. Roslin seemed out of character. I couldn't decide if it was the way in which the role was written or if Mary McDonnell's acting wasn't up to scratch. At times the performance just seemed slightly off for some reason. I can't put my finger on it. Roslin is great when involved in showing scenes and moments of strength and determination. Pathetic when emotional. It will be interesting when I rewatch from the mini series onwards whether this is the case all the way through or just in the final stretch.

Michael Hogan deserves great credit for all his work as Tigh. A consistently strong and effective character played by a very underrated actor. As for Katee Sackoff, well she has essayed one of the great female performances in TV for a very long time. I hope she ends up with a long and varied career and not just being the go to action, SF girl.

The final double episode ended on a sombre and thoughtful note. The Baltar and Six visions/angels/watchers/whatever linked well into the spiritual and religious themes that have been evident from the mini series.

Regardless of the very occasional bits that haven't worked, this has been one of the most consistent, challenging, thought provoking and downright awesome pieces of television for many years.

The Galactica and the fleet heading into the sun to the original theme tune was a final send off worthy of the old girl. And she was definitely a character in her own right. Mind you the moments I found most sad were when the Galactica was being bombed and attacked by the Cylons and was almost a fireball. Then when the FTL jump took her away and she crumpled and buckled I did feel a tangible sense of loss and a momentary tear in my eye.

Farewell, Galactica, but I will be back to rewatch all of your fine voyages again.