Delenn’s ceremony of rebirth is halted when remnants of the Nightwatch take hostages. In C&C, the command staff sports an all-new look for an independent Babylon 5.
(Originally aired on April 8, 1996)
Written by J. Michael Straczynski
Directed by John Flinn
GUEST STARS
William Forward -- Lord Refa
Don Stroud -- Boggs
Paul Perri -- Sniper
The voice of Sparky the Computer is supplied by B5 conceptual consultant and science fiction novelist Harlan Ellison.
WATCH OUT FOR
* Memorial shape. As the caskets leave the station, the Starfuries fly in the Missing Man Formation. The Furies initially fly in a line, but one breaks off, symbolizing those who have fallen and who are now missing from the ranks.
* Suspicious hospitality. Londo’s use of poison in Lord Refa’s drink echoes Sinclair’s "poisoning" of G’Kar’s drink at the end of "
".
ANALYSIS
Confident writers tell their stories in the small moments, without explanation, knowing that they their audience will understand. Writers less confident feel the need to spell every bit out; the good writing cannot stand on its own.
Here, J. Michael Straczynski proves himself part of the former group.
The rebirth ceremony Delenn initiates here is identical to that of "
". Where that ceremony was placed into the context of religious exchange (and series exposition), this one is the result of current events on the station.
It is time for healing. Great change must be accompanied by a cleansing.
As part of the rebirth ceremony, each person must sacrifice something precious and must tell a secret never before told. This sequence, done in Medlab after Delenn’s injury, is understated but powerful.
A year’s supply of subplots
Straczynski reveals much about his characters in a few moments, setting up subplots to range across the remainder of the series.
Sheridan reveals his growing love to Delenn. Garibaldi fears what may happen if he loses control. Ivanova confirms that she loved Talia Winters. Franklin alludes to his growing stim addiction.
And in a bar surrounded by unconscious patrons, Lennier admits to Marcus that he loves Delenn.
[uplink]
Meanwhile, in a slightly less confessional gesture, Delenn provides the command staff with new uniforms, symbols not only of the independence of the station, but also of its growing alliance with other worlds.
This is a new beginning, a place from which to move forward.
So much said in few words. So much echoed elsewhere in the series. This is storytelling of the highest magnitude, a demonstration of a writer confident in what he has to say.
COMING UP NEXT
"Sic Transit Vir"
Vir smuggles out Narns.
His intended’s a target.
Susan’s in the buff.
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