Eric P

With its shaky cameras, quick zooms, dark hallways, adult themes, and accented self-centered long-haired science guy, SGU oozes an esthetic reminiscent of 2004's amazing Battlestar Gallactica. Unfortunately, the similarities end there. While BSG successfully mixed military sci-fi action with the human condition, SGU relies on too many long conversations in an attempt to create drama. The ancient stones are an over-used plot device to allow our heroes stuck on a ship to talk to their loved ones or disagree with command without being able to physically return to Earth. Lacking a consistant enemy doesn't help, and most of the antagonists are just run-of-the-mill ho-hum mildly evil humans The protagonists are decent but nothing to write home about. In fact, I can't even recall one by name halfway through the second season. Colonel what's-his-name lacks the all-in gravitas to fully sell the drama, thus there's no Commander Adama or Captain Pichard to carry the show in its weaker moments. Skip it and watch BSG or another Stargate show over again.