Singularity

Plot: SG-1 arrive on a planet to observe a black hole during an eclipse. However, they find that SG-7 and the planet's population are all dead, except for a young girl named Cassandra. Cassandra returns to Earth with SG-1, where it is discovered that the entire thing was a trap set by a Goa'uld. Cassandra has a bomb in her chest that will obliterate the SG-C and the surrounding area.


Funnily enough, this is the first episode of SG-1 that I ever saw. It was on Sky One way back when and the image of Sam in the lift with Cassandra has always stuck in my mind. I think I was home ill from school that day and it's a strange coincidence that today, when I watch this episode for the first time since, I'm full of cold.

This episode really ups the ante in terms of drama and action. It's a really grand plot, dealing with some really grand themes. First of all, having SG-1 observe a black hole during an eclipse on an alien planet is some pretty awesome science fiction. What's more awesome is the reminder that our own Jack O'Neill is a bit of an astromonist. He gets a chance to flex his oft quiet scientific curiosity to witness the event. Afterall, he didn't have that telescope on his roof just to look at the neighbours.

Following that, we find Dr. Frasier referring to Naquadah by name for the first time. That's the stuff that the gate is made from and it's damned explosive. The Goa'uld plot to blow up the SG-C is a clever one, and it's cleverely written. Cassandra's potassium levels are artificially lowered by the Goa'uld, so that Frasier will have to inject her with some to re-balance it. This then binds with the Naquadah in her system and makes one hell of a bomb.

Cassandra herself is fun to watch and facilitates a great happy ending. She's off to live with Dr. Frasier, and a new -adorable- puppy, courtesy of Jack. We also get to see Teal'c's awesome hat again and I'm serious that I'll take one of someone's hands if they want. :p


This has been one of the high points of the series so far. A majestically written piece, that's beautifully executed.

9 out of 10