DVD Reviews

Battlestar Galactica: Season Two – Blu-ray Review

By June L. Apr 15, 2010, 13:37 GMT

As the epic second season begins, the fight to save humanity rages on. Relive all the intensity and excitement aboard the Galactica as the ongoing battle of President Laura Roslin (Mary McDonnell) and Commander William Adama (Edward James Olmos) continues in their heart-pounding crusade to save humanity from the deadly robot Cylons – even as civil war looms within the fleet between their followers. Featuring an extended version of the ...more

The original showing of the series Battlestar Galactica has finished, but like a good legend, this is a story that can be revisited any number of times and still remain entertaining. 

The new Blu-Ray enhancement and the specials are added enticement to bring viewers back for another look at a story that has thought-provoking episodes, high drama and very good special effects.

Season Two begins with Commander Adama (Edward James Olmos) wounded and fighting for his life, President Roslin (Mary McDonnell) in the brig for having failed in her power struggle, the Galactica alone in space separated from the rest of the fleet of refugees and Colonel Tigh taking over the leadership not certain that he can protect both ship and crew. 

From that trouble laden beginning, Series Two moves on at lightening pace through uprisings and downturns, archeological discoveries and physiological miracles to chart the progress of the displaced remnants of the human race.  There are clues and murky leads to the location of mysterious 13th Colony, Earth.

Given that human natures, not to mention the Cylons take on things are involved, there will be much more to learn and experience before the journey ends.

At a crucial moment, President Roslin and her followers discover the elusive Temple of Athena, and information that seems to point them in the direction of Earth.  Rather than being singleminded in their pursuit of this goal, there is much diversity.  Members of the crew and the survivors are fighting personal battles as they deal with the uncertainties of their positions. 

The appearance of the Pegasus, a “missing” ship commanded by the tough and single-minded Admiral Helena Cole causes a chain of events that poses even more problems for Adama newly returned to his command.  Amongst the civilians, a thriving black market has developed, and crime is rampant.  Season Two is full of plot twists and revelations that were surprising at first viewing and still elicit viewer appreciation for their complexity. 

Add to this the emotionally charged and careful portrayals of characters that stay in the mind long after the episode is over, Battlestar Galactica continues to weave its spell.  The Blu-Ray version offers The Oracle, an interactive operation that allows the viewer to access information about a variety of elements within the story. 

This is a bonus if you have not watched the series for awhile, jogging memory and helping to keep the lines straight as the story progresses.

Battlestar Galactica Season Two Blu-Ray is presented on five discs.  These are housed in a folding case illustrated with stills from the season and with brief synopses and episode information, including special features that are available for each disc.  The Blu-Ray feature THE ORACLE is active on each disc. 

Special features for the set include “Battlestar Galactica Career Assignment Quiz” which allows the viewer to “join the fleet” and discover his or her perfect job.  The episode “Pegasus” is presented in an extended version and with a commentary from executive producers Ronald D. Moore and David Eick.  Among other bonuses are a “Sizzle Reel,” “Ronald D. Moore’s Podcast Commentaries,” “David Eick’s Video Blogs,” and deleted scenes from the episodes. 

BD Live is available for those who wish to take on Battlestar Galactica’s Trivia Challenge, or play Battlestar Galactica: Ultimate Battle Card game. 

This is a fine addition for any collection of Battlestar Galactica media.

Visit the DVD database for more information.