Alien Alliances and Ancient Enemies Redefined

Read Time:3 Minute, 21 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
Babylon 5
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Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
Year Released: 1993-1998
Runtime: 110 x 45m episodes (5 seasons)
Creator(s): J. Michael Straczynski
Cast: Bruce Boxleitner, Michael O'Hare, Claudia Christian, Jerry Doyle, Mira Furlan, Richard Biggs, Andrea Thompson, Bill Mumy, Jason Carter, Tracy Scoggins, Stephen Furst, Patricia Tallman, Peter Jurasik, Andreas Katsulas, Jeff Conaway, Robert Rusler, Caitlin Brown, Mary Kay Adams
Where To Watch: available now, click here to order www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step aboard the interstellar BABYLON 5, a groundbreaking odyssey through space and time, now brilliantly captured in this Blu-ray box set. This is a journey into a universe brimming with political intrigue and cosmic battles rendered in gorgeous detail. I was expecting a more dated look from a series that’s over 20 years old. Here, the vastness of space meets the complexity of inter-species relations, all within the confines of a 5-mile-long space station.

Imagine a future where Earth's ambition to conquer the stars leads to encounters with many alien civilizations, each with its complex societies and politics. This is the world of BABYLON 5, a space station that's more than just a hub for intergalactic diplomacy—it's a cauldron where the essence of peace, war, and survival intermingle.

J. Michael Straczynski, the creative genius behind BABYLON 5, revolutionized the landscape of TV storytelling with this series. Its debut presented a serialized narrative that was a rarity at the time, setting a precedent for future television dramas. The series boldly explores themes of fanaticism, racial tension, and power struggles, making it not just a space opera but a reflection of societal undercurrents.

Under Straczynski and producer Douglas Netter, BABYLON 5 became a universe alive with humanoid aliens and labyrinthine political scenarios, earning the series two prestigious Hugo Awards. The show also departed from traditional visual effects, embracing CGI to create a more immersive and futuristic visual experience, distinct from the model-based effects of series like STAR TREK. While this CGI was in its infancy, it was used in a way that kept it from being overwhelming.

The enigmatic Shadow species forms the crux of BABYLON 5's narrative. Their cyclical return brings chaos to the galaxy, with their last retreat a thousand years ago still shrouded in mystery. The series mixes this mythos into its plot, challenging its characters and the galaxy as the Shadows re-emerge, signaling a call to arms for the station's diverse inhabitants.

Captain John Sheridan, portrayed by Bruce Boxleitner, leads a stellar ensemble cast, including Claudia Christian, Jerry Doyle, and Mira Furlan, who breathe life into their characters with unique performances. Each season of BABYLON 5 is a chapter that builds upon its predecessor, evolving from establishing the universe's lore to unraveling complex galactic conflicts and political maneuvers.

In its later seasons, the show delves into the aftermath of an epic war, revealing the formation of a galactic alliance and the intricate political tapestry that unfolds. Themes of authoritarianism, the fight for independence, and covert operations add suspense and intrigue to the storyline.

This Blu-ray collection is a gateway to the entire BABYLON 5 universe. It includes all episodes, immersing audiences in the saga's expansive narrative. With its innovative storytelling, state-of-the-art visual effects, and unique musical score, BABYLON 5 is a monumental achievement in television history. This release pays homage to the series' enduring legacy and opens a portal to one of the most innovative and impactful science fiction narratives ever created.

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[photo courtesy of WARNER BROS. DISCOVER HOME ENTERTAINMENT]