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{{Episode Data|
{{Episode Data
  Image = [[Image:Resurrection_Ship_pt2-Planning.jpg|300px]]
| image = Resurrection Ship attack plans.jpg
| Title=Resurrection Ship, Part I
| title=Resurrection Ship, Part I
| Series=[[Battlestar Galactica (RDM)|the Re-imagined Series]]
| series=
| Season=2
| season=2
| Episode=11
| episode=11
| Guests=[[Michelle Forbes]] ([[Helena Cain]]) <br/> Graham Beckel ([[Jack Fisk]]) <br/> Sebastian Spence ([[Whiplash]]) <br/> John Pyper-Ferguson ([[Cole Taylor|Cole "Stinger" Taylor]]) <br/> Vincent Gale ([[Peter Laird]]) <br/> [http://us.imdb.com/M/person-exact?+Aaron+Douglas Aaron Douglas] ([[Galen Tyrol]]) <br/> [http://us.imdb.com/M/person-exact?+Nicki+Clyne Nicki Clyne] ([[Cally]]) <br/> [[Bodie Olmos]] ([[Brendan Constanza|Hot Dog]]) <br/> [http://us.imdb.com/name/nm1382781/ Luciana Carro] ([[Louanne Katraine]])
| guests=[[Michelle Forbes]] as Admiral [[Helena Cain|Cain]]
| Writer=[[Michael Rymer]]
| writer=[[Michael Rymer]]
| Story=[http://us.imdb.com/M/person-exact?+Anne+Cofell Anne Cofell Sanders]
| story=[[Anne Cofell Saunders]]
| Director=[[Michael Rymer]]
| director=[[Michael Rymer]]
| Production=
| production=211
| Rating=
| rating= 2.1
| US Airdate=January 6, 2006
| US airdate=2006-01-06
| UK Airdate=
| CAN airdate=2006-03-25
| DVD=
| UK airdate=2006-03-21
| Prev=[[Pegasus (episode)|Pegasus]]
| dvd= {{Season 2.5 NTSC DVD release date}} '''US'''<br/>{{Season 2 PAL DVD release date}} '''UK'''
| Next=[[Resurrection Ship, Part II]]
| population= 49604
| oldpopulation= 49605
| extra= '''Season 2.5 Premiere'''
| syfyname= resurrection_ship_part_i
| prev=[[Pegasus (episode)|Pegasus]]
| next=[[Resurrection Ship, Part II]]
| podcast=Y
| goof= Y
| itunes=http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=VWbyALbmqZY&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%253A%252F%252Fitunes.apple.com%252FWebObjects%252FMZStore.woa%252Fwa%252FviewTVSeason%253Fi%253D115069189%2526id%253D102808898%2526s%253D143441%2526uo%253D6%2526partnerId%253D30
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| itunes UK=http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/stat?id=VWbyALbmqZY&offerid=146261&type=3&subid=0&tmpid=1826&RD_PARM1=http%253A%252F%252Fitunes.apple.com%252FWebObjects%252FMZStore.woa%252Fwa%252FviewTVSeason%253Fi%253D115069189%2526id%253D102808898%2526s%253D143444%2526uo%253D6%2526partnerId%253D30
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}}


== Overview ==
 
:''A military power struggle threatens to escalate into all-out war as the battlestars ''Galactica'' and ''Pegasus'' attempt to join forces to destroy a critical Cylon target: a “Resurrection” ship.''
 
:''A potential battle between ''[[Galactica (TRS)|Galactica]]'' and ''[[Pegasus (RDM)|Pegasus]]'' is only averted by [[Kara Thrace|Lt. Thrace]]'s return from her recon mission with important tactical information on the unknown [[Cylons (RDM)|Cylon]] ship.''


== Summary ==
== Summary ==
*[[Kara Thrace]] flies in behind the Cylon fleet following ''Galactica.'' The stealth features of the [[Blackbird]] allow her to fly to and within the superstructure of the [[Unknown Cylon Ship]], taking pictures along the way. Just before leaving the superstructure, she [[FTL|Jumps]] away to safety and [[The Fleet (RDM)|The Fleet]].
 
*Thrace returns from her unsanctioned reconnaissance of the Cylon fleet in the middle of Adama and Cain's standoff, with recon images of the [[Unknown Cylon Ship]]. Her return appears on [[DRADIS]] as a [[Raider]] and causes Viper squadrons from both ''[[Galactica (RDM)|Galactica]]'' and ''[[Pegasus (RDM)|Pegasus]]'' to stop a deadly game of "chicken", with neither side firing unless fired upon.
=== Teaser ===
*Thrace uploads her incredibly detailed pictures of the Unknown Cylon Ship. A closeup shows Cylon bodies, including several inactive copies of the blonde Cylon agent known to the Colonials as [[Number Six|"Shelly Godfrey" and "Gina"]].
 
*After being grilled for their near-disasterous action on ''[[Colonial One]]'' by President [[Laura Roslin]], Adama and Cain agree to a truce while they prepare a joint attack on the Cylon fleet.
*Continuing from the [[Pegasus (episode)|previous episode]], a swarm of {{RDM|Viper}}s from ''[[Galactica (TRS)|Galactica]]'' and ''[[Pegasus (RDM)|Pegasus]]'' move into weapons range of each other after [[William Adama|Commander Adama]] challenges [[Helena Cain|Admiral Cain]] over the imminent execution of two of his crewmen. Neither commanders are willing to order "weapons free" to fire. The Vipers are reduced to playing "chicken," attempting to force each other to fire — or collide.
*Roslin warns Adama that Cain is a loose cannon, who must be killed in order to save the Fleet from annihilation. Adama is surprised at Roslin's candor, and is reluctant to consider the idea.
*Cain orders Captain [[Cole Taylor]] to arrest and relieve [[Lee Adama|Lieutenant {{callsign|Apollo|nolink=y}}]], who is co-piloting a Raptor about to leave on the recon mission. The Raptor pilot draws his sidearm on Lt. Adama and orders him into the rear of the Raptor.
 
=== Act 1 and beyond ===
 
*Flying the [[Blackbird]], which goes undetected by the Cylon fleet, [[Kara Thrace]] flies right into the superstructure of the [[Unknown Cylon Ship]], taking pictures along the way. Before the Cylons can detect her, she jumps away.
*Confined to the rear of the Raptor, Lt. Adama sends an encrypted text message to Thrace.
*Leading ''Galactica''{{'|s}} Viper squadron, [[Louanne Katraine|Louanne "Kat" Katraine]] continually requests clearance from Commander Adama to fire on ''Pegasus''' Vipers, but he refuses.
*Thrace arrives in the [[Blackbird]]. After getting over her initial confusion at the chicken-fight, she receives Lt. Adama's message and replies back, wondering what was going on (the Viper entanglement).
*Both ''Galactica'' and ''Pegasus'' pick up the Blackbird on [[DRADIS]], but its lack of [[IFF|transponder]] codes leads Cain and Adama to assume that the new contact is a Raider. All Vipers break off their chicken-fight and move to engage the enemy, only standing down when Thrace broadcasts her ID over [[wireless]].
*When Cain looks likely to resume the conflict with Adama, Thrace uploads her incredibly detailed pictures of the Unknown Cylon Ship to ''Pegasus''' CIC. A closeup shows Cylon bodies, including several inactive copies of [[Number Six|the blonde Humanoid Cylon]] known to the Colonials as "[[Shelly Godfrey]]" and "[[Gina Inviere]]."
*Aboard ''[[Colonial One]]'', after being grilled by President [[Laura Roslin]] for their near-disastrous actions, Adama and Cain agree to a truce while they prepare a joint attack on the Cylon fleet.
*Privately, Roslin warns Adama that Cain is a loose cannon, who must be killed in order to save the Fleet from annihilation. Adama is surprised at Roslin's candor, and is reluctant to consider the idea.
*Adama learns that ''Pegasus'' was also shepherding a civilian fleet, which it abandoned months ago, but not before stripping it of anything useful, including FTL drives, spare parts, and people. Cain ordered the execution of the families of individuals she selected who would not leave with ''Pegasus.''
*Adama learns that ''Pegasus'' was also shepherding a civilian fleet, which it abandoned months ago, but not before stripping it of anything useful, including FTL drives, spare parts, and people. Cain ordered the execution of the families of individuals she selected who would not leave with ''Pegasus.''
*[[Gaius Baltar]] speaks more with [[Number Six#Gina|Gina]], who wants Baltar to kill her so she can free herself from her torturous existance. He tells her that she cannot die as her consciousness would only download into another [[Humano-Cylon|Cylon body]]. Seeing the copies of reconnaissance photos Baltar is carrying, Gina says she would die if his Fleet destroys the Unknown ship.
*[[Gaius Baltar]] speaks more with [[Gina Inviere]], who wants Baltar to kill her so she can free herself from her torturous existence. He tells her that she cannot die as her consciousness would only download into another [[Humanoid Cylon|Cylon body]]. Seeing the copies of reconnaissance photos Baltar is carrying, Gina says she would die if his Fleet destroys the Unknown ship, which she names.
*Baltar briefs Adama and Cain: The ship is known as the Resurrection Ship. Its function is to allow Cylon agents a place where their consciousness can download, as an agent in the Fleet would be too far from the Cylon homeworld for their consciousness to return. Cain quickly surmises that, without the Resurrection Ship, the few agents remaining would be permanently gone, perhaps more reluctant to complete their respective missions.
*Baltar briefs Adama and Cain: The function of the [[Resurrection Ship]], as Gina called it, is to allow Humanoid Cylons a place where their consciousness can download, as an agent in the Fleet would be too far from the Cylon homeworld for their consciousness to return. Cain quickly surmises that, without the Resurrection Ship, any Cylon agent killed thereafter would be permanently dead, perhaps making the Cylons more conservative in carrying out their respective missions.
*Laura Roslin's illness is now more visibly apparent. William Adama visits her, and the two have a most unusual, even sentimental talk, with humor about getting a fresh, young Cylon body replacement for Roslin. Adama smiles and says that he couldn't think of her as a blonde, but Roslin smiles and says he'd be surprised.
*Laura Roslin's illness is now more visibly apparent. William Adama visits her, and the two have a most unusual, even sentimental talk, with humor about getting a fresh, young Cylon body replacement for Roslin. Adama smiles and says that he couldn't think of her as a blonde, but Roslin smiles and says he'd be surprised.
*Cain finds Thrace's initiative laudable, and promotes her to Captain and [[CAG]] ''Pegasus'' over [[Cole Taylor]]. She initially pulls [[Lee Adama]]'s flight status, but restores it at Thrace's behest and assigns him to her team. Thrace begins plans on an attack on the Resurrection Ship.
*Cain finds Thrace's initiative laudable, and promotes her to Captain and [[CAG]] ''Pegasus'' over [[Cole Taylor]]. She initially pulls [[Lee Adama]]'s flight status, but restores it at Thrace's behest and assigns him to her team. Thrace begins plans on an attack on the Resurrection Ship.
*[[Karl Agathon|Helo]] and [[Galen Tyrol]] are pleasantly surprised not to be dead. Lee Adama visits the two and catches them up on events, noting that his father pulled out the stops to ensure Helo's and Tyrol's survival.
*[[Karl Agathon|Helo]] and [[Galen Tyrol]] are pleasantly surprised not to be dead. Lee Adama visits the two and catches them up on events, noting that his father pulled out the stops to ensure Helo's and Tyrol's survival.
*[[Kara_Thrace|Starbuck]] and [[Lee_Adama|Apollo]] brief the battlestar commanders and XO's regarding the plan to disable and destroy the [[Resurrection Ship]].  The plan will involve both battlestars and all available fighters.  Both [[Helena_Cain|Admiral Cain]] and [[William Adama|Commander Adama]] approve of the plan, Adama being the more hesitant of the two.  
*[[Kara_Thrace|Starbuck]] and [[Lee_Adama|Apollo]] brief the battlestar commanders and XO's regarding the plan to disable and destroy the [[Resurrection Ship]].  The plan will involve both battlestars and all available fighters.  Both [[Helena_Cain|Admiral Cain]] and [[William Adama|Commander Adama]] approve of the plan, Adama being the more hesitant of the two.
*Colonel Tigh asks if the [[Blackbird]] could be used to sneak up behind the Resurrection Ship with a nuclear missile to destroy the Resurrection Ship outright. Thrace indicates that computer simulations show that the Cylons would pick up the [[Radiological Alarm|radiological signature]] of the bomb (which cannot be hidden by the Blackbird's stealth ability). Such detection would destroy their element of surprise and likely warn the Resurrection Ship to jump away.
*After the briefing, Adama consults with Thrace privately, asking her to shoot Cain in the head after the attack. Likewise, Cain transfers [[Jack Fisk]] and a squad of Marines loyal to her to ''Galactica'' and instructs Fisk to kill Adama ''and'' his command staff after the attack.
*After the briefing, Adama consults with Thrace privately, asking her to shoot Cain in the head after the attack. Likewise, Cain transfers [[Jack Fisk]] and a squad of Marines loyal to her to ''Galactica'' and instructs Fisk to kill Adama ''and'' his command staff after the attack.
== Questions ==
* Why doesn't Cain and her crew grasp the concept that survival of the human race supersedes the military way of life?
** Adama had similar ideas in the [[Miniseries]] until Roslin talked him out of it. 
* If Dr. [[Cottle]] were to perform a psychological examination on Cain, could Adama strip her of command for medical reasons?
**Adama could have just had Roslin strip her of her rank because she's Commander-in-Chief; it doesn't matter: Cain's hold over Pegasus is so tight it would be fluffed off. Also, Cain is not clinically insane. It's not just "insane" humans who do evil things in wartime. Cain does bad things, and she doesn't have the excuse of not being in command of her mental faculties.
* Has Roslin's illness has brought her to terminally important attitudes on life and death? Unlike the option to kill the prisoners on the ''[[Astral Queen]]'' ([[Miniseries]]), Roslin does not hesitate to suggest to Adama to kill Cain.
**These two issues are not morally equivalent. The prisoners on ''Astral Queen'' were not posing an immediate threat to the safety of the Fleet, as Cain and ''Pegasus'' were.
*Why does Commander Adama rely on gossip from Cally and Tigh, rather than debriefing [[Laird]] personally?
**Maybe Laird was so scared/broken in by Cain that he would be unwilling to say anything against Cain out of fear; thus Tigh had to ask Fisk.
**Were Laird's wife and possibly children executed on the ''[[Scylla]]'' because he was one of the two who resisted the ''Pegasus'' marine team?
*When did the Resurrection Ship begin following the Fleet? Was it able to rescue [[Aaron Doral#Suicide Bomber Copy|Aaron Doral (Suicide Bomber Copy)]] (killed day 17), [[Number Six#Shelly Godfrey|Shelly Godfrey]] (disappeared day 24), [[Leoben Conoy#Gemenon Traveler Copy|Leoben Conoy (Gemenon Traveler Copy)]] (killed day 25), or [[Sharon Valerii#Galactica Copy|Sharon Valerii (Galactica Copy)]] (killed c. day 54)?
**An answer to the Valerii consciousness viewers knew as "Boomer" may be answered in the episode, "[[Downloaded]]."
* [[Kara Thrace|Starbuck]] got some pretty close shots of the [[Resurrection Ship]], so much so that [[Helena_Cain|Admiral Cain]] was able to ID the [[Humano-Cylon|Cylon agent]] she knew as [[Number Six|Gina]]. Could any of the other [[Humano-Cylon]] models be identified, including the ones that the Fleet aren't aware of yet?
**Although logically possible, from a storywriting standpoint they were probably not lucky enough for that.
*Since Lee Adama was ultimately to be included in the mission to assassinate Cain anyway, why didn't his father deign to brief him at the same time as Kara Thrace? Having Thrace fill him in later doubles the chance of their plans being overheard.
**Since Starbuck is the ''Pegasus'' CAG, Adama has an excuse to ask her to stay. If he'd asked for her ''and'' Lee, it likely would have raised suspicions.
*Baltar said that he's tired of the fantasy-world in his head that he retreats into; not of Number Six herself, but of his bachelor pad on Caprica. Is this a further sign that Baltar is shifting closer into the Cylon camp? It could mean that he no longer misses his old life on Caprica and has stopped clinging to it.
*To what extent is the chain of command still in effect? Adama fully intends to have Cain killed, but still stops short of demanding Agathon and Tyrol's return, and Cain believes he will still accept Fisk's transfer to ''Galactica'' as a spy.
*Will Fisk carry out his order to have ''Pegasus'' marines execute ''Galactica's'' entire command staff?  He seems to have found a friend in Col. Tigh, someone who he is more than willing to share otherwise privileged information with. He does seem to be Cain's voice of reason.
*Is Admiral Cain telling the truth when she says to Starbuck that their "ultimate goal" is to return to the [[Twelve Colonies (RDM)|Twelve Colonies]] and liberate them from the Cylons?
**On the one hand, she may be playing on Starbuck's desire to rescue the [[Resistance (movement)|Caprican Resistance]] led by [[Samuel Anders]] in order to lure Starbuck over to her allegiance (Cain was impressed by Starbuck's brazen recon mision, and now views her as a valuable asset).
**On the other hand, this is consistent with Admiral Cain's behavior so far: while ''Galactica's'' crew realizes they had no hope of taking back the Colonies and left to try to find Earth, ''Pegasus'' has actually been engaging Cylon forces on the outskirts of the occupied Twelve Colonies for months. Cain does truly seem to want to "take the fight to the Cylons", as it were, and fight to reclaim the Twelve Colonies.
***Even if she is being honest about that, her comment to Starbuck that Anders' resistance "deserves to be saved" seems almost definitely just to be Cain manipulating Starbuck:  As evidenced by Cain's treatment of her own [[Scylla|small civilian fleet]], she has completely prioritized the military assets of ''Pegasus'' over the well-being of any other small group of people.
***Even if Admiral Cain were able to lead the Fleet in successfully forcing the Cylons out of the Twelve Colonies, doesn't she realize that they've ''already'' been nuked and are currently inhospitably irradiated? The few people left on the Colonies need anti-radiation medication to survive there, there's only a finite supply of these and it's doubtful that they have any production facilities they could use.
== Analysis ==
This episode fails to skip a beat from the mid-season closer. With ''Galactica's'' and ''Pegasus''' Vipers in a scary game of chicken, the level of tension borders on the "fish in a blender" scenario.
Admiral Cain is clearly showing signs of stress indicative of some kind of sociopathic disorder; her orders and desire to follow the military way overshadow any compassion or understanding of the reality of her situation. She fails to understand that killing Helo and Tyrol worsens the Fleet, as she cannot simply find a suitable replacement.
The star of this show, albeit briefly appearing, is Mary McDonnell's Roslin. Like her namesake Blackbird itself, Roslin shows her toughness in staring down Cain ''and'' Adama, who actually looks ''ashamed'' in his actions while Roslin reads both "the riot act." Were not for the situation, Roslin's second talk with Adama, maybe the first time that Roslin does not appear with Adama in regular clothing, very casual, and obviously ill, seemed more like two old friends. Adama does something viewers have rarely seen with Roslin--his face relaxes and shows humor, sympathy, perhaps even sadness at Roslin's illness and her strength in looking her illness in the face and denying it anyway. He offers his hand and she accepts with a squeeze before she leaves. It seems in this moment that Roslin and Adama exchanged more romantic chemistry than the writer's attempts to do the same with Adama's son and Kara Thrace.
Baltar was generally neutral in this episode, playing both sides, Adama and Cain, Colonial and Cylon, to the advantage of all. His motives in saving Gina are still in doubt, and viewers are likely to see more development here.
Viewers are likely more interested not in the upcoming battle, now a more evenly matched fight between Colonial and Cylon (all things considered--[[basestar]]s generate Raiders like rabbits generate offspring), but in the battle for control of the Fleet, with both Adama and Cain performing similar strategies to kill the other.
*Cain wonders if debating morality is what Roslin and Adama have been doing "for the past six months"; however, as explained in the article [[Timeline (RDM)]], this episode only takes place a little over ''three'' months after the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]].  Specifically, the beginning of "[[Flight of the Phoenix]]" took place 30 days after "[[Resistance]]", when the crashed Raptor team returned from Kobol, which took place less than a week after "[[Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II]]", which explicitly stated to take place 51 days after [[Karl Agathon|Helo]] was stranded on Caprica in the [[Miniseries]]. In "Flight of the Phoenix", Roslin was told that her cancer had advanced aggressively, and she had a month to live "at the outside". The idea that the episode "[[Pegasus (episode)|Pegasus]]" (which took place immediatly before this one) took place ''three months'' after "Flight of the Phoenix" thus seems entirely impossible. This line should probably be regarded as exaggeration, or just a goof.
*Pilot [[Louanne Katraine]] has apparently got her groove back from "[[Final Cut]]", and has become the lead pilot on ''Galactica'' following the transfer of Lee Adama and Kara Thrace to ''Pegasus''. Given that the ungifted [[George Birch]] was apparently the best to be found within ''Galactica's'' regular chain of command ([[Home, Part I]]), it's unsurprising that a talented nugget has risen to the top.
**In hindsight, her abuse of stims is actually in line with the single-minded zeal she approaches her job with. She has apparently learned to channel her perfectionism into a more constructive outlet.
*Both Adama and Cain's assassination plans (taking advantage of a victory celebration in CIC) are exactly the same as the one used by Galactica-Boomer in Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II.


== Notes ==
== Notes ==


*Fleet population is down to 49,604 to account for the death of [[Alistair Thorne]], Cylon Interrogator.
* The Fleet population is down to 49,604 to account for the death of [[Alastair Thorne]].
* Admiral Cain promotes Kara Thrace to the rank of captain. She replaces Stinger as ''Pegasus's'' CAG.
* Admiral Cain promotes Kara Thrace to the rank of captain. She replaces Stinger as ''Pegasus's'' CAG.
* The Cylon fleet containing the [[Resurrection Ship]] has been following [[The Fleet (RDM)|The Fleet]]. It was speculated that the Resurrection Ship was a safety net for any Cylons who died in the Fleet.  
* The Cylon fleet containing the [[Resurrection Ship]] has been following the Colonial [[The Fleet (RDM)|Fleet]]. It is speculated that the Resurrection Ship is a safety net for any Cylons who die in the Fleet.  
* During the closing R&D production company animation, in which David Eick is sliced in two by a bolt of lightning, House Resolution 2995 of the 109th Congress is mentioned in a news ticker.  The resolution, introduced June 27, 2005, involves the creation of a "Weather Modification Operations and Research Board."  Source: [http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h109-2995 GovTrack]
*In case there was any doubt, by this point ''Galactica'' crew definitely knows that the blonde woman they first met as "Shelley Godfrey" is a humanoid Cylon, to the point that Roslin cracks a joke that she wouldn't mind waking up inside a gorgeous ''blonde''-haired body.
*In case there was any doubt, by this point the ''Galactica'' crew definitely knows that the blonde woman they first met as "Shelley Godfrey" is a humanoid Cylon, to the point that Roslin cracks a joke that she wouldn't mind waking up inside a gorgeous ''blonde''-haired body.
*Number Six likes [[pyramid (RDM)|pyramid]]. She went to live games often while she was on Caprica. She says it was because she loved the rush of raw emotions that would sweep over the crowd.
*Number Six likes [[pyramid]]. She went to live games often while she was on Caprica. She said it was because she loved the rush of raw emotions that would sweep over the crowd.
*Thrace still intends to recover Anders' [[Caprica Resistance]] fighters from Caprica. Timeline-wise, they have a little over a month of [[Anti-radiation medication|anti-radiation meds]] left ([[Downloaded|apparently, they are able to obtain more as time passes]]).
*Thrace still intends to recover Anders' [[Resistance (movement)|Resistance]] fighters from Caprica. Timeline wise, they have a little over a month of anti-radiation meds left.
*Tigh and Fisk continue their status as drinking buddies.
*Tigh and Fisk have continued their status as drinking buddies.
*Roslin has developed a bad cough, perhaps evidence that her cancer has spread to her lungs, or that she has begun to suffer from opportunistic infections.
*Roslin has developed a bad cough, perhaps evidence that her cancer has spread to her lungs, or that she has begun to suffer from opportunistic infections.
*Although Commander Adama does a good job of trying to "hide" it, when Adama leaves the sick Roslin he quickly wipes away a tear.
*Although Commander Adama does a good job of trying to "hide" it, when Adama leaves the sick Roslin he quickly wipes away a tear.


== Noteworthy Dialogue ==
== Analysis ==
*Cain wonders if debating morality is what Roslin and Adama have been doing "for the past six months". However, as shown [[Timeline - Season 2 (RDM)#Pegasus|here]], this episode should only take place a little over ''three'' months after the [[Fall of the Twelve Colonies]]. This is actually the starting point of what ''Battlestar Wiki'' refers to as the [[Season two timeline discontinuity]]: all episodes in Season 2.5 have jumped ahead three months in the timeline, while being consistent with each other (i.e. "[[Downloaded]]" is supposed to be 9 months after the Cylon attack, and it does take place 3 months after this episode).
*[[Louanne Katraine]] has become the lead pilot on ''Galactica'' following the transfer of Lee Adama and Kara Thrace to ''Pegasus''. Given that the ungifted [[George Birch]] is apparently the best to be found within ''Galactica''{{'|s}} regular chain of command {{TRS|Home, Part I}}, it is unsurprising that a talented nugget has risen to the top.
**In hindsight, her abuse of stims is actually in line with the single-minded zeal she approaches her job with. She has apparently learned to channel her perfectionism into a more constructive outlet.
**In choosing Birch Commander Adama decides to value loyalty way above everything else, about which Tigh is quite surprised. With Adama re-balancing his requirements it is no surprise a better pilot gets the position.
*Both Adama and Cain's assassination plans (taking advantage of a victory celebration in [[CIC]]) are exactly the same as the one used by Sharon Valerii in "[[Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II]]".
*Commander Adama likely specifies to shoot Cain in the head, because he himself survived two shots in the gut and wants to make sure that she dies.
* The attack plan is similar to the attack on the [[Cylon Refinery|Cylon tylium refinery]] in "[[The Hand of God (RDM)|The Hand of God]]". Both times, civilian freighters are used to draw Raiders away from the main target.
* The Cylons are unable to detect the Blackbird, while both Colonial battlestars are able to pick it up relatively quickly. It should be noted that the Blackbird is only detected once it starts transmitting a message. This suggests that it isn't literally detected by its [[DRADIS]] signature, but by the [[wireless]] signals it gives off.
*Laura Roslin, as President of the Twelve Colonies, probably has the power to remove Cain from active duty status. However, Cain barely recognizes her authority. She does a double take when Roslin is introduced to her as president, and - similar to Adama's reaction in the Miniseries - still sees her as the Secretary of Education. While attempting to get supplies for the civilian fleet, Roslin tells Adama that Cain will not take her phone calls. It is doubtful that she would follow an order to stand down, especially given her propensity for throwing Adama's logged actions back at him. Presumably she would cite his decision to remove Roslin from office and Tigh's subsequent declaration of martial law as precedent for doing same were Roslin to challenge her. (And Roslin was unable to remove Adama from active duty at that time, either, suggesting a possible limitation to her powers as president.)
**Alternatively, Roslin should have the power to pardon Helo and Chief, or to commute their sentences. The U.S. President has this authority for convictions in [http://www.justice.gov/pardon/pardon_instructions.htm military court-martial proceedings], and Roslin subsequently issues a general amnesty for crimes committed on New Caprica. See, [[Collaborators|Collaborators (Episode)]]. Had Cain refused to honor a Presidential grant of clemency, Roslin would have cause for removing or demoting her, and Adama would have legal cover for moving against her. [[User:Dogger55|Dogger55]] 07:44, 3 July 2011 (EDT)
*Despite demanding obedience and discipline from those under her, Cain admires courage and out-of-the-box thinking and even allows a certain amount of rule-bending at times.  In this episode, she promotes Kara Thrace to CAG despite Thrace's known disciplinary problems (the most recent being her unauthorized usage of the Blackbird).


*'''Starbuck''': Starbuck to all vipers-- do not fire... repeat, do not fire! I am a friendly, okay? We're all friendlies. So, let's just...be friendly.
== Questions ==
* Why don't Cain and her crew grasp the concept that survival of the human race supersedes the military way of life? ([[Razor|Answer]])
*What was the fate of the other civilians in ''Pegasus'''s civilian fleet, the ones who weren't brought to '' Pegasus'' as useful assets or executed after the civilian ships were stripped? ([[Razor|Answer]])
* If Dr. [[Cottle]] were to perform a psychological examination on Cain, could Adama strip her of command for medical reasons? Would Cain or her crew even accept such a move?
*Why does Commander Adama rely on gossip from Cally Henderson and Tigh, rather than debriefing [[Peter Laird|Laird]] personally?
**Laird is probably too intimidated by Cain to give Adama any information that could be used against her.
*When did the Resurrection Ship begin following the Fleet? Was it able to rescue [[Aaron Doral#Suicide Bomber Copy|Aaron Doral (Suicide Bomber Copy)]] (killed day 17), [[Shelly Godfrey]] (disappeared day 24), [[Leoben Conoy#Gemenon Traveler Copy|Leoben Conoy (Gemenon Traveler Copy)]] (killed day 25), or [[Sharon Valerii]] (killed c. day 54)? ([[Downloaded|Answer]] regarding Boomer)
* [[Kara Thrace|Starbuck]] gets some close shots of the [[Resurrection Ship]], so much so that Admiral [[Helena Cain|Cain]] is able to identify the [[Cylon agent]] she knew as [[Gina Inviere]]. Could any of the other humanoid Cylon models be identified, including the ones that the Fleet aren't aware of yet? ([[Final Five|Answer]])
*Since Lee Adama is ultimately included in the mission to assassinate Cain anyway, why didn't his father deign to brief him at the same time as Kara Thrace? Having Thrace fill him in later doubles the chance of their plans being overheard.
*Baltar says that he is tired of the fantasy-world in his head that he retreats into; not of Number Six herself, but of his bachelor pad on Caprica. Is this a further sign that Baltar is shifting closer into the Cylon camp? It could mean that he no longer misses his old life on Caprica and has stopped clinging to it.
*To what extent is the chain of command still in effect? Adama fully intends to have Cain killed, but still stops short of demanding Agathon and Tyrol's return, and Cain believes he will still accept Fisk's transfer to ''Galactica'' as a spy.
*Is Admiral Cain telling the truth when she says to Starbuck that their "ultimate goal" is to return to the [[Twelve Colonies of Kobol|Twelve Colonies]] and liberate them from the Cylons? While the idea fits to her previous actions against the Cylons, could it just be a way to gain Thrace's trust?


*'''Col. Tigh''': Ahh, another of <nowiki>[</nowiki>[[Kara Thrace|Starbuck]]'s] crazy ass stunts... thank the Gods!
== Official Statements ==


*'''President Roslin''': The spirit of the law requires something more here than summary executions.
* ''[[Michelle Forbes]] ([[Helena Cain]]) on the different choices her character and [[Edward James Olmos]]' character had to make:''
:'''Admiral Cain''': Is this what the two of you have been doing for the past six months? Debating the finer points of Colonial law? Well, guess what, we're at war! And we don't have the luxury of academic debate over these issues.


*'''President Roslin''': You have ''Pegasus'', he has ''Galactica''. Two heavily armed, very powerful warships. Now, I am sure that ''Pegasus'' would prevail in any fight--
: That's indeed what she did [in order to ensure ''Pegasus's'' survival]. And ''[[Galactica (TRS)|Galactica]]'' had many difficult choices. [Edward James Olmos' character is absolutely mesmerizing to me. The questions [[William Adama|[William Adama]]] has had to face – ethical dilemmas, life and death questions. He's just made them from a more human place. He hasn't lost his sense of humanity and compassion and he's constantly questioning that. That's what’s so wonderful about the [Season 2] ''[[Pegasus (RDM)|Pegasus]]'' arc, you have these two forms of leadership in juxtaposition and just examining that.<ref>{{cite_web|url=http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/entertainment_tv/2007/11/battlestar-ga-1.html|title='Battlestar Galactica: Razor' cuts to the heart of the matter|date=20 November 2007|accessdate=22 November 2007|last=Ryan|first=Maureen|format=|language=}}</ref>
:'''Commander Adama''': --I wouldn't count on that--
:'''President Roslin''': --But certainly, there'd be heavy damage and you'd take significant casualties. So you can go out there and fight it out with Galactica or you can compromise. And those are the only two options on the table, period.  
:'''Admiral Cain''': ...How the two of you have survived this long, I will never know.


*'''Admiral Cain''': Stand at ease, lieutenant and come forward. Seems you've had quite a day. I'm promoting you to captain. I'm making you commander of the Pegasus air group.
== Noteworthy Dialogue ==
:'''Starbuck''': You're promoting me?
*{{audio|RS1 - we're all friendlies.mp3|''Upon returning from the recon mission.''}}
:'''Admiral Cain''': I need a CAG with guts and initiative to plan and lead the attack on this fleet.
:'''Starbuck''': Starbuck to all vipers-- do not fire... repeat, do not fire! I am a friendly, okay? We're all friendlies. So, let's just...be friendly.  


*'''Admiral Cain''': Do you always get what you want?
*{{audio|RS1 - crazy ass stunt.mp3|''In Galactica's CIC.''}}
:'''Starbuck''': Most of the time...sir.
:'''Col. Tigh''': Ahh, another one of [[Kara Thrace|her]] crazy ass stunts... thank the Gods!
:'''Admiral Cain''': Good...me too. 
:'''Commander Adama''': You can say that again!


*'''Admiral Cain''': I hear you want to return to Caprica.  
*{{audio|RS1 - post conflict meeting on Colonial One.mp3|''During the meeting on Colonial One''}}
:'''Starbuck''': Yes, sir. We have people back there still alive.  
:'''President Roslin''': Admiral, surely... The spirit of the law requires something more here than summary executions.
:'''Admiral Cain''': Yes, and they deserve to be saved. I absolutely agree. In fact, I will go one step further and I will say that our ultimate goal is that we should return to the 12 colonies and kick the Cylons the frak out of our homes. What do you think of that, ''Captain''?
:'''Admiral Cain''': Is this what the two of you have been doing for the past six months? Debating the finer points of Colonial law? Well, guess what, we're at war! And we don't have the luxury of academic debate over these issues.
:'''Starbuck''': I think that's the best idea I've heard all day, sir.
:'''President Roslin''': You want to cut through it, fine. You have ''Pegasus'', he has ''Galactica''. Two heavily armed, very powerful warships. Now, I am sure that ''Pegasus'' would prevail in any fight--
:'''Commander Adama''': --I wouldn't count on that--
:'''President Roslin''': --But certainly, there'd be heavy damage and you'd take significant casualties. So you can go out there and fight it out with ''Galactica'' or you can compromise. And those are the only two options on the table, period.
:'''Admiral Cain''': ...How the two of you have survived this long, I will never know.....


*''Discussing Admiral Cain:''
*{{audio|RS1 - not an assasssin.mp3|''Discussing Admiral Cain.''}}
:'''President Roslin''': I afraid this can only end one way. You've got to kill her.
:'''President Roslin''': I afraid this can only end one way. You've got to kill her.
:'''Commander Adama''': What the hell are you talking about?  
:'''Commander Adama''': What the hell are you talking about?  
Line 125: Line 126:
:'''Commander Adama''': I'm not an assassin.
:'''Commander Adama''': I'm not an assassin.


*'''Apollo''': So, just how many kinds of stupid are you?
*{{audio|RS1 - Gina finally speaks.mp3|''First thing Gina speaks.''}}
:'''Gina''': I want to die. Will you help me do that? Will you kill me, please?


*'''Apollo''' (to Tyrol and Helo): Good news!  You're not dead... yet.
*{{audio|RS1 - Gina reiterates death wish.mp3|''After giving Gina new clothes.''}}
 
:'''Baltar''': Were you aware of your true nature as a Cylon when you boarded the ship? Or would you describe yourself as a sleeper agent?  
*'''Apollo''': [''Gestures an inch with his fingers''] We were ''this'' close to a shooting war with the Pegasus.
:'''Helo''': Frak me!
:'''Chief Tyrol''': What the hell's going o­n?  I thought the Cylons were the enemy.
:'''Apollo''': Yeah, now it's us.
 
*'''Number Six''': You know what I miss?...Sports.
 
*''Admiral Cain is visiting the cell of Number Six/Gina, the tortured Cylon POW who is collapsed in a heap on the floor:''
:'''Admiral Cain''':Well, I see that you got it to eat. That's progress, I suppose. Can you get it to roll over...beg? See what it can make of these (''Hands Baltar some recon photos'').  You know this thing used to sit in our mess and eat our food, and listen to our stories. Didn't you? You just sat there...listening to us, pretending to be our friend, didn't you?! (''Cain kicks Gina swiftly in the ribs'')
 
*''First thing Gina speaks:''
'''Gina''': I want to die. Will you help me do that? Will you kill me, please?
 
*'''Baltar''': Were you aware of your true nature as a Cylon when you boarded the ship? Or would you describe you as a sleeper agent?  
:'''Gina''': I knew what I was. I was a soldier. I-I had a mission, I carried it out. I thought that when it was done I was going to die. That you would kill me. Then I-- then I would download into a new body...be reborn. But you didn't kill me. The things you did to me.  
:'''Gina''': I knew what I was. I was a soldier. I-I had a mission, I carried it out. I thought that when it was done I was going to die. That you would kill me. Then I-- then I would download into a new body...be reborn. But you didn't kill me. The things you did to me.  
:'''Baltar''': What they did to you was evil. But I'm not one of them. You have to believe me. Things are going to get better for you. From this moment on. I promise.
:'''Baltar''': What they did to you was wrong... Evil. But I'm not one of them. You have to believe me. Things are going to get better for you. From this moment on. I promise.
:'''Gina''': I don't want things to get better. I want to die.
:'''Gina''': I don't want things to get better. I want to die.


*''President Roslin is bedridden, dying of cancer, and coughing profusely:''
*{{audio|RS1 - can't see you as a blonde.mp3|''President Roslin is bedridden, dying of cancer, and coughing profusely.''}}
:'''Commander Adama''': What can I get you?
:'''Commander Adama''': What can I get you?
:'''President Roslin''': A new body. Perhaps, one of those young Cylon models from the Resurrection Ship.  
:'''President Roslin''': A new body. Perhaps, one of those young Cylon models from the Resurrection Ship.  
:'''Commander Adama''': I can't see you as a blonde.  
:'''Commander Adama''': I can't see you as a blonde.  
:'''President Roslin''': You'd be surprised. (''Laughs'')
:'''President Roslin''': You'd be surprised. (Laughs)


*''Scene intercuts between Commander Adama telling Starbuck to assasinate Admiral Cain, while at the same time Cain is ordering Col. Jack Fisk to assasinate Adama'':
*{{audio|RS1 - assassination plots.mp3|''Scene intercuts between Commander Adama telling Starbuck to assassinate Admiral Cain, while at the same time Cain is ordering Col. Jack Fisk to assassinate Adama.''}}
:'''Admiral Cain''': Jack, I want to transfer a detachment of marines to Galactica. And I want you to handpick them. Completely reliable. Completely loyal. Razors.  
:'''Admiral Cain''': Jack, I want to transfer a detachment of Marines to ''Galactica''. And I want you to handpick them. Completely reliable. Completely loyal. [[Razor#Analysis|Razors]].  
:'''Commander Adama''': I have a mission for you, Kara.  
:'''Commander Adama''': I have a mission for you, Kara.  
:'''Starbuck''': Anything for you, you know that.
:'''Starbuck''': Anything for you, you know that.
:'''Commander Adama''': Don't accept too quickly. You won't like this one. I don't like it. But I've decided that it has to be done.  
:'''Commander Adama''': Don't accept too quickly. You won't like this one. I don't like it. But I've decided that it has to be done.  
:'''Admiral Cain''': I'm transferring you to Galactica, as well. I'll tell Adama that you're there to be my eyes and ears. He'll hate it. He'll think you're my spy and try to freeze you out of decision-making. But he'll accept it. Now I want you to stay in throughout the attack. Stay with Adama.  
:'''Admiral Cain''': I'm transferring you to ''Galactica'', as well. I'll tell Adama that you're there to be my eyes and ears. He'll hate it. He'll think you're my spy and try to freeze you out of decision-making. But he'll accept it. Now I want you to stay in CIC throughout the attack. Stay with Adama.  
:'''Commander Adama''': After the attack is completed and you've accounted for your pilots I want you to land your bird on the Pegasus to report directly to CIC. You'll take Lee with you. He'll watch your back.
:'''Commander Adama''': After the attack is completed and you've accounted for your pilots, I want you to land your bird on the Pegasus to report directly to CIC. You'll take Lee with you. He'll watch your back.
:'''Admiral Cain''': Position marines in key positions throughout the ship and keep a squad posted just outside CIC--  
:'''Admiral Cain''': Position Marines in key areas throughout the ship and keep a squad posted just outside CIC--  
:'''Commander Adama''': --There'll the normal chaos emotional high after the attack--  
:'''Commander Adama''': --There'll the normal chaos and emotional high after the attack--  
:'''Admiral Cain''': --They'll be slapping each other on the back, celebrating the victory--  
:'''Admiral Cain''': --They'll be slapping each other on the back, celebrating the victory--  
:'''Commander Adama''': --They'll keep their guard down--
:'''Commander Adama''': --That'll keep their guard down--
:'''Admiral Cain''': --Security will be lax--
:'''Admiral Cain''': --Security will be lax--
:'''Commander Adama''': --I will ask for you over the wireless--
:'''Commander Adama''': --I will ask for you over the wireless--
:'''Admiral Cain''':  --I will call you directly, and when I have you on the line and you hear me give the command, "execute Case Orange"--
:'''Admiral Cain''':  --I will call you directly, and when I have you on the line and you hear me give the command, "Execute [[case orange]]"--
:'''Commander Adama''': --When you hear me say "Downfall"--
:'''Commander Adama''': --When you hear me say "Downfall"--
:'''Admiral Cain''': --You are to signal the marines to terminate Adama's command...''starting'' with Adama--
:'''Admiral Cain''': --You are to signal the Marines to terminate Adama's command...''starting'' with Adama--
:'''Commander Adama''': --I want you to pull out your weapon...and shoot Admiral Cain in the head. (''Starbuck is shocked'')
:'''Commander Adama''': --I want you to pull out your weapon...and shoot Admiral Cain in the head. (Starbuck is shocked)
 
== Official Statements ==
 


== Cast ==
*[[Michael Hogan]] as Colonel [[Saul Tigh]]
*[[Aaron Douglas]] as Chief [[Galen Tyrol]]
*[[Tahmoh Penikett]] as Lt. [[Karl Agathon|Karl "Helo" Agathon]]
*[[Nicki Clyne]] as Specialist [[Cally Tyrol|Cally Henderson]]
*[[Alessandro Juliani]] as Lt. [[Felix Gaeta]]
*[[Kandyse McClure]] as Petty Officer [[Anastasia Dualla]]
*[[Donnelly Rhodes]] as Dr. [[Cottle]]
*[[Graham Beckel]] as Colonel [[Jack Fisk]]
*[[John Pyper-Ferguson]] as Captain [[Cole Taylor|Cole "Stinger" Taylor]]
*[[Sebastian Spence]] as Lt. [[Noel Allison|Noel "Narcho" Allison]]
*[[Luciana Carro]] as Lt. [[Louanne Katraine|Louanne "Kat" Katraine]]
*[[Vincent Gale]] as Chief [[Peter Laird]]
*[[Peter-John Prinsloo]] as Lt. [[Mei Firelli|Mei "Freaker" Firelli]]
*[[Brad Dryborough]] as [[Louis Hoshi]]


{{episode list (RDM season 2)}}


{{Episode List}}
[[Category:Episodes with story by Anne Cofell Saunders]]
[[Category:Episodes written by Michael Rymer]]
[[Category:Episodes directed by Michael Rymer]]
[[Category:RDM]]


[[Category: Episode Guide (RDM)]]
[[de:Die Auferstehung, Teil I]]
[[Category: A to Z]]
[[fr:Opération survie - 1re partie]]

Latest revision as of 17:43, 24 February 2024

Resurrection Ship, Part I
"Resurrection Ship, Part I"
An episode of the Re-imagined Series
Episode No. Season 2, Episode 11
Writer(s) Michael Rymer
Story by Anne Cofell Saunders
Director Michael Rymer
Assistant Director
Special guest(s) Michelle Forbes as Admiral Cain
Production No. 211
Nielsen Rating 2.1
US airdate USA 2006-01-06
CAN airdate CAN 2006-03-25
UK airdate UK 2006-03-21
DVD release 19 September 2006 US
28 August 2006 UK
Population 49,604 survivors (Population decline. 1)
Additional Info Season 2.5 Premiere
Episode Chronology
Previous Next
Pegasus Resurrection Ship, Part I Resurrection Ship, Part II
Related Information
Official Summary
R&D SkitView
Podcast TranscriptView
Continuity Errors PresentView
[[IMDB:tt{{{imdb}}}|IMDb entry]]
Listing of props for this episode
Related Media
@ BW Media
Promotional Materials
Online Purchasing
Amazon: Standard Definition | High Definition
iTunes: USA | Canada | UK



A potential battle between Galactica and Pegasus is only averted by Lt. Thrace's return from her recon mission with important tactical information on the unknown Cylon ship.

Summary

Teaser

  • Continuing from the previous episode, a swarm of Vipers from Galactica and Pegasus move into weapons range of each other after Commander Adama challenges Admiral Cain over the imminent execution of two of his crewmen. Neither commanders are willing to order "weapons free" to fire. The Vipers are reduced to playing "chicken," attempting to force each other to fire — or collide.
  • Cain orders Captain Cole Taylor to arrest and relieve Lieutenant Lee "Apollo" Adama, who is co-piloting a Raptor about to leave on the recon mission. The Raptor pilot draws his sidearm on Lt. Adama and orders him into the rear of the Raptor.

Act 1 and beyond

  • Flying the Blackbird, which goes undetected by the Cylon fleet, Kara Thrace flies right into the superstructure of the Unknown Cylon Ship, taking pictures along the way. Before the Cylons can detect her, she jumps away.
  • Confined to the rear of the Raptor, Lt. Adama sends an encrypted text message to Thrace.
  • Leading Galactica's Viper squadron, Louanne "Kat" Katraine continually requests clearance from Commander Adama to fire on Pegasus' Vipers, but he refuses.
  • Thrace arrives in the Blackbird. After getting over her initial confusion at the chicken-fight, she receives Lt. Adama's message and replies back, wondering what was going on (the Viper entanglement).
  • Both Galactica and Pegasus pick up the Blackbird on DRADIS, but its lack of transponder codes leads Cain and Adama to assume that the new contact is a Raider. All Vipers break off their chicken-fight and move to engage the enemy, only standing down when Thrace broadcasts her ID over wireless.
  • When Cain looks likely to resume the conflict with Adama, Thrace uploads her incredibly detailed pictures of the Unknown Cylon Ship to Pegasus' CIC. A closeup shows Cylon bodies, including several inactive copies of the blonde Humanoid Cylon known to the Colonials as "Shelly Godfrey" and "Gina Inviere."
  • Aboard Colonial One, after being grilled by President Laura Roslin for their near-disastrous actions, Adama and Cain agree to a truce while they prepare a joint attack on the Cylon fleet.
  • Privately, Roslin warns Adama that Cain is a loose cannon, who must be killed in order to save the Fleet from annihilation. Adama is surprised at Roslin's candor, and is reluctant to consider the idea.
  • Adama learns that Pegasus was also shepherding a civilian fleet, which it abandoned months ago, but not before stripping it of anything useful, including FTL drives, spare parts, and people. Cain ordered the execution of the families of individuals she selected who would not leave with Pegasus.
  • Gaius Baltar speaks more with Gina Inviere, who wants Baltar to kill her so she can free herself from her torturous existence. He tells her that she cannot die as her consciousness would only download into another Cylon body. Seeing the copies of reconnaissance photos Baltar is carrying, Gina says she would die if his Fleet destroys the Unknown ship, which she names.
  • Baltar briefs Adama and Cain: The function of the Resurrection Ship, as Gina called it, is to allow Humanoid Cylons a place where their consciousness can download, as an agent in the Fleet would be too far from the Cylon homeworld for their consciousness to return. Cain quickly surmises that, without the Resurrection Ship, any Cylon agent killed thereafter would be permanently dead, perhaps making the Cylons more conservative in carrying out their respective missions.
  • Laura Roslin's illness is now more visibly apparent. William Adama visits her, and the two have a most unusual, even sentimental talk, with humor about getting a fresh, young Cylon body replacement for Roslin. Adama smiles and says that he couldn't think of her as a blonde, but Roslin smiles and says he'd be surprised.
  • Cain finds Thrace's initiative laudable, and promotes her to Captain and CAG Pegasus over Cole Taylor. She initially pulls Lee Adama's flight status, but restores it at Thrace's behest and assigns him to her team. Thrace begins plans on an attack on the Resurrection Ship.
  • Helo and Galen Tyrol are pleasantly surprised not to be dead. Lee Adama visits the two and catches them up on events, noting that his father pulled out the stops to ensure Helo's and Tyrol's survival.
  • Starbuck and Apollo brief the battlestar commanders and XO's regarding the plan to disable and destroy the Resurrection Ship. The plan will involve both battlestars and all available fighters. Both Admiral Cain and Commander Adama approve of the plan, Adama being the more hesitant of the two.
  • Colonel Tigh asks if the Blackbird could be used to sneak up behind the Resurrection Ship with a nuclear missile to destroy the Resurrection Ship outright. Thrace indicates that computer simulations show that the Cylons would pick up the radiological signature of the bomb (which cannot be hidden by the Blackbird's stealth ability). Such detection would destroy their element of surprise and likely warn the Resurrection Ship to jump away.
  • After the briefing, Adama consults with Thrace privately, asking her to shoot Cain in the head after the attack. Likewise, Cain transfers Jack Fisk and a squad of Marines loyal to her to Galactica and instructs Fisk to kill Adama and his command staff after the attack.

Notes

  • The Fleet population is down to 49,604 to account for the death of Alastair Thorne.
  • Admiral Cain promotes Kara Thrace to the rank of captain. She replaces Stinger as Pegasus's CAG.
  • The Cylon fleet containing the Resurrection Ship has been following the Colonial Fleet. It is speculated that the Resurrection Ship is a safety net for any Cylons who die in the Fleet.
  • In case there was any doubt, by this point Galactica crew definitely knows that the blonde woman they first met as "Shelley Godfrey" is a humanoid Cylon, to the point that Roslin cracks a joke that she wouldn't mind waking up inside a gorgeous blonde-haired body.
  • Number Six likes pyramid. She went to live games often while she was on Caprica. She says it was because she loved the rush of raw emotions that would sweep over the crowd.
  • Thrace still intends to recover Anders' Caprica Resistance fighters from Caprica. Timeline-wise, they have a little over a month of anti-radiation meds left (apparently, they are able to obtain more as time passes).
  • Tigh and Fisk continue their status as drinking buddies.
  • Roslin has developed a bad cough, perhaps evidence that her cancer has spread to her lungs, or that she has begun to suffer from opportunistic infections.
  • Although Commander Adama does a good job of trying to "hide" it, when Adama leaves the sick Roslin he quickly wipes away a tear.

Analysis

  • Cain wonders if debating morality is what Roslin and Adama have been doing "for the past six months". However, as shown here, this episode should only take place a little over three months after the Fall of the Twelve Colonies. This is actually the starting point of what Battlestar Wiki refers to as the Season two timeline discontinuity: all episodes in Season 2.5 have jumped ahead three months in the timeline, while being consistent with each other (i.e. "Downloaded" is supposed to be 9 months after the Cylon attack, and it does take place 3 months after this episode).
  • Louanne Katraine has become the lead pilot on Galactica following the transfer of Lee Adama and Kara Thrace to Pegasus. Given that the ungifted George Birch is apparently the best to be found within Galactica's regular chain of command (TRS: "Home, Part I"), it is unsurprising that a talented nugget has risen to the top.
    • In hindsight, her abuse of stims is actually in line with the single-minded zeal she approaches her job with. She has apparently learned to channel her perfectionism into a more constructive outlet.
    • In choosing Birch Commander Adama decides to value loyalty way above everything else, about which Tigh is quite surprised. With Adama re-balancing his requirements it is no surprise a better pilot gets the position.
  • Both Adama and Cain's assassination plans (taking advantage of a victory celebration in CIC) are exactly the same as the one used by Sharon Valerii in "Kobol's Last Gleaming, Part II".
  • Commander Adama likely specifies to shoot Cain in the head, because he himself survived two shots in the gut and wants to make sure that she dies.
  • The attack plan is similar to the attack on the Cylon tylium refinery in "The Hand of God". Both times, civilian freighters are used to draw Raiders away from the main target.
  • The Cylons are unable to detect the Blackbird, while both Colonial battlestars are able to pick it up relatively quickly. It should be noted that the Blackbird is only detected once it starts transmitting a message. This suggests that it isn't literally detected by its DRADIS signature, but by the wireless signals it gives off.
  • Laura Roslin, as President of the Twelve Colonies, probably has the power to remove Cain from active duty status. However, Cain barely recognizes her authority. She does a double take when Roslin is introduced to her as president, and - similar to Adama's reaction in the Miniseries - still sees her as the Secretary of Education. While attempting to get supplies for the civilian fleet, Roslin tells Adama that Cain will not take her phone calls. It is doubtful that she would follow an order to stand down, especially given her propensity for throwing Adama's logged actions back at him. Presumably she would cite his decision to remove Roslin from office and Tigh's subsequent declaration of martial law as precedent for doing same were Roslin to challenge her. (And Roslin was unable to remove Adama from active duty at that time, either, suggesting a possible limitation to her powers as president.)
    • Alternatively, Roslin should have the power to pardon Helo and Chief, or to commute their sentences. The U.S. President has this authority for convictions in military court-martial proceedings, and Roslin subsequently issues a general amnesty for crimes committed on New Caprica. See, Collaborators (Episode). Had Cain refused to honor a Presidential grant of clemency, Roslin would have cause for removing or demoting her, and Adama would have legal cover for moving against her. Dogger55 07:44, 3 July 2011 (EDT)
  • Despite demanding obedience and discipline from those under her, Cain admires courage and out-of-the-box thinking and even allows a certain amount of rule-bending at times. In this episode, she promotes Kara Thrace to CAG despite Thrace's known disciplinary problems (the most recent being her unauthorized usage of the Blackbird).

Questions

  • Why don't Cain and her crew grasp the concept that survival of the human race supersedes the military way of life? (Answer)
  • What was the fate of the other civilians in Pegasus's civilian fleet, the ones who weren't brought to Pegasus as useful assets or executed after the civilian ships were stripped? (Answer)
  • If Dr. Cottle were to perform a psychological examination on Cain, could Adama strip her of command for medical reasons? Would Cain or her crew even accept such a move?
  • Why does Commander Adama rely on gossip from Cally Henderson and Tigh, rather than debriefing Laird personally?
    • Laird is probably too intimidated by Cain to give Adama any information that could be used against her.
  • When did the Resurrection Ship begin following the Fleet? Was it able to rescue Aaron Doral (Suicide Bomber Copy) (killed day 17), Shelly Godfrey (disappeared day 24), Leoben Conoy (Gemenon Traveler Copy) (killed day 25), or Sharon Valerii (killed c. day 54)? (Answer regarding Boomer)
  • Starbuck gets some close shots of the Resurrection Ship, so much so that Admiral Cain is able to identify the Cylon agent she knew as Gina Inviere. Could any of the other humanoid Cylon models be identified, including the ones that the Fleet aren't aware of yet? (Answer)
  • Since Lee Adama is ultimately included in the mission to assassinate Cain anyway, why didn't his father deign to brief him at the same time as Kara Thrace? Having Thrace fill him in later doubles the chance of their plans being overheard.
  • Baltar says that he is tired of the fantasy-world in his head that he retreats into; not of Number Six herself, but of his bachelor pad on Caprica. Is this a further sign that Baltar is shifting closer into the Cylon camp? It could mean that he no longer misses his old life on Caprica and has stopped clinging to it.
  • To what extent is the chain of command still in effect? Adama fully intends to have Cain killed, but still stops short of demanding Agathon and Tyrol's return, and Cain believes he will still accept Fisk's transfer to Galactica as a spy.
  • Is Admiral Cain telling the truth when she says to Starbuck that their "ultimate goal" is to return to the Twelve Colonies and liberate them from the Cylons? While the idea fits to her previous actions against the Cylons, could it just be a way to gain Thrace's trust?

Official Statements

That's indeed what she did [in order to ensure Pegasus's survival]. And Galactica had many difficult choices. [Edward James Olmos' character is absolutely mesmerizing to me. The questions [William Adama] has had to face – ethical dilemmas, life and death questions. He's just made them from a more human place. He hasn't lost his sense of humanity and compassion and he's constantly questioning that. That's what’s so wonderful about the [Season 2] Pegasus arc, you have these two forms of leadership in juxtaposition and just examining that.[1]

Noteworthy Dialogue

Starbuck: Starbuck to all vipers-- do not fire... repeat, do not fire! I am a friendly, okay? We're all friendlies. So, let's just...be friendly.
Col. Tigh: Ahh, another one of her crazy ass stunts... thank the Gods!
Commander Adama: You can say that again!
President Roslin: Admiral, surely... The spirit of the law requires something more here than summary executions.
Admiral Cain: Is this what the two of you have been doing for the past six months? Debating the finer points of Colonial law? Well, guess what, we're at war! And we don't have the luxury of academic debate over these issues.
President Roslin: You want to cut through it, fine. You have Pegasus, he has Galactica. Two heavily armed, very powerful warships. Now, I am sure that Pegasus would prevail in any fight--
Commander Adama: --I wouldn't count on that--
President Roslin: --But certainly, there'd be heavy damage and you'd take significant casualties. So you can go out there and fight it out with Galactica or you can compromise. And those are the only two options on the table, period.
Admiral Cain: ...How the two of you have survived this long, I will never know.....
President Roslin: I afraid this can only end one way. You've got to kill her.
Commander Adama: What the hell are you talking about?
President Roslin: Like she said, let's cut through it. The two of you were willing to go to war today. Do you think she's going to step down from that? She's going to bide her time and hit you the first chance she gets. That's a given. I hate to lay this on you Bill, but she is dangerous and the only thing that you can do is to hit her before she hits you.
Commander Adama: I'm not an assassin.
Gina: I want to die. Will you help me do that? Will you kill me, please?
Baltar: Were you aware of your true nature as a Cylon when you boarded the ship? Or would you describe yourself as a sleeper agent?
Gina: I knew what I was. I was a soldier. I-I had a mission, I carried it out. I thought that when it was done I was going to die. That you would kill me. Then I-- then I would download into a new body...be reborn. But you didn't kill me. The things you did to me.
Baltar: What they did to you was wrong... Evil. But I'm not one of them. You have to believe me. Things are going to get better for you. From this moment on. I promise.
Gina: I don't want things to get better. I want to die.
Commander Adama: What can I get you?
President Roslin: A new body. Perhaps, one of those young Cylon models from the Resurrection Ship.
Commander Adama: I can't see you as a blonde.
President Roslin: You'd be surprised. (Laughs)
Admiral Cain: Jack, I want to transfer a detachment of Marines to Galactica. And I want you to handpick them. Completely reliable. Completely loyal. Razors.
Commander Adama: I have a mission for you, Kara.
Starbuck: Anything for you, you know that.
Commander Adama: Don't accept too quickly. You won't like this one. I don't like it. But I've decided that it has to be done.
Admiral Cain: I'm transferring you to Galactica, as well. I'll tell Adama that you're there to be my eyes and ears. He'll hate it. He'll think you're my spy and try to freeze you out of decision-making. But he'll accept it. Now I want you to stay in CIC throughout the attack. Stay with Adama.
Commander Adama: After the attack is completed and you've accounted for your pilots, I want you to land your bird on the Pegasus to report directly to CIC. You'll take Lee with you. He'll watch your back.
Admiral Cain: Position Marines in key areas throughout the ship and keep a squad posted just outside CIC--
Commander Adama: --There'll the normal chaos and emotional high after the attack--
Admiral Cain: --They'll be slapping each other on the back, celebrating the victory--
Commander Adama: --That'll keep their guard down--
Admiral Cain: --Security will be lax--
Commander Adama: --I will ask for you over the wireless--
Admiral Cain: --I will call you directly, and when I have you on the line and you hear me give the command, "Execute case orange"--
Commander Adama: --When you hear me say "Downfall"--
Admiral Cain: --You are to signal the Marines to terminate Adama's command...starting with Adama--
Commander Adama: --I want you to pull out your weapon...and shoot Admiral Cain in the head. (Starbuck is shocked)

Cast

  1. Ryan, Maureen (20 November 2007). 'Battlestar Galactica: Razor' cuts to the heart of the matter (backup available on Archive.org) (in ). Retrieved on 22 November 2007.