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Terminator 1.9: "What He Beheld" |
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Tuesday, 04 March 2008 |
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By John Keegan
Visit Critical Myth for an archive of John's TV Review archives, with more than 1100 entries.
| Despite the fact that this “season finale” was never meant to serve in that capacity, it manages to bring various plot threads to a head. The Connors run into trouble as they continue to pursue the Turk, costing them allies in the process, and Agent Ellison catches up with Cromartie. Both conflicts have lasting consequences, enough so that a cancellation by FOX should raise an angry revolt.
Sarah’s hunt for the Turk puts her in opposition with some delightful thugs, who promptly declare war on her cadre. Soon enough, the Latino gang from “Gnothi Seauton” is gutted (in one case, quite literally) to drive home a point, and the Connors must stage a retaliatory strike against their new enemy. The notion of a war to prevent the rise of SkyNet returns in force, as sacrifices are made on both sides. (I particularly like the moment when Cameron gives one potential loose end the option of being shot or shooting herself.)
The Connor side of the plot was just as memorable for the quiet moment between Derek and John. Not only was it a nice tie-in with the opening scene, but it was a truly touching moment. It’s hard not to wonder if Derek was playing a calculated move to gain John’s trust, but even if it was, the scene played out beautifully.
Agent Ellison’s quest to hunt down Cromartie was nicely done. Unless I missed something obvious, there were indications throughout the episode that Cromartie already knew about Agent Ellison, perhaps some future role he’s meant to serve. Otherwise, why would Cromartie have allowed Ellison to live at the end? Regardless, the slaughter of the FBI squad was horrific, yet incredibly well done.
The end of the episode makes it clear that the thugs in possession of the Turk will continue to plague the Connors. Cameron is likely to survive the car bomb, but she will probably need to restore her appearance, since her flesh will be burned or completely seared off. That could give John a bit of perspective as well, since pretty Cameron could look like the more daunting death machine she really is.
In the end, the repurposed “finale” achieved its goal. Fans will certainly be clamoring for more. It remains to be seen whether FOX will grant them their wish. The finale seemed to take the series out on a solid note, in terms of the ratings, but it may not be enough. With so much potential still left on the table, it would be a damn shame if the producers and writers were forced to end it this way. |
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