#farscape rewatch

[tuttle-did-it]

I'm trying to rewatch Farscape again. I didn't like it the first couple of times I tried, and I always gave up before the second season. I'm watching episode 15 where they introduce Chiana and I remembered she is one of the main reasons for this. I'm not sure I'll make it to episode 16.

[pardon-my-scifi]

Farscape rewatch time. LET'S GO!!!!

[saintsurvivors]

"You've become someone I rely on now." "I have become similarly affected"

[jonathanarcher]

He has the physicality of a gay clown

[toshsato]

#when your enemy wants to bond with you after spending two seasons nearly killing you

[biblioflyer]

Farscape: an unlikely naturalistic scifi

Watching a show from two decades ago, I'm struck by both how well it holds up in terms of storytelling but also by its nuanced emotional range. At minimum three of the characters we meet in the premiere are victims of long term incarceration in forced labor camps and of torture.

The actors are already living in their characters well enough that this information doesn't need to be conveyed in a histrionic monologue with one or more breakdowns. Instead the mode of expression are Zhaan's pained, reassuring smiles, D'Argo's far away looks, and Rigel's comedic need to hoard and be in control which both communicates his previous status as a spoiled elite but also aligns neatly with multiple classic responses to stress and trauma.

Now I'm not saying that weeping, ranting, or breaking down are invalid expressions of emotion. However, one thing I have noticed is that the prestige drama era of storytelling has a bad habit of using these methods of emoting in lieu of other, subtler methods of informing us of a character's mind state or, it often seems, to purchase emotional connection from the audience that doesn't always feel like it was earned.

Ironically its in the more colorful and over the top universe of Farscape that I would expect to find a more flamboyant, pulpy mode of acting complete with scenery chewing and chest beating, hair tearing displays of anger or despair, but someone thought it prudent to play it straight. Not excessively silly buy also not marinating in darkness and suffering. Good on them!

This nuanced emotional range also speaks to just how well the characters hit the ground running in the series. Based on my vague recollections of who they will end up being, the performers already seem to have very rich and clear ideas about the inner life of their characters and the ability to convey this. Sometimes through very thick prosthetics.

Color me impressed and nostalgic.

[alwaysbeyondhope]

L and I started 2x9 Out of Their Minds and when John and Aeryn first switched L said “ooh like a Freaky Friday thing” and I said “IT’s A BODY SWAP EPISODE!!”

And I’m so fucking excited for this episode. Cause it’s just so fucking chaotic and wonderful.

[shadow27]

It's subtle but clear, from a very early stage Aeryn puts in the effort to be a good partner.