Babylon 5, which aired on TNT from 1993 to 1999, is more than just a science fiction show; it’s a five-season epic that redefined television storytelling. The series, created by J. Michael Straczynski, has a carefully constructed narrative with mature themes and an intricate character based story, all set in a universe with a multitude of political and philosophical questions.
The story centers on the Babylon 5 space station, a neutral ground for various alien races, which also acts as a last best hope for peace. Commander Jeffrey Sinclair, portrayed by Michael O’Hare, leads the station in the first season, trying to keep the peace amongst the various alien races. He’s later replaced by Captain John Sheridan, played with a quiet intensity by Bruce Boxleitner, who takes on the growing threat of war that slowly engulfs the galaxy.
The show has a huge cast of characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. Claudia Christian plays Commander Susan Ivanova, the station’s tough and determined second-in-command who is fiercely loyal to her friends. Mira Furlan is Delenn, the Minbari ambassador, who begins the show as an enigmatic figure and later becomes a central figure in galactic events, going through many changes in her arc. Peter Jurasik is Londo Mollari, the Centauri ambassador, whose lust for power and position has long ranging, terrible consequences. Andreas Katsulas is G’Kar, the Narn ambassador, initially driven by hatred of the Centauri but then goes on his own personal journey to find a path to peace. The actors give life to a set of characters unlike any seen on TV, especially the depth and breadth of the character arcs.
One of the things that makes Babylon 5 so special is how the show tells a long, interwoven story over five seasons, something that was rare at that time. The narrative is filled with twists and turns that keep viewers engaged; the political machinations of the various alien races, the slow growth of the shadows, the Vorlons and all the many mysteries and threats, are all woven together in a story which is both fascinating and moving.
Straczynski’s writing is sharp and thoughtful. He doesn’t shy away from the difficult subject matter of war, morality, and the nature of free will. The visual effects, while dated, are used to good effect, giving us a believable universe with depth. The station itself becomes almost another character in the show. After the show’s five-year run finished, the show was continued with several TV movies that resolved storylines and also moved the narrative forward.
The original Babylon 5 remains a standard for science fiction, and is still rewarding for new and returning viewers.
Babylon 5 is a TNT production, running for 110 episodes, and aired between 1993-1999, plus several TV Movies.
Cast: Michael O’Hare, Bruce Boxleitner, Claudia Christian, Mira Furlan, Peter Jurasik, Andreas Katsulas,
