Enigma

One of the best things about 'Stargate SG-1', for me, is the triality of the series - the combination of war, science, and politics, rippled into one drama. "Enigma" is one of those episodes that is less about the war aspect, but more about the science, and especially the politics.

The core of the episode's plot involves the sudden and unexpected meeting of the SGC and the Tollans. The latter are more technologically advanced, and have developed an ethos of pacifism and xenophobia, stemming from their ability to make use of disguise and retreat rather than conflict, and their experience of trading technology with worlds who destroyed themselves from irresponsible use of that technology.

Whereas many of the cultures the SGC interacts with seem to be led by what amount to warrior-kings, the leader of the Tollan group, Omoc, is more of a professor-president. He appears to possess unshakeable confidence in both the Tollan way of life and in the inferiority of non-Tollans. The fact that he is one of only two Tollans who interact in-depth with the SGC staff (the other being Narim, who appears to be an adjutant of Omoc's of some sort) seems to demonstrate Tollan culture as very hierarchical.

As the story unfolds, it is gradually revealed that Omoc's attitude stems not from arrogance, but rather from ingrained dismay at how other worlds have misused Tollan-developed technology for destruction. As a result, although he appears to be disdainful of his SGC hosts, in reality he sees it as his responsibility to protect them and to maintain the isolationism of the Tollan way of life. He is, for me, probably the most underrated antihero of the entire series, one of the most relatable characters, and one whose message is more relevant today than when the episode was written.

I've recently started working my way through the first season of Stargate SG-1. The episodes have mostly been of good quality but nothing has really stood out as being exceptional. This episode was different. I felt that the story was original, thought-provoking and well executed.

The pace at which the events develop was slow enough that you had time to put yourself in the position of the Tollan and wonder about their technology, and wonder why they felt the way that they did. This is gently explained to us through Narim's interactions with Carter and also through Omoc's dialogue with the others. The conclusion left me with a good feeling and it makes me optimistic about future episodes of the show.

While visiting a new planet SG-1 has to save The Tollan from a volcanic eruption. The Tollans are far more educated than the earthlings and their leader Omoc (Tobin Bell) doesn't show any interest in earth or isn't even thankful for their rescue. But not all Tollans aren't interested in earth, Narim, has feelings for Carter.

Again a very simple story with a surprise, Carter actually is kissing on-camera. Further it's a surprise to see Tobin Bell a few years for his breakthrough in Saw (2004-2010).

Nothing special on part of effects, again very simple story taking place at the SG-1 base.

Gore 0/5 Nudity 0/5 Effects 2/5 Story 2,5/5 Comedy 0/5

Jack, Sam, Daniel and Teal'c travel to a planet and on the arrival, they find it completely destroyed due an intense volcanic activity. When they are ready to return, they find a group of near-death survivors and bring them to SGC. Soon they learn that they are the Tollan and they are more advanced in technology. Their arrogant leader Omoc despises the help of SG-1 and considers Earthlings a primitive race. The Tollan Narin interacts with Sam and seems attracted to her and to the cat Schrodinger. General Hammond and the SG-1 try to find a planet to relocate the Tollan but Omoc refuses since they are more primitive than Earth. Out of the blue, Colonel Mayborn arrives at the SG-1 authorized by the president to take the Tollan to a military base to use their technology for weapon. But Daniel recalls the advanced Nox and tells to Omoc that the SGC does not have how to contact them. However Omoc offers an option.

"Enigma" is an entertaining episode with an arrogant race – Tollan. The explanation provided by Narin does not justify the treatment and the ingratitude of Omoc. My vote is eight.

Title (Brazil): "Enigma"