Farscape Episode 2.17: “The Ugly Truth”

[chavalah.livejournal.com]

We’re nearing the end of season two, which means, hopefully without incurring much by the way of spoilers, I can divulge that episodes are about to get a lot more action-packed and exciting. These are the types of episodes that really draw in the fans, tying together major storylines, introducing expansive elements, basically keeping us at the edge of our seats. It’s all plot-based, reward-driven fun, but what I’m trying to say here is that in the wake of all that, episodes like this tend to get overlooked. I know that I probably did, on first viewing.

Although not fully episodic, this one could be relatively standalone and it seems to exist as filler leading up to the major ones. But what those major ones are for plot, this one is for character. It’s been awhile since we’ve checked up on our Moya crew, and tonight’s episode serves as a way to get into their heads, see how they perceive each other, and where they personally stand at the end of all that.

Plotwise, “The Ugly Truth” chronicles Talyn firing on a dangerous vessel, and members of the Moya crew being captured and forced to explain their versions of what happened. Topically, it may appear to be a rewrite of “Out of Their Minds,” but instead it’s an extension of that, from Talyn’s story arc, and an introspective study into how everyone perceives events differently. Apparently this holds as true for Delvians, Luxans, Sebaceans and Bannik slaves as much as it does for humans. :P Definitely a more compelling world that way, I must say!

Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.

( Spoilery thoughts )