Farscape Episode 2.22: “Die Me Dichotomy”
Oct. 25th, 2014 08:24 am![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
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scifi_rewatchI’ve been highlighting episodes all season where I claim that some aspect turned me into a superfan, but this is the last and the greatest. After this one, I was obsessively hooked ‘til the end (and beyond!).
“Farscape” really brought out the big guns for their season finale—new, quirky aliens, seedlings of new plot, magnetic growth for most of the characters including a major death :(, drama and suspense, even a little bit of humor. For me, I remember clearly from my first viewing that there was a change to the soundtrack, which signified to my young brain that this wasn’t just a fun, throwaway scifi adventure show, but something where characters and their situations had real gravitas. I’ll get into that in more detail under the cut!
Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.
Let’s start with the humor, because there was precious little of it. We have D’argo, Stark (and Pilot!) getting high off of Moya’s medicine, but probably the walking embodiment of the laughtrack was the character of Grunchlik, as played by Hughes Kaeys-Byrne. (But let me backtrack briefly just to give a fistpump to D’argo and Stark sharing a Bro Moment after all of their dren from earlier. :P) Amusing tidbit from the commentary—the showrunners didn’t tell the actors how to pronounce the name, ensuring that they’d get a lot of crazy variations to be used for the taping. I guess someone has to fill John’s misnomer shoes, as he’s a bit too far gone for comedy. Grunchlik’s name and gross-out appearance, including licking someone else’s snot off his fingers or scooping a stone out of his soup and spitting it into his hand, aren’t even the end of it. He exudes this passive aggressive mob boss presence, where he claims he’s just the underdog of the diagnosan as he jacks up medical prices, but there’s a sleazy way in which he grins, or, say, lifts up Stark like he’s a sumo wrestler. :P Plus, his bribery dealings with Rygel, ensuring him passage elsewhere, were much more direct. Diagnosan wasn’t even involved.
But the diagnosan, as played by Thomas Holesgrove, was a different type of “Farscape” brilliance. He’s the type of alien who looks like an alien, uber-tall with an oblong head, and crazy contraption over his orifices due to a foreshadowing handicap. More to the point, the Scaper Chronicles noted how this character defies gender norms, as is relatively common for the show. Referred to, and played by a man, he has muscular arms, yet a high neck-line outfit associated with femininity, plus a high-pitched voice. I really appreciate that “Farscape” tells us when they say alien, they mean alien to most of our human faculties. This might come up later in the episode, too. But for now, let me give a shoutout to my main Hynerian, Rygel. He was given more to do in this episode than usual—not only comic relief and not only a somber background character, he also gets the one-up on Zhaan when offering her her part of the treasure. Though she—like the audience—is quick to believe that he’s dividing the wealth without giving a fig about Moya and John’s serious medical needs, he counters that in fact they are only each taking one or two things for themselves, and then the rest goes to treatment. Nice reminder—I’m sure recalcitrant Zhaan agrees—that Ryg can be three-dimensional.
Zhaan also gets another relationship moment near the end of the episode, when plotty events and the fact that it’s a season ender means that our crew are considering a parting of the ways. Bound to Pilot and Moya by events from the Princess Trilogy, it seems like Zhaan is a definite for staying aboard the ship. But she may have a traveling companion in Stark, who gives her the moving proposal of “sharing the future” with her. And Zhaan isn’t the only gal to get a proposal, well kinda. Hanging out with Jothee and high Pilot, Chiana finds out that D’argo has been using the DRDs to practice his “will you be my wife” request. This entire exchange is fraught with a bit of tension. The Scaper Chronicles pointed out a bit of push and pull that the D’argo peeps are currently involved in—D’argo is spending most of his energy on Jothee, who does not want it, while ignoring Chiana, who is desperate for his attention. So why are Chiana and Jothee getting (increasingly inappropriately) close? Is it because Jothee wants to stick it to the old man? Does Chiana, or is this the best way she knows how to stay involved in D’s life? She seems a bit disappointed at the prospect that she’s not included in D’argo’s dream to settle down on a farm—except that even when she is, it’s not exactly what she wants. Like Jothee, she’s a bit of a rabble rouser and teenage street punk; she, too, wants to “live life loudly” while D’argo is headed in the opposite direction. There’s just so many layers here, and it’s all handled so seamlessly.
But if we want to talk about seamless, we’d best get into the main storyline, with John, Aeryn and Scorpius. The first thing we have to do, after some brilliant acting by Ben (and also Claudia, who plays Aeryn as in way over her head as she tries to tend to John,) is utilize the Chekhov’s Chip, as it were. John’ been acting more and more erratic all season, and after last episode’s voiced fear that maybe he wouldn’t even want the chip out soon. And this eppy, he’s officially taken over by Harvey. Or, as is my favorite nickname from the ScaperChronicles, “Jorpy.” :P And gah, Ben’s acting, plus the makeup, almost made him seem like straight up Scorpius. Production apparently had to tone things down! But anywho. Jorpy’s main mission is to alert Scorpy to John’s whereabouts, which he succeeds at, though Crais and Talyn, firmly good guys this ep, try to block the signal. Before all this, he breaks Aeryn’s, and all the J/A shippers’ hearts with a straight-laced romantic moment—the couple’s most direct to date—which ends with slamming her head into the wall and licking her face. Ugh. (And it messes with poor Aeryn later because she opened her heart for once, only to have it be to the wrong man. :/ Anywho.)
Knocked out by D’argo and then restrained, Jorps is able to trick Zhaan into unity, where he overpowers her (poor Zhaan, sucker for the daddy stories. :P And kind of harrowing, later, when she gasps that the real John has left the cerebral building.) Aeryn pursues Jorpy in her prowler, where the clone mocks her about not having the wherewithal to shoot her friend (D’argo chimes in that he’d have difficulty, too…but John would rather die than be brought back to Scorps, so.) But Aeryn doesn’t get that chance. Brought down to the planet atmosphere, where John’s module is actually the superior air craft, Jorpy is able to manipulate his way into “landing” on top of her. :O As Aeryn’s life is in critical danger, ejecting from her ruined craft over a frozen lake, we cut to the crew. It’s brilliant editing, where the stricken folks can hear but not see her; they are powerless to help. John breaks from the clone as it becomes clear that Aeryn can’t escape her chair; she’s going to drown. Our leading lady gives an emotional goodbye to the man we all know she loves, and good grief, all of the group despair and the music and Aeryn’s hand slowly going limp under the water…if I wasn’t already crying (and even after all these years, I certainly was,) we end on John’s shell-shocked face, and choked out words: “what have I done?” Utter brilliance.
The funeral, which featured a haunting rendition of Agnes Dei, is what sold me on the emotional gravitas on the show. I’m always very affected by music, though looking back on it now, I of course recognize the Christian roots. This is supposed to be an alien funeral (albeit Zhaan’s ceremony and the use of incense obviously derivates from Christianity,) and not even all humans are Christian! Yet, it works here, for the emotional gravitas, and because John is our voice into the Uncharted Territories anyway. This would be his point of reference. Anywho. Another thing that’s always struck me about the proceedings is that everyone—but John—gives something to Aeryn. Zhaan gives the eulogy, Chiana gives a kiss, Rygel gives Hynerian regalia and D’argo gives his qualta blade (though it’s interesting to ask why here. Because Jothee is rejecting his Luxan heritage? And/or because D is trading in his blade for ploughshares and Aeryn was the only other real warrior on Moya? So layered.) But John takes something; after a little bit of dramatic tension about what he, or Jorpy, might do with D’argo’s knife— he uses it to cut off a lock of her hair. Another very human moment, which I believe is supposed to confound everyone else, but has major symbolism for those of us who’ve read 18th century romances. :P Anywho. Final human vs alien point; it seems like they are donating Aeryn’s body to the facility, which shocked one on the ScapeCast. I might point out that Sebaceans could have different cultural norms about what happens to the body after death, but we do already know how aghast Zhaan was at this practice. It’s a bit of a sticky situation, but moving on. John’s been eschewing his friends all episode—only Crais and Stark, the most distant from him, came to his first doctor visit where we see that the chip has spawned a spider web black net over his brain…..bleeeeurgh. The diagnosan probes him to see what each part of the brain does and what memories are what—a bit on the nose when we get to the Aeryn memories and John doesn’t answer whether or not to keep them. But moving on—the chip is near his speech control! Meaning he’ll lose it briefly while the chip is being removed. What a perfect time for real Scorpy, Braca and the PKs to make their appearance. Braca and Grunchlik have an amusing moment while the latter was trying to hide in a cryo-chamber with his hand over his eyes. :P Scorpy goes straight to John—killing the diagnosan easily. While John blathers incoherently, vengeful Scorp takes his chip (still attached to a bit of brain, eeeeew,) and condemns John to a lifetime of incoherence and desperation for revenge he cannot seek. Duuuude. And we end season two on John, alone and tied to an operating table, letting out a scream. Longest. Show. Hiatus. Ever. Maybe until next season! :P
Gonna go ahead and put in an extra paragraph to briefly assess the little easter eggs of future plot points that the showrunners seamlessly inserted into this finale. First of all…there’s a species out there that’s biologically similar to us, called the Interons! I kinda liked (cos I always assumed) that they’d look a little more different from us than Sebaceans; appearance ain’t everything. And there are three of them on planet! Anywho. More overtly, Crais has a chip of his own, and secret information to share with Aeryn. He tries to entice her to join him and Talyn, and she seems to be seriously considering it, until…you know. :/ But there’s obviously something important there. And luckily, in scifi, death cannot stop plot. :P See you soon for season three!
Favorite Crichtonism: You're gonna tell me my health plan doesn't cover this, right?
Favorite Quotes:
*recalcitrant Zhaan*
Zhaan: Was all this wealth worth it?
Rygel: 'Course not, you blue bitch! But what's done is done!
Zhaan: Just as long as we're wealthy, huh?
Rygel: May as well put it to good use. Crais and Talyn have located some kind of surgeon - a healer species. We're almost there! We're all choosing one or two items we want. The rest is to pay any fee for Moya’s remedy.
Zhaan: I'm sorry Rygel, I misjudged you.
Rygel: Hmpf! It's becoming your career!
*John breaks the mirror, but he’s officially losing control of his mind*
Harvey: Now listen John - be smart. See the situation for what it is.
John: Screw you!
Harvey: No John - not this time. We've reached the end of the old. The beginning of the new.
John: I am in control! I am in control OF ME!
Harvey: No more, John
John: Screw you!
Harvey: The reverse is more likely.
*Aeryn is out of her depth*
John: Aeryn - what do you see - in the mirror? What do you see?
Aeryn: There is no mirror. There is no Scorpius. Look. You must confront your fears with strength.
Jorpy: You're right Aeryn. There's no Scorpius here.
*Aeryn starts off mispronunciation time*
Aeryn: I don't like him.
D’argo: He's rumored to be one of the best healers in the uncharted territories.
Aeryn: No not him - his sleazy confederate - Gun-sick.
Grunchlik: Grrroon-schlk.
*Grunchlik’s manipulations*
Grunchlik: He always thinks I undercharge. He's a greedy bastard - it's a species trait. Now, I'm sorry to have to do this to you - but he insists. That's 15,000 krepmas.
D’argo: I could buy a whole new ship for that.
Grunchlik: I had to let an aunt die once because we couldn't afford t' fix her.
*Jothee maintains his daddy issues and keeps the tenkas mutilated*
D’argo: I don't see why you wouldn't want your tankas restored. I mean - as a Luxan.
Jothee: I'm only half Luxan. And for many cycles I didn't even want to be that.
D’argo: You cut yourself? You - you mutilated your own tankas? You hate me that much?
Jothee: It's okay. It doesn't hurt any more father.
*Grunchlik goes through the same routine with Zhaan and Stark*
Stark: I'll pay 18 and not a krepma more. *Grunchlik lifts him up like he’s a baby*
Grunchlik: I hate to negotiate like this, but I do find it cuts through the kretaad.
Zhaan: Put him down Greenchalk.
Grunchlik: Groon-schlk. This is business. I have the supply. I make the demand. *to the Diagnosan* It's all right Doctor! The family are in denial! I won't let them hurt each other! *to Stark* Pay the 20,000 - before it goes up.
*the frustratingly fake romantic J/A scene*
Aeryn: I am -- reminded -at this point, of a word --that you actually brought to this vessel - Hope.
Jorpy: I would be lost without you.
Aeryn: Then you will never be lost.
Jorpy: No matter what happens - you have worked your way - into my heart.
Aeryn: And you've shown me that I have one.
Jorpy: I love you.
Aeryn: I love you too. *slowly going in for the kiss, but instead Jorpy knocks her out*
Jorpy: Mm - You are so - my girl. *gross licking time!*
*the Luxans attempt to take Jorpy down*
Jothee: Stop what you're doing.
Jorpy: Relax boy. You're not in any danger. Scorpius only wants me.
Jothee: My father says you're in no condition to make that decision.
Jorpy: And you're in no condition to stop me.
Jothee: Step - BACK!
Jorpy: Oh, my - you really should have brought a pulse rifle. *Jothee attempts to tongue him, but Jorpy just grabs it and knocks the boy out* Like father, like son. *D’argo’s tongue gets him*
D’argo: Hardly.
*Stark and Crais are John’s support for the pre-exam, and Grunchlik explains the diagnosan’s handicap*
Stark: How do you feel?
John: Like a popsicle. Kinda like the sphincter end of the universe.
Stark: They're just going to have a look - an examination.
John: Be sure he puts the KY on the glove. *to Crais* What the hell are you doing here?
Crais: Meager gesture of support - while the others attend to Aeryn and Jothee.
John: Is there any permanent damage?
Crais: Just their pride. You seem - remarkably lucid.
John: Don't get too close. I could turn any second.
Stark: We'll fix it Crichton. Everyone's pledged to give whatever it takes to- *interrputed by platform with John and Diagnosan turning green; Diagnosan takes off his mask*
Stark: I thought he couldn't inhale our contaminants.
Grunchlik: You see the green light? That's a biological neutralizer. That is, you could have the Karatonga plague in here, wouldn't touch him. Anywhere else - pick your nose and he's dead.
*D’argo and Chiana are having relationship problems*
Chiana: D'Argo - the surgeon said it's-it's a numbing anesthetic, okay? So- so don't breathe too much, and- All right? And-
D’argo: All right already! I - remember.
Chiana: What's the matter with you?
D’argo: What's the matter with you?
Chiana: Well I'm just - I - I'm trying to have a relationship.
D’argo: And you think I'm not? Listen Chiana - you have to understand it's been so long since I've seen my son.
Chiana: D'Argo I know how long it is. There is no one - no one - who has lived this dream of finding your son more than me.
Stark: *high from the Moya gas* Y' gonna help, D'Argo?
D’argo: Couldn't you wait a couple of microts Stark? I was talking to Chiana! *tries to turn back to Chiana, but she’s gone*
*selective memories and human offshoots and the ethics of the donor system*
John: Aeryn? Uh - did I - say or - do anything to piss you off? I mean - other than caving in the side of your head.
Aeryn: Are you serious? Do you not remember?
Grunchlik: Splendid news for the patient! I think - I found a biological match.
John: What? You found a human?
Grunchlik: Well it's called an Interon. It's, uh - bipedal. Central spine, organs internal - oh - single heart circulation and small head. Got 3 specimens. That's the best I can do.
Zhaan: There are over 5,000 different species frozen here. This is an abomination against nature.
Grunchlik: It's not as though they're suffering though is it?
Aeryn: Yeah - I mean they're already dead anyway.
Zhaan: No Aeryn - they're still alive.
Grunchlik: That's a technicality.
John: No. I-I'm not accepting anything from someone who's alive.
Grunchlik: They're all accident victims and the like. Yeah I mean we freeze 'em a microt before their death 'cos the parts last longer that way.
Zhaan: You have interrupted the course of nature.
Grunchlik: None of them would survive restoration. That is the Docs rules for accepting a donor.
John: And you've got 3 like me?
Grunchlik: Well - similar. I mean, probably a species offshoot from the same stock.
John: *to Aeryn* Is that possible? We're somewhere near Earth?
Aeryn: I don't know.
John: *to Grunchlik* I want this chip out.
Grunchlik: Splendid! 'Course - if it, ah - don't work - we get to keep your body.
*Pilot is high, and divulges a secret to Chiana and Jothee, who are finding common ground*
Jothee: Y'know what my dad wants to do with his share of the money? Buy a farm.
Chiana: Really?
Jothee: He wants to grow prossi fruit and make wine. I don't want to live on a farm. I've been a slave. Been chained in a mine. He wants to live the quiet life. I want to live loudly.
Chiana: Well I didn't know that. I-I guess it was gonna be just you two.
Pilot: You too - Chiana!
Chiana: Pilot, you're high, okay?
Pilot: I am no higher in life - than I've even been. My position is fixed!
Chiana: Nonono - I mean - the drug in Moya - it's messing with your brain.
Pilot: He's been using my DRDs - to practice. Wanna see? It's a secret! *DRD projection of D’argo*
D’argo: Chiana, you know that I have to spend a lot more time with Jothee. So I was hoping we could all find a quiet place, and, uh - settle down together. I was hoping you would consent to be my wife.
*Rygel is dismissive of Aeryn but he doesn’t fare much better in negotiations with Grunchlik*
Aeryn: So GunShock - how long will it be before the surgeon can operate on Crichton?
Grunchlik: Oh, 7 or 8 arns. He wants to finish supervising the medication of your ship. He's uh - splendidly conscientious.
Aeryn: Well we'll just keep Crichton restrained until you're ready.
Rygel: Good. Anything else?
Aeryn: What are you up to?
Rygel: Higher level reasoning Aeryn. If a simple thought occurs, I'll call you. *to Grunchlik, after Aeryn leaves* As I was saying... You must know your way around this backwater part of the galaxy. *rolls gemstone*
Grunchlik: I know who I need to know. That's a very small stone.
Rygel: Your ah - savant surgeon - says Moya won't be able to starburst for some time. I'm uh - interested in securing other passage. *rolls gemstone*
Grunchlik: There are some excellent choices available. It depends whether you require speed, stealth, or strength. That's another very small stone.
Rygel: All three. *rolls gemstone*
Grunchlik: That's not impossible. That's uh - three very small stones.
*Zhaan falls for a good daddy story, and Jorpy is able to break free*
Jorpy: When the chip's not controlling me, my thoughts are lucid. There are so many things that I want to say to my family and friends. If you could absorb these thoughts - could find a way to get a message back to Earth...
Zhaan: You want me to join with you in Unity.
Jorpy: I just want my dad to know...
Zhaan: Concentrate on me. *Unity forms—Jorpy is immediately in mental control*
Jorpy: Hello Delvian. 10th level Pa'u? Pity. 12th could break this bond. Time to pray.
*a quick proposal before the shit hits the fan*
Crais: Unlike your institutional upbringing - my parents were compassionate. Moral. Emotional. I value those traits. They're beginning to emerge in you. Crichton may not survive. Moya may be permanently crippled. The others are contemplating their next move. You're an officer and a strategist. Have you not planned yours?
Aeryn: Sounds like you have a suggestion.
Crais: This ship - this emotional ship - needs guidance. Talyn has chosen you. And I agree with his choice. There is much that you can learn that will surprise you.
*Jorpy mocks Aeryn’s emotional resolve during the ship chase*
Aeryn: Given no other choices, I will shoot you down.
Jorpy: Ooooh... I doubt it.
Aeryn: Make no mistake.
Jorpy: I believe you'll pull the trigger. I just don't believe - you'll hit anything.
…
Aeryn: Weapons locked to your exhaust. I give you one last chance to stand down.
Jorpy: Ah - the radiant Miss Officious. So sure. So confident in the void of space. Crichton was trained to fly in atmosphere. Against gravity. Welcome to our world baby.
D’argo: *to Aeryn* Crichton has often said he would rather die than fall to Scorpius. If you get the opportunity - don't hesitate.
Aeryn: What makes you think I would?
D’argo: Because if our positions were reversed - I would.
*John regains control to say goodbye to Aeryn*
Crais: Your jets will weaken the ice! I suggest you separate before touchdown! I repeat - separate before touchdown!
John: AAAHHH! Aeryn! Aeryn, can you comply?
Aeryn: Negative! The harness is jammed! Your frelling tire must have damaged the mechanism!
John: Alright listen to me - This is John - it's John!
Aeryn: Yeah? Is it really you, John?
John: Yes - listen - You do not want to be in that chair when you set down!
Aeryn: Well - this harness won't release. I don't have anything to break it-
John: Aeryn! You have to get out of the damn chair!
Aeryn: I don't have any choice!
John: *to himself, swooping in near her* Oh c'mon, please - do something. do something...
Aeryn: I don't have any options!
John: Baby, you're not gonna die like this. You are not gonna die like this.
Aeryn: I hope you meant what you said in the neural cluster. I did.
*Aeryn’s funeral*
Zhaan: The Goddess graciously receives to her bosom all those who pass from this existence, regardless of faith or belief. She holds, however, a special place for those who travel this life as a journey. *Chiana kisses Aeryn’s hand* Aeryn Sun will surely harvest favor. Her life was a series of strides toward enlightenment. Casting off the chains of prejudice and hatred. *D’argo relinquishes his qualta blade* Reaching beyond violence and bigotry. She sought a balance of lasting inner peace. In her name.
Rygel: You are more worthy of this. *puts his Hynerian regalia into the coffin* At peace Aeryn.
Zhaan: May the Goddess receive you with charity.
Stark: Ahmet
Zhaan: May the Goddess sanctify your spirit.
Stark: Ahmet
D’argo: Ahmet
Zhaan: May the Goddess purify your soul.
Stark: Ahmet
Zhaan: May the Goddess recite your name in the whispers of the wind.
Stark: Ahmet.
Chiana: Ahmet.
John: Amen. *approaches coffin* D'Argo, give me your knife. *after folks look at him warily* Give me - your knife. *hands over knife; John gets in close to Aeryn for her lock of hair* Aeryn... Forgive me. I love you.
*hello, overt season three hinting!*
Crais: Yes Talyn. I too, would have liked to have shown Aeryn what we learned from this chip. I think - I think it would have made her the happiest soul among us.
*going through some of John’s memories on the chip web*
Diagnosan: This - is - what? *flashes of Uncharted Territories aliens*
John: Critters. More close encounters.
Diagnosan: And - this? *U.S. history reel*
John: American politics. Nixon to Clinton. Lose it.
Diagnosan: Here? *canine romps; John smiles to remember them*
John: All of my dogs.
Diagnosan: Nec - ess - ary?
John: No - but - keep it if you can.
*Apparently Jorpy’s message got through…PKs on the base!*
Braca: Return to the Marauder. Inform Scorpius we have successfully maintained our zero presence profile - NOW!
*John might regret this next move…*
Diagnosan: Sor - ry - but - speech - close - to - neu- ral - im - plant.
John: You're gonna take my memories and I'm gonna talk gibberish? Why - why don't you just take my mojo while you're at it?
Diagnosan: Remove chip - then attempt - re - place - you - nor - mal.
John: What the hell. There's no one I really want to talk to… Not much worth remembering. Take the damn thing out.
*Scorpius gets the ending monologue, but not the ending scream*
Scorpius: Well Crichton... So much to say. And yet, such little capacity. *picks up chip still attached to brain tissue* I only hope the wormhole technology I've waited so patiently for makes more sense. *angry noises from John* Don't need a translator microbe for that one, do we? You've cost me much. And I do not suffer disappointment well. I condemn you, John Crichton - to live! So that your thirst for unfulfilled revenge - will consume you. *dramatic pause as Scorpy moves to the door* Goodbye. *he exits; John screams—see you next season!*
___
“Farscape” really brought out the big guns for their season finale—new, quirky aliens, seedlings of new plot, magnetic growth for most of the characters including a major death :(, drama and suspense, even a little bit of humor. For me, I remember clearly from my first viewing that there was a change to the soundtrack, which signified to my young brain that this wasn’t just a fun, throwaway scifi adventure show, but something where characters and their situations had real gravitas. I’ll get into that in more detail under the cut!
Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.
Let’s start with the humor, because there was precious little of it. We have D’argo, Stark (and Pilot!) getting high off of Moya’s medicine, but probably the walking embodiment of the laughtrack was the character of Grunchlik, as played by Hughes Kaeys-Byrne. (But let me backtrack briefly just to give a fistpump to D’argo and Stark sharing a Bro Moment after all of their dren from earlier. :P) Amusing tidbit from the commentary—the showrunners didn’t tell the actors how to pronounce the name, ensuring that they’d get a lot of crazy variations to be used for the taping. I guess someone has to fill John’s misnomer shoes, as he’s a bit too far gone for comedy. Grunchlik’s name and gross-out appearance, including licking someone else’s snot off his fingers or scooping a stone out of his soup and spitting it into his hand, aren’t even the end of it. He exudes this passive aggressive mob boss presence, where he claims he’s just the underdog of the diagnosan as he jacks up medical prices, but there’s a sleazy way in which he grins, or, say, lifts up Stark like he’s a sumo wrestler. :P Plus, his bribery dealings with Rygel, ensuring him passage elsewhere, were much more direct. Diagnosan wasn’t even involved.
But the diagnosan, as played by Thomas Holesgrove, was a different type of “Farscape” brilliance. He’s the type of alien who looks like an alien, uber-tall with an oblong head, and crazy contraption over his orifices due to a foreshadowing handicap. More to the point, the Scaper Chronicles noted how this character defies gender norms, as is relatively common for the show. Referred to, and played by a man, he has muscular arms, yet a high neck-line outfit associated with femininity, plus a high-pitched voice. I really appreciate that “Farscape” tells us when they say alien, they mean alien to most of our human faculties. This might come up later in the episode, too. But for now, let me give a shoutout to my main Hynerian, Rygel. He was given more to do in this episode than usual—not only comic relief and not only a somber background character, he also gets the one-up on Zhaan when offering her her part of the treasure. Though she—like the audience—is quick to believe that he’s dividing the wealth without giving a fig about Moya and John’s serious medical needs, he counters that in fact they are only each taking one or two things for themselves, and then the rest goes to treatment. Nice reminder—I’m sure recalcitrant Zhaan agrees—that Ryg can be three-dimensional.
Zhaan also gets another relationship moment near the end of the episode, when plotty events and the fact that it’s a season ender means that our crew are considering a parting of the ways. Bound to Pilot and Moya by events from the Princess Trilogy, it seems like Zhaan is a definite for staying aboard the ship. But she may have a traveling companion in Stark, who gives her the moving proposal of “sharing the future” with her. And Zhaan isn’t the only gal to get a proposal, well kinda. Hanging out with Jothee and high Pilot, Chiana finds out that D’argo has been using the DRDs to practice his “will you be my wife” request. This entire exchange is fraught with a bit of tension. The Scaper Chronicles pointed out a bit of push and pull that the D’argo peeps are currently involved in—D’argo is spending most of his energy on Jothee, who does not want it, while ignoring Chiana, who is desperate for his attention. So why are Chiana and Jothee getting (increasingly inappropriately) close? Is it because Jothee wants to stick it to the old man? Does Chiana, or is this the best way she knows how to stay involved in D’s life? She seems a bit disappointed at the prospect that she’s not included in D’argo’s dream to settle down on a farm—except that even when she is, it’s not exactly what she wants. Like Jothee, she’s a bit of a rabble rouser and teenage street punk; she, too, wants to “live life loudly” while D’argo is headed in the opposite direction. There’s just so many layers here, and it’s all handled so seamlessly.
But if we want to talk about seamless, we’d best get into the main storyline, with John, Aeryn and Scorpius. The first thing we have to do, after some brilliant acting by Ben (and also Claudia, who plays Aeryn as in way over her head as she tries to tend to John,) is utilize the Chekhov’s Chip, as it were. John’ been acting more and more erratic all season, and after last episode’s voiced fear that maybe he wouldn’t even want the chip out soon. And this eppy, he’s officially taken over by Harvey. Or, as is my favorite nickname from the ScaperChronicles, “Jorpy.” :P And gah, Ben’s acting, plus the makeup, almost made him seem like straight up Scorpius. Production apparently had to tone things down! But anywho. Jorpy’s main mission is to alert Scorpy to John’s whereabouts, which he succeeds at, though Crais and Talyn, firmly good guys this ep, try to block the signal. Before all this, he breaks Aeryn’s, and all the J/A shippers’ hearts with a straight-laced romantic moment—the couple’s most direct to date—which ends with slamming her head into the wall and licking her face. Ugh. (And it messes with poor Aeryn later because she opened her heart for once, only to have it be to the wrong man. :/ Anywho.)
Knocked out by D’argo and then restrained, Jorps is able to trick Zhaan into unity, where he overpowers her (poor Zhaan, sucker for the daddy stories. :P And kind of harrowing, later, when she gasps that the real John has left the cerebral building.) Aeryn pursues Jorpy in her prowler, where the clone mocks her about not having the wherewithal to shoot her friend (D’argo chimes in that he’d have difficulty, too…but John would rather die than be brought back to Scorps, so.) But Aeryn doesn’t get that chance. Brought down to the planet atmosphere, where John’s module is actually the superior air craft, Jorpy is able to manipulate his way into “landing” on top of her. :O As Aeryn’s life is in critical danger, ejecting from her ruined craft over a frozen lake, we cut to the crew. It’s brilliant editing, where the stricken folks can hear but not see her; they are powerless to help. John breaks from the clone as it becomes clear that Aeryn can’t escape her chair; she’s going to drown. Our leading lady gives an emotional goodbye to the man we all know she loves, and good grief, all of the group despair and the music and Aeryn’s hand slowly going limp under the water…if I wasn’t already crying (and even after all these years, I certainly was,) we end on John’s shell-shocked face, and choked out words: “what have I done?” Utter brilliance.
The funeral, which featured a haunting rendition of Agnes Dei, is what sold me on the emotional gravitas on the show. I’m always very affected by music, though looking back on it now, I of course recognize the Christian roots. This is supposed to be an alien funeral (albeit Zhaan’s ceremony and the use of incense obviously derivates from Christianity,) and not even all humans are Christian! Yet, it works here, for the emotional gravitas, and because John is our voice into the Uncharted Territories anyway. This would be his point of reference. Anywho. Another thing that’s always struck me about the proceedings is that everyone—but John—gives something to Aeryn. Zhaan gives the eulogy, Chiana gives a kiss, Rygel gives Hynerian regalia and D’argo gives his qualta blade (though it’s interesting to ask why here. Because Jothee is rejecting his Luxan heritage? And/or because D is trading in his blade for ploughshares and Aeryn was the only other real warrior on Moya? So layered.) But John takes something; after a little bit of dramatic tension about what he, or Jorpy, might do with D’argo’s knife— he uses it to cut off a lock of her hair. Another very human moment, which I believe is supposed to confound everyone else, but has major symbolism for those of us who’ve read 18th century romances. :P Anywho. Final human vs alien point; it seems like they are donating Aeryn’s body to the facility, which shocked one on the ScapeCast. I might point out that Sebaceans could have different cultural norms about what happens to the body after death, but we do already know how aghast Zhaan was at this practice. It’s a bit of a sticky situation, but moving on. John’s been eschewing his friends all episode—only Crais and Stark, the most distant from him, came to his first doctor visit where we see that the chip has spawned a spider web black net over his brain…..bleeeeurgh. The diagnosan probes him to see what each part of the brain does and what memories are what—a bit on the nose when we get to the Aeryn memories and John doesn’t answer whether or not to keep them. But moving on—the chip is near his speech control! Meaning he’ll lose it briefly while the chip is being removed. What a perfect time for real Scorpy, Braca and the PKs to make their appearance. Braca and Grunchlik have an amusing moment while the latter was trying to hide in a cryo-chamber with his hand over his eyes. :P Scorpy goes straight to John—killing the diagnosan easily. While John blathers incoherently, vengeful Scorp takes his chip (still attached to a bit of brain, eeeeew,) and condemns John to a lifetime of incoherence and desperation for revenge he cannot seek. Duuuude. And we end season two on John, alone and tied to an operating table, letting out a scream. Longest. Show. Hiatus. Ever. Maybe until next season! :P
Gonna go ahead and put in an extra paragraph to briefly assess the little easter eggs of future plot points that the showrunners seamlessly inserted into this finale. First of all…there’s a species out there that’s biologically similar to us, called the Interons! I kinda liked (cos I always assumed) that they’d look a little more different from us than Sebaceans; appearance ain’t everything. And there are three of them on planet! Anywho. More overtly, Crais has a chip of his own, and secret information to share with Aeryn. He tries to entice her to join him and Talyn, and she seems to be seriously considering it, until…you know. :/ But there’s obviously something important there. And luckily, in scifi, death cannot stop plot. :P See you soon for season three!
Favorite Crichtonism: You're gonna tell me my health plan doesn't cover this, right?
Favorite Quotes:
*recalcitrant Zhaan*
Zhaan: Was all this wealth worth it?
Rygel: 'Course not, you blue bitch! But what's done is done!
Zhaan: Just as long as we're wealthy, huh?
Rygel: May as well put it to good use. Crais and Talyn have located some kind of surgeon - a healer species. We're almost there! We're all choosing one or two items we want. The rest is to pay any fee for Moya’s remedy.
Zhaan: I'm sorry Rygel, I misjudged you.
Rygel: Hmpf! It's becoming your career!
*John breaks the mirror, but he’s officially losing control of his mind*
Harvey: Now listen John - be smart. See the situation for what it is.
John: Screw you!
Harvey: No John - not this time. We've reached the end of the old. The beginning of the new.
John: I am in control! I am in control OF ME!
Harvey: No more, John
John: Screw you!
Harvey: The reverse is more likely.
*Aeryn is out of her depth*
John: Aeryn - what do you see - in the mirror? What do you see?
Aeryn: There is no mirror. There is no Scorpius. Look. You must confront your fears with strength.
Jorpy: You're right Aeryn. There's no Scorpius here.
*Aeryn starts off mispronunciation time*
Aeryn: I don't like him.
D’argo: He's rumored to be one of the best healers in the uncharted territories.
Aeryn: No not him - his sleazy confederate - Gun-sick.
Grunchlik: Grrroon-schlk.
*Grunchlik’s manipulations*
Grunchlik: He always thinks I undercharge. He's a greedy bastard - it's a species trait. Now, I'm sorry to have to do this to you - but he insists. That's 15,000 krepmas.
D’argo: I could buy a whole new ship for that.
Grunchlik: I had to let an aunt die once because we couldn't afford t' fix her.
*Jothee maintains his daddy issues and keeps the tenkas mutilated*
D’argo: I don't see why you wouldn't want your tankas restored. I mean - as a Luxan.
Jothee: I'm only half Luxan. And for many cycles I didn't even want to be that.
D’argo: You cut yourself? You - you mutilated your own tankas? You hate me that much?
Jothee: It's okay. It doesn't hurt any more father.
*Grunchlik goes through the same routine with Zhaan and Stark*
Stark: I'll pay 18 and not a krepma more. *Grunchlik lifts him up like he’s a baby*
Grunchlik: I hate to negotiate like this, but I do find it cuts through the kretaad.
Zhaan: Put him down Greenchalk.
Grunchlik: Groon-schlk. This is business. I have the supply. I make the demand. *to the Diagnosan* It's all right Doctor! The family are in denial! I won't let them hurt each other! *to Stark* Pay the 20,000 - before it goes up.
*the frustratingly fake romantic J/A scene*
Aeryn: I am -- reminded -at this point, of a word --that you actually brought to this vessel - Hope.
Jorpy: I would be lost without you.
Aeryn: Then you will never be lost.
Jorpy: No matter what happens - you have worked your way - into my heart.
Aeryn: And you've shown me that I have one.
Jorpy: I love you.
Aeryn: I love you too. *slowly going in for the kiss, but instead Jorpy knocks her out*
Jorpy: Mm - You are so - my girl. *gross licking time!*
*the Luxans attempt to take Jorpy down*
Jothee: Stop what you're doing.
Jorpy: Relax boy. You're not in any danger. Scorpius only wants me.
Jothee: My father says you're in no condition to make that decision.
Jorpy: And you're in no condition to stop me.
Jothee: Step - BACK!
Jorpy: Oh, my - you really should have brought a pulse rifle. *Jothee attempts to tongue him, but Jorpy just grabs it and knocks the boy out* Like father, like son. *D’argo’s tongue gets him*
D’argo: Hardly.
*Stark and Crais are John’s support for the pre-exam, and Grunchlik explains the diagnosan’s handicap*
Stark: How do you feel?
John: Like a popsicle. Kinda like the sphincter end of the universe.
Stark: They're just going to have a look - an examination.
John: Be sure he puts the KY on the glove. *to Crais* What the hell are you doing here?
Crais: Meager gesture of support - while the others attend to Aeryn and Jothee.
John: Is there any permanent damage?
Crais: Just their pride. You seem - remarkably lucid.
John: Don't get too close. I could turn any second.
Stark: We'll fix it Crichton. Everyone's pledged to give whatever it takes to- *interrputed by platform with John and Diagnosan turning green; Diagnosan takes off his mask*
Stark: I thought he couldn't inhale our contaminants.
Grunchlik: You see the green light? That's a biological neutralizer. That is, you could have the Karatonga plague in here, wouldn't touch him. Anywhere else - pick your nose and he's dead.
*D’argo and Chiana are having relationship problems*
Chiana: D'Argo - the surgeon said it's-it's a numbing anesthetic, okay? So- so don't breathe too much, and- All right? And-
D’argo: All right already! I - remember.
Chiana: What's the matter with you?
D’argo: What's the matter with you?
Chiana: Well I'm just - I - I'm trying to have a relationship.
D’argo: And you think I'm not? Listen Chiana - you have to understand it's been so long since I've seen my son.
Chiana: D'Argo I know how long it is. There is no one - no one - who has lived this dream of finding your son more than me.
Stark: *high from the Moya gas* Y' gonna help, D'Argo?
D’argo: Couldn't you wait a couple of microts Stark? I was talking to Chiana! *tries to turn back to Chiana, but she’s gone*
*selective memories and human offshoots and the ethics of the donor system*
John: Aeryn? Uh - did I - say or - do anything to piss you off? I mean - other than caving in the side of your head.
Aeryn: Are you serious? Do you not remember?
Grunchlik: Splendid news for the patient! I think - I found a biological match.
John: What? You found a human?
Grunchlik: Well it's called an Interon. It's, uh - bipedal. Central spine, organs internal - oh - single heart circulation and small head. Got 3 specimens. That's the best I can do.
Zhaan: There are over 5,000 different species frozen here. This is an abomination against nature.
Grunchlik: It's not as though they're suffering though is it?
Aeryn: Yeah - I mean they're already dead anyway.
Zhaan: No Aeryn - they're still alive.
Grunchlik: That's a technicality.
John: No. I-I'm not accepting anything from someone who's alive.
Grunchlik: They're all accident victims and the like. Yeah I mean we freeze 'em a microt before their death 'cos the parts last longer that way.
Zhaan: You have interrupted the course of nature.
Grunchlik: None of them would survive restoration. That is the Docs rules for accepting a donor.
John: And you've got 3 like me?
Grunchlik: Well - similar. I mean, probably a species offshoot from the same stock.
John: *to Aeryn* Is that possible? We're somewhere near Earth?
Aeryn: I don't know.
John: *to Grunchlik* I want this chip out.
Grunchlik: Splendid! 'Course - if it, ah - don't work - we get to keep your body.
*Pilot is high, and divulges a secret to Chiana and Jothee, who are finding common ground*
Jothee: Y'know what my dad wants to do with his share of the money? Buy a farm.
Chiana: Really?
Jothee: He wants to grow prossi fruit and make wine. I don't want to live on a farm. I've been a slave. Been chained in a mine. He wants to live the quiet life. I want to live loudly.
Chiana: Well I didn't know that. I-I guess it was gonna be just you two.
Pilot: You too - Chiana!
Chiana: Pilot, you're high, okay?
Pilot: I am no higher in life - than I've even been. My position is fixed!
Chiana: Nonono - I mean - the drug in Moya - it's messing with your brain.
Pilot: He's been using my DRDs - to practice. Wanna see? It's a secret! *DRD projection of D’argo*
D’argo: Chiana, you know that I have to spend a lot more time with Jothee. So I was hoping we could all find a quiet place, and, uh - settle down together. I was hoping you would consent to be my wife.
*Rygel is dismissive of Aeryn but he doesn’t fare much better in negotiations with Grunchlik*
Aeryn: So GunShock - how long will it be before the surgeon can operate on Crichton?
Grunchlik: Oh, 7 or 8 arns. He wants to finish supervising the medication of your ship. He's uh - splendidly conscientious.
Aeryn: Well we'll just keep Crichton restrained until you're ready.
Rygel: Good. Anything else?
Aeryn: What are you up to?
Rygel: Higher level reasoning Aeryn. If a simple thought occurs, I'll call you. *to Grunchlik, after Aeryn leaves* As I was saying... You must know your way around this backwater part of the galaxy. *rolls gemstone*
Grunchlik: I know who I need to know. That's a very small stone.
Rygel: Your ah - savant surgeon - says Moya won't be able to starburst for some time. I'm uh - interested in securing other passage. *rolls gemstone*
Grunchlik: There are some excellent choices available. It depends whether you require speed, stealth, or strength. That's another very small stone.
Rygel: All three. *rolls gemstone*
Grunchlik: That's not impossible. That's uh - three very small stones.
*Zhaan falls for a good daddy story, and Jorpy is able to break free*
Jorpy: When the chip's not controlling me, my thoughts are lucid. There are so many things that I want to say to my family and friends. If you could absorb these thoughts - could find a way to get a message back to Earth...
Zhaan: You want me to join with you in Unity.
Jorpy: I just want my dad to know...
Zhaan: Concentrate on me. *Unity forms—Jorpy is immediately in mental control*
Jorpy: Hello Delvian. 10th level Pa'u? Pity. 12th could break this bond. Time to pray.
*a quick proposal before the shit hits the fan*
Crais: Unlike your institutional upbringing - my parents were compassionate. Moral. Emotional. I value those traits. They're beginning to emerge in you. Crichton may not survive. Moya may be permanently crippled. The others are contemplating their next move. You're an officer and a strategist. Have you not planned yours?
Aeryn: Sounds like you have a suggestion.
Crais: This ship - this emotional ship - needs guidance. Talyn has chosen you. And I agree with his choice. There is much that you can learn that will surprise you.
*Jorpy mocks Aeryn’s emotional resolve during the ship chase*
Aeryn: Given no other choices, I will shoot you down.
Jorpy: Ooooh... I doubt it.
Aeryn: Make no mistake.
Jorpy: I believe you'll pull the trigger. I just don't believe - you'll hit anything.
…
Aeryn: Weapons locked to your exhaust. I give you one last chance to stand down.
Jorpy: Ah - the radiant Miss Officious. So sure. So confident in the void of space. Crichton was trained to fly in atmosphere. Against gravity. Welcome to our world baby.
D’argo: *to Aeryn* Crichton has often said he would rather die than fall to Scorpius. If you get the opportunity - don't hesitate.
Aeryn: What makes you think I would?
D’argo: Because if our positions were reversed - I would.
*John regains control to say goodbye to Aeryn*
Crais: Your jets will weaken the ice! I suggest you separate before touchdown! I repeat - separate before touchdown!
John: AAAHHH! Aeryn! Aeryn, can you comply?
Aeryn: Negative! The harness is jammed! Your frelling tire must have damaged the mechanism!
John: Alright listen to me - This is John - it's John!
Aeryn: Yeah? Is it really you, John?
John: Yes - listen - You do not want to be in that chair when you set down!
Aeryn: Well - this harness won't release. I don't have anything to break it-
John: Aeryn! You have to get out of the damn chair!
Aeryn: I don't have any choice!
John: *to himself, swooping in near her* Oh c'mon, please - do something. do something...
Aeryn: I don't have any options!
John: Baby, you're not gonna die like this. You are not gonna die like this.
Aeryn: I hope you meant what you said in the neural cluster. I did.
*Aeryn’s funeral*
Zhaan: The Goddess graciously receives to her bosom all those who pass from this existence, regardless of faith or belief. She holds, however, a special place for those who travel this life as a journey. *Chiana kisses Aeryn’s hand* Aeryn Sun will surely harvest favor. Her life was a series of strides toward enlightenment. Casting off the chains of prejudice and hatred. *D’argo relinquishes his qualta blade* Reaching beyond violence and bigotry. She sought a balance of lasting inner peace. In her name.
Rygel: You are more worthy of this. *puts his Hynerian regalia into the coffin* At peace Aeryn.
Zhaan: May the Goddess receive you with charity.
Stark: Ahmet
Zhaan: May the Goddess sanctify your spirit.
Stark: Ahmet
D’argo: Ahmet
Zhaan: May the Goddess purify your soul.
Stark: Ahmet
Zhaan: May the Goddess recite your name in the whispers of the wind.
Stark: Ahmet.
Chiana: Ahmet.
John: Amen. *approaches coffin* D'Argo, give me your knife. *after folks look at him warily* Give me - your knife. *hands over knife; John gets in close to Aeryn for her lock of hair* Aeryn... Forgive me. I love you.
*hello, overt season three hinting!*
Crais: Yes Talyn. I too, would have liked to have shown Aeryn what we learned from this chip. I think - I think it would have made her the happiest soul among us.
*going through some of John’s memories on the chip web*
Diagnosan: This - is - what? *flashes of Uncharted Territories aliens*
John: Critters. More close encounters.
Diagnosan: And - this? *U.S. history reel*
John: American politics. Nixon to Clinton. Lose it.
Diagnosan: Here? *canine romps; John smiles to remember them*
John: All of my dogs.
Diagnosan: Nec - ess - ary?
John: No - but - keep it if you can.
*Apparently Jorpy’s message got through…PKs on the base!*
Braca: Return to the Marauder. Inform Scorpius we have successfully maintained our zero presence profile - NOW!
*John might regret this next move…*
Diagnosan: Sor - ry - but - speech - close - to - neu- ral - im - plant.
John: You're gonna take my memories and I'm gonna talk gibberish? Why - why don't you just take my mojo while you're at it?
Diagnosan: Remove chip - then attempt - re - place - you - nor - mal.
John: What the hell. There's no one I really want to talk to… Not much worth remembering. Take the damn thing out.
*Scorpius gets the ending monologue, but not the ending scream*
Scorpius: Well Crichton... So much to say. And yet, such little capacity. *picks up chip still attached to brain tissue* I only hope the wormhole technology I've waited so patiently for makes more sense. *angry noises from John* Don't need a translator microbe for that one, do we? You've cost me much. And I do not suffer disappointment well. I condemn you, John Crichton - to live! So that your thirst for unfulfilled revenge - will consume you. *dramatic pause as Scorpy moves to the door* Goodbye. *he exits; John screams—see you next season!*
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