Ep Discussion: SG1 1.09 "The Torment of Tantulus"

[Varthikes]

Stargate: SG-1
"The Torment of Tantalus"

Another one of my top favorite episodes of Season 1. One of my top favorite episodes of the whole series actually.

I love the story involving Ernest Littlefield (with SGA's Paul McGillion playing the younger) and the 1945-experimentation of the device that we know as the stargate. Ernest's reaction to the arrival of SG-1 is played out perfectly--a man who's been stranded alone for fifty years finally being rescued. Love SG-1's reaction to finding him naked. Especially Carter's and Teal'c's reaction as naked Ernest hugs them all--Carter quickly stepping out of his path and Teal'c's frown.

The "United Nations of the Stars" room was a neat idea. And, one that will be revisited later--an alliance between four great races. Daniel's obsession with it was nicely played and Ernest trying to break him away from it.

We also have the return of Catherine Langford's character from the original film with her Eye of Ra medallion. How do you guys feel Elizabeth Hoffman's performance compares with Vivica Lindfors' for the role?

[Monroe]

I really enjoyed this episode. I thought Ernest could have been a little more crazy. It has been fifty years after all. And I didn't like how the entire thing collapsed right after they left. It had stood there for 50k + years. But overall it was really awesome. Often I'm in favor of unhappy endings but I'm glad this one had a happy one.

[Varthikes]

It's the Curse of SG-1. They do seem to have a knack for bringing trouble with them wherever they go, after all.

[Monroe]

It's the Curse of SG-1. They do seem to have a knack for bringing trouble with them wherever they go, after all.

Wouldn't be a show otherwise I guess maybe the vibrations of the gate opening again is what set it over the edge.