Andromeda
"D Minus Zero"

Airdate: October 29, 2000

The title "D Minus Zero" is a tag that the High Guard gave to the first day of conflict, which is an appropriate title for this episode considering that the crew of the Andromeda come across an enemy who prefers to remain unknown. It is only with a bit of cooperation and deception that the Andromeda finally manages to outwit and outfight its enemy.

Have I mentioned lately how much I love Andromeda (Lexa Doig)?

Completely self-contained and therefore probably fairly inexpensive to produce, "D Minus Zero" is nonetheless both enjoyable and the kind of crew interaction heavy episode that should have followed the two-part pilot. While "To Loose The Fateful Lightning" had, at its core, an interesting story, the crew of the Andromeda, their motivations, their loyalties, their particular character quirks... All of this was still a bit of a mystery, but in "D Minus Zero", we get the time needed to explore many facets of these people who have taken on the task of restoring the Commonwealth.

Rev Bem, the Magog Way-ian, full steps into the role of advisor for Captain Hunt by reminding Dylan that his new crew were not trained by the High Guard. Their skills and gifts and outlooks are different and perhaps his expectations of them should reflect those differences. It is quite an epiphany for the man who could once effectively run the ship with his eyes closed. All of his previous instincts and responses need to be re-examined in light of the different circumstances in which he finds himself. But while Rev Bem points out the captain's failings, Andromeda herself -- probably both as a slightly smitten admirer and the only person besides Hunt who remembers the good old days -- provides encouragement and support in Dylan's endeavor to become more attuned to the needs of his new crew.

A backstory rich in potential is given to engineer Seamus Harper as a few morsels about a highly disadvantaged youth are thrown out laying the foundation for what could turn out to be some very interesting future episodes. While Hunt and company's attempts at restoring the Commonwealth can undoubtedly be the basis for some good storytelling, just as absorbing would be the tale of how the Nietzscheans betrayal contributed to the breakdown of many of the civilizations involved.

Also of interest is the clash of wills that occurs between Valentine and Hunt. Dylan knows his ship's capabilities, but Beka has a better handle on her crew's strengths and weaknesses and is a lot more experienced in how things work in that particular day and age. Just to add a little spice to the mix, Tyr tries to get Valentine to take control, but it seems that the Eureka Maru's captain is more willing to trust someone acting out of ignorance, rather than someone who acts out of self-interest. In the end, she's right and Beka and Dylan come to an understanding of sorts with Hunt overcoming his understandably gun-shy tendencies towards first officers.

Although Tyr Anasazi continues to prove that he deserves nothing more than a good spacing, Rev Bem and Seamus Harper have thankfully begun to exhibit valuable and intriguing characteristics and backstories so they can stay. Even if Rev Bem still needs some Neosporin or Bactine or maybe just earmuffs. As a gift to my sanity, the big sucking hole of stupid chick had few scenes and lines in this episode so I can't really say if she improved or not.

An engaging episode, "D Minus Zero" is exactly the kind of character building story that Andromeda should focus on in this its early days. As long as the focus isn't on Trance Gemini.

-- Linda M. Najera

Andromeda is syndicated. Check your local listings for show times.

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