Stargate Universe episode “Pain”, written by Carl Binder and directed by William Waring, premieres tonight (May 14) on Syfy at 9 PM ET and on Space at 10 PM ET!
The Story
No one can deny that the stress levels on the Destiny are high and that some people can handle them better than others, but when an unprecedented number of what appear to be breakdowns—in the form of unsettling hallucinations—occur concurrently, it’s time to look for other causes. The question is, Will Lt. Tamara Johansen be able to find the cure before someone is hurt…or worse?
The Story Behind the Scenes
This dependence on supporting characters comes to the fore when we look at the story “Pain” and at the evidence that two of the three nominations for “Best Supporting Male/Female in a Dramatic Series” for the 2010 Leo Awards are for performances in this particular episode: Julia Benson as Lt. Vanessa James and Patrick Gilmore as Dr. Dale Volker.
In his weblog, creative consultant Joseph Mallozzi wrote about Benson’s award-worthy performance: “Speaking of our impressive cast, I want to make mention of yet another recurring player who has really stepped up over the course of this first season. Julia Benson … plays the role of Second Lieutenant Vanessa James and, like much of our supporting cast, impressed early and continues to do so with performances that have won her the respect and confidence of the entire writing-producing team. I mention Julia because we were watching the director’s cut of Pain the other day, an episode in which she delivers one stunner of a scene. I’m also looking forward to her nice, meaty moments in an upcoming episode.”
Adding to this praise, Mallozzi described what he was feeling after viewing the Day 2 Mix, “Joel Goldsmith did his usual spectacular job and I was particularly impressed with the moody and unsettling score for Pain. It really ratchets up the tension. And, speaking of tension, what happens to Volker…it’s enough to give me nightmares. Actor Patrick Gilmore’s performance was terrific – in a creepy, frisson-inducing way.”
Apparently, editor Brad Rines hit the mark and then some, as well, since he too was nominated for a Leo for his work for this episode (for “Best Picture Editing in a Dramatic Series”).
Putting all of this noteworthy work together from several aspects of the production, it sounds like we should take extra care to prepare for a pretty intense ride!
Watch and Rate
Once you’ve seen the episode, make sure to return to Solutions to vote in our front page poll and to read the chatter that’s sure to take place on our Stargate Twitter Superfeed.
NOTE: Viewers in Australia will be getting “Pain” on the Sci Fi Channel on Friday, May 21, at 8:30 PM, and the UK’s Sky One viewers will see it Tuesday, May 25, at 8:00 PM.
[spoiler intro=”Official Episode Summary”]A few members of the Destiny crew begin experiencing disturbingly realistic hallucinations bringing their personal fears or desires to life. Some worry that the stress of life on board the ship has finally begun to trigger nervous breakdowns.
After isolating those affected Lt. Tamara Johansen believes the hallucinations are related to the last planet the away team visited. But just as she thinks she’s contained those at risk, she discovers the cause of the hallucinations is transferring to other members of the crew. When the hallucinations become life threatening, she and the crew must track down whatever is causing the episodes before someone dies as a result.
Taken from IGN.[/spoiler]
[spoiler intro=”Syfy’s Episode Preview Trailer”]
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[spoiler intro=”Syfy’s Sneak Peek Video Clip”]
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