If there is one thing that Dr. Carson Beckett, the clone, can attest to, it’s the feeling of not quite belonging—of being an outsider. Fortunately, he’s got friends who really care for him and welcomed him back, as it were. But still, feeling the guilt for his part in the refinement and release of the Hoffan Drug by Michael, his creator and captor, Beckett feels the great need to go out into the galaxy and heal people. It’s his way of making penance for the role, although forced, that he played in Michael’s bid for galactic domination at the expense of thousands of human lives.
Beckett’s work has brought him to a planet that is actually the combination of two societies: the indigenous villagers, ruled by a Council, and the Balarans, who were welcomed as neighbors after they were nearly wiped out by the plague. Although the Balarans have been welcomed into the community, they are still called “Outsiders” by the Council.
So, when the Council learns that a Wraith hive is on its way to kill those who survived the plague, their vote will play a huge role in who will live or die. Even though Sheppard offers to help all of the people to relocate temporarily to Atlantis before finding a new homeworld, the Council and the Balarans have other ideas because neither wish to leave. What unfolds is a study in human nature when people are faced with the concept of “the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few…or the one.” But just who will that “one” be?
“Outsiders” was written by Alan McCullough and directed by William Waring. In addition to seeing Paul McGillion return to portray the beloved Dr. Beckett, the guest cast includes several other Stargate veterans: Sean Tyson, Sarah Deakins, Tyler McClendon (who has portrayed several Wraith already this season, including Todd’s second-in-command, Kenny), and Aaron Craven. Tyson and Deakins you may readily recognize, but McClendon and Craven might be more difficult as they’ll be under Wraith prosthetic make-up.
“Outsiders” premieres tonight at 9pm Eastern on the Sci Fi Channel. There is a repeat at 11 pm.
Preview Videos – Beware of Spoilers! –
Solutions Coverage –
- Episode Guide (includes spoilers and links to other articles of interest about the episode)
- On site forum: SGA S5 Discussion Board
- Live Journal
[Image from MGM.]