Previous: 1.14 Hathor

This is the episode when Sam really comes into her own and can be identified as the Sam Carter I know and love. She's got some stellar moments before this—in "The Nox" and "Thor's Hammer," particularly, and it's her cool thinking in "Hathor" that saves the day—but this is the episode that pulls together all the disparate parts of Sam and turns her into a complicated, conflicted person.

The evolution of Sam's character in this episode is encapsulated by her relationship with Cassie. Sam's patience with Cassandra, and the way Cassandra breaks down Sam's walls as much as Sam breaks down Cassandra's walls is what cracks open this character and finally gives Sam the same complexity Jack and Daniel have been rocking from day one. (Okay, Daniel's complexity may have rocketed a notch in "Bloodlines," you know what I mean.) There's huge growth between Sam telling Daniel, "Sometimes I forget you're not military" and her breaking down in the elevator before going back for Cassie. It's amazing to see Sam wrestle with the divide between her heart and her head, and then come to a decision that honors her as a human instead of just as a role on the team.

Amanda Tapping's performance is the most natural it has been this early in the series. From the first moment of this episode Sam feels more alive and more complete. (Compare this episode to say "Emancipation" and it's easy to see what I mean.) And the way Tapping plays off Katie Stuart (Cassandra) to slowly form their relationship is masterful. The time devoted pays off, cementing Cassie in the hearts of the audience and priming her for future appearances—this is the kind of emotional work we love seeing in SG-1!


A few last notes of significance:

• Teal'c coaxing Cassie out of the bushes is the cutest thing. ♥


• Daniel voices concern that the SG team had dismissed the Hankan mythology. Considering the Goa'uld, it's nice to see someone make the link that alien mythology might have more basis in science than the Tau'ri might think.


• This is the first time they identify the Stargate is made of naquadah and the first time they say "naquadah."


• Teal'c says that Nirriti is an enemy of Apophis, but we know Hanka is Nirriti's domain, so did Nirriti independently try to destroy the Tau'ri 'gate? Or was Nirriti contracted by Apophis/the System Lords? Or did she decide to shut this down as soon as she saw SG-7? I have questions.


• Nirriti is referred to by male pronouns in this episode.


• The way the guys support Sam in this episode is so good. Everything from Daniel sitting outside Cassie's room—there, but giving Sam space—to the fact that none of them will clear out before the explosion. SG-1 is the greatest version of the Three Musketeers.


• Daniel spends a lot of this episode not wearing his glasses and It.Is.Kill.Ing.Me.

Quote of the Week:

Sam: I know I'm supposed to be detached.
Daniel: Who said that?
Sam: Sometimes I forget you're not military.

( Episode Stats )

Next up: 1.16 Cor-ai