Caprica Pilot Review

The pilot for Caprica aired in the UK last night. The show, a prequel to the re-imagined Battlestar Galatica, explores the origins of the robotic Cylon's who (as we know) end up destroying humanity in the not too distant future. Despite some reservations given the immense popularity and quality of Battlestar, I was not disappointed.

Firstly the FX crew behind the show have done a magnificent job realising the city of Caprica, creating an immersive and totally believable world not that different from our own. The Cylons themselves are intimidating and similar to those seen in the original 1970's TV series (without the blinding chrome finish). Small notable technological differences however include robot butlers and holobands. The music has once again been handled by Bear McCreary. He does a wonderful job creating creepy overtones and moving string arrangements that evoke feelings from Battlestar.

Whilst not giving too much away, the plot essentially explores what defines us as humanity. It askas to whether a soul can be copied, and lost loved ones resurrected using virtual records and computer software. In addition it explores the social interactions between the colonies, 58 years before their destruction at the hands of the Cylons. Struck with grief from the death of his daughter, Daniel Graystone (Eric Stoltz) utilises his wealth and knowledge to bring her back using the one thing he knows best - technology. Witnessing his determination, Joseph Adama (Esai Morales - Father of future Battlestar Admiral William Adama), finds himself questioning the ethical and moral implications of resurrecting his lost daughter and wife.

The show essentially delivers on all fronts. It creates a moody post-apocalyptic feel of civilisation on the verge of disaster. The characters are deep and believable, with a much more varied age profile than Battlestar. Battlestar Galactica, and more recently Stargate Universe, have both worked hard towards making sci-fi appeal to the broader public and Caprica continues this approach. It is also important to note that no prior knowledge of Battlestar is required, making the show instantly available to newcomers.

The only factor that I encourage you to persevere with is that the first half of the show is slow-paced. Whilst not necessarily a bad thing, it is the final hour of Caprica's pilot that will secure new fans for the forceable future and remind Battlestar loyalists of why we love Ronald D.Moore.

So say we all!