Structurally, this is one weird yet cool episode! Instead of the usual format, the episode begins like it's a special produced by the fictional "ISN"--a galactic news service much like CNN. An obnoxious reporter narrates the show and through the course of the episode, it's pretty obvious that ISN isn't exactly honest or as objective as they proclaim themselves to be--it's nice to see things really haven't changed in the 23rd century! Anyways, the reporter generally makes a nuisance of herself as she badgers and insinuates herself where she obviously doesn't belong and it's fun to watch Ivanova threaten the ISN employees throughout the show!! Considering that ISN seems bent on making Babylon 5 look bad, the fact that all heck breaks loose during the episode seems to be a great case of serendipity! The episode deserves big kudos for originality, fun and yet still focusing on the overall underlying plots that bind most of the episodes of this series into one coherent tapestry.
By the way, be sure to pay close attention to the fake commercial placed in this show. It is one trying to recruit youngsters for the Psi Corps and makes them look like a decent and wonderful civic organization! Plus, there is a noticeable "subliminal" message--slow down the DVD and read it. It's all done tongue-in-cheek and is a welcome bit of comedy that actually helps the overall plot of B-5.
By the way, be sure to pay close attention to the fake commercial placed in this show. It is one trying to recruit youngsters for the Psi Corps and makes them look like a decent and wonderful civic organization! Plus, there is a noticeable "subliminal" message--slow down the DVD and read it. It's all done tongue-in-cheek and is a welcome bit of comedy that actually helps the overall plot of B-5.
