59 reviews
You may find reviews of 'Stargate: Continuum' inflated because of its contrast to the preceding 'Ark of Truth'. Whereas 'Ark' was in many ways, but not completely, a huge disappointment, 'Continuum' is and does everything 'Ark' failed at: the plot grips you, and isn't so linear; it surprises you, twists unexpectedly, rolls back on itself and weaves several arcs together, just like any good story should; there's genuine character development; and a deepened attention to detail and realism. Take your pick on one of the best ever 'Stargate SG-1' episodes, and imagine it being given the royal, feature-length treatment. 'Continuum' finally realises this notion without the symptoms of a clumsy transition between 42-minute episodes and an attempted epic that 'Ark' suffered from.
For any of you who are new to the Stargate franchise, I will provide a brief explanation - but thankfully 'Continuum' doesn't make 'Ark's mistake of being incomprehensible for someone who hasn't watched Stargate for 10 years. The Goa'uld are a snake-like race of aliens who implant themselves inside humans, thereby taking total control of their bodies. Some of these aliens have amassed huge power, controlling vast fleets of ships and armies of "Jaffa" warriors, by using various technologies to give the impression that they are gods. Known as the System Lords, they have been conquering the galaxy for millennia. Near the end of 'Stargate SG-1', the System Lords were all but defeated - except for the most cunning, Ba'al, who managed to clone himself in an attempt to render himself unstoppable. 'Continuum' picks up after our heroes, SG-1 - the primary five-strong team taking orders from the U.S. Government to counter such inter-galactic threats - believe they have the last Ba'al remaining.
But Ba'al is tricky as ever and, as ever, Cliff Simon plays him with a delicious mix of scheming genius, elaborate malice and exuberant vanity that has made Ba'al the villain we love to hate and hate to love. Indeed, Cliff Simon gives his singularly best performance of Ba'al to date, and is without a doubt the star of the show. In one dedicated, extended, excruciating sequence, Ba'al's character is really given a playground with the feature-length treatment he's always deserved: if you know Ba'al already you won't be able to stop grinning; if you don't you will fall hopelessly in love. This scene is rivalled only by a truly tense hostage sequence that rivals the best.
In 'Continuum', SG-1 probably faces the toughest trials it ever has, causing the usually gentle-mannered Daniel Jackson to exclaim in profanities twice throughout the film. Initially this shocked me, as care is usually taken to ensure Stargate productions can be watched by all ages - but actually this elevation of maturity really added some welcome grit to the story, and is matched by a handful of graphic, gory killings. This grittiness is enhanced by the aforementioned attention to realism that a full-length movie allows time for. In your typical Stargate episode, being stuck in an ice cavern isn't all too bad - you'll find your way out soon enough. In 'Continuum' this entails that there's no light, you can't light a fire, your fast, hard breaths billow visibly through the air, you're shivering uncontrollably and eventually you'll get frostbite with dire consequences.
At its heart, 'Continuum' is a time-travel story - a staple of science fiction and certainly of Stargate - but handled much better than usual. Whereas the 'SG-1' episode 'Moebius' thought it could hush the time paradoxes it generated aside, 'Continuum' faces them head-on. However, like the best sci-fi, it doesn't attempt to deliver you pseudo-scientific explanations, it just highlights the puzzles for your attention - they're interesting issues as questions alone. Of course, the time-travel itself is no real focus of the film, but more of a device to shake things up; in a sense, 'Continuum' is one, big, Stargate-themed "What if?" Characters are tested to extremes, are forced to interact with completely different roles, and the opportunity is seized to throw in more guest appearances of old characters than you can count.
Besides all this praise there are some things 'Continuum' really lets itself down with. Some very awkward dialogue between the SG-1 members at the beginning reeked of the writer not really knowing what else to say - although there is an extremely bold speech from Vala, impressive only on account of the boldness of writing it in. Some crucial plot moments are swept over far too quickly - how quickly do you think you could be persuaded that your mortal enemy is actually your friend if you'd never met him before? Well, pretty damn quickly, 'Continuum' seems to think - although again there is enough material for the hardcore fan to "explain away" this kind of problem. It was also disappointing that Joel Goldsmith's score was disappointing - many scenes that really needed a strong sense of drama are overplayed by bright, bouncy music, which slightly jars; one thinks, "Aren't people dying here?" That said, it equally has its moments of grandeur.
'Continuum' succeeds by walking the line between returning to SG-1's roots and mixing up the formula. Original series developer Brad Wright writes, with direction from more recent talent Martin Wood. His flair really shows - watch out for an extended tracking shot in the first few minutes of the film that climaxes with the entrance of the heroes. Whereas 'Ark' doesn't at any point seem to know quite what it's doing, 'Continuum' feels guided by more confident creatives, resulting in a satisfying movie for fans of the show.
For any of you who are new to the Stargate franchise, I will provide a brief explanation - but thankfully 'Continuum' doesn't make 'Ark's mistake of being incomprehensible for someone who hasn't watched Stargate for 10 years. The Goa'uld are a snake-like race of aliens who implant themselves inside humans, thereby taking total control of their bodies. Some of these aliens have amassed huge power, controlling vast fleets of ships and armies of "Jaffa" warriors, by using various technologies to give the impression that they are gods. Known as the System Lords, they have been conquering the galaxy for millennia. Near the end of 'Stargate SG-1', the System Lords were all but defeated - except for the most cunning, Ba'al, who managed to clone himself in an attempt to render himself unstoppable. 'Continuum' picks up after our heroes, SG-1 - the primary five-strong team taking orders from the U.S. Government to counter such inter-galactic threats - believe they have the last Ba'al remaining.
But Ba'al is tricky as ever and, as ever, Cliff Simon plays him with a delicious mix of scheming genius, elaborate malice and exuberant vanity that has made Ba'al the villain we love to hate and hate to love. Indeed, Cliff Simon gives his singularly best performance of Ba'al to date, and is without a doubt the star of the show. In one dedicated, extended, excruciating sequence, Ba'al's character is really given a playground with the feature-length treatment he's always deserved: if you know Ba'al already you won't be able to stop grinning; if you don't you will fall hopelessly in love. This scene is rivalled only by a truly tense hostage sequence that rivals the best.
In 'Continuum', SG-1 probably faces the toughest trials it ever has, causing the usually gentle-mannered Daniel Jackson to exclaim in profanities twice throughout the film. Initially this shocked me, as care is usually taken to ensure Stargate productions can be watched by all ages - but actually this elevation of maturity really added some welcome grit to the story, and is matched by a handful of graphic, gory killings. This grittiness is enhanced by the aforementioned attention to realism that a full-length movie allows time for. In your typical Stargate episode, being stuck in an ice cavern isn't all too bad - you'll find your way out soon enough. In 'Continuum' this entails that there's no light, you can't light a fire, your fast, hard breaths billow visibly through the air, you're shivering uncontrollably and eventually you'll get frostbite with dire consequences.
At its heart, 'Continuum' is a time-travel story - a staple of science fiction and certainly of Stargate - but handled much better than usual. Whereas the 'SG-1' episode 'Moebius' thought it could hush the time paradoxes it generated aside, 'Continuum' faces them head-on. However, like the best sci-fi, it doesn't attempt to deliver you pseudo-scientific explanations, it just highlights the puzzles for your attention - they're interesting issues as questions alone. Of course, the time-travel itself is no real focus of the film, but more of a device to shake things up; in a sense, 'Continuum' is one, big, Stargate-themed "What if?" Characters are tested to extremes, are forced to interact with completely different roles, and the opportunity is seized to throw in more guest appearances of old characters than you can count.
Besides all this praise there are some things 'Continuum' really lets itself down with. Some very awkward dialogue between the SG-1 members at the beginning reeked of the writer not really knowing what else to say - although there is an extremely bold speech from Vala, impressive only on account of the boldness of writing it in. Some crucial plot moments are swept over far too quickly - how quickly do you think you could be persuaded that your mortal enemy is actually your friend if you'd never met him before? Well, pretty damn quickly, 'Continuum' seems to think - although again there is enough material for the hardcore fan to "explain away" this kind of problem. It was also disappointing that Joel Goldsmith's score was disappointing - many scenes that really needed a strong sense of drama are overplayed by bright, bouncy music, which slightly jars; one thinks, "Aren't people dying here?" That said, it equally has its moments of grandeur.
'Continuum' succeeds by walking the line between returning to SG-1's roots and mixing up the formula. Original series developer Brad Wright writes, with direction from more recent talent Martin Wood. His flair really shows - watch out for an extended tracking shot in the first few minutes of the film that climaxes with the entrance of the heroes. Whereas 'Ark' doesn't at any point seem to know quite what it's doing, 'Continuum' feels guided by more confident creatives, resulting in a satisfying movie for fans of the show.
O'Neill (Richard Dean Anderson) and SG1 Tealc (Christopher Judge), Vala (Claudia Black), Samantha Carter (Amanda Tapping), Daniel Jackson (Michael Shanks), and Cameron Mitchell (Ben Browder) go to witness the last Ba'al clone extracted from his host. Vala disappears and then Teal'c among others. O'Neill is killed and the rest of SG1 escape back through the gate. In 1939, a ship carrying a Stargate gets invaded by Ba'al and his men. When Carter, Jackson and Mitchell re-emerge, they find themselves in that ship frozen in the modern Arctic. It turns out that it's the ship that was suppose to carry the first Stargate from Egypt to America. They are rescued by the alternate O'Neill. The government decides to scatter the three and find the Stargate in Anarctica without them. A year later, the Gouald under Ba'al attacks and the government recalls them for help.
It takes awhile to get going. It's the try and true sci-fi premise of time travel. It is done well. It's got good action. It's got the characters fans love. Overall, fans who follow the TV show will love this movie. Everybody else will have problem following it.
It takes awhile to get going. It's the try and true sci-fi premise of time travel. It is done well. It's got good action. It's got the characters fans love. Overall, fans who follow the TV show will love this movie. Everybody else will have problem following it.
- SnoopyStyle
- Dec 11, 2014
- Permalink
Well there will always be a difference in opinions, and mine does somewhat stray from the negative. I've enjoyed watching SG-1 over the years and still find pleasure in hunting down the latest episode of Atlantis. That said i did enjoy this movie, both for it's originality in plot and because it stays true to the series. Way to often have we seen movies that were more like spin offs than anything. You could argue that this could have been just another double header, but the shere amount of known characters in ever so small parts shows that this one has been done for the love of the show and fans, rather than "just in it for the money" I'd like to give it a 10 out of 10, but i also have to maintain a certain level of reality, where 10/10 is reserved for movies that stretches my imagination. I won't be talking about this for several months to come, but i will however make sure that all my fellow SG-1 fans know that this exist and is well worth their time.
- Wraith_2106
- Jul 20, 2008
- Permalink
I'm writing this because I just today read that Cliff Simon died earlier this year in a kite-boarding accident. He always turned in a great performance as Ba'al, and I regret we will no longer see him in any role on screen. He was, indeed, excellent in this movie. Dead at age 58, he left us too soon.
- cliometrician
- Aug 16, 2021
- Permalink
STARGATE is the freaking greatest TV-series I've seen my whole life.
It all started when a friend of mine forced me to watch two episodes with him. It was actually interesting :)
Within the following 3 months I had bought and seen all of Stargate up to date. 10 seasons of Stargate SG-1 containing 214 episodes, 5 seasons of Stargate Atlantis containing 100 episodes and 2 seasons of Stargate Universe.
Besides that I've seen the two Stargate movies: Stargate: Continuum and Stargate: The Ark of Truth
Well, my point is that this is a freaking awesome TV-series. Worth watching! Maybe you shouldn't do it like me(watching 16 seasons and 2 movies within 3 months), but at least watch it:) Its so damn worth it.
It all started when a friend of mine forced me to watch two episodes with him. It was actually interesting :)
Within the following 3 months I had bought and seen all of Stargate up to date. 10 seasons of Stargate SG-1 containing 214 episodes, 5 seasons of Stargate Atlantis containing 100 episodes and 2 seasons of Stargate Universe.
Besides that I've seen the two Stargate movies: Stargate: Continuum and Stargate: The Ark of Truth
Well, my point is that this is a freaking awesome TV-series. Worth watching! Maybe you shouldn't do it like me(watching 16 seasons and 2 movies within 3 months), but at least watch it:) Its so damn worth it.
- sam_smithreview
- May 7, 2016
- Permalink
The latest episode of Stargate involves SG-1 trying to prevent System Lord Ba'al from permanently changing history so he can conquer the Earth. Given a bigger budget for this made for DVD movie, this movie has quality production values and well done visual effects. Unlike many Stargate SG-1 episodes, there are no scenes set in the forests of British Columbia, as I recall.
Stargate: Continuum is almost all fast paced action. But the movie gives the audience what it wants, explosions, evil people and Earth in danger. Nothing wrong with that, unless you were expecting Shakespearean prose.
Stargate: Continuum is almost all fast paced action. But the movie gives the audience what it wants, explosions, evil people and Earth in danger. Nothing wrong with that, unless you were expecting Shakespearean prose.
- gerrythree
- Jul 3, 2008
- Permalink
I was really hoping that this movie would bring back the feel of the first seven seasons. A warm and cuddly SG-1. I am very happy to say it lived up to all of my expectations.
I enjoyed every moment of this movie, and it is without a doubt a spectacular finish. People familiar to Stargate will find that this movie does not go through too much spectacular special effects. The lines are not drawn out and the story makes this a very nice watch. Old and new characters combine to do what SG-1 does best... Save earth.
I would not like to go into too much detail as I would want all of you to watch it for yourself, and take it in for it's full meaning. It goes above and beyond the realm of Stargate.
I enjoyed every moment of this movie, and it is without a doubt a spectacular finish. People familiar to Stargate will find that this movie does not go through too much spectacular special effects. The lines are not drawn out and the story makes this a very nice watch. Old and new characters combine to do what SG-1 does best... Save earth.
I would not like to go into too much detail as I would want all of you to watch it for yourself, and take it in for it's full meaning. It goes above and beyond the realm of Stargate.
Pros: 1. This tied up things nicely through the plot so we don't have to look for some of the tired old goauld's running through the seasons anymore. 2. The old cast is back to a large degree. 3. Fills Sci-Fi gap that seems to have opened in the entertainment industry. 4. Has plenty of "woah ho ho ho! Look at that!" moments 5. Keeps a good healthy pace Cons: 1. There are several points where the characters just let things go (as mentioned in the other reviews) and it lends a feeling that the writer was red-pen marking things out just to fit a time constraint. 2. There's a new and over-the-top addition of swearing to the movie, which we could have done without. I watched this with my 10 year old, an avid SG1 fan, and had to stop partway through. It didn't add anything, even angst, to the movie. 3. The ending was anti-climactic and tied up a little too fast. 4. Tealc has hair.
Overall I think casual fans like myself will love this addition, while hardcore fans will blow it off as just another milking of the cash cow. There's a palpable dearth of good sci-fi programs on anymore (cry) and this really hit the spot. RIP Don Davis, btw.
Overall I think casual fans like myself will love this addition, while hardcore fans will blow it off as just another milking of the cash cow. There's a palpable dearth of good sci-fi programs on anymore (cry) and this really hit the spot. RIP Don Davis, btw.
Following on the release of The Ark of Truth, Continuum is the second Stargate SG-1 movie to come to DVD. Unlike Ark of Truth, Continuum is not potentially weighed down by having to overtly tie up loose ends left by the series. While, in fact, it does tie up a few loose ends rather nicely it also does something else: it brings Stargate SG-1 full circle.
The plot is classic SG-1: the last of the system lords Ba'al (played by the ever villainous Cliff Simon) is about to be executed with SG-1 and Jack O'Neill in attendance. Suddenly people start disappearing and SG-1 members Daniel Jackson, Samantha Carter, and Cameron Mitchell flee through the Stargate to a world where the Stargate never made it to America just before World War II thanks to Ba'al meddling with history. After facing alternate versions of people they know and being dismissed, Earth comes under attack from Ba'al, his queen Qetesh (aka Vala) and his first prime Teal'c. The team must find out how Ba'al changed history and put it right or else. Writer Brad Wright brings together two of the series' best threads: time travel and the threat of Goa'uld invasion together to bring the series not only full circle but what could also be called SG-1's greatest hits.
One of Continuums biggest pluses is that it brings the original cast back together. Richard Dean Anderson appears once again as General Jack O'Neill and while he does not appear in the entire film, his presence his certainly welcome and makes for a great addition to the film. Also returning for this film is the SGC's original leader, General Hammond. The late Don S. Davis makes his final appearance as Hammond in the film's alternate time line and while it's a shame that he doesn't know the team in those scenes, his appearance (like O'Neill's) is a welcome addition to the film.
The big thrill of Continuum is watching familiar characters in the alternate time line. It is here more then anywhere else that the film brings the series full circle. We get to see the Goa'uld system lords back together again even SG-1's first nemesis Apophis in a surprise appearance. On top of the alternate versions of Teal'c, Vala, Hammond, and O'Neill we get to meet alternate versions of Hank Landry and President Henry Hayes. Landry is played masterfully by Beau Bridges who is able to make the lines between the "real" and alternate Landry's almost indistinguishable. Hayes, played by William Devane and last seen in SG-1's seventh season finale Lost City, is much the same as the "real" version we've met before; skeptical at first and then forced to face the incredible with a brave face. Their appearances are what separates Continuum from Ark of Truth and marks an improvement.
The film also makes a fine blend of the cerebral and action sequences. While ostensibly an action story, Continuum also takes moments to explore, on the personal level, the effects of seeing a world and people you know be almost completely different. Yet when the film needs action it has action from submarines rising in the Arctic, to dogfights and gun battles the film shows what SG-1 could be at its best: intelligent and yet action packed.
The stand-out aspects of Continuum are the amazing location photography, special effects, and music. The location filming in the Arctic (done in below zero temperatures) is amazing, beautiful, and breathtaking all at once. Considering this is a relatively low-budget film it's an incredible addition and it makes the film feel even bigger in scope and scale. Scope and scale are the purpose behind another one of the film's highlights: the special effects. From dozens (if not hundreds) of Goa'uld ships to dogfights and extensions and additions to sets, the special effects in Continuum continue SG-1's proud tradition of bring feature film quality effects to the small screen. Then there's Joel Goldsmiths' score which like Ark of Truth evokes the epic feel of the film. Each of these make Continuum stand head over heals above many of the direct-to-DVD sci-fi films released all the time.
Continuum is not only an excellent addition to SG-1 but brings the series full circle. From classic elements to the return of favorite characters and villains to outstanding photography, effects, and music Continuum takes what could have been a boring attempt to tie up the loose ends of the series and creates a action packed adventure. Continuum may well the end of SG-1 and if it is, Continuum is it going out on top.
The plot is classic SG-1: the last of the system lords Ba'al (played by the ever villainous Cliff Simon) is about to be executed with SG-1 and Jack O'Neill in attendance. Suddenly people start disappearing and SG-1 members Daniel Jackson, Samantha Carter, and Cameron Mitchell flee through the Stargate to a world where the Stargate never made it to America just before World War II thanks to Ba'al meddling with history. After facing alternate versions of people they know and being dismissed, Earth comes under attack from Ba'al, his queen Qetesh (aka Vala) and his first prime Teal'c. The team must find out how Ba'al changed history and put it right or else. Writer Brad Wright brings together two of the series' best threads: time travel and the threat of Goa'uld invasion together to bring the series not only full circle but what could also be called SG-1's greatest hits.
One of Continuums biggest pluses is that it brings the original cast back together. Richard Dean Anderson appears once again as General Jack O'Neill and while he does not appear in the entire film, his presence his certainly welcome and makes for a great addition to the film. Also returning for this film is the SGC's original leader, General Hammond. The late Don S. Davis makes his final appearance as Hammond in the film's alternate time line and while it's a shame that he doesn't know the team in those scenes, his appearance (like O'Neill's) is a welcome addition to the film.
The big thrill of Continuum is watching familiar characters in the alternate time line. It is here more then anywhere else that the film brings the series full circle. We get to see the Goa'uld system lords back together again even SG-1's first nemesis Apophis in a surprise appearance. On top of the alternate versions of Teal'c, Vala, Hammond, and O'Neill we get to meet alternate versions of Hank Landry and President Henry Hayes. Landry is played masterfully by Beau Bridges who is able to make the lines between the "real" and alternate Landry's almost indistinguishable. Hayes, played by William Devane and last seen in SG-1's seventh season finale Lost City, is much the same as the "real" version we've met before; skeptical at first and then forced to face the incredible with a brave face. Their appearances are what separates Continuum from Ark of Truth and marks an improvement.
The film also makes a fine blend of the cerebral and action sequences. While ostensibly an action story, Continuum also takes moments to explore, on the personal level, the effects of seeing a world and people you know be almost completely different. Yet when the film needs action it has action from submarines rising in the Arctic, to dogfights and gun battles the film shows what SG-1 could be at its best: intelligent and yet action packed.
The stand-out aspects of Continuum are the amazing location photography, special effects, and music. The location filming in the Arctic (done in below zero temperatures) is amazing, beautiful, and breathtaking all at once. Considering this is a relatively low-budget film it's an incredible addition and it makes the film feel even bigger in scope and scale. Scope and scale are the purpose behind another one of the film's highlights: the special effects. From dozens (if not hundreds) of Goa'uld ships to dogfights and extensions and additions to sets, the special effects in Continuum continue SG-1's proud tradition of bring feature film quality effects to the small screen. Then there's Joel Goldsmiths' score which like Ark of Truth evokes the epic feel of the film. Each of these make Continuum stand head over heals above many of the direct-to-DVD sci-fi films released all the time.
Continuum is not only an excellent addition to SG-1 but brings the series full circle. From classic elements to the return of favorite characters and villains to outstanding photography, effects, and music Continuum takes what could have been a boring attempt to tie up the loose ends of the series and creates a action packed adventure. Continuum may well the end of SG-1 and if it is, Continuum is it going out on top.
- timdalton007
- Jul 29, 2008
- Permalink
I was almost a little disappointed. It was a big time film, with almost everything -- but it wasn't conclusive enough even on it's own, let alone for someone who's watched 10 years of stargate. As a part of stargate it was very good. As a final ending, and finishing note for 10 years, it was lacking. It didn't really answer my unanswered questions, you know - the one's you always watch every episode to see if some hint is revealed.
The biggest disappointment for me was, that I've really missed Jack O'Neill (or Richard Dean Anderson) being a part of the series, and I was Thrilled when I saw he was in the credits for this one, but then he didn't even have a particularly prominent role.
It's totally possible I'm just disappointed because this is the last ting, but I really wanted it to be huge, and make the series feel complete.
But they were smart in terms of going back to the basics, and bringing us all back to the really good stargate of those first few seasons.
The biggest disappointment for me was, that I've really missed Jack O'Neill (or Richard Dean Anderson) being a part of the series, and I was Thrilled when I saw he was in the credits for this one, but then he didn't even have a particularly prominent role.
It's totally possible I'm just disappointed because this is the last ting, but I really wanted it to be huge, and make the series feel complete.
But they were smart in terms of going back to the basics, and bringing us all back to the really good stargate of those first few seasons.
The general attitude going into this movie is half-skeptical, half-excited: on the one hand, direct-to-DVD rarely bodes well and Ark of Truth, while not bad on the whole, could have been a lot better; on the other hand, it's a new SG movie, it's got Jack, Goa'uld instead of Ori, whohoo! The verdict? Two words, people.
It's Good!
Continuum redeems the whole "SG1 movies" idea. True, Ark of Truth wasn't such a hard act to follow, but this goes above and beyond the "better than the first film" label. It's a true SG1 story, like we used to get'em in the first seasons. Plenty of adventure (they can't seem to get a break throughout the whole film), interspersed with the small moments we loved throughout the series: the one-liners (yes, Jack's got some lines, but most come from Mitchell), the technobabble (Sam still doesn't get to finish a phrase w/o being interrupted), the hard choices. And a taste of the good old Goa'uld arrogance we all know and love, to boot.
The characters each get their spotlight moment. Mitchell shines throughout, indeed this seemed to be a movie made to show he well and truly belongs to SG1 outside the Ori arc, as well. Daniel gets his moments, as well as Sam, and we get to see both of them interact with Jack once again! On the Goa'uld front, we are treated to a whole parade of former system lords, pretty much anyone you can think of. Baal, of course, is his usual charming evil self. And we get a great new villain in the person of Quetesh, who personifies the perfect Goa'uld queen: subservient, double-faced, deadly. Almost wish she'd been there for the first seasons of the show!
The quality is very good, most scenes would have done very well on a big screen. Effects, great, but then that's nothing new. In short, this movie delivers what it promised: an epic SG1 adventure and a great character show. I'd originally given it 8 stars, but by comparison to Ark of Truth, it gets an extra one. Totally worth the money, can't wait to own the DVD.
It's Good!
Continuum redeems the whole "SG1 movies" idea. True, Ark of Truth wasn't such a hard act to follow, but this goes above and beyond the "better than the first film" label. It's a true SG1 story, like we used to get'em in the first seasons. Plenty of adventure (they can't seem to get a break throughout the whole film), interspersed with the small moments we loved throughout the series: the one-liners (yes, Jack's got some lines, but most come from Mitchell), the technobabble (Sam still doesn't get to finish a phrase w/o being interrupted), the hard choices. And a taste of the good old Goa'uld arrogance we all know and love, to boot.
The characters each get their spotlight moment. Mitchell shines throughout, indeed this seemed to be a movie made to show he well and truly belongs to SG1 outside the Ori arc, as well. Daniel gets his moments, as well as Sam, and we get to see both of them interact with Jack once again! On the Goa'uld front, we are treated to a whole parade of former system lords, pretty much anyone you can think of. Baal, of course, is his usual charming evil self. And we get a great new villain in the person of Quetesh, who personifies the perfect Goa'uld queen: subservient, double-faced, deadly. Almost wish she'd been there for the first seasons of the show!
The quality is very good, most scenes would have done very well on a big screen. Effects, great, but then that's nothing new. In short, this movie delivers what it promised: an epic SG1 adventure and a great character show. I'd originally given it 8 stars, but by comparison to Ark of Truth, it gets an extra one. Totally worth the money, can't wait to own the DVD.
During a ceremony of extraction of the criminal Ba'al (Cliff Simon), the participants vanish and Colonel Cameron Mitchell (Ben Browder), Colonel Samantha Carter (Amanda Tapping) and Dr. Daniel Jackson (Michael Shanks) runs to the Stargate, traveling back to 1939 to the cargo ship Achilles. When the captain of the ship throws a ball in the sea, there is an explosion and the trio travels to a parallel world. They discover that Ba'al traveled to the past to sink the Achilles and avoid the start of the program. They try to convince the military leaders that they should reactivate the portal and restore their time-line. However, they are isolated in different states until the day Ba'al invades the parallel world with his spaceships.
"Stargate: Continuum" is a good entertainment, but I had some troubles in the beginning since I do not watch the series; therefore I do not know the characters. In spite of this limitation, I liked the story and the chemistry among the lead characters. My vote is six.
Title (Brazil): "Stargate Linha do Tempo" ("Stargate Timeline")
"Stargate: Continuum" is a good entertainment, but I had some troubles in the beginning since I do not watch the series; therefore I do not know the characters. In spite of this limitation, I liked the story and the chemistry among the lead characters. My vote is six.
Title (Brazil): "Stargate Linha do Tempo" ("Stargate Timeline")
- claudio_carvalho
- Oct 24, 2008
- Permalink
- Messenger3
- Jul 29, 2008
- Permalink
"Continuum" is one of the few motion pictures that fulfills every hope that even a reluctant SG1 fan like me has. I saw the motion picture "Stargate" and enjoyed it moderately. The TV series sort of wormed its way into my heart despite myself. Richard Dean Anderson managed to make his character over from Kurt Russell's tortured officer to the lighter character we now know and in that first season he did a remarkable job. The bonus material with "Continuum" is great fun too. And perhaps that is the secret: I have become used to the cast members over the years and it was a treat to see what seemed like every one of them in this movie. There is a bittersweet joy to see the late Don S. Davis for the last time. That we also get to see so many of the System Lords speaks well for the friendly personal relationships that the makers of SG1 must have with the actors. Yes, it is a simple story of good versus evil but so are all stories in which many of us have any interest. I was very surprised to find myself thinking of how important Cam Mitchell became to SG1; he seems to be indispensable. I hope that the producers will continue to make these movies; if they hit the high mark of "Continuum" I will happily fork over the price of the DVD.
This movie was SO enjoyable. I just wish it could have been longer - there could have been more fun/funny things happening for the year they were all in limbo. Plus it would have been great to have Jack in much more of the movie, although I presume Richard Dean Anderson didn't want to do that. I love the writing for Jack's witty sarcasm. I realized with great nostalgia, how much I MISSED this show (with these characters - so liked them all). I have always missed the "Jack" humor since he left the show - so liked the little laughs from his lines. The writing was terrific - action-packed and a good story line. I liked the bigger budget effects. I think Ba'al is a fun bad guy. If you were a Stargate SG-1 fan, you will have a very good time with this movie - and it WILL be over WAY too soon. I wish the $ people would decide to do a few more (maybe could film 2 at a time) - if they can be this clever and well-written AND with the full cast (even though they'd have to film around everyone's schedules).
I didn't go into watching this with any real expectations, like I did previously with The Arc of Truth. So once that was out of the way, I really liked this movie.
The acting was a big step up, more like what the series was like. The jokes and lines that the main actors and the other actors delivered didn't fall flat. I was glad to see that, since I was so disappointed with that in the previous movie. It was a decent return to form.
The cinematography was well shot and the soundtrack was pretty well done. Both of these things added to the overall feel of the movie.
As for the plot, it was rather simple... but it was still good enough and kept me interested in watching the movie.
I recommend this film over The Arc of Truth. It's worth the watch.
The acting was a big step up, more like what the series was like. The jokes and lines that the main actors and the other actors delivered didn't fall flat. I was glad to see that, since I was so disappointed with that in the previous movie. It was a decent return to form.
The cinematography was well shot and the soundtrack was pretty well done. Both of these things added to the overall feel of the movie.
As for the plot, it was rather simple... but it was still good enough and kept me interested in watching the movie.
I recommend this film over The Arc of Truth. It's worth the watch.
- BoxMissingno
- Sep 13, 2011
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The best stargate movie to come out. i liked the ark of truth but this was so much better. Richard dean Anderson's cameo well more of a bit player was great he never ceases to amaze me. The whole cast returns and pays homage to Australia in one of the jokes which was hilarious!. Amanda tapping looked extremely beautiful in the movie. Beau bridge,Claudia black, Ben browder, Christopher judge and of course one of my favorites next to Richard Michael shanks. CGI was amazing! one liners were perfect and the story was awesome! action, humor and Gould threatening to enslave humanity what more could you ask for. Bring on NUMBER 3!
The premise of the movie is based on the flawed "grandfather paradox", in that Baal supposedly changed the current timeline by thwarting discovery of the Stargate on earth, causing SG1 never to have existed and Cameron Mitchell never to have been born. The fact that it is meant to have eliminated the current timeline is evidenced by the fact that people and placed resulting from the existence of the Stargate program disappear from the current timeline.
In fact, changing past events would have created an alternate timeline without any evidence being apparent in the original timeline and voiding the premise of SG1 rushing to the gate and returning to an unfamiliar timeline. The theory of alternate timelines is that new timelines resulting from alternate versions historical events happening requires that the original timeline continues unnoticed to its inhabitants.
That all said, it's still worth seeing for nostalgic purposes of ardent fans, even if the story arc is limited and short sighted.
- roneysam-87204
- Dec 29, 2020
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We've got multiple deaths of Ba'al, plenty of Goa'uld arrogance, plenty of fun and a little bit of drama. This movie is a near coppy of the ending of SG-1 (season 8, Moebius), thus the movie is somewhat unnecessary (we've already seen a comparable plot) but still quite funny and entertaining.
The production values are OK.
- tomasajdari
- Aug 9, 2018
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- steveo9009
- Jul 10, 2008
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STARGATE is the freaking greatest TV-series i've seen my whole life.
It all started when a friend of mine forced me to watch two episodes with him. It was actually interesting :)
Within the following 3 months I had bought and seen all of stargate up to date. 10 seasons of Stargate SG-1 containing 214 episodes, 5 seasons of Stargate Atlantis containing 100 episodes, ½ season of Stargate Universe containing so far 10 episodes
Besides that i've seen the two stargate movies: Stargate: Continuum and Stargate: The Ark of Truth
Well, my point is that this is a freaking awesome TV-series. Worth watching! Maybe you shoudn't do it like me(watching 16 seasons and 2 movies within 3 months), but at least watch it:) Its so damn worth it.
It all started when a friend of mine forced me to watch two episodes with him. It was actually interesting :)
Within the following 3 months I had bought and seen all of stargate up to date. 10 seasons of Stargate SG-1 containing 214 episodes, 5 seasons of Stargate Atlantis containing 100 episodes, ½ season of Stargate Universe containing so far 10 episodes
Besides that i've seen the two stargate movies: Stargate: Continuum and Stargate: The Ark of Truth
Well, my point is that this is a freaking awesome TV-series. Worth watching! Maybe you shoudn't do it like me(watching 16 seasons and 2 movies within 3 months), but at least watch it:) Its so damn worth it.
- alexander-621-466608
- Dec 28, 2009
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- joshi_3592
- Aug 13, 2009
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I am one of many who enjoyed the Stargate SG1 TV series for many years. I am also one of many who were disappointed when the plug was pulled on the series.
However, if this 'movie-length-episode' is anything to go by, perhaps the final curtain on the TV series was a blessing in disguise.
The plot was weak and full of holes. I got the feeling the actors really didn't want to be there. Certainly the performances were below standard.
In summary, it was a story of a typical TV episode that was stretched out to 90 minutes.
I guess if you are an SG-1 tragic it really doesn't matter how good (or otherwise) it is - you'll watch it and probably enjoy it. For me it was a waste of 90 minutes.
However, if this 'movie-length-episode' is anything to go by, perhaps the final curtain on the TV series was a blessing in disguise.
The plot was weak and full of holes. I got the feeling the actors really didn't want to be there. Certainly the performances were below standard.
In summary, it was a story of a typical TV episode that was stretched out to 90 minutes.
I guess if you are an SG-1 tragic it really doesn't matter how good (or otherwise) it is - you'll watch it and probably enjoy it. For me it was a waste of 90 minutes.
- steve-baldwin-1
- Jul 2, 2008
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- jasonemartin-75927
- May 6, 2023
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An absolutely terrific conclusion (sequels at least not planned) of the SG-1 TV show ! Really great story and very well done. Thanks from a big Stargate fan !
- CoolNickName1985
- May 10, 2021
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