by Jamie Crouse

Created on: January 13, 2007   Last Updated: May 09, 2007

While many will argue that Stargate SG1 lacks some of the defining sci-fi qualities of its predecessors, I will argue that's its greatness. Stargate SG1 brings together a perfect mix of normalcy and science fiction to create a show that will appeal to both the novice sci-fi consumer and the hardcore fans alike. It is this blending that allows those new to science fiction a chance to break themselves gently into the genre.

The premise of the show is not unique. Travelers from Earth gate through the Stargate to explore new planets, meet new cultures, and acquire technology. Substitute the Stargate for a spaceship and it would be Star Trek or any of its variations.

Like other science fiction shows, Stargate SG1 uses "science" to explain the impossible events occurring in the series. The stargate itself relies on wormhole physics. In real life, the theory of the wormhole is in its infant stages at best. What the characters can accomplish in fictional world, however, is what gives the series its charm. The reality of science does not have to be an important part of science fiction, but the appearance of its reality does. Stargate does just that. The writers work impossible scientific theory into the show's storyline, but it has just enough truth to it to make it plausible in a fantasy setting. Scientific purists will not appreciate Stargate's abuse of scientific principles, although fans are willing to overlook academic fallacies in favor of good storytelling.

The Stargate itself and its resulting adventures might not be grounded in realism, but the shows creators and actors take special care to present realistic details regarding both the military aspect of the show and the characters' development. For the first several seasons, the Stargate operation is run by the United States military. Its flagship team, SG1, is headed up by an Air Force colonel. His second in command is an Air Force captain, who is later promoted to major and finally, colonel. The real United States Air Force has given its endorsement to the show for its accurate portrayal of military life. Stargate SG1 has managed to poke fun at itself by asking the head of the Air Force to star as himself in a few episodes. Injecting reality into fiction lends an air of credibility to the show while keeping the storylines intact.

Most of the show's charm comes from its primary cast. Richard Dean Anderson, aka McGuyver, stars as Colonel Jack O'Neill. For almost nine years, he leads the Stargate Command's flagship

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