A maelstrom is defined as “a large, powerful or violent whirlpool” and also as “a restless, disordered, or tumultuous state of affairs.” Both definitions are appropriate for this intense episode, which gave us a reprieve from the rather mundane day-to-day stories we’ve endured the last few weeks.
In many ways, this is Starbuck’s signature episode. Katee Sackhoff’s acting was terrific throughout, from the pressure-packed cockpit scenes to the emotional moments with her dead mother. Jamie Bamber (as Lee) provided great support, especially in the scene in the hanger where the duo talked about the state of their relationship(s). And, once again, Edward James Olmos’ considerable acting chops were on display as he mourned his surrogate daughter’s death.
But back to the story: Leoben said something interesting when he first brought her back to see her mother – “All of this has happened before and will happen again.” This destiny-filled, cyclical thinking has been mentioned before (by Roslin) and it will be interesting to see how it is used as the series progresses.
So is Starbuck really dead?
I doubt it. She had her hand on the eject handle, so she could have launched herself into the atmosphere.
Or maybe she’s a Cylon and she’s going to wake up, reborn, on a resurrection ship.
Whatever happens, she did commit suicide, which falls in line with her mother’s opinion of her…that she’s a quitter.
Destiny is a bitch, isn’t it?
