Babylon 5
How to Watch: With 5 seasons, 7 movies, and a spin-off series, it can be pretty difficult trying to decide what you should watch first. Then you have to consider the dialogue between the writers and the fans in The Lurker's Guide after each episode aired and the producer's commentary in the special editions. Seeing that Babylon 5: The Gathering started all of this, it is the most important thing to watch first to get a feel for the series. Although Babylon 5: In the Beginning explains things before everything else, it is also written alongside the other films in the fifth season. To avoid spoilers, I would most definitely watch the film "The Gathering" and then Seasons 1 through 3 before any other film. Babylon 5: Thirdspace can fit somewhere in episodes 8 and 9 of season 4. The rest, well, gets pretty complicated. I will be going into more details of that down below when I summarize my impression of each season and film. I will also highly suggest avoiding commentaries, wikis, or online Q&As as many things in later seasons are described in great detail within the first season.
The Gathering: If you tried to watch the Babylon 5 series without seeing this movie first you would probably get lost like me trying to keep up with all the character within the first 10 minutes. Some have actually complained that the movie fails to do anything special while watching after the whole series. In reality, I felt the movie was awesome! It was a perfect introduction to what you are getting into, well at least in the first season. As Straczynski put it: "You have a little over 90 minutes. You have to introduce 9 major characters in the course of that story. That gives you ten minutes of attention for any one character. Now you've also got to tell the backstory. You've got to establish who the various players are. You've got to put the present-tense story into motion, with beginning, middle and end. And now you're left with maybe 3-4 minutes of "quality time" with any one character. If we only had 2 or 3 characters, then it's a very different story...but that isn't the universe we have to work in." It was clear what he wanted to accomplish from the get go. When TNT was showing the 5th season, a special edition of the episode was aired for newcomers. A list of differences (with some spoilers) can be seen at the bottom of the wiki and commentary can be seen here as well as various draft changes.
Season 1 - Signs and Portents: The first thing you will notice is the shift in actors. Tamlyn Tomita, playing as Laurel Takashima, didn't like being in the role of a military commander and Patricia Tallman, playing as Lyta Alexander, was temporarily replaced by Andrea Thompson as Talia Winters. Though I never noticed the voice of Delenn being more masculine in the film, the idea behind Delenn being more sexually-ambiguous was changed to just being a female character. Many people give out warnings to first-comers that the first season of the series is very hard to watch. As pointed out in the guide: "Straczynski purposely went light on the five-year narrative elements during the first season as he felt the audience would not be ready for the full narrative at the time, but he still managed to drop in some scenes that would be critical to the future narrative. This also made it a challenge for the actors, as to understand motivations without being told what those were driving towards." However I will have to go in and say that I personally despise many of the episodes. The problem with the first season is the fact that the series can be very dark and purposely deal with controversial subjects that no one wants to deal with. I personally had my blood boil during episodes: 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 21. And the only good episodes are story-driven: 1, 8, 13, 20. Episodes 18 and 19 is a 2-parter while episode 22 gets hit very hard with obvious changes in the tone of the series. You got plenty of good actors show up: NCIS "Ducky" David McCallum in episode 4, Star Trek's "Chekov" Walter Koenig, Michael Paul Chan from Major Crimes in episode 7, David Warner from Tron in episode 15, and Jeffrey Combs from Enterprise in episode 16. The thing I liked most about the first season are the memorable quotes! Londo's vision of him strangling is rival 20 years from now in the first episode (which turns out to be very important), "My shoes are too tight, and I have forgotten how to dance." - Londo Mollari in episode 7, "Understanding is a three-edged sword." - Kosh in episode 9 (which is amended in season 4 episode 6 "Into the Fire" by Sheridan), "The avalanche has already started. It is too late for the pebbles to vote." - Kosh in episode 10, The Babylon 5 matra "Ivanova is always right. I will listen to Ivanova. I will not ignore Ivanova's recommendations." - Ivanova in episode 18. There is probably a few more I missed.
Season 2 - The Coming of Shadows: Once again we have a complete change in cast members. There were some fierce rearranging between the Narn's companion barely making their presence visible between Ko D'Ath and Na'Toth. Though the reason behind Michael O Hare departure was kept a secret for 19 years. Apparently being on the show was causing ill effects on his severe schizophrenia. He does pop-up later on occasion, especially in season 3, to fulfill his character arc. Delenn changes, which I have tried my best to find out why. All I know is she sort of becomes the "alien with the hair". The new captain John Sheridan comes in and the way Joseph Straczynski decides to make both him and the previous captain JJeffrey Sinclair have the same initials as him makes me confuse the two names a lot. The very first episode, "Points of Departure" pretty much sums up everything that was "a mystery" from the first season. Other plot points from the season one finale get resolved in the following episodes. In the episode "The Geometry of Shadows", Ivanova really does break her leg. Overall, the episodes in season 2 tend to be more comical in nature than season 1. Though there are still cringe-inducing episodes: 7, 10, 12, 14, 15, 18, 22. Eventually the story change gears and focuses on the story that matters. I guess they decided to lessen the number of stories revolving around the council of ambassadors and alien problems. Episode 5 shows off the first instance of "The Rangers" and Zack Allan shows up in Episode 6. Episode 9 is very intense! I truly believe that episode 20 should have been the season finale. The actual season finale, episode 22, crams way too much too fast and leaves you on a crazy cliffhanger like the season beforehand. Besides the awesome creepy-factor of the enemy ships and the continuous conflict between... well... everyone, there really isn't much going on in this season. The Narn-Centauri conflict and Babylon 5 fighting a political battle with Earth are the two main issues presented in this season. Otherwise you have a ton of "world-building" episodes that are either entertaining or informative to say the least. I will admit that they were collectively better than the previous season.
Season 3 - Point of No Return: So we end up losing Talia Winters and gain back Lyta Alexander. We practically lose any sort of connection with the ambassadors of the station or the new president of Earth. Instead, we get more episodes regarding "The Night Watch" and the beginning of civil wars among the factions. We get spiffy new ships with tons of features to help in the coming war. There are new sets on board with the Medical Bay and planetary expeditions. They also reveal new uniforms in episode 11. We also gain Marcus, one of the Rangers, as a reoccurring character. Episode 15 is supposed to be a pivotal point in the series but it actually made me furious. Not only did it suddenly bring back a character that was seen once in the whole series but kill them before arriving on the station. The characters then conveniently believe a certain way that progresses the plot along. Wait a second, two people die that best fit the narrative! Though the major highlight is the revelation given in the two-parter Episodes 16 & 17 especially if you saw certain episodes back in season 1. Then, if anything, you have to see countdown episodes of 20, 21, 22. Though don't be surprised if they decided to replace a specific guest star with a different person. These three episodes show how Babylon 5 resolves the crisis with the enemy and it isn't exactly the way I thought it would go down. You might have expected some sort of grand climax after how the "Last Place for Peace" speech in the Season 1 Introduction quickly changes to "It Failed" speech in the Season 3 Introduction. Garibaldi really did break his wrist in Episode 11. The 13th episode "A Late Delivery from Avalon" is perhaps the best "fun" episode I saw in awhile. Overall there was a lot to digest. One thing I couldn't quite understand is why the Shadows were "angry" with the Alliance fighting them. If their philosophy is "survival of the fittest" then shouldn't they somehow be applauding or enjoying the fact that their test subjects are trying to destroy them? I don't think I ever heard that paradoxical argument brought up in the series. And once again there are just a few tiny details in every episode that are critical to the main storyline. It's like that episode "The Gold Job" from Leverage when the computer whiz decided to complicate the scheme with a bunch of unnecessary tasks when the planner reveals a sticky note with 3 essential steps to success. I didn't "hate" the season but I certainly felt "distracted" with a ton of filler episodes with mad bombers and con men.
Season 4 - No Surrender, No Retreat: About now was the time I felt like the series was losing its luster. I feel like Hook came out and shouted I want my war! and suddenly we have more to fight! They have to resolve the giant cliffhanger from season 3 season finale, as usual, and generate a new conflict for Babylon 5. If the character Vir looks kind of different from the previous seasons, it is because Stephen Furst was diagnosed with type II diabetes and was forced to lose nearly 80 pounds. Centauri's new emporer is a pompous madman that will have you yelling at the screen everytime you see his face. It is quite interesting that in the first episode of the season Londo questions the motives of the emporer behind helping such a dangerous ally. After stating that he wants power from them, Londo responds: "If their power is so great why do they need to hide behind us? They are using us as shields!" Amusingly this goes double with the Vorlons. Another powerful statement is how people keep stating "No one returns from Zha'Dum" initiates fear in every person (and alien) even with evidence to the contrary. This parallels the "Minbari never lie" statement that is refuted time and time again throughout the whole series. Oh and I guess I should mention that Bryan Cranston from Breaking Bad guest starred in the mini-arc. Everyone starts wearing new uniforms in episode 9 along the new command deck in episode 12. Episode 9 is awesome by showing a "flashback" of the Earth-Minbari War. Episode 13 is hilarious to see how the captain can manipulate people with the truth. It gets much harder to watch Garibaldi's actions unfold in the latter episodes that bring upon the hardest episodes in Episode 18 & 21. I only noticed it later but Sheridan never does shave his beard from those episodes. The show was technically canceled and the writing really shows it. There are a lot of things crammed into the last half of the season. I think it was super obvious at the end of episode 14 and the beginning of episode 15 when Sheridan comes in and says "I'm declaring those treaties null and void" when they declare war. Even the season finale was really hard to watch as it is supposed to show what happens at certain points in the future. The beginning of the episode has a bunch of news media "babies" complaining and arguing over what people should have or should have not done. Then it slowly progresses through different eras up to 1000 years in the future. However, the show was saved by TNT and the writer was able to include what was edited out in season 5. Kind of reminds me of Season 5 of "24" when they had this grand finale of a helicopter touching down only to be drastically changed the following episode.
Thirdspace: Many people argue when to watch this. Some say it should be watched after the 8th episode of Season 4. Others say that since the 9th episode has Jack being fitted with the new uniform, it should take place then. Honestly after watching it, the movie does very little to contribute to the series as a whole and can probably be skipped entirely. However I feel it should be watched immediately after the 3 minute introduction of Episode 9. Episode 9 is a whole 'nother beast but I found it jarring to see Zack roaming around with a new jacket with no context. Many people enjoy "the elevator scene" but I found it to be more cringy than endearing. Supposedly that scene was tacked on when they realized the movie was going to run short. Otherwise, I don't really have much to say about the movie.
In the Beginning: When to see this movie has been argued all over the place. Chronologically, the movie takes place before the entire show. However the movie spoils a ton of things from seasons 1-4. I think watching it immediately after Delenn goes into a dream sequence in Episode 9 is the perfect time to watch it. Not only it is relevant to current events but you don't have to jump back to any sort of previous arcs after watching the "we gotta' change gears" second half of Season 4 or the "telling of another story" in Season 5. Without recasting certain actors, they had to do their best in recycling certain scenes from the show itself. Otherwise the movie is a definite must-watch as it contains some new information that better explores the depth of the characters. Though the tiny "artsy" prelude wasn't necessary, I must say that I adored the Princess Bride story setup once things started going.
Season 5: It is hard to pinpoint the exact tone of the last season. The stories that JMS wanted to include before changing the conclusion of Season 4 is essentially stretched out. The actual resulting conclusion of the story won't be seen until the very end and by that time you would have already diverted into something new entirely. Susan Ivanova, played by Claudia Christian, left the show and modifications like "The Very Long Night of Susan Ivanova" was reused as "The Very Long Night of Londo Mollari." A planned romantic relationship between Ivanova and the telepath Byron that would have continued her pattern of tragic relationships was changed to be a romance between Lyta Alexander and Byron. A new character, Elizabeth Lochley, was created to take Ivanova's narrative role as commander of the station. Although I gradually do learn to enjoy the new actress, I very much dislike her overall aesthetics. The discontent between seasons becomes blatantly apparent right when you see the unusual choice in introducing the season. Episode 4 is designed really well from the perspective of a couple of crew members while the captain's hair bangs gave me an eyesore. Episode 5 is very interesting regarding the rangers. The 8th episode "Day of the Dead" is probably my least favorite with an unexpected visit by Penn & Teller among an usual portrayal of past events. Both the Centuri and the Telepath stories unfold in the 8th and 9th episodes. Episode 10 has a unique outlook when Lando tells a wonderful story about a flower. Episode 11 shows an abrupt end to the telepaths and episode 12 begins a new arc regarding the political scandals in Centuri space. Many people would argue at this time what additional material should be covered before finishing the season. I'd argue it is up to the individual on how important it is to see things in chronological order. Episodes 18 through 21 are considered the "goodbye" episodes as each character dissipates from the show with an appropriate epilogue, despite not answering a lot of questions regarding future events, in episode 22.
Legend of Rangers: The movie is a step-down from quality and feels entirely rushed. You have an outcast crew piloting an unusual ship that contacts an alien race that is beyond their league in battle. It does feel a little bit like Farscape when you boil down the elements but does hold together with a very interesting plot and wonderful performance by G'Kar. The rangers are way too serious about things and we never do hear about the events in any other media. I'd argue that you might want to watch it alongside Babylon 5 Season 5 Episode 5 ranger episode "Learning Curve" if it wasn't for G'Kar appearing off-station (and other minor elements) after episode 20.
A Call to Arms: The movie is very unusual but clearly sets up for the Crusade spin-off series. It also sparks the story behind those mysterious techno-mages that passed by the station in Babylon 5 Season 2 Episode 3 "The Geometry of Shadows." A few new characters and an engaging story regarding a couple of new ships against the "shadow of a shadow" enemy fleet definitely makes a compelling plot for the series. The events from the movie and the following series is never again mentioned in the Babylon 5 series. The ending is a clear indicator that it was meant to be seen as a prelude to the other series. It could very well be likened to watching "The Gathering" before starting Babylon 5. The graphics improved a ton and there is plenty of space battles to keep you entertained. The difference in music is abundantly clear from the get-go but doesn't detract too much away from the setting. Just don't try to watch the movie by itself as it leaves a terrible cliffhanger that leaves you gnawing the edge of your blanket.
Crusade: I honestly have no idea what was going on in this show. Even the introduction is confusing. Once again the backstory is much more interesting to read about than the show itself. First off, the movie A Call to Arms is completely necessary before watching the show. Even though TNT saved the show, they also seemed to intervene with the production of the spin-off series so much so that it utterly confused viewers. In fact people state that like Firefly you should see them in a different order. After personally choosing one from the list, I still can't say for sure which order is the best since the show was canceled after 13 episodes with no real resolution. Episodes 9-13 are probably the best episodes as they have guest appearances from Babylon 5 and give some form of proper conclusion. However episodes 1-8 shows off the higher budget with TNT's new uniforms and sets shown in a more episodic fashion (pun intended). Episode 8 has a designer come in to change the high-budget uniforms to the "tacky" lower-budget ones. In fact TNT apparently did not like any connection to Babylon 5. A lot of ideas Straczynski wanted, like the return of Marcus as a ranger, never did make it into the show. Then again, writers don't usually get the respect they deserve. Whatever order you choose I recommend watching Episode 10 "The Memory of War" before either Episode 5 "Patterns of the Soul" or Episode 13 "Each Night I Dream of Home" as a major break-through makes you understand the latter episodes better. Though Episode 7 was the suggested last episode in my sequence of events to watch, I recommend watching Episode 13 at the very end as it leaves you the most satisfied. You can always checked out the list of unfilmed episodes or read summaries of some scripts to see how the series would have ended.
The Lost Tales: I want to come out and say that the production value alone makes this movie worth watching. Seeing the station and all the ships in the best graphical upgrade I couldn't even imagine made it awesome. There is a bit of a snag. The movie is actually composed of 2 separate stories. The first half is utter nonsense. It goes beyond religious and made it totally unwatchable. The second half is much better. Although I do not like the direction it went I will admit that the story was very compelling. It had a slight connection, although indirectly, to the events in the final episodes of Babylon 5. I'll leave it up to you when to watch it with the series. Definitely closer to events after Season 5 Episode 18.
River of Souls: Borrowing the soul hunters from Season 1 Episode 2 properly named "Soul Hunter", River of Souls attempts to create yet another conflict that isn't exactly informative or interesting in the slightest. It tries to be funny with something mentioned as the "Holly Effect" which I could not find as factual in any publication other than a coined turn for a fashion influencer. Once again they push the religious undertones like that in Lost Tales alongside some risque and comical moments that filled up its air time. The visiting soul hunter is played by The West Wing's Martin Sheen. Other than that, I can't see a good enough reason to watch this movie.
Summary: Babylon 5 is a space opera. Everytime you think there would be a moment of triumph there will be another tragedy that befalls the crew. The series evolves over the seasons. The cast of the station gets shifted around each season as production issues (they openly mock) continuously bombard the producer's story over the series lifespan. Seasons 1 & 2 has a wide-range of world building as unusual circumstances pop in-and-out of the station. Seasons 2 & 3 has the climax of the show when an ominous outside presence haunts the station and its crew. Season 4 tears itself apart as it tries to finish the series with both another dominating presence followed almost immediately with a civil war. Season 5 gives out a shotgun approach to further a lot of previous stories in all directions with a series of movies and a spin-off series that was canceled before reaching any sort of footing. If you can shift through the drama, there are tiny moments that will have you laughing following precious moments that will have you crying. For the times that you cannot, it becomes abundantly clear when Babylon 5 blatantly sets up conflict on purpose just to have your blood boil and your senses enraged. I guess that is why it can be said that it is the greatest most terrible sci-fi series made. I can't say for sure if the series tells a realistic story like Battlestar Galactica or a wholesome story like Star Trek. What I can say is the series is different with its ever-changing plot and alien cultures. At the very least I do suggest giving the show a chance.