Television Review: Objects in Space (Firefly, S1X14, 2002)

Objects in Space (S1X14)

Airdate: December 13th 2002

Written by: Joss Whedon & Tim Minnear
Directed by: Joss Whedon

Running time: 44 min.

It is a rarity for television shows, particularly those that have been prematurely cancelled, to conclude on a high note. Firefly, however, managed to achieve this feat, albeit not during its original run. The episode Objects in Space, which is considered the last in its semi-official internal chronology, was initially aired in late 2002 before the premiere of the pilot, also broadcasted in late 2002 as the final instalment.

The plot commences by revealing River's extraordinary ability to read the minds of Serenity's crew members. Following bizarre incident transpires, those same crew members realise that River is indeed what Simon describes as a "reader" or psychic. Many of them are greatly disturbed by this revelation since they do not wish for their most intimate secrets to be exposed to someone who is far from mentally stable. Some even demand that River be removed from the ship. However, Mal is yet to make a decision when Serenity faces an immediate and pressing threat in the form of Jubal Early (played by Richard Brooks in guest starring role), a highly skilled bounty hunter who has managed to infiltrate the vessel with the intention of capturing River.

Directed by Joss Whedon himself, the creator of Firefly, and co-written with Tim Minnear, Objects in Space serves as a brilliant exemplar of effective storytelling and a simple yet effective concept. The plot, partly inspired by existential philosophy and partly influenced by the character of Boba Fett from the Star Wars universe, offers an excellent opportunity to delve into various subjects while further developing the characters.

River, the most enigmatic and captivating of all Firefly characters, takes center stage in this episode. Summer Glau delivers a phenomenal performance as River, portraying her as a mix of potentially dangerous lunatic, sacred fool, ordinary young woman, and effective crew member capable of withstanding any challenges the unforgiving universe may present.

The confrontation between River and Jubal Early is particularly noteworthy. The latter is named after a Confederate general in the US Civil War – alleged ancestor of show star Nathan Fillion.The historical figure was known for his unwavering support of secessionist ideals and post-war white supremacy, yet his namesake, in a ironic twist, is portrayed by African American actor Richard Brooks. He delivers a stellar performance as Jubal, skilfully embodying the character's dual nature: an effective and soft-spoken villain who is also self-deceived in denying his sadistic tendencies while overestimating his ability to match wits with River.

The climactic showdown between River and Jubal represents one of the most effective and memorable ways to dispatch a villain, solidifying reputation of Objects in Space as one of the best – if not the best – episodes in the entire Firefly series. Despite the show's cancellation, its cult following and fan base remained strong enough for Whedon to continue the saga in the 2005 feature film Serenity.

RATING: 8/10 (+++)

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