The new Babylon 5 'movie' was long publicised as separate but related episodes, so I knew what I was getting in for. I had little idea of what to expect of the story lines, and was pleasantly surprised to hear that Straczynski had included his trademark discussion of religious possibilities and ethical dilemmas. His understanding of spiritual matters is incredibly deep for a professed agnostic with atheist tendencies. Moreover, his dissection of moral possibilities leaves one thinking long after viewing. With revised CGI and full use of digital backgrounds, the presentation is generally quite impressive, although it is obviously still a developing area. The script writing, like the sets design, is generally minimalist - partly through cost restriction, but also well placed in the storyline (many scenes put me in mind of Intersections in Real Time). The Lost Tales was not disappointing, and makes for quality viewing. Although more could definitely have been achieved with more budgetary and casting freedom, but Straczynski has made an enjoyable time's viewing. The stories do not contribute largely to the expansion of the B5 universe, but do give tantalising hints of the post-series state of the universe.
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