Should You Watch Battlestar Galactica 1978 or 2003 First?

Many fans of Battlestar Galactica are faced with a classic dilemma: where to start when they want to delve into the rich universe of this science fiction series. Should they begin with the original 1978 series, which was aired on American television from 1978 to 1979, or embark with the reimagined 2003 version, which aired from 2004 to 2009? The choice is not as trivial as one might think, as the 2003 series is significantly different and might spoil the viewing experience for those uninitiated in the earlier work.

The Original 1978 Series

The original series, while a pioneering work for its time, is mostly known for its limitations and age. It is often compared to Star Wars on a TV budget, lacking the grandeur and excitement of its more famous counterpart. The series comprised a single season of 26 episodes, each episode drawing critics and viewers alike. It is important to note that while there are some standout episodes, the overall quality of the series shows the constraints of 1970s television technology and budgetary restrictions.

Many episodes of the 1978 series suffered from rushed or poorly conceived plots, hampered by the constraints of the era. Despite its flaws, the series introduced some iconic characters and concepts, albeit with somewhat dated special effects and production values. It is a testament to the legendary science fiction pioneers Stan Lee and Robert Taylor that they managed to craft a compelling storyline with limited resources.

Reimagined 2003 Series

The 2003 reimagined series, on the other hand, presents a fresh take on the original concept. While it retains the names and designs of the original characters, it offers a more realistic and character-driven narrative. One significant change is the primary mode of space combat, which uses shell-firing cannons rather than the laser cannons seen in the original series. The new episodes are much more focused on character development and emotional depth, making the series more a character drama than an action-packed series.

Key Differences: The Viper Mark II used extensively in the reimagined series is depicted as a museum piece, showcasing the same design as in the original, but with an updated weapon system. Conceptually, the 2003 series was always the ambitious take on the original, as evidenced by some of the original pilot scenarios. The original series included a significant plot twist that was initially misinterpreted, leading to a character being portrayed as a prostitute instead of her true profession. This was a product of both the era and the censors' misinterpretation of the material.

Despite these differences, the 2003 series is widely regarded as superior to the original in terms of writing and production values. However, it is recommended to watch the 1978 series before the reimagined version to fully appreciate the evolution of the series and avoid potential spoilers.

Avoid the 1980 Miniseries

Before concluding, it’s crucial to mention that Battlestar Galactica 1980 miniseries is a complete abomination. Despite attempts to bridge the gap between the two series, this miniseries is so terrible that viewers and critics often pretend it never existed. It is best to avoid this series as it does a disservice to both the original and the reimagined versions.

In conclusion, while choosing between the original 1978 and the reimagined 2003 series is a matter of personal preference, it is recommended to start with the original to avoid spoilers and gain a better appreciation of the evolution of the series. Whichever series you choose, get ready for a thrilling journey through a cosmic war and the struggle for survival on a distant frontier.