22 Years Later, Stargate’s 2-Part Masterpiece Remains the Best 88 Minutes in Sci-Fi History

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delivered an incredible sci-fi story in “Heroes,” a two-part documentary-style masterpiece. Following the adventures of Colonel Jack O’Neill (Richard Dean Anderson) and his team as they travel to various alien planets, Stargate SG-1 remains one of the best science fiction television shows of all time. Set in modern times, the series centers on ancient stargates that allow various military teams to travel across the galaxy in an instant.

Throughout its ten seasons, Stargate SG-1 produced many excellent episodes, but “Heroes,” a two-part story from season 7 (episodes 17 and 18), is particularly memorable. The story centers around a documentary film crew, led by journalist Emmett Bregman (Saul Rubinek), who visit Stargate Command. Many fans consider “Heroes” to be one of the show’s best, and it even received a Hugo Award nomination.

“Heroes” is a Top-Tier Episode of Stargate SG-1

The documentary “Heroes” starts with director Bregman and his crew facing reluctance from General Hammond and the Stargate team. While most of them aren’t eager to be filmed, they’re required to cooperate because the President has authorized the project.

Bregman stays level-headed, but consistently challenges anyone who opposes him. Throughout the episode, we also see what other teams are up to on their own missions. The show includes funny moments, like how Teal’c and the rest of SG-1 respond during interviews.

The documentary style of “Heroes,” mixed with the everyday life at Stargate Command, effectively balances humor and drama, giving viewers a fresh perspective on the Stargate program. During filming, director Bregman develops a close rapport with Dr. Janet Fraiser (Teryl Rothery), the base’s primary physician.

When a Stargate team is attacked during a mission, Dr. Fraiser joins the rescue effort. Things quickly escalate, and the story unfolds through fragmented information as Bregman attempts to piece together what happened. The episode’s visual style deliberately keeps the audience as confused as Bregman, leaving us to wonder what really occurred.

“Heroes” Takes an Unexpectedly Dark Turn, Cementing Stargate SG-1 As an All-Time Great Sci-Fi Series

Despite constantly facing obstacles, Bregman gives a moving speech about why a free press is so important. Saul Rubinek is a standout in “Heroes,” and this speech feels particularly impactful even now, over two decades later. Rubinek skillfully portrays Bregman as surprisingly sympathetic, even though he often clashes with the show’s heroes.

The latter part of the “Heroes” episode shifts to a more somber tone, confronting the brutal truths and random violence of war. Bregman discovers that someone from their latest mission didn’t make it, but the identity of the fallen soldier remains a mystery, withheld from both him and the audience, with hints that it could have been someone significant.

It turns out Dr. Frasier died trying to help a wounded soldier. Dr. Daniel Jackson (Michael Shanks) filmed much of what happened, and Bregman manages to get the footage from him. Dr. Frasier’s unexpected death is a pivotal moment, making “Heroes” stand out as more than just a typical TV episode – it’s genuinely powerful.

Ultimately, Colonel O’Neill completes his interview, and General Hammond even gives his approval of the documentary made by Bregman. The documentary, which is presented in a realistic, interview-based style, really highlights why Stargate SG-1 is considered one of the best science fiction shows ever made, putting it in the same conversation as classics like Star Trek.

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Behind the Camera at Stargate Command: The ‘Heroes’ Quiz
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2026-04-21 23:07