The Outer Limits season 1 episode 13 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
In the Republic of San Blas, amidst political turmoil and the reign of General Juan Mercurio, a deep-water research team discovers an ancient, mysterious creature. As the creature escapes due to a malfunction, it sparks a conflict between scientific curiosity, political ambition, and ethical considerations. The episode explores themes of power, exploitation, and the balance of nature, culminating in the decision to release the creature back into its natural habitat, highlighting the folly of human ambition and the importance of respecting natural and political forces.
Full Episode S01E13 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary setting of the episode?
The episode is set in the Republic of San Blas, a fictional location rich in natural resources and with a tumultuous political history.
Who leads the last revolution in San Blas?
General Juan Mercurio leads the last revolution, becoming the most absolute and powerful ruler.
What are the main exports of San Blas?
San Blas's principal exports are coffee, copra, mahogany, mace, and saccharin.
What mysterious creature is encountered underwater?
The characters encounter a mysterious creature speculated to be a lungfish or an unknown entity with hands and feet.
What is the deep-water research center equipped with?
The research center is equipped with closed-circuit TV, hydrophones, and ceramic transducers for underwater mapping.
What does General Mercurio symbolize in the episode?
General Mercurio symbolizes the modern gods of power and money, reflecting the political and social unrest in San Blas.
How do the characters react to the creature's escape?
The characters express panic and concern, leading to a discussion on the creature's capabilities, its potential for communication, and the implications of its escape.
What scientific breakthrough is suggested by the creature's discovery?
The discovery suggests a significant scientific breakthrough in understanding ancient creatures and the potential for communication with non-human species.
What political maneuvering does General Mercurio attempt with the creature's discovery?
General Mercurio attempts to exploit the creature's discovery to boost tourism and his political image by declaring the creature a national treasure and planning to showcase it at the world's fair.
How is the conflict resolved regarding the creature's fate?
The conflict is resolved by deciding to return the creature to its natural habitat, emphasizing ethical considerations over scientific curiosity and political ambition.
What moral lesson is conveyed at the episode's conclusion?
The episode conveys a moral lesson about the folly of human ambition, the importance of respecting nature, and the poetic justice served to those who exploit natural and political forces.