Spoilers abound in this review, not just for the show, but for Halo 4 as well. You’ve been warned.

In part four of my review of episode 1, I take a look at the relationship between Lasky and Silva, a little bit more of the academy, and Lasky’s review by another UNSC officer.

Hastati. I like that the set has these finer details. It denotes a more lived in feel, rather than being all pristine. Hastati isn’t new. How could it be with the logo being on the floor. My gut tells me names of the squads are carried on as tradition. I wonder if we’ll see other members of Hastati show up in Halo 4?

Tochakava looks on. again good detail here though subtle. In fact it’s the subtle detail that helps to flesh out these scenes without being overpowering to attract your attention to them.

The cadets after the mission take time to clean up and talk. Again, this set is fantastic. It is a bit closed in though. Almost prison like.  However, that’s good as these soon to be cadets will be on starships that look very much like this, so they better get used to the views.

Lasky looks at the damaged he sustained in the training exercise. Of note here is that there is much more paint on the breastplate in this pic than there was on the training field. Mistake? Maybe, but I think it’s there for dramatic expression.

Vickers looks to other cadets. Now how about that towel? Man, I’d love to have one of those. As a collector and Halo fan, this would be great to own. Here’s hoping Waypoint hears my plea!

Silva in her skin tight under suit. RAWR! Er um…well RAWR! LOL.

A picture of Lasky’s ODST brother. He looks the part alright. This is a good shot as it’s gritty, again giving that lived in feeling.

Lasky walking toward Corbulo’s statue.

Powerful hard edges in the statue really do give it a sense of strength. Note the Assault Rifle he’s carrying. Hmm, I don’t think those were around back in the Roman days…

General Black giving orders.

Black smokes a stogie. I wonder what he’s looking up at and thinking?

CAMS as seen from above. Wow, what an impressive shot. Loads of detail here. VERY believable.

Lasky stands before an as yet unnamed (in the episode) UNSC Officer for review.

She is a powerful character, professional. However as this scene unfolds, you find out she has ties to Lasky from being under the command of his mother in the past. It seems this officer is looking out for Tom. Could be the only thing that saved him from Court Marshal.

Lasky’s look as he’s being talked to by his superior. He seems concerned yet unapologetic.

You can tell she’s been through combat. Look at that scar near the Zygomatic arch.

Lasky gives a salute with freezer burn fully in view. This is a believable mark. It’s blended well with the actor’s skin and has that detailed reddish ring around the wound. The makeup artist did a great job here.

She seems more exhausted after talking with Lasky than he does. Also, look at the Assault Rifle relief in the background. A powerful image to have on your wall. It adds to the strength of this character.

Lasky taking a shower revealing yet more freezer burns.

“Forward Unto Death” ? Hmm, is this foreshadowing?

Lasky reflecting on the events of the day. The dark hues and lighting add to the effect that it wasn’t a pleasant day for him.

Looking up, does he wish he could leave?

A good view from a distance of the academy. Note the multiple moons in the sky.

That’s a wrap on part four. Next up part five: Barracks life.

-Sal