As the first of two direct-to-DVD movies, Ark of Truth takes full advantage of its new canvas. From its majestic opening mountainscape shots to its outstanding visual effects and full orchestral score, Ark of Truth feels larger than the television show in every way imaginable. Writer and director—and former show runner—Robert Cooper faced the unenviable task of delivering the ultimate payoff to dedicated fans who've been following Stargate's intricate mythology while still making the film accessible to one-off viewers who might be new to the Stargate universe.

Cooper succeeds on both counts. While Ark doesn't address every outlying plot point from Stargate's first 10 years—an impossible prospect in itself—it does provide a satisfying conclusion to the outstanding Ori storyline established in seasons nine and 10. The film eases into the mythology, establishing the state of affairs organically and in an entertaining way.

Ark revolves around SG-1's search for the Ark of Truth, the fabled Alteran weapon that may help Earth defeat the remaining, fervent supporters of Origin in our galaxy. At odds with SG-1's mission: New International Oversight Committee representative James Marrick (Graham), a former covert operative with his own agenda. Marrick tags along with SG-1 as they continue their search for the Ark deep in Ori territory, scrambling to find the Ark before the Ori can launch their next attack.

The story unfurls at steady pace, its occasional leisurely lapses both forgivable and enjoyable within the scope of the film. Cooper captured the action on 35mm film, which adds depth and richness to the visuals.

Time apart appeared to have no impact on SG-1's easy on-screen camaraderie; unfortunately, we don't get to enjoy that interplay nearly enough, since the story's structure required the group to splinter. This approach served the plot, though, and it gave many of the actors a chance to have strong character moments, be it on their own or in concert with others—Judge, Tapping, Shanks, Browder, Black, Guinee (as Vala's husband, Tomlin) and even Morena Baccarin (reprising her role as the Orici, Adria). Shanks and Judge, in particular, have a chance to flex their chops and nail emotional scenes that inform their respective characters.

Building a better Ark

As is typical for a Stargate DVD, the Ark of Truth carries an audio commentary. The disc also has three meaty extra features. Playback options include Dolby 5.1 surround, plus French and Spanish Dolby Surround tracks and English and Spanish subtitles.

The entertaining commentary is delivered by writer/director Cooper as well as actor Judge and director of photography Peter Woeste. The commentary is colorful and provides tons of insight into the making of the film. The 30-minute documentary "Uncovering the Ark of Truth" takes you behind the scenes in a more visual way, using cast and crew interviews and behind-the-scenes footage to detail everything from the pyrotechnics display at the end of the film to how Cooper proceeded with that majestic opening shot, how Joel Goldsmith approached the score and how the old SG-1 gang refound their groove.

Particularly helpful is a well-edited 9-minute prelude to Ark dubbed "Stargate SG-1: The Road Taken." Watching this recap of Ori events is like watching a condensed version of seasons nine and 10 on fast-forward. Newcomers may use this segment to catch up on the action, while regular viewers can use it as a mythology refresher course.

The final extra on the disc takes viewers to the Stargate panel at the 2007 Comic-Con in San Diego. The levity-filled 20-minute segment features moderator Gary Jones and panelists Martin Wood, Cooper, Tapping, Judge and Browder.