That's a very good point. I do think that movies contribute to this a lot, in the sense that visually we can categorize is more quickly and along visual, not thematic lines. I know I can't win, but hopefully BSG can start to help some.

As to that, BSG is NOTHING like the original. I'd venture to say they're nearly unrelated except for names and a general theme. It's serious, well-made, consistent, and deep(ish). It's like if your favorite author decided to write Scooby-Doo or He-Man fanfic or something. I would warn against letting the originaly dissuade you.