LogFAQs > #967344215

Episode 22: Space Seed

Superb writing and directing going on here. Nothing is wasted. The banter between the main three is impeccable. Kirk and Spock lightly correcting each other at the start, especially.

Actually, Spock gets a lot of nice moments here. His utter outrage (insomuch as a Vulcan [Vulcanion, still?] can express outrage) and disgust at everyone's admiration of Khan is one highlight of many.

Speaking of Khan, what a fantastic villain. Aside from exuding class and power with everything he does, while his ambitions and eugenics sympathies are nasty, the central crux of his philosophy that he explains to McGivers, of doing what you want (a nice moment in its own right) gives some extra dimension to him. While I don't know the details, I do know that he returns at least once more and, frankly, I'm not surprised.

McGivers is interesting. The initial appearance of her, with her paintings in the background of the shot, is both indicative of the amazing direction of this episode, but also gives her more character than most female characters. The simpering over Khan is a bit much, but she's still head and shoulders over most. The sexual chemistry feels more authentic than most of the other attempts so far. Khan's line of being disappointed in her during the decompression scene is a perfect moment. Uhura got a fantastic moment of initially refusing to listen to Khan's demands. The show is getting better at using all of its regulars.

Kirk's compassion and decency is, of course, misplaced, but it feels true to his character to keep giving Khan chances. While I don't believe for a second it was planned this far in advance, its clear that The Wrath of Khan (along with any other appearances he may make) will hold these decisions to account. It's an absolutely idiotic decision on Kirk's part, but I think the episode is actually stronger for it.

The eugenics war is a nice bit of backstory. Khan and his people have many sets of wonderful clothes. The dinner scene is immaculately tense. McCoy's snarky courage was beautiful to witness.

An absolutely sublime episode.

Tomorrow is A Taste of Armageddon.