Current Events > Star Trek watchthrough 3. Ongoing spoilers from TNG season 5.

(+) Yeah! (+)

Star Trek: The Next Generation

Season 7

Episode 1: Descent, Part II

Picard immediately tries to ruin Data and Lore's relationship. Constantly tries to involve Data in the conversation. Keeps trying to remind him of who he really is. Utterly brutal when attacking the guard.

Riker's understandably peeved by the situation. Isn't especially happy to see Hugh.

La Forge is just sad and quite a bit betrayed by Data's new turn. Gets even more glum when his visor is taken. Very nervous and gulping when experimented on. Afterwards, can still read feelings of dread and anxiety in his face. Reminisces about an amusing event. Lovely of him to save the emotion chip.

Worf is agitated during the search. Argues with Hugh.

Crusher makes for a fantastic captain. Gets on with the job, makes correct decisions and reassures her staff. I like that she has her own tick of clutching the chair from behind. Very mathematically inclined command style.

Troi is astounded to sense emotions in Data.

Data gets very annoyed when he sees Picard's scheme. Gives a very pleased smile when Lore compliments him, which is basically just Spiner indulging in vanity. Seething with constant bitterness over his apparent waste of a life. Speaks to Lore in a warning tone when discussing brain damaged Borg. Some proper nasty smiles. Like a snotty child when he breaks from the Picard impression. Shrugs off criticism of his humour. Actually quite menacing when he threatens to break La Forge's neck. Twitching and starting to look guilty when the pulse is activated. It's like his soul is torn out when Lore turns off the emotions. Turns into a begging addict. Gives a very dark stare at Lore before he fires on him. Speaks softly and is clearly on the verge of tears, despite his apparent lack of emotions, when deactivating Lore. In a similar state when talking to La Forge at the end.

Lore has developed a very warped sense of morality. There's a sincerity behind his eyes, which suggests he truly believes that this is right. Tries to shutdown Picard's split up plan by keeping the conversation between them. Steals the visor mostly out of sadism. Obviously, suggests La Forge first to kill Data's biggest link to humanity. Talks like a cult leader to Goval, full of reassurances and trying to make him feel valuable. Greets his brother fairly warmly. Very much an abuser, the way he holds emotions over him. Doesn't even blink, switching from being willing to kill Data to asking him to run away with him.

Tait is an understandably nervous figure, but still manages to do her job well. Builds in confidence from every word from Crusher. The rest of the B crew are alright.

Hugh is another one feeling a great amount of bitterness towards everything.

Data and Lore are initially shot at a low angle, to emphasise the power they hold. Pretty fantastic cold open that has very little music in order to help with the tension. The eternal sunset continues to be utterly gorgeous. Lore wearing the visor is quite funny. I'm a little annoyed that the "get help" plan almost worked. The ship flying through the corona is beautiful. Outstanding shot when looking up at Lore's paralysed body as Data deactivates him.

So, a decent chunk of my predictions came true in at least some form. The new Borg order was closer to a fascist government than a loose group of terrorists, though, although you could argue that they're the same in practice. Lore is only able to rise to the top by manipulating a confused group of people into giving up their own will and he justifies the atrocities with a deliberately vague utilitarian logic that it's for the greater good. The dark irony being that rather than actually become individuals, these "free" Borg have joined an even worse collective. The relationship between Data and Lore takes on an even more abusive undertone than usual, as Lore strings him along by carefully managing what's basically a drug addiction. His vague logic and the suppression of some of his programs resembles gaslighting. Data is only freed by forcibly shutting down the means of abuse and encouraging him to redevelop his own individuality, which happens simultaneously with Hugh, who spends most of the episode grumbling, rediscovering his own love for free thought and immediately inspiring a very chaotic revolution against Lore.

Similar to most two parter finales, its probably a little worse than the first episode, but it's still a great start to the season.

Liaisons, next.

Episode 2: Liaisons

I wanna know what love is

Picard tries but fails to spare Worf some suffering. Shares Riker's amusement. Tries to make small talk, quickly gets fed up and starts looking for anything to pass the time. Takes charge as expected after the accident. Peppers in some humour and a lot of reassurances and help with words for Anna's sake. Appropriately unnerved by her madness. Tries to let the lunatic down gently, but there was no chance of that working. An even worse choice, even if its quite justified, is angrily going over all her attempts to sabotage him. Infuriated when the manipulation dawns on him and utterly cold when he tells her to jump. Incredulous when Voval reveals himself. Handles the fallout with an astonishing amount of grace.

Riker has to dress Worf and finds it a little hilarious. Gets in a hypocritical and sexist quip that I don't much care for. Precisely zero sympathy for his grievances, as he loves watching him squirm. Merciful enough to suggest poker night. Bit delayed in restraining Worf, i thought. Glad that they became friends.

La Forge wisely doesn't answer the intelligence question. Chuckles at Worf's plight.

Worf can't dress himself and doesn't enjoy his formal attire, anyway. Tries to get out of diplomatic duty as politely as possible, but a shake of the head won't cut it. Suffers through his ambassador's demands. Finds a way to kill that meat dish a second time and considers doing similarly to Data. Stews more and more as the episode continues. Has a rant at Riker and looks to Troi for support. Finally blows up and its richly deserved. Makes a new friend and appreciates the workout.

Crusher tries to delicately explain etiquette.

Troi gets on with her ambassador swimmingly. Skips straight to dessert, which is admirable. Great glee in introducing people to chocolate. Regrets it not long after once she starts babying his addiction. Very passive aggressive "yum". Gets a bit exhausted with his appetite. Stunned by the ambassador's reaction to getting beaten up.

Data attempts to help Worf and leaves quite pleased with his efforts.

Anna is fascinating. The isolation has left her nearly nonverbal and she's nearly breaking apart with every word. The revelation of how long it's been almost made me tear up. Its amazing how her declaration of love can simultaneously be beautifully heartwarming and harrowing insane. Her talk of suicide and just chucking the roots on the floor after being rejected are both amazingly played symptoms of depression. I get she's based on someone who did live, but I think I'd prefer it if this version were real. It feels like far too much effort has gone into this performance for it to be fake. More sympathetic than Annie Wilkes, at least.

Starting on Worf in the mirror is an interesting beginning. Lot of nice looking dishes at the buffet. I'd happily steal the dessert dish, too. Fun with shadows when Picard is knocked out. Eric's mum is far too trusting. The freighter is a wonderfully atmospheric and cozy place. It's well set up, the revelation that she sabotaged the panel. Some discordant music when Anna's madness first becomes really obvious. Nice pan over the poker players and the little dish of chocolates is delightfully amusing. Nice to see that a female on male rape scene be played seriously for a change. Although revealing it to have been Voval in disguise makes it even more uncomfortable in a way that I think gets glossed over.

But seriously, even though she's clearly an immigrant from Misery, Anna is too great a character, played with far too much passion, to just be part of the ambassador's games. It became clear early on that Worf's ambassador is deliberately acting up to get a rise out of him, so, the other two are probably being a bit fake, too. Because of this, I was hoping that Voval's original game was to just be as miserable as possible in order to learn something about Picard and that he actually did die or was at least incapacitated by the crash. Proper dreading the inevitable reveal that Anna was just a part of the scheme because it closes the door on what could've been an interesting look at what prolonged isolation can do to someone. Instead, I get a TOS style episode about aliens studying basic and arbitrarily chosen human concepts in a relatively shallow way. And, apart from Voval being a truly awful attempted rapist, I'm left with very little to actually say about what we've got.

It's hard not to see this as a bit of a missed opportunity. I honestly think that the story would be more interesting if Picard's plot were completely removed from the ambassador stuff. Won't get further than mid way up, at best, in my rankings.

I'll Interface with the next episode tomorrow.

Don't know if you caught it, but Captain Crusher (and I'm only realizing what a badass title that is) used the tech that the Ferengi scientist had developed in that murder mystery episode you hated.

pegusus123456 posted...

Don't know if you caught it, but Captain Crusher (and I'm only realizing what a badass title that is) used the tech that the Ferengi scientist had developed in that murder mystery episode you hated.

I did, and I liked the reference, but didn't have anything to say about it.

Episode 3: Interface

Surprised this concept didn't happen earlier, honestly.

Picard is happy to chat to an old friend, but soaks in the severity of the news. Love that he seriously considers La Forge's theory before dismissing it and how protective he is of his health.

Riker invites exposition on La Forge's new kit. Treads delicately and offers to do his job for him. Opens up about his own experiences which affords Frakes the opportunity to indulge in some powerful acting that usually requires his own character focus episode.

La Forge is amused by a look at his probe body. Reacts as you'd expect to news of his mother. Reminisces and feels a little guilty, but maintains optimism. Really enjoys being the probe. Not having his visor let's us see some of Burton's acting a lot more clearly, which makes moments like his matter of fact recognition of fire turning into sudden pain a bit more powerful. Understandably angry at his family already giving up. Has a mildly uncomfortable chat with Data on the subject. Bit madly obsessive with the image of his mother and frustrated by every attempt to block him. Grateful to Data for his help.

I think I heard Worf.

Troi approaches her session with a stern detachment, which im not surprised by since La Forge is the latest in a long line of people who treat her like shit for doing her job.

Crusher quite likes the interface. Rolls her eyes at La Forge's self reporting.

Data does his best to comfort La Forge and wasn't completely hopeless at it. Has immaculate patience with difficult poetry. Reluctantly honest about theories, as he doesn't want to give his friend false hope. Knows him well enough to predict disobedience, doesn't want him to be at risk, but is ultimately decent enough to help. Lips twitch a bit when La Forge puts him in an impossible position.

You know something potentially weird is going on when La Forge is walking around without his visor. Very dark and claustrophobic, those tubes. Could barely see anything at the start. La Forge's probe reflection is a bit surreal. The ship he visits is perhaps a bit too dark in places, as well. Actually getting burned is quite a cliffhanger. Until the context is delivered, Data being intrigued by seemingly nothing on the screen seems like another surreal oddity. Captain La Forge is ambiguous enough for either theory to be possibly correct, at first. Relatively subtle how they handle her, compared to other similar situations. The actual family felt a bit limp. Like, that's all we get of his dad?

Pretty standard tale of grief and retreating into inner worlds. Kind of feel like they've wasted some potential with the family and the implications of pseudo VR tech, but it tells its message of accepting reality coherently enough. Maybe im just a bleeding heart, and it would compromise the standard message they wished to tell, but i think it would work better if that really was his mum. Wish I had more to say. Well, I suppose I could mention that La Forge's character focus episodes do tend towards just being average at best usually.

I enjoyed it well enough whilst watching, but, I don't even know, there's nothing really inspiring me too much here.

Let's see if this two parter Gambit continues to work well.

Ron Moore credits this episode with letting them know they needed to end it.

"I think it was a point where we were in the room and we were talking about bringing Geordi's mother in, and we all kind of looked at each other and we were like, 'This is sad. This is the best we can do? Is this the best we can do, is Geordi's mother?' It was such a "who cares" idea that we were just sort of, 'Oh man This show has got to end'."

They should have recycled that gay episode they cancelled before season 2.

I don't think either La Forge's family or VR stuff is necessarily a tired idea. The real problem is the execution. Picard, Worf, Troi and Data have all had good stories involving their families.

Interface is one of the worst bottle episodes. You don't even see the probe past the first few seconds of the episode.

Almost all of the episode relies on your imagination to make sense of what's happening.

Episode 4: Gambit

Ahoy, mateys.

Picard's in full pirate mode. Clever plan with the engine failure and makes sure to give some significant looks to hint at what's happening. Exaggerates his cantankerous when playing Galen.

Riker's got an air of nervousness during the bar crawling. Gives a funny look over Worf's shit story about his sister. Like a petulant, edgy teenager over his anger, but at least he apologises to Troi. Briefly hesitates to take the admiral's call. In utter disbelief at the informant's demands and has that maddened zeal when threatening him. So blinkered by vengeance, he ignores Data's advice. Has fun reciting his name, rank and number. Picks up on Picard's scheme quickly and kind of enjoys himself with it. Exaggerates his aggressiveness when playing disgraced Riker.

La Forge's more casual attitude is especially appreciated here. Seems more annoyed than anything at losing the firefight.

Worf handles himself in the bar more or less as normal. A moment of panic when Riker is taken. Frustrated by the lack of options. Hesitates at lowering shields.

Crusher is a badass.

Troi effortlessly grills the bartender for information. Has a proper good screaming fit of emotional agony at Riker.

Data delicately does his duty as first officer, not that its listened too. Love his matter of fact command style. Confused by the enemy ship. Adopts a lot of Picard's mannerisms. Figures out that Riker has a plan and takes on a stern voice when Worf complains.

Baran is a fun, cutthroat pirate sort.

I've noticed that establishing shots of the Enterprise and opening logs are getting less frequent. What a moody, dingy, seedy shithole. Seeing everyone in grubby pirate garb is a hoot. Picard apparently being dead is a fine hook. The informant looks like a disgusting fusion of a weasel, a prune and a lump of shit. Quite wrong to have Data in that chair and the camera makes sure to pan over the randomer in his usual spot. Barradas is a nicely verdant planet. Slightly more cinematic directing than usual with the firefight. Picard being a pirate was a fun surprise. Fun seeing Picard, Riker and Data plan around each other.

Running out of ideas? Could've fooled me because this is a fantastic breath of fresh air. It says a lot about how familiar these characters are that a lot of fun can be had in seeing them act as someone else. The bar scene and, of course, Picard and Riker dancing around each other and Baran is delightful. Obviously, it's the pirate episode, which Roddenberry apparently vetoed when he was alive, and it goes through the usual tropes and has a great amount of joy in doing so. We even have a quest for some unknown buried treasure. Being a more standard adventure, it's not the deepest of tales, but that might actually be a good thing, since I've been a little disappointed with most of the second parts, so far.

After feeling like the overall quality had slipped a little due to the last two episodes, this is a nice return to excellence.

But will this Gambit Continue to pay off?

https://youtu.be/BbqIy1azzHk

Gambit plays like a discarded movie plot but it's pretty good.

I've yet to find one of those "cast of x sings y" videos that wasn't completely and hilariously god awful. Good choice of mildly suggestive clips, though.

Episode 5: Gambit, Part II

Picard plays a very clever game at the start. Still putting on that grizzled inflection for his performance as Galen. Starting to have fun with his lies and teases Riker over being his replacement. Plays up his incredulousness at sending Riker aboard. Gets to sneer a bit at Baran during the mutiny. Deliberately too keen to find the third piece as a way of telling Tallera that he knows. Tired after all this nonsense and gets in one last joke at Riker's expense.

Riker gives Picard a significant look and starts to relax slightly. Charming his way through his interactions with Baran and smiling right past the man. Little twitch when told to kill Picard that he brings under control. There's something a little tired about him when he's talking to Picard as himself. Maybe all the lies are a little exhausting. Has fun briefly playing a traitor. Tries to tease Picard, but quickly regrets it.

La Forge discovers something useful. Lightly astonished by Worf's shit attitude and audacity.

Worf is in trigger happy mode. Complains about everything and comes off as slightly thick for it. Grumbles under his breath like a recently disciplined teenager. Offers a decent defence for his actions and maturely recognises his fault when it's spelled out to him. Has to stop himself from questioning Data too much. Doesn't have the most ethical views on that treaty. Even he can be peaceful when needed.

Crusher plays at being sickly sweet to Koral, but can't quite commit to the bit. More ethical than Worf.

Troi is sensing Worf's displeasure. Does more technical work than usual. Notices that Data threw Worf a bone. Tries to be pleasant with Koral. Gets to act up a bit of sadness at Riker's "death".

Data plays along. Even for an unemotional android, has incredible patience. Gives Worf an incredibly professional and stern talking to. Keeps their friendship alive. Shrugs at Koral's obstinacy. Able to experience the awkwardness of trying to talk with a brick wall. Takes a moment to process, but gets in some mock outrage at Riker.

Baran is so smug that its utterly wonderful to see him played by everyone and think hes the one winning.

Tallera's constant visits to Galen and unwillingness to do anything about how suspicious he is betrays pretty early on that shes a lying liar, too. Ruthless, pragmatic sort. Can't even pretend to disguise her nervousness when Picard cottons on. Insanely tries to keep using the useless resonator.

Fun little bullshit production to start us off. Actually, there's quite a bit of fun to be had everywhere, due to everyone being deceitful in some fashion or another. Its really just a load of talking, but the many roles most characters play keep it very amusing all the way through. Picard and Baran staring each other down during the mutiny is cool. Tallera is probably the best liar, through being evil pretending to be good pretending to be evil. She and Picard begin fighting with the truth since the lies have long since exhausted their use. The jelly effect of the resonator is a bit shit.

Continues to do the same as the first part and has most of the cast indulge in some fun lying and acting. And it is clear that they are having a blast. It never devolves into farce and a few choice moments are played severely, but there's a fun energy to it all. Its basically a two episode romp that manages to justify its length. Hits on a few slightly intelligent points in the process, too: there's an undercurrent of trust versus fear, as Baran is a dreadful leader, whereas Picard as Galen effortlessly gains his crew's loyalty. And Worf mistrusts Data's decisions, whereas the android has complete faith that Picard and Riker have a plan. Then, the episode pauses a bit on Worf's reaction to the resonator, to highlight a point about peace versus violence. Not the deepest of ideas, but there's more here than some stories.

One of those all too infrequent two parters where both episodes are as good as each other.

Looking at Phantasms, next.

Episode 6: Phantasms

Do androids dream of electric cats?

Picard is fed up with these invites and dreads having to actually attend a party. Plasters a smile on his face for Nakamura. Doesn't know whether to be relieved or frustrated by the endless failures. Begins to micromanage and generally hover around like a bad smell. Blows his lid a bit during Data's "explanation". Won't show it, but very happy with La Forge's final delay.

Riker pretends to be sympathetic to Picard's misery, but is obviously loving it. Delighted by Worf's annoyance at the music program.

Dream Riker has a thoughtful reaction to his head being drunk out of. Annoyed by incessant phones. Apparently that straw goes where he goes.

For someone who whinges about struggling with women, La Forge has a knack for snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. Tyler isnt that bad. At least, hes considerate of Data. But also at least, tell the poor woman you're not interested. Bloody coward. I mean, she removes nagging bosses. What's not to like?

Dream La Forge is suitably creepy. Appropriately enough, has a cursed children's presenter vibe.

Worf states the obvious about oversleeping. Does not like jazz, which is wrong. Not a cat person, which is also wrong.

Dream Worf is generous and has a truly delicious looking cake.

Crusher does her job and basically saves the day.

Dream Crusher must really like the taste of brain fluid.

Troi is delighted by Data's dreams and encourages him to explore more. Concerned, yet broadly positive about the neurosis. Seems to suspect something horrific is about to happen long before Data actually stabs her. Preparing that cake is wonderfully cruel.

Dream Troi has an understandable reaction to being a cake.

Data actually experiences shock when apparently dismantled. Stoic, but still shook, reaction to his nightmare. There's something innocent and childlike about how he keeps going on about it and how it's spooked him away from sleeping. Hilariously goes through the motions of preparing for bed. Nonplussed by Freud doing exactly what you'd expect. Really disturbed when the dreams seem to bleed into reality. He is really excited about being mentally unwell. Good cat dad.

Not exactly disguising it's a dream, with the slightly tilted camera and odd focus on La Forge as we leave him. A bunch of construction workers is a fine anachronism. There's something very bare and therefore surreal about the ten forward scene. Dream imagery apparently invading the real world is nicely creepy. Proper horror movie when we're following Troi down the corridor. Even have some appropriate music. Rather nasty looking amoeba things, aren't they? Cool as it is to walk through Data's dreams, the holodeck sequence is a bit expositiony since we've already figured out the symbolism by that point.

I'm glad that Data's dreams were returned to and made a significant plot device in their own right. I'm even more gladdened by how the symbolism is approached. Freud is brought in to be ridiculed, as his reductive theories, while useful in helping to establish the field, are little more than tedious babble by modern standards. Instead, Troi is on hand to provide a far more intelligent approach to psychological interpretation and, unlike Freud, doesn't start from the conclusions first. What I really love, though, is what the dreams are actually for. While many dreams are representations of latent emotions, there's another class of dreams that I often experience anytime I'm facing a particularly difficult physics problem: where it's almost similar to a fever dream, as the mind rapidly runs through several possibilities to the answer at a pace the waking mind cannot hope to emulate. Often, I'll find myself suddenly and deeply focusing on areas of the wording of the question or the data gathered that I had overlooked. In essence, I feel more intelligent inside my dreams, which contributes to my interest in lucid dreaming. Data's dream is basically identical. He unconsciously noticed something in the waking world that was then consciously (for a given value of consciousness, anyway) analysed in his dreams. The fever dreams that accompanies this strand of obsessive problem solving often take on similar characteristics, including the vividness of nightmares, so, I definitely appreciate this fairly deep look at dreams.

Has some decently trippy and surreal moments and contributes to Data's character whilst exploring a rich aspect of humanity. Much like most of Data's best stories.

Turning over to the Dark Page.

Episode 7: Dark Page

Now here's a part of Lwaxana I wasn't expecting.

Picard's itching to get out of that conversation and takes the first chance he can. Bit of a scare when Troi suggests telepathy and needs Crusher's go ahead. Won't allow Troi to give up hope.

Riker's amused by the insults and annoyances flying about. Gets an earful from Lwaxana and is more than a bit flustered.

La Forge gets on well with children.

Worf doesn't like telepaths, which is a tactless thing to say.

Crusher does her job, but it's nice to see her involved a lot.

Troi greets her mother a bit more warmly than usual, though she doesn't have the most pleased of looks over the husband business. Dead inside as she walks down the corridor. Immediate concern over her mother's health. Friendly, but awkward and uncomfortable, during Maques' session. Angered from worry at her mother's refusal to listen. Despondent when she's comatose. Can't convince herself the dog's not dangerous and runs like buggery. Breaks her a bit to leave her dad. It's justified by the sheer worry hampering her thoughts, but she's a bit too impressed by Crusher and Data's obvious suggestions. Nostalgic and melancholic as she goes through old items. Begins to break down as she tries to help Lwaxana heal.

Data shows concern for Lwaxana. Puts his dream studies to good use.

I don't know what Picard's impatient over, that was one of Lwaxana's more interesting speeches. Life of the party and interfering mother, as always. Interesting to see a more sober side to her after that moment in the lift. Glorious meltdown at Riker. Actually a bit scary when she's screaming at Troi. Heartbreaking, her sobs and tears. Barret does excellently portraying someone too scared to heal.

Maques is yet another of Troi's potential boyfriends and precisely as boring as the rest of the crop. Smiling like a damn psychopath does him no favours. Decent spokesperson for his species' gimmick, though and at least he's a fundamentally decent sort.

Some slight horror vibes with Lwaxana's reactions in the cold open. Like the modulations in the Cairn's voices. A lot of ambient sound to make Lwaxana's health scares all the more unsettling. That randomer in the lift exists purely to make telepathic conversations even more awkward. Like a slasher movie when they're sleeping in sickbay. Delightfully creepy romp, that first foray into Lwaxana's mind.

Since her heart to heart with Odo, it's become clear that Lwaxana's general energy is a cover for a lot of deep seated issues. The low self esteem was all but outright stated, but I suspected a more general sense of depression was at play. Turns out I was nearly there. I tragically know from experience that the true impact of trauma can remain hidden for a frighteningly long time and I equally know all too well just how terrifying the idea of allowing yourself to heal can be. Because of the endless, seemingly futile attempts to "solve the problem", the mind does enter a weird shutdown state. Rarely a full blown coma, but, still, problem solving ability, emotional control, simply having mental energy, anything vital to living, but not immediately relevant to the issue at hand goes out the window. I actually thought for a moment that Lwaxana might have general depression. No obvious event necessarily causing it, it's just how her mind is wired. Regardless, it is extraordinarily difficult for someone to resolve an emotional problem of this magnitude completely by themselves. It requires an emotional answer that can only really be facilitated by a trusted loved one. Of course, Troi is able to provide that and the two only become closer for it.

Lwaxana really is at her best when serious and her daughter gets an excellent Troi episode out of the bargain, too.

If I've got time, one, maybe two if there's little to say, reviews tomorrow. In Tenerife all week, though, so, I wouldn't get too Attached, since I'll likely have better things to do. I'll try to bump it to avoid purging.

i used to despise this episode. like, code of honor / shades of grey level terrible.

but eventually, every time i forced myself to watch it, i liked it a little more. and then i found myself not forcing anymore. and eventually actually excited to catch it.

by far the biggest change in my opinion of any episode.

Quick bump

And another

There'll be two more substance less bumps before we actually get a review

Bump for TC

Quick and dirty bump. Actual reviews to follow.

Episode 8: Attached

Tin foil hats aren't paranoid enough.

Picard is more than a bit distracted at breakfast, but he's at least honest about it. Uneasy about the strange politics. Both he and Crusher handle the sudden telepathy with a fair amount of maturity. Lies through his teeth about not loving her. It's a nice role reversal that he wants a relationship, despite their positions, whereas she doesn't, but I'm never happy with this sort of cowardly teasing.

Riker holds onto diplomacy. Increasingly annoyed by everything. Glad to see the latest idiots prepare to go. Like a stern father when he's dressing them down and gets in some delicious threats.

Worf has a flash of panic when Picard and Crusher go missing. Seems fed up with everything.

Crusher indulges in some gossip and tries to reassure Picard. It's fun seeing their dynamic, with all the concern and switching of optimism. McFadden does her best, but I don't think she's quite able to sell the love confession scene. I'm not seeing any good reason for her to not want to be with Picard.

Troi tries to be reasonable.

Data does his job.

I refuse to regard the ambassadors as characters. I'm just so sick of having to watch the crew babysit idiots.

Cool long shot of the table. Always enjoyed the shadows and lighting in prisons. They actually outrun an explosion. Wow. The way they first show how the separation leads to nausea reminds me of children's shows and not in a good way. A very cinematic view of the landscape, with appropriate music. The campfire scene is a very standard "will they or won't they?" scenario.

I'm not sure if I want Picard and Crusher in a relationship. Part of the problem is the difficulty in seeing Picard as a romantic or sexual figure, but an additional wrinkle is the existence of Jack and how he creates a pretty token love triangle arrangement. Considering the problems Crusher has in actually being allowed to be a character, the dead husband's best friend angle can be quite concerning. I've never enjoyed "will they or won't they" scenarios much either. Similary to teasing a relationship with the guest star of the week or threatening to kill a main character in a mid season episode, the actual drama is completely undercut if the audience has any media literacy whatsoever (Yar works (for a generous definition of the word) because its expected that she would be safe). So, while there's some good discussions on how a platonic relationship can still be fairly intimate, the decision to not explore their feelings barely feels like a decision at all and more like kicking the can further down the road.

A relatively mediocre start to my return.

Let's hope the next episode is a Force of Nature.

Revision time, so, updates may still be sporadic.

Episode 9: Force of Nature

Galactic warming.

Picard amuses himself by politely threatening to abandon the Ferengi vessel. Plays the daimon's game. Keeps an open mind.

Riker's amused by Picard making a deal with the Ferengi. Didn't much like his rant. Personally, I think Serova is justified.

It's nice seeing the whole crew jump in with suggestions during the briefing.

La Forge would make for an astonishingly shit cat owner. Far too angry and impatient. Bit competitive. Some truly sadistic suggestions for Spot. Very self satisfied chuckle at outperforming his friend. Acts like an arse to Serova. Beats himself up over it. Mournful of the potential loss of warp drive.

Worf gets predictably angry when things dont go his way.

Data is still an immaculate cat dad. Or at least he starts that way. Takes La Forge's nonsense a bit too close to heart for my tastes. Grills him on his egotism. Embarrassed by the fruitless training and at how well hes been domesticated. Plays advocate for the appropriate scientific method and desired ways of delivering a message, which doesn't sit right by me.

Amusing interlude to start us off. The lack of music during the tube crawling is brilliant at hinting at a spooky mystery, whilst letting the two friends talk about random stuff. The rift is beautiful to look at. Limiting us to warp 5 is a strange ending, especially since I already know they have no intention of abiding by it. Also, I don't personally mind random discussions about random things, but the cat talk is blatant padding.

An environmentalist message. But done with the same mealy mouthed manner that every other show approaches it with. The simple fact is that Serova is unreservedly correct and justified, except perhaps in the case of causing a massive disaster right next to her home world. Much discussion is had, which amount to the predictable two strands of thought: we rely on whatever should be regulated too much to actually sensibly regulate the damn thing and perhaps you could be a bit nicer with how you deliver the message. I have little patience for episodes of any show that flag up a big issue, just so they can play "reasonable" (noncommittal) fence sitter. Even if the warp 5 limit actually takes for a while, its just a stand in for the endless carbon emission targets set by world governments that don't have the slightest hope in making a meaningful dent in the upcoming environmental disaster. The correct course of action is to do away with warp travel altogether (gradually or otherwise) unless a safer means is discovered. But I suppose killing the world is an acceptable price for convenience.

Just about a competent adventure in places, but it's morally bankrupt and has the gall to pretend otherwise.

Let's hope Inheritance is better.

From what I remember, they do actually stick to the speed limit longer than you'd think they would.

But yeah, it's just kind of assumed that they researched a fix for the problem because later on they do start using higher speeds.

Or they stopped caring while they researched warp alternatives. The future of most alternatives is still not clear.

I have been told that in Star Trek: Voyager, they provided a scientific reason why the speed limit is no longer necessary

Starks posted...

Or they stopped caring while they researched warp alternatives. The future of most alternatives is still not clear.

Apparently its why the warp nacelles on Voyager are adjustable.

Episode 10: Inheritance

A surprisingly big family.

Picard advocates the truth, which i agree with.

Riker has absolute faith in Data.

La Forge encourages his friend. Very interested in embarrassing stories.

Worf does his job.

Crusher breaches medical ethics again, but she at least resisted it and, i suppose, if its someone as decent as Data asking...

Dont agree with Troi's opinion.

Data's as shocked as an android can be at meeting his mother. Confused and naturally cautious, but its really the android equivalent of fear he's experiencing. The relative lack of emotions makes Data's reactions come across as very childlike and you can see slight embarrassment in the attempt to set him up with Troi, modesty over praise for his art and an almost betrayal at being abandoned. He also has some subtle reactions to Tainer's affectionate touching. Notices something off, but disguises it with a smile. Telling Tainer that Soong loved her is a great moment.

Tainer is a warm hearted soul and overjoyed to meet her son. Nostalgic over Data's childhood. Her face drops and her voice gets very shaky when she hears of Soong's death and Data's pseudo rejection isn't any happier. Like any interfering mother, very interested in his love life. Broken over never meeting Lal and it wakes up a lot of her guilt. Gives a passionate speech about loving her kids. I kind of feel the episode would be better if she were legit.

A pretty delightful, quiet discussion between mother and son makes up most of the first act. Lot of hopeful music when Data returns to her. I'm glad that a few callbacks, like Lal, made it in. Both musical duets are beautiful. The second one makes it very obvious that Tainer's an android.

The question of whether to tell Tainer the truth isn't much of a question for me. Yes, it will cause distress, but beyond the point that she may inadvertently discover it anyway, there's the matter of her having the right to know what she is. The argument against coming from Troi, who's supposed to be the one who helps with emotional pain, is a small misfire in this episode. I find the discussion over Tainer resisting Data's creation, abandoning him and yet having sincere pride in him interesting. Because I believe Sci-fi issues are only worthwhile if they can stand in for real world issues, the nearest equivalent I can find for this is the issue of abortion. The Soong's first three children were non viable and effectively died during birth. Lore had a known condition and the need to dismantle him could be seen as analogous to abortion. The fear over Data then takes on the angle of potentially losing another kid or, worse yet, doing it yourself. Even if that's quite a stretch, I'm impressed by how well Tainer is treated. It seems that most of Data's best qualities stem from her, which is sort of nice to see, although it does push Soong out of the equation a little.

Another of those bleeding heart stories I love so much. Really liked this.

Onto Parallels.

I look at Tainer very differently after watching Picard. For the better.

Episode 11: Parallels

Now, this is an alternate universe story.

Usually, I try to separate different versions of a character into their own paragraphs, but that clearly isn't practical here.

Picard's a bit cheeky, asking about age. Good confusion at Worf's suddenly incorrect information. Doesn't give him too much grief over the shield fiasco. Ours is perfectly reasonable during the quantum cluster fuck.

Riker has fun putting on a sterner manner than usual. Even more fun slapping that hat on Worf. Redecorating Worf's quarters is a dick move. A few accusatory looks when Worf fails to use the panel. As captain, he does quite well. Desperate Riker has some good madness.

La Forge apparently has an appreciation for art and history or so he conspires to pretend. At least one world has to do without him.

Worf is rightly paranoid about surprise parties and just about tolerates his friends' adoration. Absolute grump and a little ungrateful at his celebration, but Alexander's gift cheers him up. Many dizzy spells. Horrified at his potential relation to Lwaxana. A bit of wounded pride at suddenly having come in ninth place. Naturally, angry and confused at the weird shenanigans. Understandably awkward around his heretofore unknown wife. Applies himself well to solving the mystery. Mourns alternate Picard. Lets Troi down gently (for want of a better phrase). Not having Alexander devastates him. Wisely decides that getting with Troi is a good idea.

Crusher guides the birthday celebrations. Gentle with Worf's confusion.

Troi helps Riker to take over Worf's room. Loves the idea of being Alexander's mum. Rather playful as Worf's wife. There's a bit of Lwaxana there, too. Broken over her sudden lack of husband. Ours has picked up a new joy in lightly teasing Worf.

Data's a good painter and its quite a thoughtful gift, too. Nothing but helpful to Worf.

Ogawa is brilliant as a doctor.

Wesley is inoffensive. Actually, he seems a bit more humble. Maybe absense makes the heart grow fonder.

It's a nice looking trophy. Since we don't initially know it's his birthday, Worf's paranoia suggests that something has gone subtly wrong. Some nice camera work to highlight the differences between worlds. Certain angles make the array seem appropriately odd. The painting changing is quite surreal and I like how there's an increasingly rapid shift between worlds, until, eventually, camera trickery gives up and we just snap to the new universe. Some inexplicable plant life in Worf's quarters provides decent foreshadowing. Like the different designs of the bridge, especially the use of only one chair in the main bit. All those Enterprises popping into one world is quite terrifying. Many Worfs in one shuttle is a nice trippy image.

It's always fun to explore alternate versions of familiar characters. Much like with some time travel stories, sometimes the high concept alone is worth devoting a full episode to explore. Still, there were two slightly deeper strands of though I appreciated here. Firstly, I enjoy the idea that nobody is disposable. Better than merely not disposable, most of the alternates are fundamentally identical to the original versions, such that Worf not only understandably takes a while to figure out what's going on, but he doesn't really treat his friends' variants any differently from how he treats his actual friends. Even with Troi, he's remarkably gentle and actually does basically start to feel interest in his version of her simply by briefly living as someone who's already started that relationship with theirs. The only character to be regarded as a tolerable loss is desperate Riker and only because he fires on the shuttle. In other words, his ethics have been so skewed that he's no longer meaningfully Riker and can be acceptably put down by a technically different, but still familiar version. The second strand is what Worf does after getting home. Due to the time reset, the events of the episode might as well be an extended, vivid dream sequence. Worf has then gotten a sneak peak at some of the many paths his life could've and still could taken. I adore that his reaction upon "waking up" is to immediately attempt to actualize the best of the worlds he found himself in: where he and Troi are together. That's taking charge and moving towards living your best life.

A great idea with great execution. Sometimes you just need an excellent premise.

Onto The Pegusus.

The Pegasus is about to fly. It is an important episode

We have to go back.

Episode 12: The Pegasus

Riker did a bad.

Picard's quite awkward about a holiday in his honour and doesn't take to Riker's jokes about it. Sheepishly tries to explain it to the admiral. Has a plan to torment Riker with his own holiday. Picks up on the tension between Riker and Pressman immediately. Matches the Romulan's slimyness with cordiality. Explains that he values intelligence and integrity over obedience. Little taken aback by Pressman's retort. Doesn't enjoy being kept in the dark and it puts a strain on his friendship with Riker. Outraged by illegal activities.

Riker does a decent impression of Picard. Gets the wind knocked out of his sails when threatened with a holiday of his own. Very spooked by Pressman's prescence. Has an internal panic attack every time something involving the Pegasus is mentioned. As a baby faced man myself who hates facial hair, I share his pain. Incredibly moody due to old ghosts. Willing to be forceful against his old boss. All but whimpering like a guilty child when Picard unsuccessfully grills him. Finally does the right thing when he tells his old boss "no".

La Forge does his job.

Worf has a good show of loyalty to Picard.

Crusher reassures an angsty Riker.

Troi seems to appreciate the children having fun.

Data actually seems a little worried when Pressman tries to take control.

Pressman just sort of asserts himself instantly. His discussion with Picard over obedience tells you much about how hes a bit of an unpleasant man deep down. Initially barks at Riker, but when that clearly isn't going to work, resorts to charming and guilt tripping him. Has a look of intrigue about him when he notices this change in Riker. Takes Riker's rant surprisingly calmly at first. Massive control freak and remains smug to the end.

Some decent (by kids' standards) bits and pieces for the celebration. They mention the warp limit to immediately disregard it. Picard sets up his faith in Riker's morality, so, that the general vagueness of the mission can make him seem ambiguous. Some nice shots of the asteroid field. The lighting inside the asteroid is especially great. The Pegasus is a miserably gloomy wreck.

It's another dodgy, hypocritical admiral who happily flaunts the rules and laws, but won't hear of anyone below him doing the same. It's interesting that on the most abstract level Pressman and Riker have done the exact same thing in violating orders, but Riker's the only one who receives sympathy. You could argue that by going against illegal orders he's implicitly obeying legal ones and that that's what makes it okay. But considering all the naval gazing about him being an ignorant soldier who originally didn't know better and Pressman's utter contempt for just about everybody, its clear that they're trying for a slightly more nuanced take on the rebellious drive. Abiding by your conscience only works if you actually have a conscience. Given my distaste for the military, I do like that the concepts of duty and honour, which ultimately mean whatever the boss says they mean, are treated with appropriate derision.

As a character archetype, admiral loony has long since said all they will ever say and is getting slightly stale now, but this is still a fine adventure.

Going Homeward next.

People kept asking the writers why the Federation doesn't have cloaking devices. In The Pegasus, the writers answered the question of why the Federation doesn't have cloaking devices. The peace treaty with the Romulan Empire calls for the Federation not to employ cloaking devices

Actually, it was Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry that first said that the Federation should not have cloaking devices. "Our characters are scientists and engineers. They don't go sneaking around maliciously."

hexa posted...

The Pegasus is about to fly. It is an important episode

For better or worse. It wasn't too important until much later during one of the most braindead decisions in Trek history.

I love it when you watch something and you get to say "hey, look, it's that guy from before he was that guy".

Like that episode in the third season where Dr. Kelso from Scrubs played a baseball-obsessed scientist.

Episode 13: Homeward

I imagine it's like a VR treadmill.

Picard is understandably a bit taken aback by Worf's request, since he's obviously aware of the family angle. Angry over the prime directive violation and sees right through Nikolai's first plan. Offers some respect and solemnity over the extinction event. Has difficulty processing the absurdity of Nikolai's plan, but without alternatives, goes along with the madness. "Let's try it" almost seems like a mantra he's using to barely preserve his own sanity. Completely honest to Vorin, which is admirable.

Riker is worried about Nikolai.

La Forge does his best magician impression. Has a lot of fun with the storms.

Worf is naturally concerned about the planet's situation. Clearly has affection for his brother, but it's strained and he has to resort to character shilling. Exasperated over the violation and barely musters the energy to go along with Nikolai's lies. Staring at nothing from a distance when Nikolai makes his failed plea. All but disowning his brother is unjustifiably cold. Lot of childhood issues. Begins to warm up a bit the more he's regarded as a hero by the Boraalans. I must admit, his general grumpiness and not just in this episode is starting to wear thin. At least he parts decently.

Crusher broaches the obvious questions about Worf's brother and humours the shilling. Takes the extinction the hardest. Agonises over the future a fair bit.

Troi gets a bit pedantic over the actual meaning of the prime directive. Immediately calms Vorin down.

Data offers some faint reassurance to Crusher.

Nikolai is a gregarious fellow. Falls into a deep depression when his plea fails to covince. Only moral individual out of this group. His scheme is certainly an act of insanity, though. Clearly wasted no time in flirting with the locals.

The upper atmosphere looks particularly nice. It's a weird thing to focus on and it's probably barely altered stock footage, but I'm noticing it now. That panel exploding was a nice shock. Its an especially obvious contrivance, but the holodeck malfunctions do lend themselves to some cool imagery. Vorin having the situation explained to him does make the bullshit production look even more silly. Killing himself is a bit of a bathetic note.

Erm, prime directive story, I guess, and it says the same shit that almost every other prime directive story says: its morally wrong to not save someone if you're capable of doing so. The bullshit production via the holodeck gives a neat new angle to approach it from and Nikolai's a fine character to anchor it, but I've seen this before. Worf's character is starting to bother me a little with his general misery all the damn time, but that's about all I've got to say.

Reasonably well made, but considering they've put tracing paper over their old work, there'd be no excuse for anything less.

The next episode is Sub Rosa, but I'll never tell.

Spoiler: You're going to hate it lol.

splodeymissile posted...

Episode 11: Parallels

Now, this is an alternate universe story.

Usually, I try to separate different versions of a character into their own paragraphs, but that clearly isn't practical here.

Picard's a bit cheeky, asking about age. Good confusion at Worf's suddenly incorrect information. Doesn't give him too much grief over the shield fiasco. Ours is perfectly reasonable during the quantum cluster fuck.

Riker has fun putting on a sterner manner than usual. Even more fun slapping that hat on Worf. Redecorating Worf's quarters is a dick move. A few accusatory looks when Worf fails to use the panel. As captain, he does quite well. Desperate Riker has some good madness.

La Forge apparently has an appreciation for art and history or so he conspires to pretend. At least one world has to do without him.

Worf is rightly paranoid about surprise parties and just about tolerates his friends' adoration. Absolute grump and a little ungrateful at his celebration, but Alexander's gift cheers him up. Many dizzy spells. Horrified at his potential relation to Lwaxana. A bit of wounded pride at suddenly having come in ninth place. Naturally, angry and confused at the weird shenanigans. Understandably awkward around his heretofore unknown wife. Applies himself well to solving the mystery. Mourns alternate Picard. Lets Troi down gently (for want of a better phrase). Not having Alexander devastates him. Wisely decides that getting with Troi is a good idea.

Crusher guides the birthday celebrations. Gentle with Worf's confusion.

Troi helps Riker to take over Worf's room. Loves the idea of being Alexander's mum. Rather playful as Worf's wife. There's a bit of Lwaxana there, too. Broken over her sudden lack of husband. Ours has picked up a new joy in lightly teasing Worf.

Data's a good painter and its quite a thoughtful gift, too. Nothing but helpful to Worf.

Ogawa is brilliant as a doctor.

Wesley is inoffensive. Actually, he seems a bit more humble. Maybe absense makes the heart grow fonder.

It's a nice looking trophy. Since we don't initially know it's his birthday, Worf's paranoia suggests that something has gone subtly wrong. Some nice camera work to highlight the differences between worlds. Certain angles make the array seem appropriately odd. The painting changing is quite surreal and I like how there's an increasingly rapid shift between worlds, until, eventually, camera trickery gives up and we just snap to the new universe. Some inexplicable plant life in Worf's quarters provides decent foreshadowing. Like the different designs of the bridge, especially the use of only one chair in the main bit. All those Enterprises popping into one world is quite terrifying. Many Worfs in one shuttle is a nice trippy image.

It's always fun to explore alternate versions of familiar characters. Much like with some time travel stories, sometimes the high concept alone is worth devoting a full episode to explore. Still, there were two slightly deeper strands of though I appreciated here. Firstly, I enjoy the idea that nobody is disposable. Better than merely not disposable, most of the alternates are fundamentally identical to the original versions, such that Worf not only understandably takes a while to figure out what's going on, but he doesn't really treat his friends' variants any differently from how he treats his actual friends. Even with Troi, he's remarkably gentle and actually does basically start to feel interest in his version of her simply by briefly living as someone who's already started that relationship with theirs. The only character to be regarded as a tolerable loss is desperate Riker and only because he fires on the shuttle. In other words, his ethics have been so skewed that he's no longer meaningfully Riker and can be acceptably put down by a technically different, but still familiar version. The second strand is what Worf does after getting home. Due to the time reset, the events of the episode might as well be an extended, vivid dream sequence. Worf has then gotten a sneak peak at some of the many paths his life could've and still could taken. I adore that his reaction upon "waking up" is to immediately attempt to actualize the best of the worlds he found himself in: where he and Troi are together. That's taking charge and moving towards living your best life.

A great idea with great execution. Sometimes you just need an excellent premise.

Onto The Pegusus.

Parallels is one of my favorite episodes, especially when it deals with the question "What if the Enterprise failed to stop the Borg invasion in Best of Both Worlds?" in one reality.

splodeymissile posted...

The next episode is Sub Rosa

Sub Rosa is a Beverly Crusher episode

hexa posted...

Sub Rosa is a Beverly Crusher episode

And a very bad one at that....

Sub Rosa in a nutshell: https://youtu.be/JpDVeq4t4h0

[LFAQs-redacted-quote]

They did that with the latter seasons of Enterprise (set in the Mirror Universe)

Quick bump. There will be a review at some point today.

Episode 14: Sub Rosa

Sub Carmellia doesn't imply secret history quite as much, I guess.

Is it just me or did Picard really not want to be at that funeral? Looked miserable as sin, even beyond what you'd expect from a recent death. At any rate, he warmly accepts the offer of a tour. Amused and impressed by Felisa having an active sex life right up to the end. "Thirties", indeed. Treats the partially controlled Crusher with far more patience than you'd see in similar scenarios on other shows.

Riker does his job.

La Forge gets frustrated by ghosts in the machine.

Worf does his job.

Crusher gives a lovely speech about her nan and just about keeps it together. McFadden's great at selling the complex and occasionally oddly happy bereavement that accompanies losing someone just because its their time. Some good justified anger at Quint. I actually like that, even though they didn't get together, hers and Picard's relationship is one where they can talk comfortably and candidly about pretty private things. Absolutely glowing after that first dream and I similarly appreciate that hers and Troi's relationship allows for them to discuss sex like it aint even a big deal. Some good fear in the house. Sells the confusion and violation of that ghostly rape scene disturbingly well. Naturally, the blissful serenity that follows is just as unnerving. Seeing her writhe and fidget on the cusp of addiction to Ronin isn't much more comfortable. It's great that love for her friends breaks her out of that weird trance. Seeing her gradually get a handle on her panic by scientifically analysing Ronin is a treat.

Troi acts as a good friend should and takes an interest in the life of Crusher's nan. Gives her some space when she needs it. Id be envious, too of dreams like that. Handles the apparent relationship with Ronin as well as she can, even though it clearly irks her.

Data does his job.

The governor is alright.

Quint might have good intentions, but hes a bit of a dick who doesn't even try to help his case at the first meeting. The heavy Scottish accent almost hits the point of mean spirited parody for me. Not the easiest thing to listen to.

Ronin manages to be an effectively creepy rapist. Has a seductive quality to him where every sentence seems like romance taken to its highest ideal if you treat it at face value. Even if he did sincerely love them, he's still little more than a wretched parasite.

An unusually low key and solemn start to an episode. Big fan of long shots, so, Picard and the governor chatting was a treat. They definitely steep it in the obvious cultural trappings of Scotland. Pretty warm looking house that. Can tell it has a mysterious history from the first scene inside it. Quint is your standard ghost story warning. The candle flickering to life is effective, if an obvious choice. The bleaker lighting at the second visit to the graveyard, green thunderstorms and a sudden invasion of carmellias in the house, I kind of like that they're not even pretending much to justify this horror in the framework of Sci-fi. Its refreshing. Fog on the bridge is almost funny. Mirrors are used a lot. Even when there's nothing significant in the reflection, they're often featured in the background of scenes. Ronin has a cute habit of appearing from offscreen. Compared to the relatively sterile directing on the Enterprise, most of the scenes on the planet have some very animated camera work. Feels like a different world, which fits with all the spooky stuff. La Forge and Data in the graveyard is the most obvious example of this.

I think I understand why so many hate this. Its blatantly on the supernatural side of things, being very gothic throughout, and only makes the most token of efforts to seem like it fits in the Star Trek universe, which will rankle a few purists. It concerns sex, which is tragically uncomfortable to many and does so from a predominantly female perspective, which is usually seen as boring at best. It's a Crusher story, which is typically an ill omen. And it involves yet another dodgy potential boyfriend. The first two don't bother me. And while I've learned to be dubious whenever a female character is in the spotlight, I'm always happy to see them in an actually good episode. Which leaves the last point. Far too often, even when they are the explicit villain of the piece, the nasty behaviours of these dodgy boyfriends goes somewhat unchecked. Add this to the women completely fawning over them at first and the fact that they're usually put in some sort of distress or develop a new flaw that the other characters have to rescue them from and we find ourselves with some pretty sexist stories. This isn't that. Ronin is clearly manipulating Crusher's mind to get her to the fawning state and all the other characters immediately pick up on how off she's acting and instantly suspect foul play. Not only that, but, while the other characters do play their own roles in the resolution, the crux of it comes from Crusher breaking herself out of that sorry state by remembering who she really is. It's basically a deconstruction of many of the previous female character focus episodes. Add this to the quite lavish production and its an episode that I actually like a lot. Even the vaguely incestuous connotations (and getting aroused to your grandmother's dalliances is where even my broadminded views on sex reach their limit) are mostly down to Ronin's influence.

Don't get me wrong. I honestly can see where many of its detractors are coming from. I just disagree and actually found this to be mostly delightful. But, then, I am a fairly effeminate man and a brief look at the reception does seem to suggest that women quite enjoyed it. I certainly did.

I might be animated enough to check out Lower Decks.

That's one of my favorite TNG episodes (Lower Decks, I have yet to watch the animated series Lower Decks)

Episode 15: Lower Decks

Perhaps a bit overdue, this sort of story.

Picard gives Sito a brief look. I always appreciate that he keeps tabs on all his staff. Gives Sito a well deserved dressing down. Very fair boss.

Riker's very sleepy. Gives Sito good advice. Wouldn't blame him if he did dislike Lavelle. Just about tolerates that profoundly crap talk at the bar. No patience for sycophants and greatly enjoys winning at poker.

La Forge is a bit too patient with Taurik. Stops him from using too much initiative. Gets a little annoyed by him being a smartass and sends as many hints as he can to shut up. Makes an effort to patch things up.

Worf sheepishly admits to recommending Sito. Explains his argument to Riker, not that we hear it. Gives one hell of a hint to Sito and clearly worries about her.

Crusher reassures Ogawa, promises her a promotion and takes an interest in her love life. Amused by Troi teasing Riker.

Troi has sound criteria for who should take what role. Easily tempted by dessert. Takes Riker to task for his treatment of Lavelle.

Data does his job.

Ogawa really needed more lines in this series. She's a delight. Her reaction to getting a promotion is adorable. Seems a bit gossipy. Just as happy to be hitched.

Sam is a nervous wreck and more than a bit annoying. Very egotistical and judgemental. Dont like him at all. Especially given his pathetic envy of Sito seemingly getting special treatment. Realises that kissing ass doesn't really work.

Taurik shares my reaction to that promotion repetition. Little bit sassy. Seems to figure out that La Forge wants out of that conversation. Intelligent, definitely, but seems to lack wisdom, since he fails to notice any of La Forge's hints.

Sito is alright. Quite adorable, really, especially with that spider metaphor. Pleased as all hell when Picard picks her out. Shes beaming in that lift. Gets deflated, naturally. Doesn't defend herself well. Tries to mitigate her failure rather than own up to it. Frankly, it's a bit cowardly. Definitely failed that test of character on the first go. Her second attempt is obviously better, but the issue for me wasn't courage, so much as accountability. Shame she died. I don't mind admitting that it took me a while to remember she was in a previous episode.

Smooth to move to another table and establish who the real main characters are. The usual group do tend to flit in and out of the background and there's something almost mythic in the way they influence the lives of the other crew. The lift scene is a little awkward. Decent parallels with the two poker games, especially with Riker and Lavelle being quite similar.

While redshirts have gotten their due respect in some episodes, they're always going to feel a bit too much like cannon fodder, which can get a bit distasteful for such an idealistic universe. So, having an episode from their perspective is a potentially good idea. There are two problems, though. The first is that you need to establish these characters and that's kind of difficult when your (mostly) new group is still competing against the regulars. As it is, only Ogawa and Sito wound up leaving much impression and that's because Ogawa's long been part of this crew and is already decently familiar, while in Sito's case its primarily down to her being the obvious emotional core of the episode. Taurik, Lavelle and Ben don't really have too much to them from what I can see. Taurik, in particular, is basically a Vulcan stereotype for most of his time. In contrast, the new perspective manages to give new insight into certain parts of the regulars. Picard and Worf, in particular, show a lot of compassionate and nurturing tendencies, which is sometimes disguised by their stern demeanours. The second is what that perspective is. Because they're basically just passive actors, living by the whims of the regulars. The big issue is who's getting promoted, which they have relatively little agency over, and the men especially don't seem to have a life outside of that. Ogawa has her love life and Sito has one hell of a mistake to haunt her, so, they manage alright. But Sito's story could've been done by having her be a more typical guest star. Like another Barclay or Ro. Well, except for the fact that they killed her off. The main cast are put on an odd pedestal just so we can have the poker game comparison and say that actually the two groups aren't that different. But it just rings a bit hollow. Like it thinks it's saying far more than it actually is.

A good idea with decent execution that nevertheless feels quite a bit shallower than it wants to be. Feel like I should like it more than I do, but there's something a little unsatisfying about it.

To Thine Own Self I go.

splodeymissile posted...

But Sito's story could've been done by having her be a more typical guest star. Like another Barclay or Ro. Well, except for the fact that they killed her off.

Interesting bit of trivia, is that Sito was originally intended to return on DS9, alive and a prisoner of the Cardassians, but the episode was never made.

That episode is one of the things that made me dislike Riker. I don't remember it well enough to know the specifics, but I remember thinking that Riker was overly dickish to that guy for no good reason. To me, it made Riker seem like the kind of guy who's friendly as hell if you're on his level and only if you're on his level. The kinda dude that'd be a great date until he calls the waitress a bitch for bringing the wrong drink.