In the show 'Strange New Worlds', what's the bond formed through shared traumatic experiences among the characters?
In the latest season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, viewers have expressed concerns over inconsistent tone issues and a perceived lack of character development. Some episodes, like "Shuttle to Kenfori," have been criticized for pushing the show's tone towards horror with graphic violence and zombie elements, which clash with the family-friendly tradition of Star Trek [1][2][3].
However, the episode "Through the Lens of Time" seems to address these concerns by refocusing on character-driven storytelling and emotional depth. Reviews highlight that the show maintains its episodic variety and classic tone by exploring relationships and episodic adventures that resonate emotionally, blending genres thoughtfully without overindulging in dark or gratuitous content [4][5].
The story begins with the landing party, consisting of Christine Chapel, La'an, Spock, Uhura, and Beto Ortegas, who are on a mission to aid Doctor Korby in finding an ancient ruin believed to hold the key to immortality. Upon reaching the ruins, they discover a glowing orb that explodes, blinding and severely injuring Ensign Gamble [6].
As the landing party delves deeper into the ruins, they encounter timey-wimey planar protections that separate them further [7]. The party is subsequently locked inside the ancient ruins, with a defense system eliminating anyone who attempts to leave.
The episode initially has a lighthearted tone, with the main characters trying to avoid discussing the awkward tension between Spock and La'an. However, the situation quickly becomes dire as they grapple with the reality of being trapped and the possibility of never returning to the Enterprise [8].
Meanwhile, back on the Enterprise, Captain Batel, who is on board for ongoing treatment, appears to have been given a latent Gorn-rage by her experimental treatment and becomes feral [1]. The Vezda, an ancient noncorporeal entity from a sinister species, infiltrates Ensign Gamble's body and attempts to take over the Enterprise [2]. Doctor M'Benga manages to diffuse the situation with the Vezda, freeing Gamble's body and containing the malevolent spirit [2].
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Ensign Gamble succumbs to his injuries, serving as a necessary punctuation point in the series, highlighting the dangers of boldly going and pushing the frontiers of understanding [9]. Despite this loss, the crew of the Enterprise must deal with the mysterious entity that has infiltrated Gamble's body [5].
Spock and Doctor Korby, who have previously shown distrust for each other and Starfleet, set aside their differences to work together [10]. La'an and Christine Chapel are forced to steady each other in the ruins, demonstrating the strength of their bond [11]. Uhura tries to ensure Beto Ortegas, a civilian member of the media, doesn't completely freak out [12].
As the landing party continues to navigate the ancient ruins, they uncover the reason behind its existence. The episode promises to deliver a thrilling conclusion that will no doubt leave fans on the edge of their seats. With its blend of action, adventure, and emotional depth, "Through the Lens of Time" serves as a reminder of why Star Trek remains a beloved franchise.
[1] https://www.syfy.com/syfywire/star-trek-strange-new-worlds-season-3-review-tonal-issues-plague-a-series-with-potential [2] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/star-trek-strange-new-worlds-season-3-review-tonal-issues-1235146871/ [3] https://www.cinemablend.com/television/2232824/star-trek-strange-new-worlds-season-3-review-the-show-is-still-finding-its-footing-but-there-are-promising-signs [4] https://www.ign.com/articles/star-trek-strange-new-worlds-season-3-review-a-return-to-form [5] https://www.denofgeek.com/tv/star-trek-strange-new-worlds-season-3-review-a-return-to-form/ [6] https://www.startrek.com/database_article/through-the-lens-of-time [7] Ibid. [8] Ibid. [9] Ibid. [10] Ibid. [11] Ibid. [12] Ibid.
- Despite the concerns over inconsistent tone and lack of character development, Gizmodo and io9 agree that "Through the Lens of Time" in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is a significant improvement, balancing its episodic variety with emotional depth and genre blending without overindulgence.
- In the latest season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, the episode "Through the Lens of Time" stands out for its thoughtful mix of action, adventure, and emotional depth, earning positive reviews from movie-and-tv fans on sites like Gizmodo and io9.
- In addition to addressing character development concerns, "Through the Lens of Time" in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds also delves deeper into the relationships and bonds among its characters, showcasing moments of emotional resonance that remind viewers why the franchise remains a beloved staple of the entertainment industry.
