This episode is essentially a look at how different elements of our own society would react if aliens were discovered to be living among us, a subject which has been covered in sci-fi since the days of the flying saucer and the Red Scare. This time, we are the aliens, and we have been living among a very human-like civilization which is just beginning the exploration of space. We see doctors treating the captured alien (Riker) just as they would one of their own, the scientist reacting with great interest and curiosity, the security person reacting with fear, and the politician deciding to cover everything up.
Overall, a pretty good episode, and a look at what would happen if the shoe were on the other foot. Yes, there are plot holes and unanswered questions, but look how many people are credited with having a hand in the writing of this episode: story by one person and teleplay by five others (two pairs and one individual). Good soup for so many cooks.
Overall, a pretty good episode, and a look at what would happen if the shoe were on the other foot. Yes, there are plot holes and unanswered questions, but look how many people are credited with having a hand in the writing of this episode: story by one person and teleplay by five others (two pairs and one individual). Good soup for so many cooks.
