Enterprise visits mining colony Janus VI.
This is a classic episode with a brilliant message and a number of strong character moments.
The plot is simple and highly effective with a powerful statement on humanity that embodies the best themes of Star Trek. It unfolds in a compelling way with Kirk and Spock at the heart of it, well supported by Bones and Scotty.
Kirk is fantastically written, behaving in a way you would want someone of senior authority to act. There are no rash decisions. He is the ultimate cool head in a difficult and pressured situation.
Spock is the catalyst for everything positive that happens. These are great moments that define his character. His level of humanity is laid bare in his compassion for life and his protective instincts towards his Captain. I love how he spins his obvious emotional response as defending science.
Bones has rarely been cooler, particularly in his transition from seemingly lacking the confidence to do something to an almost god-like belief in his own abilities.
I think what makes it great is that it is so different from most other creature-based sci-fi and adventure stories. It would be so easy to give in to the blood-lust of most film and television consumers and make it a 'fight the monster' story, but this one could not be more opposite.
The visuals are mostly great. I love the set design, props and cinematography. The creature effects are very Star Trek. There's not much to say other than it is a stuntman underneath a what looks like a Persian rug decorated with foam pizza toppings. All part of the sixties charm.
William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy both give strong performances, particularly Shatner under the circumstances of his personal life at the time. DeForest Kelley has a smaller role, but he has some classic lines. James Doohan is entertaining as ever and the guest performers are solid.
This is a classic episode with a brilliant message and a number of strong character moments.
The plot is simple and highly effective with a powerful statement on humanity that embodies the best themes of Star Trek. It unfolds in a compelling way with Kirk and Spock at the heart of it, well supported by Bones and Scotty.
Kirk is fantastically written, behaving in a way you would want someone of senior authority to act. There are no rash decisions. He is the ultimate cool head in a difficult and pressured situation.
Spock is the catalyst for everything positive that happens. These are great moments that define his character. His level of humanity is laid bare in his compassion for life and his protective instincts towards his Captain. I love how he spins his obvious emotional response as defending science.
Bones has rarely been cooler, particularly in his transition from seemingly lacking the confidence to do something to an almost god-like belief in his own abilities.
I think what makes it great is that it is so different from most other creature-based sci-fi and adventure stories. It would be so easy to give in to the blood-lust of most film and television consumers and make it a 'fight the monster' story, but this one could not be more opposite.
The visuals are mostly great. I love the set design, props and cinematography. The creature effects are very Star Trek. There's not much to say other than it is a stuntman underneath a what looks like a Persian rug decorated with foam pizza toppings. All part of the sixties charm.
William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy both give strong performances, particularly Shatner under the circumstances of his personal life at the time. DeForest Kelley has a smaller role, but he has some classic lines. James Doohan is entertaining as ever and the guest performers are solid.
