Despite its mixed results.
Even when Star Trek: Strange New Worlds shines, there’s an underlying sense it could reach greater heights. The series has experienced notable fluctuations in quality and tone, differentiating itself from its purposely varied storylines that traverse various genres and themes. A key part of its identity is its willingness to take bold risks throughout its episodes. Despite some of these risks not landing as intended, the confidence with which they are presented has typically sold the overall experience. However, this confidence appeared to wane during the third season, leading to a growing desire to critique the show’s less robust storylines.
Risks and Surprises
Amid the whimsical puppetry that the series attempts, a stark contrast emerges with the level of gore typical of shows under Alex Kurtzman’s direction. If the extreme body horror witnessed in season three turned you off, you might want to skip the second episode. While I won’t dictate what should and shouldn’t belong to Star Trek’s legacy, there’s an appropriate moment for such dark content, and I question if it fully fits here. It’s nearly impossible to watch this version of Star Trek with younger audiences, which was unthinkable in earlier iterations.
Additionally, the overzealous inclusion of Paul Wesley’s Jim Kirk across numerous episodes has become tiresome. While Anson Mount’s leading presence was pivotal in getting Strange New Worlds made, it feels as though the creative team has tried to overshadow Mount since the show’s inception. If I were Kirk’s superior officer onboard the USS Farragut, I would issue a warning regarding his deviation from his primary duties.
When It Excels…
Nonetheless, there are times when Strange New Worlds showcases why it could be considered the best live-action Star Trek of the streaming generation. The sixth episode stands out not only as a highlight of the season but as one of the finest in Star Trek’s extensive legacy. It’s a taut and gripping thriller that, despite its prequel nature suggesting that the characters will be safe, kept me on the edge of my seat. A clever reference to Burnistoun added a personal touch for me, enhancing its charm. Even without that nod, I anticipate it will dominate discussions for the best episode of the series, unless the concluding episodes, which remain unseen, boast remarkable content.
Overall, the fourth season of Strange New Worlds mirrors its predecessors: inconsistent in presentation, unpredictable in quality, occasionally excessive in its graphic elements, yet irresistibly enchanting. Despite its imperfections, it’s worthwhile to enjoy this series since there might be a considerable wait before we return to this segment of the Star Trek universe.
