“The Apple” is a story about the Garden of Eden – or at least it wants to be. It also wants to provide a quasi-commentary on Communism. And it wants to prove that sex, love, hard work and growth are essential to existence. The problem, of course, is that this episode doesn’t get what it wants. It doesn’t even come close. There are a few high points, particularly with respect to interactions between the characters of Kirk, Spock, and McCoy. But for the most part, this is one bad “Apple.”

The episode begins with the crew beaming down to an alien plan that is lush with vegetation, a veritable paradise. Kirk decides to go on a pleasant stroll through this paradise on his way to investigate a small nearby settlement. His decision to indulge in an appreciation of the planet proves deadly for several red shirts and puts not only the remainder of the landing party in jeopardy, but the ship, as well.

What unfolds is a story of how the natives are ruled by Vaal – a super powerful computer which maintains the planet and the people with such perfection that growth of any kind is, simply, unnecessary. As an example, they have no kids because there is no need for them. In fact, they’ve been forbidden to express any sort of physical desire toward one another, for the express reason of eliminating children. I suppose the whims of a child would threaten the natural perfection established by Vaal.

Along the way, Kirk must come to terms with his decision, Spock is zapped by a poisonous plant and a bolt of lightning. And Dr. McCoy manages to express his exasperation at the society in such a way that he and Spock share a memorable, and entertaining philosophical debate about the Prime Directive. And, of course, the “commune” of the natives is meant to serve as a representation of communism in general. Of course, this is clearly an overly simplistic view – filled with inconsistencies and faults.

What is enjoyable about the episode, on a deeper level, is the Biblical symbolism – from the episode’s title, to the serpent head portal indicating Vaal, to the various forked tongue structures scattered across the planet. The episode’s final scene equates the Enterprise to Satan, offering the inhabitants of the planet an “apple” – the knowledge of good and evil. This, of course, means that Vaal, represented by the serpent, is God.

Quit the interesting commentary on Christianity, wouldn’t you say?

Unfortunately, the commentary within “The Apple” is all too fleeting and is certainly unable to compensate for the episode’s numerous faults.

Filed under: Original Series