Loading ...1.01 – 1.02 – Encounter At Farpoint
The introductions of ship and crew are made in this two-part pilot episode. Originally planned as a single episode, Encounter At Farpoint was expanded to a full two hours at the request of Paramount. So instead of an hour focusing only on the mystery of Farpoint station, we also get the much more compelling conflict with the mischevious, enigmatic and all-powerful Q.
On the whole, this is a solid two-hours of television. True, there are the usual rough edges of actors trying to get to know their characters. And not only do we have to establish the introductions of those characters, but we see their past histories established as well. At times, these seem a bit out of place (like Picard wandering down to Sick Bay to chat it up with Dr. Crusher about their past — all while his crew is preparing an away team to a hostile, alien vessel). But for the most part, the introductions are handled well, and fit into the overall storyline.
And, too, we get the introduction of the U.S.S. Enterprise. As expected, a major part of the episode is spent showcasing the Enterprise’s various bells and whistles. Much like the character introductions, these moments are handled well. But there are a few missteps along the way.
There are two welcome cameos. DeForest Kelly as the 137-year-old McCoy is a nice connection to the Original Series. And fans of TNG will recognize an appearance by Transporter Chief O’Brien — though he has not yet achieved that status.
Overall, Encounter At Farpoint is strong episode. The sequences with Q, are absolutely compelling. And they help set the tone for rest of the series. The Farpoint mystery is typical Star Trek fare, but it benefits from being tied to Q’s test of humanity. If you can get past the rough edges of a pilot, there is much to be enjoyed about this episode.
Topics: Q
Filed under: TNG Reviews
Ironically, I actually think this is one of Q’s weakest showings. It was good in its own right, to be sure, but compared to what we see of him later, he’s just plain nasty here. Would the Q we know pull a (this is approximate) “if you answer with any word other than ‘guilty,’ my men will pull those triggers”? I don’t think so.
We see one real hint of the Q we all know and love here: in one little moment on the bridge, his giddy fascination with the idea of a “trial” is classic Q.
It’s still a good performance – has John de Lancie ever failed us? – but it’s a pretty stark contrast to the quirky, oddly endearing trickster of a cosmic being he became.
Thanks for the comments, Caswin.
I agree that Q’s performance here is inconsistent with later episodes. And I think you bring up an excellent point regarding the order to “pull those triggers” if Picard pleads innocent.
But I would hesitate to call it his weakest showing. Personally, I think that assessment is reserved for QPid.
Either way, there’s no arguing that Q’s character does become much more engaging, even just a few episodes later in Hide and Q.