The Arsenal of Freedom is a classic TNG episode in nearly every sense. It combines humor, drama, action, adventure and science fiction into a story that is both compelling and enjoyable. That being said, the episode doesn’t challenge us to the extent that some do, nor does it elevate the drama or tension as well as some other episodes. And, finally, there is one major error. All of which keep this episode from being superb.

One of the highlights of this episode is the action. There are battles both on land and in space. The away team mission becomes even more urgent after Picard and Dr. Crusher fall into a pit. And even the Captain’s presence on the planet is plausible. After Riker is captured by an energy field, Picard decides he needs to oversee the situation in person. Unlike Too Short A Season, we at least get a strenuous objection from a bridge officer (Troi) before Picard dismisses it and continues down to the planet. The cave scenes between Picard and a severely injured Crusher are notable both for the interaction between the characters, but also for giving us some history on Beverly.

We also get some more character development out of LaForge, who is left behind to command the Enterprise. While the away team battles a deadly foe on the planet, LaForge must do the same in space — with a much more powerful enemy. His conflict between trying to save the away team and his responsibility to the rest of the crew aboard ship gives his character a chance to grow, and really shine. LaForge separates the ship, sending most of the crew to safety and returns to the planet to do battle and save the away team — using some innovative battle tactics in the process.

All of this occurs because a society once produced a weapon that was too deadly — so deadly that it obliterated even its creators. It’s a compelling lesson, but while the warning about an out-of-control arms race may still be valid today, it was certainly more poignant in the 80s.

The one notable mistake takes place near the end of the episode. After Picard and Data learn to shut down the weapons system, Yar and Riker witness the weapon simply dissolve. But that doesn’t happen to the weapon LaForge is battling in space. Shouldn’t the space weapon have done the same as the land weapon? The mistake, though, could have been rectified by some simple editing — have LaForge destroy the weapon just before the system is shut down and you avoid any inconsistencies whatsoever.

In spite of its glaring mistake and slightly watered down moral, The Arsenal of Freedom is still a fun, exciting and enjoyable episode. If you see this one on reruns, be sure to watch it — you won’t be disappointed.

Filed under: TNG Reviews