On the surface, We’ll Always Have Paris seems an unlikely candidate to be one of the top five episodes of the season. At it’s heart, this episode is a love story between Picard and old flame. The brilliance of the episode, however, rests in two things: the performances of Picard and Jenice, and the thematic parallel between reliving the emotions of the past, and the whole concept of reliving moments in the present — the results of experiments by Jenice’s husband, Dr. Manheim.

The science fiction angle of this episode is handled rather well. It’s typical sci-fi fare regarding space, time and dimensions. However, the twist of having the crew repeat (or preview) certain events on board ship creates a decent sense of mystery and wonder. And it helps propel the story forward until Picard can meet his former love, face-to-face.

More than anything We’ll Always Have Paris is a character piece. And it’s done exceptionally well. Picard’s performance (yet again) anchors the episode. But it is the Jenice’s performance that really seals the deal. At this point in the series, it is rather difficult picturing a younger, more impulsive, less self-assured Picard — and picturing a woman who would have remained in his emotions all these years, especially now that he is captain of the Enterprise is even more difficult. But it is clear how Jenice could have captured and held Picard’s affections, and it is the key to the sense of regret we see from Picard.

The other bonus to this episode is Data. His perspectives of time make him the ideal person to solve the puzzle and save the day. And once again, he adds a welcome dimension (pun intended) to the episode.

We’ll Always Have Paris is a classic episode in every sense of the term. And while it isn’t a superb episode, the drama, humor, mystery, adventure and danger are all blended together perfectly, and the performances are really solid.

Topics: Time Travel
Filed under: TNG Reviews