The Emissary begins with a strong enough premise, however, its execution keeps this episode from becoming a classic. Specifically, the Worf – K’Ehleyr relationship suffers from K’Ehleyr’s performance. In fact, her performance is on par with Lwaxana Troi’s performance in the previous episode. The difference between the episodes is, clearly, the story surrounding the performances.

Oh … and Worf. The Emissary is yet another opportunity for us to learn more about Worf’s character. He values honor, almost to a fault — which is part of why his character has become so successful thus far. Worf is a character of principle. And it is that commitment to his own values that is a source of his strength, beyond physical prowess. His interactions with K’Ehleyr cement that aspect of his character.

Unfortunately for the viewer, K’Ehleyr’s admission that she received the worst of both races (sense of humor from her human half and temper from her Klingon half) means that we get a character whose only redeeming value is that she is important to Worf. Had Worf not demonstrated his own interest and feelings toward her, her character would be utterly dispensable.

The story itself plays out a bit too slowly. I suppose that if the scenes between Worf and K’Ehleyr had been easier to watch, the episode would not have seemed to drag quite so much. That being said, the payoff of the episode is absolutely enjoyable — in spite of its predictability. Seeing Worf dressed in full Klingon commander dress, commanding the Enterprise and, through sheer force of will, successfully ordering a Klingon cruiser to stand down, is definitely worth watching. If only the rest of the episode had been half as much fun.

Because of the character growth from Worf, and because of his scene in command, many TNG fans will enjoy and appreciate this episode. But because that is all there is to appreciate, this episode is hardly a classic.

Topics: Klingons
Filed under: TNG Reviews