Transfigurations is a solid, classic installment of TNG. It has all the major themes present: search for new life, helping those in need, standing up against the oppressed and so on. It builds a wonderfully relaxed and intimate mood. And it’s an opportunity for both Dr. Crusher and LaForge to develop as characters.

The episode begins when the crew finds an alien survivor of a horrific crash on a remote planet. Badly injured, Dr. Crusher enlists LaForge’s help to stabilize him before they can transport him to sick bay. During the process, LaForge seems to receive an energy pulse of some kind, but as he seems unaffected, the incident is set aside in favor of the more desperate task of rescuing the survivor. Once in the sick bay, Dr. Crusher begins the seemingly futile task of trying to save the man’s life.

As it turns out, the survivor, named John Doe because of amnesia, is a remarkable patient. His bravery, geniality and strength of spirit during recovery have an endearing effect on the crew in general and, in particular, Dr. Crusher. The two begin to forge a bond that clearly extends beyond the normal doctor-patient relationship. Their interactions are so pleasant, so relaxed, so enjoyable that we, as an audience are allowed to share in their joy.

It’s important for us to see this side of Dr. Crusher and it is reinforced by a scene with her son, Wesley. They share a dinner together, a nice touch for both their characters, and she shares her feelings with him. It’s an example of how both characters are growing and maturing.

As for LaForge, earlier episodes, such as Booby Trap, establish a lack of success with women. But after receiving the energy transfer from John he gains a measure of self-confidence and his luck turns around. By the end of the episode he thanks John for the help, but John corrects him, pointing out that the only difference was that LaForge believed in himself, whereas before he did not. It’s an important, and necessary, growth for the Chief Engineer.

The episode ends on the verge of confrontation. It turns out John is a wanted criminal on his homeworld of Zalkon because he represents a significant evolutionary step forward for his species — indeed he is set to become a new species altogether. The Zalkonians threaten the Enterprise but the crew is saved by John, who literally transforms before their eyes.

Transfigurations is an episode that is enjoyable, and without any major missteps. But it doesn’t really push any boundaries, either. The end result is a solid episode that is good, but not exceptional.

Topics: New Life
Filed under: TNG Reviews