1- Caretaker:
This is the very first episode. I feel like it's probably a pretty good idea for you to know why the hell all these guys are wandering around in the Delta Quadrant to begin with. Aside from that, this is a really, really well done pilot.
2- Prime Factors:
Ok, I really wanted to write a whole post about this one as I believe it's the first time our guys (and by that I mean the Federation crew we follow) are denied technology that is beyond their current knowledge because of something like the Prime Directive. I LOVE this idea. Playing with this concept is something that seems like should've happened earlier but I'm glad it happened here, when Voyager is all alone with no one to help them. They're faced with an interesting ethical dilemma and the way it plays out is pretty perfect.
3- State of Flux:
There's a spy aboard Voyager and this episode is spent trying to flush him out. Watch this one because elements from it become pretty important later on.
4-Faces:
As I've already mentioned, this episode sounds like a terrible, campy idea. In practice though, it's beautiful. The stuff Torres goes through is realistic and heartbreaking and will go on to apply to this character for the rest of the show.
Bonus Points for: Creepy, Creepy Durst Face!
5- Heroes And Demons:
A season essentials post would be incomplete without a romp, wouldn't it? Yes! Therefore, I declare this, the inaugural rompy episode of Voyager, to be absolutely essential. The doctor gets his first away mission on the holodeck version of Beuwolf and his first love interest in the shieldmaiden, Freya.
Runners Up:
-Jetrel
Watch this one to get a better understanding of Neelix. The depth of this character and the way that he is played in this episode is surprising.
-Learning Curve
The Maquis transition into the Starfleet crew is pretty rocky at first. Obviously, to have a ton of stories showcasing this fact would get redundant and tiresome so I like how they handle it in this single, entertaining episode.
I just re-watched “Prime Factors” – outstanding. The principles vs pragmatism struggle, the character revelations of B’Elanna, Tuvok, Seska; the intrigue between Gath and Janeway— all very compelling. Many good quotes in this one, like Eudana to Kim: “Noble stories are the ones that can most affect our lives.” Janeway to Tuvok: “You can use logic to justify almost anything. That’s its power – and its flaw.” The Sikerian culture that values hedonism above all, yet is so far beyond the Federation technologically, seemed a bit implausible, but what a great episode.
ReplyDeleteYes yes yes I agree with you on all these points but then Voyager was one of my favourite shows
ReplyDeleteThe thing I loved about Jetrel was the instant recognition of the guest star- I loved trying to remember which role(s)I've seen him in from other Trek episodes. As soon as he spoke, I knew I had to figure it out :)
ReplyDeleteLearning Curve reminded me of a ST:TNG episode for some reason.
I'm halfway through season 2- looking forward to your next posts!
Congrats again on your publishing news!!