Martin Carr reviews the sixth episode of Star Trek: Picard…
In forty minutes of television Picard pilfers classic literature, employs franchise iconography and greases the dramatic wheels with style. Weaving in film homage, touching on past traumas and introducing emotional conflict ‘The Impossible Box’ proves a benchmark episode. Balancing Next Generation film franchise cameos, fan favourite adversaries and perfectly placed set pieces which prove pivotal. There is an emotional resonance which rings true as characters are manipulated, personal sacrifices made and moral quandaries encountered. Flashbacks are invaluable, reveals judicially employed and motives are muddied as hearts are broken in pursuit of separate agendas.
This is an episode of revaluation, soul searching and self-discovery as untruths begin bearing fruit, whilst long buried experiences dramatically enrich the narrative. This Chinese puzzle of repercussions, moral compromises and bitter revelations play to the strengths of Picard as an ensemble piece. There is something far deeper being explored beyond the space battles, internal politics and romantic navel gazing, which means the gloves have come off. Allegiances are tested, personal discussions are questioned but ultimately this episode reveals the emotional conflict and indecision beneath those choices.
In turn this effects other relationships as theological debates, notions of humanity and the integration of mechanisation are explored. As the central narrative of self-awareness within synthetic life forms is expanded, it gives those human encounters, space battles and personal traumas more impact. How we interact and in turn become reliant on these elements opens up the debate further, highlighting our genetic compulsion to evolve, develop and adapt. A revelation which means that beyond the character moments Picard is about much more than an aging admiral looking for emotional closure.
Picard may have its fair share of detractors complaining that Star Trek is being misrepresented, maligned or otherwise sullied in some illusionary way. However from more than one perspective this latest iteration represents an evolutionary step forward for a franchise which has mastered the art of reinvention. A fact Trekkies need to acknowledge whilst engaged in the Federation bun fight which has erupted online. As the series continues to garner credence, gather momentum and plough its own furrow people may think differently.
Martin Carr
