Exploring New Realms in Beloved Sci-Fi Universe

Read Time:4 Minute, 13 Second

TV SERIES REVIEW
Star Trek: Picard – The Complete Series (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
Year Released: 2020-2023
Runtime: 30 x 46m
Created by: Akiva Goldsman, Michael Chabon, Kirsten Beyer, Alex Kurtzman
Cast: Patrick Stewart, Alison Pill, Isa Briones, Harry Treadaway, Michelle Hurd, Santiago Cabrera, Evan Evagora, Jeri Ryan, Orla Brady, Brent Spiner, Ed Speleers
Where To Watch: available now, order here www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: On my journey to watch EVERY Star Trek property chronologically, I had just started watching Voyager, and then the Trek fandom got the best news ever: the beginning of a true renaissance! STAR TREK: DISCOVERY was announced, which immediately ruined my order to watch, but I was okay with that because it meant new stories! Then, PICARD and LOWER DECKS were announced as new series. I had finished VOYAGER, watched one season of DISCOVERY and one season of PICARD, and then fell behind. So, this was a fantastic opportunity to push to get caught up.

Along with my STRANGE NEW WORLDS review from a few days ago, all I have to watch is the rest of DISCOVERY, LOWER DECKS, and PRODIGY to be current again! Okay, enough about me. Let's dive in! As a beacon in the sci-fi galaxy, STAR TREK: PICARD shines brightly, adding a deep and textured layer to the Star Trek cosmos. As well as bringing back the esteemed Patrick Stewart, this series melds the nostalgia of the past with the daring of the new, charting an audacious course in the storied franchise.

In the universe of STAR TREK: PICARD, we're greeted with a nostalgic nod to the past and a bold stride into uncharted territories. The series distinguishes itself from its predecessors by evolving the familiar Star Trek universe while staying true to its core ethos. Captain Rios (Santiago Cabrera,) a character embodying both the ruggedness of new sci-fi and the charm of classic Trek, bridges these worlds. While it might challenge long-time fans, this blend opens an exciting portal for new enthusiasts.

Over three seasons, PICARD weaves a narrative that seamlessly integrates the cherished elements of the franchise's history with a fresh, innovative approach. The return of characters like Data (Brent Spiner,) Doctor Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden,) William Riker (Jonathan Frakes,) and more is a heartfelt tribute to loyal fans. However, their roles lean more towards nostalgic cameos than plot-critical elements, including the Borg arc, mainly through Seven of Nine (Jeri Ryan,) which adds layers to the plot but ultimately could have done more to maximize this nostalgia factor. I appreciate going a “new way,” but fans wanted more.

At the heart of the series is Stewart's masterful portrayal of Picard; his evolution from a troubled retiree to a man on a mission of rediscovery is a testament to Stewart's skillful acting, offering depth and nuance to the character. The series opts for a narrative pace that allows for introspection, character development, and a less traveled path in the adrenaline-fueled landscape of modern sci-fi.

The production values of the series have been a topic of debate. While the series lives in an era of spectacular visual effects, the intentional drive to hold some things back was necessary; there was a fine line between making things too shiny and unrecognizable. At the same time, the lack of complexity and detail has caused issues with what new fans have grown to expect from the Star Trek series, leading to moments where the show's immersive experience dips.

In its second and third seasons, the series endeavors to build upon the foundations laid in its inaugural season. Here, it navigates the balance between honoring the franchise's rich history and forging a compelling, forward-moving storyline. The third season, in particular, makes significant strides in addressing these narrative challenges, bolstered by the strong performances of the returning THE NEXT GENERATION cast.

STAR TREK: PICARD is a dynamic and prosperous addition to the Star Trek saga. It excels in its character-driven narrative and Stewart’s deeply resonant portrayal of Picard. The series invites viewers on a reflective journey, offering a refreshing change of pace from the high-octane tendencies of contemporary sci-fi. Requiring patience and an open mind, STAR TREK: PICARD provides a profound, nostalgic, and intellectually stimulating experience for both die-hard fans and newcomers to the Star Trek universe.

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