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I didn't think I would see the day when I would watch the USS Enterprise D again on any screen. The surprise Mr. Terry Matalas gave us is hard to describe in any terms. No more words fit, he is and must be the one who continues the Star Trek series. There are no phrases in any dictionary to describe the immense joy that not only this episode but the entire season 3 created for us. Those who lived through Star Trek The Next Generation 30 years ago believe that they can finally be satisfied fully from the continuation of that series. It is not necessary to throw something in the trash just because it is old. So, Star Trek can be made as originally thought by Gene Roddenberry. Thank you again Mr. Terry Matalas.

Probably the best episode of the entire series and a perfect buildup to what could be a fantastic finale. Literally the only way they can screw this up is if Wesley somehow saves everyone at the end. But in all seriousness, I really appreciate how they brought almost all of the cast together in such clever ways. Even bringing back an old guest star and literally pointing out the irony of what she was doing was genius. The writers deserve a ton of credit making such a great season, especially since following one of the worst ideas from season 2 which was not having it in space... I'm glad I didn't give up like I did with Discovery.

Jack's secret is finally revealed.

This is a strong episode with tremendous fan service.

There are two notable aspects to mention, but I cannot give details without spoiling.

Crusher's secret is revealed early and for me is reasonably good. The details of the build up all make sense now and it involves a clever use of Picard and Crusher's relationship. However, in the grand scheme of the franchise, it feels like the writers are returning to a safe territory via an established and successful concept that largely relies on the power of nostalgia to carry the audience through.

That nostalgia is excellent and goes off the charts as the episode reaches an exquisite climax, that only the most cynical, who take life very seriously, could fail to enjoy. If you are a TNG fan, the sight of certain characters, in a particular setting, about to embark on a high stakes mission should be very exciting. Patrick Stewart and the TNG cast are all on great form, along with Jeri Ryan and Todd Stashwick.

For me Ed Speleers strays marginally over the top in some moments of perpetual anger, but if this is how the scenes were written and directed it is not his fault. His character has not been particularly likeable throughout the season given so much of his dialogue includes the words "I" or "me". It feels like the writers are making a point by having the major problems caused by a self-obsessed young character, dragging other young characters into the mix, leaving the older generations to save the day.

Fan service is often a dirty term but this episode proves beyond doubt that it does not have to be. This is how you combine going back to the roots with going forward with a fresh, engaging and poignant story. You bet it services the fans - my wife and I literally cried and stood up in applause (hadn't experienced this with a TV show since Mandalorian S2E8) - but it does so without any deleterious effects for the originality. Star Trek creatives are aware that they messed up with Discovery and are now returning to what makes Star Trek so good. It started with Strange New Worlds but Picard S3 is really a tour de force in that effort. I'd love for the similar to happen to Star Wars instead of attempts to rehabilitate sequels. Way to go Terry Matalas and the crew, you've truly restored Star Trek's awesomeness for the next generation!

Maybe I am too much of a fan to impartial, but this season is just blowing me away! Putting the old cast back together could be considered nothing more than a cash grab, but it doesn't feel that way at all. It genuinely feels like everyone is happy to be back. This has been a continuous reminder that THIS cast was the finest in the franchise, hands down.

The Easter eggs keep coming, and I won't spoil them. I would not want to deny anyone the shear thrill it felt to witness them first hand. There has been a great attention to detail this season, far more than in the previous two (and they were great!), but it's clear that no stone shall be left unturned as this cast of characters go out on their final voyage.

I never thought they would come close to the opus that was "All good things..." but we are coming damn close. Thank you for reminding me why I am such a loyal fan.