Those Old Scientists

This had the makings of tragedy or triumph, and it was an undisputed triumph. I've been a Star Trek fan for 30 years, and this will go down as one of my favourite episodes. It was very trek, funny and at time heartfelt. A real love letter to Star Trek in all its form. I know some will hate it on principle, but that's just not giving it credit. To be able to combine a cartoon and a live action show like this was incredibly clever, kudos to the writers, and well done for planning ahead with the casting of the voice actors from lower decks allowing them to be able to transition into the real world. I'll watch this one again and again. Strange new worlds is consistently knocking it out of the park.

Star Trek, as a franchise, has a history of doing "funny" episodes, starting way back as early as the first TOS season. Some have been less than successful, but most have been an excellent counterpoint to the more serious stories. Even the movie series had "The Voyage Home", a very funny film.

But now, I believe we have been treated to Trek's very best "comedy" episode. A lot of the SNW actors have proven they have comedic chops in previous episodes, but this time they all got to stretch in new directions, crossing over with the animated "Lower Decks", and its two lead characters, Mariner and Boimler. (Played hilariously by Tawny Newsome and Jack Quaid).

It's a testament to both the writing and the deft direction by Jonathan Frakes that this episode is both funny AND touching, and also doesn't forget to more along some of the overall character arcs of the series. Oh, and special kudos to whoever decided to have fairly long animated sequences at the beginning and end (along with an animated version of the opening credits), to let us see as much of the "Lower Decks" world as possible.

Brilliant installment of an excellent series. I'd give this one 11/10 if I could!

I've been anticipating this episode for a year and when I heard I dropped early I was so happy, like a juvenile. It delivers 100 percent. I know many Star Trek fans don't like Lower Decks and I can respect that but the show truly respects Star Trek history and this episode continues that respect. Yes it is campy and comedic but if you're a true Star Trek fan campy shouldn't bother you and if you remotely say it does you're being negative on purpose or you just are not a fan of some of the goofy campy episodes. I respect a persons opinion but some out there are sh!!/"ng on this episode just because everyone else loves it. No true Star Trek fan should hate this episode. If it isn't your cup of tea and it's just ok to you I respect that but if you're a Star Trek fan and you have tolerated some of the episodes of the past and remained a fan you should easily tolerate this episode.

... honestly.

I wasn't sure at first because I thought this would be too far outside "the wheelhouse" ... but it was done with such respect and joy in the reflection of the true spirit of the Trek Universe that I quickly came 'round and this episode absolutely won me over.

It's obvious that the writers ... as well as all others ... involved with "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" are not only talented at their jobs ... but are also real fans.

I'm just not sure how I'm going to manage that upcoming "musical" episode that i've heard is winging it's way to broadcast ... maybe another bottle of Syrah?

I might not watch "Lower Decks" as I was not impressed due to annoying caracters and fast paced improbable situations, however, this crossover was a lot of fun.

Seeing 2 of them in real life was quite funny and original, mingling with the past Enterprise and cross-reference facts from the other series (TOS and Enterprise), as well as SNW.

Anyway, how can you tell if the Orions were bad or good was the debate here. You have to make some accomodations to let a tribe change their hearts...

Good episode and some laughs here and there.

However, respect to those who like Lower Decks. If they love the series, be it !