Redemption II

"Redemption Part Two" of Star Trek: The Next Generation Season 5 kicks off with a bang, delivering one of the series' most compelling episodes. This episode is like watching a well-crafted sci-fi movie packed into a 45-minute slot.

The narrative weaves together multiple storylines with grace - the resolution of the Klingon Civil War, Data's struggle against prejudice as he takes command, and the introduction of Sela, a complex character played masterfully by Denise Crosby. Her portrayal of Sela, distinct from her earlier role as Tasha Yar, adds depth and intrigue to the episode.

The guest stars, including Tony Todd as Kurn, the Duras sisters, and the interactions between Picard and Sela, elevate the episode to new heights. The episode does not shy away from exploring themes of leadership, loyalty, and the ethical dilemmas of command, particularly through Data's subplot, which resonates with contemporary AI discussions.

David Carson's direction deserves special mention for creating a visually rich and moody atmosphere that complements the intense storytelling. The episode's pacing, special effects, and action sequences are top-notch, making this a standout in TNG's history.

However, the blending of so many storylines might feel a bit rushed for some viewers, wishing for perhaps more exploration of each plot individually. Still, the episode leaves a lasting impact, with memorable quotes and character moments that fans cherish.

Overall, "Redemption Part Two" is a must-watch for any Star Trek enthusiast, offering a blend of action, character development, and moral complexity that exemplifies what makes TNG great.

I far as I can see Data show some initiative when the Federation net was disrupted by the Romulans. If every officer and/or sergeant was squash every time he/she show any initiative in respond to changes in a combat situation, then we have no one above the rank or private/second lieutenant. The German Army and Waffen SS of World War II would not have last for six years, if their men were not allow to take advantage of a favorable combat situation or react positively to an unfavorable combat situation. The same can be said for the Israeli Army or any other army. Look at how many times Captain Kirk had to take the initiative. At his court-martial, they read off Captain Kirk's decorations including the highest award that Starfleet gave which shows his ability to react to combat situations. In the movie, Wrath of Khan, Captain Kirk explain to the female Vulcan officer how he took the initiative to change the Starfleet program so that he would win. In the end, he got a commendation for original thinking.

If Captain Kirk or Commander Riker were in the same situation, they would have probably done the same thing as Commander Data would have done.

As Episode One ended we see the face of Tasha Yar, but it turns out that this is actually Tasha's daughter. This birth took place when the Romulans were taken with her has a small child and decided to make her the only survivor of one of their ruthless raids. She watched as her mother was killed (interesting because she appears in the first two seasons). Sela, the daughter, felt her mother was a traitor and hardened her heart, becoming the commander of a Romulan flagship. She is determined to destroy the alliance between the Federation and the Klingons and, using cloaking devices, continues to channel weapons to the Duras led faction. Even though Picard cannot intervene, he can set up a blockade, using Tacheon beams to recognize a cloaked ship. He may not be able to go to war with the Romulans, but he can make life miserable for the Klingons who are totally dependent. Sela has to toe the line because the Romulans continually claim innocence in all their dealings (they are a lot like the Soviet Union). Twenty Federation ships are sent to the border and maintain position. Riker and LaForge are on one ship and Data request another from Picard who acquiesces. While on board his ship, the first officer becomes insubordinate and tries to resist orders at every juncture. At one point Data must threaten him with removal from the bridge. This "racist" or "xenophobic" element adds to the interest. A chess game begins between Picard and Sela who have actually had discussions on board the Enterprise. Another carefully rendered episode, leading off the new season.

Starfleet looks to expose the Romulan interference in the Klingon internal conflict.

This is a good conclusion to a strong Klingon story with some decent character moments.

The plot is resolved in a fairly straightforward way that quickly reverts everything back to normal. For me the strongest threads of the plot involve Worf and Sela, whereas the minor conflict involving Data feels a bit unnecessary.

Worf has a number of excellent moments, particularly the very end and it feels like his character is having a solid arc spanning the entire series.

I like the concept of the antagonist Sela, which provides decent continuity from 'Yesterday's Enterprise' and is a plausible idea. The Duras sisters were also quite entertaining.

Visually it is solid, with some good space battle sequences and great make up for the Klingons and Romulans. The scenes of Klingons drinking and fighting are over the top but funny.

All actors are on form, particularly Michael Dorn, Patrick Stewart and Denise Crosby.

For me it is a 7.5/10 but I round upwards.

In the previous episode, the evil and honorless family of Duras has brought forth some pipsqueak to challenge for leadership of the Klingons. However, Gowron has the clear title and it's up to Picard to designate him so they can declare his succession. However, Picard is in a bad position--as the faction supporting the pretender are likely led by the Romulans who are seeking a chance to divide the Empire from the Federation. When the episode ends, Gowron is made leader--and the war for succession begins. In this war, Worf throws in his support for Gowron with the promise that his family honor will be restored. And, in the final (and really STUPID) final scene, you learn that indeed the Romulans are masterminding all this.

As a result of his divided loyalties to the Empire and Federation, Worf must choose whether to follow Gowron or remain a Federation officer. Picard rightfully cannot allow the Federation to become involved in the civil war--and Worf's resignation is pretty much a given. But Picard is NOT behind doing nothing and tries to create a blockade to keep Romulan ships away from Klingon space.

During his time serving aboard a Klingon ship, Worf has a real eye- opening experience watching the stupidity and wastefulness of the Klingons. They'd rather spend all their time punching each other in the face and drinking instead of creating any real strategy. This, combined with Romulan help, explains why Gowron is doing so badly in this civil war. Eventually, the Duras sisters kidnap him and propose Worf changes sides--and considering what idiots he's serving with, the offer seems pretty good!

At the same time, Data, Riker and LaForge are given temporary command of ships that all are helping enforce the blockade. Data has the most trouble, as his first officer is insubordinate and I really, really wanted Data to handle it the way a Klingon officer should! And, overall, Data does an amazing job as Captain of his first ship.

And, for the REALLY dumb plot, Tasha Yar's daughter, Sela, is in charge of the Romulan interventions in the civil war. Picard arranges to meet with her and they snarl and posture a lot...especially Sela.

So what's to come of all these plots? And what's the final outcome of the war? Well, see the show and see all these questions answered.

Normally I love Klingon episodes and there is a lot of action in this one--which I love. I also love how Worf's naiveté about his fellow Klingons is exposed. But, I hated how Denise Crosby was re-introduced into the show. It seemed incredibly contrived and silly. I just wish that the writers had instead made her character Tasha Yar interesting in the first place instead of trying to reinvent her with a bizarro Moe Howard blonde wig and a ridiculous back story. Well done but clearly flawed.