Think Tank

Jason Alexander was not good. The story was good enough he didn't wreck it.

I couldn't wait for him to leave the screen each time. WORLDS COLLIDING! THEYRE KILLING INDEPENDENT GEORGE!

Voyager enters a dangerous area of space and Janeway is offered help to overcome its predators.

Certain aspects of the story work, such as the manipulations and deceptions used by individuals that use knowledge as power to exploit others. I find this relatable to real world. What does not quite hold together is the portrayal of certain characters as super-intelligent. They are clever because we are told they are, but nothing we see evidences it.

Seven of Nine is not really put in much of a dilemma as it is a straightforward decision for her given how nefarious the guest characters appear. They could have made the offer feel more attractive if the baddies were less one dimensional. Jason Alexander acting creepy and arrogant for the majority of an episode in alien makeup is hardly tempting.

The resolution to Voyager's problem is a good example of the Trek theme of using intelligence to win the day, but as a story it could have been done better. Key aspects of the plan are explained before they happen, which takes all the intrigue out of the situation.

Visually it is pretty impressive. I especially like the alien/creature designs of non humanoid characters.

Jeri Ryan stands out for me, giving another likeable performance of deadpan delivery and using facial expressions perfectly.

Jason Alexander makes an interesting alien, head of a Think Tank that offers help to troubled cultures and ships at a great price. When Voyager comes under attack, they must find a way to survive. It turns out that Alexander's character's manipulations are one of the only means for survival. So Janeway has to match wits with this guy and that's where the entertainment comes. Seven and all her gifts become the pawn in the game, but we know it's not going to be that simple.

Voyager is attacked by the Hazari--bounty hunters who are a very formidable and who will most likely capture the ship sooner or later. Almost as if by miracle, the Captain is contacted by a being named Kurros (Jason Alexander) who offers to intervene and spare the ship...for a price. It seems that Kurros and his friends on his ship are a think tank--rather amoral beings who will do things to help various species if they are willing to meet their demands. In this case, they want a few things that seem trivial*--as well as Seven of Nine! It's not selling into slavery, exactly--they want to make her a part of their group. But there is definitely an interesting hidden agenda.

I liked the twist--even though I had anticipated it in this one. The show also ends extremely well and is quite satisfying. My only complaint is a minor one, as the speaking style of Alexander's character was mildly annoying.

In this episode Janeway, George, Seven, and Chakotay find themselves entangled with a mysterious group of problem solvers, led by none other than George's doppelgänger, Kurros (played by Jason Alexander). The group, known as the "Think Tank," offers to solve any problem for a price. Naturally, hilarity ensues.

Act I: Janeway's apartment. She is puzzled over a broken air conditioner. George bursts in, complaining about a new job where his boss expects him to solve impossible problems. Seven enters, frustrated with a new project at the J. Peterman catalog that involves deciphering ancient texts. Chakotay slides in, announcing he's joined a "Think Tank" that promises to solve all their problems.

Act II: The gang visits the Think Tank's headquarters, a sleek, futuristic office. Kurros, who looks suspiciously like George, offers to fix Janeway's air conditioner, solve George's work issues, and help Seven with her project. The catch? They need something valuable in return. Chakotay offers up his collection of rare Cuban cigars, but Kurros wants something more... unique.

Act III: Kurros reveals he wants Seven's prized manuscript, Neelix's secret lasagna recipe, and Janeway's favorite Superman comic. The gang reluctantly agrees, but soon realizes they've been duped. The Think Tank's solutions are overly complicated and create more problems than they solve. Janeway's air conditioner now makes the apartment unbearably cold, George's job becomes even more stressful, and Seven's project is now a mess of conflicting translations.

Finale: In a classic Voyager twist, the gang decides to outsmart the Think Tank. They stage a fake meltdown, with Janeway pretending her apartment is uninhabitable, George faking a nervous breakdown, and Seven claiming her project is ruined. Chakotay, meanwhile, uses his newfound "Think Tank" skills to create a diversion. The Think Tank, overwhelmed by the chaos, agrees to return everything they took and leave the gang alone.

Closing Scene: Back at Janeway's apartment, the gang reflects on their adventure. Janeway's air conditioner is finally fixed, George quits his job, Seven's project is back on track, and Chakotay has a new scheme involving a "Think Tank" for pets. As they sit down to watch TV, Janeway quips, "You know, sometimes the best solution is no solution at all."