Ups & Downs From Star Trek: Strange New Worlds 1.7 - The Serene Squall

[@dmkatelyn]

You missed the codename for the mutiny gambit, Alpha Braga 4, is likely a reference to former Trek writer/producer Brannon Braga.

[@ronniemark3627]

Yes....how did Sean miss this one!?

[@jonathonwhitington402]

Came here to see if anyone else had mentioned that. It's what I immediately thought of when they named it.

[@iViking90]

I caught that as my dad and I watched, and I had to explain it to my longtime trekkie of a father who Braga is. The name passed by him over recognizeable producers of his time, such as Rick Berman and Harve Bennett.

[@vapoet]

I didn't make the connection despite noticing that name as odd. Good catch, something I will need to pay attention to in future planet names.

[@billkeithchannel]

Braga is doing a bang up job on Season 3 of The Orville.

[@DavetheAvatar]

I never thought the day would come that I would actually be excited by a Star Trek V reference but here we are.

[@Heymrk]

Star Trek 5 is fun. It's goofy, it's campy, it's not good in the traditional sense of the word, but it's good in its own way. I love it because it's naff.

[@DocD173]

Right? I never thought I’d be so stoked for a reference to the worst Star Trek movie, but here I am super stoked. I was actually slack jawed at the end of this episode. What a show

[@brianritchie8920]

In its own way it adds credence to ST V

[@billkeithchannel]

@@Heymrk I have never been a hater of ST:V. It was one of the first ST films I made a point to see it in the theater. A band called Mortal used clips of the movie in their 90's song "Painkiller".

[@matthewperris]

Row Row Row your boat....

[@whitedragon7]

I love the part when Erica was navigating through the asteroid field on manual control, they were using the classic Enterprise engine sound. It just takes me back.

[@Skeezer66]

And I also loved all her "KaBoom!"s and then the last time she could "I'm not saying it again". So funny!!

[@dwilson284]

@@Skeezer66 And having a deep conversation with the ship while piloting manually? The “third date” call back was so cool!

[@God_of_Calamity]

I like the character and the actor but they are trying way too hard to make her a Chekov. A sarcastic one liner here and there is one thing, but the writers are taking it too far.

[@joerider3769]

I dig her that way, as long as Pike lets her do it!

[@paulroman3668]

My favorite part also...

[@alashley]

T'pring was on the 3rd moon of Omicron Lyrae not Vulcan so this is probably why the live com was possible and why they picked her up at the end of the episode as they where traveling back deeper into federation space

[@MichaelPhillipsatGreyOwlStudio]

I'm glad this explanation exists, but it wasn't made clear in the episode. The vast majority of ST fans aren't going to know where Omicron Lyrae is in relation to Earth or Vulcan. Plus, for all we know, it could have been close to Vulcan, and indeed why shouldn't a Vulcan rehabilitation center for their criminals be located close to Vulcan? Why would it be literally hundreds of light years away so that communications between it and their homeworld take days. That sounds very illogical.

[@salilbhatnagar]

tru

[@susansokoloski2233]

Yep. I noticed immediately she was NOT on Vulcan.

[@JunkGaragehome]

@@MichaelPhillipsatGreyOwlStudio it was pretty clear she was already in communication range. her and spock where on a call at the start of the episode before they said it would take 2 days for a message to reach starfleet command. if they just needed a starfleet or federation facility they could have gotten a response instantly but they needed an admiral from HQ to actually give them authorization.

[@MichaelPhillipsatGreyOwlStudio]

​@@JunkGaragehome Perhaps so, but it still doesn't make sense that the rehabilitation center is so far from Vulcan. It makes nonsense out of *all* of Spock and T'Pring's interactions if she's literally living and working out on the rim, the farthest edge of Federation territory. I mean, that's one hell of a commute! It makes Vulcan many days, possibly weeks, away. For reference, Vulcan is in 40 Eridani, which is only 16.5 ly from Earth. A mere day trip in warp terms. Also, we got the speed of subspace communications in the prior episode, 52,000 times the speed of light, which means that (setting aside potential delays from relay buoys) you would have instantaneous communication (~1 second) for a 600 ly radius. And, of course, you'd really have to go a lot further than that to have that time stretch into days. So where the hell is this place where it takes days for signals to reach Earth and therefore Vulcan. It's REALLY really far, that's where. So far that it makes no sense for the character to be there.

[@newageBoundhippie]

when I saw Spock's reaction to Angel's description of the Vulcan they were after, I immediately thought "holy shit...are they about to re-introduce freaking SYBOK?" and then that final conversation between Spock & Chapel just outright confirms it. wow, just an amazing episode overall.

[@bcn1gh7h4wk]

Spock: "Locked in that prison..." me: "Sybok?" Spock: "...the son of my father Sarek..." me: "Sybok!" Spock: "...my half brother..." me: "SYBOK!" Spock: "Sybok." me: *"YASSSS!!!"*

[@davegreenlaw5654]

Best bit for me was when Chapel was captured: Pirate: "Halt, stay where you are!" Chapel: [raising her hands] "I'm just a nurse." [Nurse Chapel proceeds to defeat the first pirate, then heavily sedates the second.] Yeah, 'just a nurse' like Steven Segal was 'just a cook'. I tell you, I'm loving the character more and more.

[@trhansen3244]

Of course she does. Every woman on this show is superior to all men. Including Chapel and Uhura, neither of whom look like they have done any kind of exercise their whole lives.

[@EphPhaThaINC]

I’m sorry, but that exchange between Pike and Una at the end need to get “the Latium up” because that was so laugh out loud genuinely hilarious: “Ayrrrrrrrr, we’ll make’em walk the plank.” “Please stop.” The look on Rebecca Romain’s face was so priceless. I wander how many takes it took for them to get that shot right that the “just stop” seemed so much like a complete ablib and they just kept it in.

[@tetravega567]

She reminds me of Jadzia.

[@derekeverett8053]

Here's a deep cut for us all. In Star Trek V, Laurence Luckinbill played Spock's half-brother Sybok. Since 1980, Luckinbill has been married to Lucie Arnaz. Lucie Arnaz is the daughter of Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball, founders of Desilu Studios, which produced "Star Trek" in the 1960s. Even via a new actor, Sybok popping up in "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" feels like another shout-out to the people who made the entire Star Trek universe possible half a century ago.

[@billkeithchannel]

Laurence also did the wonderful narration for the ABC TV miniseries "James A. Michener's Space" base on his novel. He is one of the two reasons I made a point to see the movie in the theater. Shatner directing was the other reason.

[@rdotkey]

@@billkeithchannel Nice deep cut reference. I'm enjoying those on YT now. I never heard of that before.

[@rdotkey]

Wow, nice to know! So many layers to learn about.

[@trhansen3244]

Just saw him in an episode of Barnaby Jones. He was much better in that than he was in Star Trek.

[@leonleborgne573]

Oh, I really liked the way Pike told Angel to GTFO of his chair. From simply playing the pirates to showing he was really pissed off about the situation. Subtle but emensely effective.

[@DissociatedWomenIncorporated]

I think it’s an _absolute crime_ that you didn’t up the pirate ship having a bloody _steering wheel_ 😂 it makes little to no sense for flying a ship in 3D space, but it’s just so cool that I don’t even care about the lack of logic there 😁

[@trunksc1]

Couldn't agree more, Pikes whole side story here is over the top and I love it.

[@darklordofsword]

@@trunksc1 also the end when he does the pirate voice and Una is just like... "fucking stop, I swear to god...."

[@DavetheAvatar]

I agree! I hated the Pike pirate impression but I'm not made of stone. That steering wheel was awesomely ridiculous and I loved it.

[@DissociatedWomenIncorporated]

@@DavetheAvatar I kind of loved _and_ hated that pirate impression 😂 like Data with that drink from (I think) Frocus III, in Generations. “Yes! I _hate_ this! It is _revolting!”_ “More?” “Please 😃”

[@HermanVonPetri]

@@DissociatedWomenIncorporated Great shout out!

[@lorenajones3729]

I'm of the original star trek generation and I'm loven this show! They finally brought back STAR TREK in all it's splendor! So great full to see this!

[@OldManFerdiad]

Gotta give an UP to whoever did the fight choreography. The visual storytelling is top notch. Superb detail is the difference between how Spock fights hand to hand initially, very cool and collected as you would expect, then when Aspen is injured, he becomes angry and throws a pirate clear across the bridge. Then compare it with Nurse Chapel's more desperate fighting style clearly reminding us she's a civilian without Star Fleet combat training, which (even though she has plot armour) ups the stakes and the sense of threat to her. The level of detail in this show is just incredible.

[@darrengriffin8609]

Loved how Spock had to grab quite hard each time to execute the nerve pinch through the clothing as opposed to the TOS version through thin fabric. 😁

[@rickpinnock2009]

Was it really anger? Came across more as urgent and immediate than angry.

[@thomaslarson459]

Can we get some love for Nurse Chapel taking out those baddies with a hypospray and a flying tackle? That was absolutely badass. That one was an up from me.

[@Cdr2002]

Loved that!

[@shaneblackburn8910]

Definitely. So badass and funny

[@andrewjohnson6716]

He magically hypo-spray that injects through three layers of heavy fabric, nowhere near a vein, and still puts people out instantaneously?

[@Cdr2002]

@@andrewjohnson6716 I thought Star Trek hyposprays injected substances through some tecchy advanced method, hence why they don’t have literal needles

[@EMSpdx]

@@Cdr2002 We have hyposprays NOW. The ones available today use jets of pressurized air to deliver medicine. And these was a technology known back in the 1960s! So of course it can go through clothing!

[@Christophsys]

I laughed so hard when T'Pring said "You're failing to communicate effectively." Scared my cat.

[@Czarzhan]

Sean, I have to disagree with your 3rd Down. At the beginning of the episode, it shows the rehab center was NOT on Vulcan, and it makes sense for it to be in a remote locale, to limit escapes. Also, they show Spock and T'Pring are shown in a live conversation, which suggests they were relatively close to each other. So the live conversation between Angel and T'Pring is entirely feasible.

[@CRanapia]

Yes! And Angel wants to have this conversation, so its not as if they're going to be jamming comms.

[@imkluu]

@@jamiefitzpatrick4377 Even so, it is likely near Vulcan, within the Federation territory, and still several hours, if not over a day, communication time away, not seconds. This was definitely a mistake.

[@imkluu]

I am sure that the rehabilitation center was near Vulcan in Federation Space and so it would not be readily communicated with just as they said, it would take two days for a round trip message to the Federation to be completed. In Star Trek, once a sup-space communication link is set up they can communicate relatively normally thru sub-Space, with only slight delays over very long distances. The time is shortened by relaying it thru multiple sub-space communication links along the way. In this episode they stated that since they were on the edge of Federation Space, there was no sub-space link, and so it would take them two days to get a message to the Federation, and an answer back. After those two days, a link would have been made, and they could use it normally after that as long as they stayed relatively in the same area, or set up a permanent beacon there. They launched the beacon to do this but it would still take two days for the link to be completed. I have to assume that they have some other means of communicating which is faster than light, perhaps some kind of Warp signal, but not as fast as communicating thru sub-space which i nearly instantaneous, or the two days would not be possible as they were likely many light years from any Federation communication relay. The explanation is that Captain Angel had previously set up a Sub-Space link as part of her plan, and this is why it took her no time to communicate with T'Pring without difficulty.

[@andrewjohnson6716]

Yes, if Angel wants to free Sybok, she's going to stage her operation as close to Omicron Lyrae (which is 692 light years from Earth) as possible.

[@larslrs7234]

@@imkluu It's not just the communication. T'Pring traveled to the rendezvous point even faster. Pike literally saved the day by cooking a meal. It's not like they are transporting supplies from the Enterprise, no just cooking a meal with whatever supplies they already had. Then the green guy makes major decisions that cause a mutiny, yet he isn't even the captain and he is not the one to make such decisions. At that point, the pirate crew seems to have forgotten that Angle is their captain and not the green guy. Those ship takeovers are as fast as previous episode's body switch. The takeover of the pirate ship is so fast, we can't see even one second of that. What was the purpose of the blue laser net? To destroy the enterprise with captain Angle on board? Why do we need to see Captain Angle in different outfits? And so on.

[@dwilson284]

Love makes engines work better, Sean. Also, notice how Pike confidently gave Spock the reigns in choosing the target? Pike knows his future. The Enterprise and he will survive. He can trust his crew to make tough decisions and he knows it. So he does. Best captain ever.

[@JonnyVazi]

Solid solid point

[@warrenpoultney8215]

Solid point, however knowing that he will survive doesn't negate the reality that members of his crew may not.

[@dwilson284]

@@warrenpoultney8215 Granted. And we've seen his level of care in previous episodes. That same level of care will have him in the beeping chair in the future.

[@warrenpoultney8215]

@@dwilson284 Again solid points. I can't disagree. I'm really enjoying Captain Pike and how he's played by Anston Mount. Easily on track to being my favourite captain. Which is something, cause never really had a favourite ST Capt before.

[@EMSpdx]

THIS. Great point!

[@kadosho02]

This episode felt so unique, the energy different from the rest. I loved every minute, but also the layers from the Enterprise crew, Spock, T'Pring, Chapel, Pike, Una.. everyone has a moment it digs deep into your heart, and you cannot help but smile. Including the baddie. That performance was a gem

[@JayanandSupali]

This episode was awesome on so many levels. Let me try to jot it down. When pike says, take us closer, Erica asks, how closer, 1st date or 3rd date, pike answers, blind date. I had a good chuckle. While transporting to the colonial ship, una tells pike how he was not playing by the rules and he responds, who me, the boys scout. And the boys scout conversation before too. And pikes pirate impersonation with unas reaction. That was pure gold. I would give that scene a Latinum Up!!! Anson Mount is the best vesion of pike so far. He is totally killing it. Absolutely loving this series.

[@ItsAstridEh]

The whole scene where Chapel and Spock are faking an affair was such a good send up to that time Picard had to recite Shakespeare and threaten to start a war with Ferenginar in order to rescue Lwxana Troi... Does this mean that the Enterprise also has a strong community theatre program like the Enterprise-D?

[@malikapollard3618]

😂😂😂😂

[@kareno7848]

After the first ten seconds it wasn't fake kissing.

[@trhansen3244]

It would help if either of them had any real acting skills. But both look like Oscar winners compared the actress who plays Uhura.

[@brauliob]

The Enterprise being easily taken over by pirates/raiders/Ferengi/Augments(2x) has become such a trope in Star Trek that you really just need to shake your head and then just continue with the fun. Every series has at least one of those episodes (TNG has at least 3!).

[@cotton9087]

And Voyager with the Kazon lol

[@markmcauleymcauley9287]

It has goes with star trek 5 in which a day tag group over take the enterprise

[@robertszekely8686]

Good episode. I like the idea that they are showing why Nurse Chapel gets emotional towards Spock. One thing that I wonder about however is how much she knows about Spock. More than Captain Kirk ever did. Including Sybock being his half brother. Nonetheless I am definitely enjoying this show. I wish there would be more than ten episodes in the season.

[@BobSperber]

Agree 1000% - Show bringing back the TOS vibe should have 23 episodes per season.

[@cliffordterrell2112]

I was bored so I watched Star Trek SNW. It wasn't a bad episode but still the interpersonal relationships are what drives the writing. In contrast I just finished the Orville and I am still blown away by the creativity and intelligence of the writing and producers of this show. Hands down the Orville is WAY BETTER THAN Star Trek strange new worlds. Why because they have mysteries and they investigate plus imagination. It's refreshing

[@robertszekely8686]

@@cliffordterrell2112 I've never seen Orville so I wouldn't know.

[@GPsarakis]

@@cliffordterrell2112 Are you completely forgetting the whole season premiere for Orville was 100% about interpersonal relationships between the crew and Isac? Are we just going to skip over that so you can try to make the Orville out to be some super great show in comparison?

[@TheSirUno]

@@cliffordterrell2112 Cool. Glad you enjoy it. Personally, I'm not a fan. It's just not for me. I am, however, loving SNW. You do you. 👍🏼

[@reflexxuns767]

I had the same reaction you did to Sybok! I was watching it alone and jumped out of my chair and hollered! Yeah, there were definitely inconsistencies but I loved this episode!

[@BritneyLaZonga]

Yeeees... I thought I was alone with my crazy reaction, jumping out of my seat, giggling like a mad man!

[@reflexxuns767]

@@AutomatedPersonnelUnit_3947 That is a fun fact! 😄

[@richardvinsen2385]

@@AutomatedPersonnelUnit_3947 he’s not the only one.

[@billkeithchannel]

That reveal definitely deserved a standing ovation for sure! Take that ST:V haters!!!! Go kick Vulcan rocks.

[@historybuff7491]

With is show, I suddenly realized the diversity of Sarek's family/children, and it's progressive. Sarek has a child outside of marriage. And has an interspecies marriage along with a child, and finally adopts a child (from another planet). This should be the poster-child that family comes in all shapes and sizes and orientations.

[@they_call_me_yeeter]

Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations.

[@historybuff7491]

@@they_call_me_yeeter Yes

[@dwilson284]

@@they_call_me_yeeter Sarek was a closet pimp! “IDIC” is Vulcan code for “Yo, we straight pimpin’ yall!”

[@Heymrk]

IDIC!

[@Knightfall182]

He needs a Transgender in his family next.

[@tpottrell]

Speaking of Spock's emotion, i noted that during the battle on the bridge Spock was using the nerve pinch exclusively until the pirate lady got hit by the phaser, then he went off the rails and threw the guy across the bridge. Reminded me a little of Data when he was exposed to emotions by Lore when he faught that borg drone

[@GrantQuinn1]

My favourite line was Spock not being comfortable with guessing, nice call back (forward?) to Star Trek IV. Also just occurred to me, I hope someone went to rescue the real Dr Aspen!

[@EMSpdx]

Great catch! And yes- poor real Dr Aspen!

[@zaheerakhtar559]

Your absolute passion for the shows you lovingly review is what keeps me coming back for more, many gratitude's for giving us such gems of content reviews, you're a legend...

[@Sagitarria]

I think they are going to give angel a backstory where they were a counselor on starbase 12 and then met sybok who helped them “feel their pain” Their willingness to go become a pirate and take desperate measures to free him is clearly part of the intensity of Sybil’s ability to bring emotion out in people

[@phillydragonfly]

Pike doing a pirate impersonation. That’s showing up in my dreams tonight, isn’t it?

[@psu2dcu]

I am surprised you didn't address the relationship between Sybok and Captain Angel. Also, its this relationship that gives Angel such an insight into Spock and provides the basis for her manipulation of him. Latinum Up for me.

[@kadria8338]

Not a direct Cetacean Obs-worthy reference, but Pike telling Angel "Get the hell out of my chair!" reminded me of Picard uttering "Get out of my chair!" at Q in his ready room in the Q-pid ep of TNG

[@chrismason6857]

You put these videos together so quickly after the episode with such great quality. It’s amazing. You should all be so proud. Best of 🇬🇧

[@Jeffrey_Lew]

Sean may be getting screeners in advance.

[@thomasjay7051]

I really liked the writing early in the episode where Pike and his bridge crew are developing a cheeky shorthand as they close distance on ship - first date, third date? Blind date! Clever work and I'm really looking forward to see more of that as the series progresses, and bridge crew gets a better feel for one another.

[@artemisiatheta7549]

Okay, Sean, you done goofed...the penal colony isn't on or near Vulcan. It's in a completely different system. It's in Omicron Lyrae, not Vulcan. Which means that they could probably get a signal there faster. My one gripe is I want to know more about Ortegas!

[@robertoneill1979]

Yeah, I was thinking along those lines too 🖖👍

[@franknorris6265]

Agreed. Many of the ”downs” are questionable, but that one is glaringly bad/unwarranted.

[@ajc60803]

Yes, we need an Ortegas centered episode!!

[@dwilson284]

Ortegas should definitely be explored as a Starfleet captain. I have that vibe about the character.

[@Heymrk]

I really love the tête-á-tête Ortegas has with Pike. Not at all romantic, just fun. Those two riff well together.

[@antzboy]

Did anybody else notice the chemistry between Spock and Dr Aspen? It kinda makes sense given the relationship with his half brother. Or maybe it wasn’t chemistry so much as a fascination with each other?

[@midago7332]

You’re not ready for it to end 😂. I’d be happy if this was a never ending show, like with no breaks at all. This is absolutely the best trek show since the last best trek show ever aired. This is amazing. I actually am amazed as to why they haven’t gone this way before like no one has. 😂

[@hancocki]

Star Trek: Big Brother edition

[@TTony-tu6dm]

Pike talking like a pirate was worth the price of admission. At first I was “why is he joking around he’s going to be court martialled for losing control of the ship.”Then I thought about how many times Kirk lost control of the enterprise and was like “oh, ok”.

[@seanraines5871]

Lol. Never even crossed my mind but I did notice they called pike something like a cowboy diplomat or used cowboy diplomacy. Reminds me of kirk

[@ourladyofguadalupebotanica6732]

@@seanraines5871 I think it was boy scout. But who's counting.

[@DeltaFlyerUK1]

Thanks

[@robertszekely8686]

Definitely saw something coming with Captain Angel. I wasn't exactly sure what, but the way she was sticking to Spock was very curious.

[@jamessmyth3952]

I knew it was strange that Pike (along with Kirk in Star Trek beyond) just believed the story of a stranger refugee and put their ship into a dangerous environment based off the testimony of someone they don’t even know… But hey there was a hint that she was a con when her and Spock were in sick bay.

[@larslrs7234]

Yes, thank God she wasn't killed by her own laser net.

[@jamisonedwards8162]

@@jamessmyth3952 I dunno, early Starfleet had a habit of taking off the help people without really looking into them. Kirk did it a bunch, so Pike could easily do it. Aspen, as a character, felt a little alien in the early scenes, but as soon as the phasers came out... Definitely the baddie.

[@tlouiseallen9302]

Agreed 🙏🏼🖖🏼

[@rickpinnock2009]

@@jamessmyth3952 Angel may have been a stranger, but the person she was impersonating, Dr. Aspen, wasn't a stranger at all.

[@ThePixelExpedition]

7 episodes in and I need at least 7 seasons of this show. I couldn't be happier with Strange New Worlds. This is the Star Trek I've needed in years. Love your insights on this Trek Culture!

[@MarkMillerLV]

Thanks for giving this wayward trekker a home on KZbin...

[@Nergalsama01]

Both Stonn and Sybok in the same episode. This show is like a gift that keeps on giving. :D

[@philly83]

Arrrrghhhh mateys! I am glad you pointed out that the only person he told about sybok wasn't there. As soon as I saw him, I could hear in my head people going crazy over it.

[@marilynlinnegar8112]

I really enjoyed this episode. I can overlook your downs because of the pure pleasure I get watching these characters develop.

[@Craznar]

"2 days to get clearance" doesn't mean "2 days to send request". My insurance company is 4 milliseconds away from me, but takes 2 weeks to get clearance for repairs.

[@dylanmaxey2531]

SNW's inter-crew dialogue reminds me of the humor when I served in Army including the teasing and joking in extreme tense situations, i.e. red shirt jumps when dog barks in 1.4, fellow crew laughs. I actually enjoyed seeing this reaction among fellow soldiers, imo, laughter eases the tension and calms the nerves.

[@BobSperber]

I have come to realize that it doesn’t matter how many downs there are in a review… This was an amazing episode due to all of the ups. actually, they are all amazing episodes, even amid the little downies. I have never checked ANY KZbin channel every day (since, what, 2007?) except for this one.

[@matthewperris]

I really enjoyed this episode. The right amount of suspense, humour and world building. And I bloody love Sybok!

[@Clownboy15]

I started having suspicions when Spock started to figure out who the Vulcan was. I’m like, “Let it be Sybok, let it be Sybok…” I literally jumped out of my chair when it was shown it was Sybok!

[@billkeithchannel]

Yep. Standing ovations, clapping, and fist pumping. Take that all you ST:V haters out there. Sybok is now officially canon.

[@TheHongKongHermit]

They actually did it, the mad lads, they brought back Sybok. This show isn't scared to go anywhere. I need 7 seasons and a movie.

[@leeolson9466]

Me too! Such a great and ballsy move to go after Sybok! Such a great character with potential! Genius

[@tlouiseallen9302]

My dogs thought I had lost my mind when I started fist pumping and yelling in my chair🤣 💪🏼🙌🏼🖖🏼

[@Clownboy15]

@@tlouiseallen9302 my cat did the same.she kinda hunkered down, was looking at me then the door then back at me like, “What the hell?”

[@culturecanvas777]

My favorite episode. I haven't been excited about star trek in decades.

[@kirk001]

Since Sybok is T'Pring's "patient/prisoner," this is a perfect way to add depth to Spock & T'Pring's doomed relationship. Did Sybok somehow manipulate T'Pring into Amok Time? Did Sybok somehow break T'Pring's dedication to logic? Does Sybok escape and bring some Vulcan version of shame to T'Pring that makes her decide she wants nothing to do with the House of Sarek? There's so many ways they could go with this.

[@EMSpdx]

I must be one of the few fans who sees Amok Time from T'Pring POV: By that point, T'Pring had waited for Spock and loved him for OVER 8 years. That is a very long and long distanc relationship, where she is WAITING for him to finish his commission and settle down with her. T'Pring was a striking character in Amok Time and she is shown to be a strong one here- she does not need to be manipulated to decide that maybe a co-worker who shares her worldview and will be THERE FOR HER (one of the key phrases that T'Pring says!) is better than a sexy "legend" of a husband, one who could possibly get her killed.

[@jamisonedwards8162]

@@EMSpdx Sean said something about her coming off cold, but for a Vulcan character she came across as very logical but definite. I agree with you here.

[@rickpinnock2009]

T'Pring could have decided on her own that she wants nothing to do with the house of Sarek. Having a child out of wedlock seems like it would be something very shameful to the prim proper logical Vulcans. And that was the LEAST of Sarek's naughty deeds. He married a human, and gave birth to a hybrid. He adopted a human child. Aligning or associating herself with the house of Sarek would probably be a shameful act that put her family in a bad position. I might be mixing stuff up here but referring to the "House" of Sarek sounds way more Klingon than Vulcan. ESPECIALLY when taking about shame and honor. :-)

[@Sabinmoon]

Not sure if I'm mistaken, but there's a piece from Cetation ops missing, and that's the unfinished Kal-toh puzzle sitting on the Orion's desk

[@EphPhaThaINC]

Eve though I did see the reveal of Captain angel coming; however, I did enjoy the the journey of that reveal and how well she played both of the characters, with the cover of the councilor and then how she handled Angel for the remainder of the episode.

[@jamisonedwards8162]

I thought the Captain Angel bit didn't feel... Pirate-y? enough. Seemed more mercenary with a pirate crew for a job, and even then could've been a bit more Khan.

[@dankelsey2583]

I also figured it out, not long after the bad guys beamed onto the Enterprise. It seemed pretty obvious to me. The pirates obviously had it all planned out, and the only way that could happen is if they knew the ship would be there... Only one way they would know that... And the fact that Spock did not figure that out kind of ruined the middle of the episode for me.

[@therealrobertmcdonald]

loved Pike doing the Pirate talk!!

[@patg1868]

Loved this episode. So far this show has nice balance. I can tell how good it is when the downs are a bit suspect this week 😊.

[@DaerianAntilles]

ST:SNW is probably my favorite show going right now. It's just so nearly perfect, I love it.

[@DarrylsB]

Is it because TOS aired when I was in elementary school and SNW is now in my equivalency of a Betazoid's Zanthi Fever (DS9: Fascination) that this new series is simply filled with astonishingly sexy characters? I ain't mad.

[@DocD173]

It’s definitely not just you. The future is super sexy on the USS Enterprise

[@samq2103]

Sean, this was a brilliant edition. One of your best work! So entertaining.

[@jasonjimerson7046]

When I saw that the Vulcans had a rehabilitation center, my first thought went directly to the question: "Is Spock's brother here?" 🤔 Now we know! 😏

[@tetravega567]

AND KNOWING IS HALF THE BATTLE! *Raised fist

[@tlouiseallen9302]

Mine too! We knew about him so we’re did he escape from in the movie🧐🤔? Brilliant addition! 🙌🏼💪🏼🙏🏼🖖🏼

[@lamartherevenger]

My reaction to Sybok... "THEY WENT THERE. THEY EFFING WENT THERE!!!!" I STILL couldn't believe it and it looks like I'm gonna be asking about people's pain for a while.

[@tetravega567]

Dr. Aspen so honest, telling you to your face they're not what they seem the whole damn time. The Kraken tentacle tattoo was kinda sus. Plus the high collar or large lapelles, whatever their jacket looked piratey/nautical, slightly raincoat.

[@EvilVacuum]

Oof, huge crush on Nurse Chapel… smart, funny, resourceful, I could go on. Favorite character of the show.

[@Ramsiusthx]

SEAN!!! You didn’t even mention T’Pring was straight up thirsting to redo the bonding ceremony with Spock.

[@kallekovacs]

I LOVE that T'Pring had a Spock's Slipper on the table during the call. I went and made myself one right after that scene! :D

[@therandomninja5]

I was wide-eyed when they revealed Sybok! Nearly dropped my morning coffee! I’ve been wondering ever since Discovery season 1 whether they would ever bring him up. I’m curious as to their plans for him. With Angel escaping and the reveal of Sybok there’s definitely something going on. I’ve greatly enjoyed SNW! I cannot wait for more!

[@matthewcollins4157]

I agree, I hope we see more of a Sybok, Angel, Spock story arc where they show up in several episodes.

[@joerider3769]

And what had Sybok done to be placed in that rehabilitation facility?

[@FrauIndian]

@@joerider3769 Spock told us. Sybok chose emotions over the logical teachings of Surak.

[@rickpinnock2009]

@@FrauIndian This really bugs me. IF the Vulcans believe in IDIC, why would they imprison or institutionalize someone who followed emotion rather than logic? I can understand the criminal rehabilitation part using logic as a method to self regulate/control. Is Sybok a criminal? To lock away someone just because they wanted to do something different than logic makes no sense. And lets not even get started n the bigotry against Spock. Vulcans supposedly turned to logic to temper and tame their emotions, which are much deeper and more intense than mere human emotions. Were they jealous cause Spock would find it easier to control his weaker human emotions? Watching the relationship between Spock and T'Pring, and getting more background and insight into the Vulcan culture and Spock's family is putting them in a far different light than the original series. I guess thats something DS9 and Enterprise have both touched on before.

[@joerider3769]

@@FrauIndian But is that a crime?

[@monitor1862]

Strange New Worlds is fast becoming my favorite Trek show. I hope we see more of Captain Angel.

[@xandersnyder7214]

First, I look forward to "Up's and Down's" almost as much as the episodes themselves! Now onto the episode. I am all about Jess Bush as Chapel, and Ethan Peck as Spock! I love their friendship and I love the chemistry between Jess and Ethan on screen. I guess no one caught the "It's the Wild Wild West out there" from Pike?! I love all of the little nods to "Hell on Wheels"! Also, please tell me I am not the only one who wants Colm Meaney to show up at some point, not just because he is The O'Brien, but to see him on screen with Anson Mount again. Jesse Kitel was great as the villian this week! Absolutely loved when they switched to full on double cross pirate captain, they just nailed it!! I loved that they leaned into Pike cooking again, it seems that he has something to share with Riker, McCoy, O'Brien, and Sisko. Some of the best characters in Trek love to cook, and the way that Remy was wolfing down the stew that Pike had whipped up shows that even a pirate appreciates a good meal. I laughed, probably harder than I thought I would, at Pike's pirate impersonation, and specifically Number One's reaction to it. It had all the elements of a dad joke, along with knowing that he probably kept doing it the entire warp back to Federation space! And if that weren't enough, I had to pick my jaw up off of the floor after the reveal of Sybok!! The impact of my jaw hitting the floor made me need to share my pain ;) The white robe, unkempt hair, and the hint of the bushy beard, I actually think Sybok is a REALLY interesting character and I, for one, am glad that they have brought him solidly into canon and I sincerely hope that he is going to appear again. Either in this season or the next. And since we are talking of villians, I hope that I am not the only one hoping to see Harry Mudd again at some point, especially since the Enterprise is operating at the edge of Federation territory. As always, thanks for the review, LLAP!

[@billkeithchannel]

YES YES YES! Take that all you ST:V haters. Sybok is now officially canon! LOVE IT!

[@seanraines5871]

@@billkeithchannel yes!

[@seanraines5871]

I love the fact pike could of kept it up all the way back home which why number one says "please stop"

[@jamisonedwards8162]

I think the cooking aspect is interesting once replicators become more widely used over Food Synthesizers. People had greater access in most places to food so cooking itself becomes more of a passion/hobby than a necessity.

[@daenerystargaryen6302]

I love Harry Mudd so much!

[@mike_keim_video]

Sean I love this episode this week. Of UPS and Downs. It was the hardest I ever laughed at 1 of your episodes. ......And what I love about strange new world is the writers have brought back humanity into star trek. Almost like office Shenanigans. Keep up the good work

[@rickpinnock2009]

Dude, keep it in the SMW universe. Its Hi-Jinks. HI-JINKS, not shenanigans. Just sayin'

[@sinswhisper9588]

maybe not this season for more Angel ... but i hope for sure as the series goes on

[@hankthepatriot3733]

Pike's pirate talk is my FAVORITE scene in Strange New Worlds!!! This show is FANTASTIC!

[@craigmacdonald539]

My one down for this episode is that there was no Uhura and for the THIRD episode in a row no Hemmer. Maybe Bruce Horak was having trouble with the prosthetics and they didn't want him in every episode unless he had a significant role? Would have thought we'd see him in Engineering or on the Serene Squall as a prisoner.

[@CyclopsWasRight616]

I legit forgot about Hemmer being on this show until I read your comment. Now I feel bad.

[@alexruddies1718]

I was really hoping he'd save the day...I was wrong.

[@michaelstern1217]

It likely has nothing to do with the prosthetics, and a lot more to do with TV budgeting. Even full cast members are paid per show, not per season. As with many shows that have large principal casts, they will rotate characters out of entire episodes to save money. It's not ideal story wise, but it makes sense to strech the budget as far as they can.

[@charlesajones77]

@@alexruddies1718 When they said they had to get to Engineering to take back control of the ship I fully expected Hemmer to be there. They could have at least acknowledged that he wasn't there and said something.

[@charlesajones77]

Hemmer has been grossly under utilized. I think he's only been in 3 episodes (not counting his brief appearance at the end of the pilot). And he was barely in the "comet" episode, so it's really more like 2.

[@elaniarkady7351]

I agree about security being ridiculously lax. We all know La'an has her security teams on point.

[@danielweisman496]

Didn't Pike use the same "Captain's Code" to disable the Enterprise as Kirk had to the Reliant in "ST: 2"? If so, that should have been "Canon Watch" material.

[@jamisonedwards8162]

I thought the line was about "backdoor codes" as opposed to the Prefix Codes used on the Reliant. Maybe the name for the codes changed in the several years between?

[@gestaltdude]

I love shows that have an element of whimsy. I still remember watching the very first episode of NCIS Los Angeles, and being hooked by one short exchange. Sam and Callen are approaching a house, with the intent of masquerading as a realtor (Sam) showing the house to to his client (Callen). Slipping into the role very quickly, Callen says to Sam, "Is there a jacuzzi? Because I don't want it if there's no jacuzzi." For the scene, it was pitch perfect and totally hilarious, at lest for me, and kept me coming back for more. The reason I mention this? For me, Mount's Cpt Pike has the same sort of self-mocking humour while at the same time being a serious portrayal.

[@AzaleaJane]

Between their unique look and great characterization, I could not keep my eyes off Aspen/Angel. Even before they donned their over-the-top-baddie-thirst-trap outfit, I was entranced. I hope we see them again! 👀

[@culturecanvas777]

Yes, agreed. Great character.

[@Tinrs80]

lol @ Emo hair❤️ My laugh was pirate Pike on the bridge!

[@jonathonclary1681]

I'm surprised this up was missed. Throughout the history of Spock's character, there has been a continuous struggle over whether he chose to be human or Vulcan. Having a non-binary person tell him that it wasn't about choosing between the two was not just a great way to communicate that message, it was quintessential Star Trek. Elegantly inserting a social statement into a well told story was exactly what made Trek amazing to begin with. while I love all the Trek shows going on now, they typically come accross on the moral issues with all the subtly and elegance of a Bazooka that fires sledge hammers.

[@DMSProduktions]

HOW do you know Angel was 'non binary'?

[@seanraines5871]

Exactly. And it spoke to me as well. I can just be me I don't have to fit into anyone else's specific title. That's all.

[@seanraines5871]

@@DMSProduktions just look up jesse James keitel. There was an article last week. Plus she's an active non-binary member

[@jonathonclary1681]

@@DMSProduktions The producers of the show made a big deal about it in the media. The wanted everyone to know that this was the first nonbinary character on SNW. Also, throughout the episode, "they" based pronouns are used for the character,

[@jamisonedwards8162]

@@seanraines5871 "She's" and active "non-binary" member seems very contradictory...

[@robertmwilliams]

Loved you Ups and Downs once again. Two things I want to put out there. 1- (and I know I am trying to save them from a deserved down) Perhaps the two days aspect was the time to contact Starfleet Command and receive orders. 2- I love love the shots of the Enterprise. Damn if she is not beautiful. And they really seem to respect that she is a Flagship and not to be messed with. Once again mad props for how the show treats her with respect and as a character in her own right.

[@lapiswake6583]

I absolutely loved this episode, especially Aspen/Angel (yes I now have a new crush...). One thing I'm surprised wasn't mentioned was how they are non-binary (in terms of gender), and they were saying that Spock could be non-binary in terms of neither human nor vulcan, rather than forcing himself into one of two roles. Absolutely loved that.

[@ehchagas]

"There but not mentioned". A lighter approach than the one taken in Discovery. Will cause a lot less noise while still doing the show's part on non-binary representation. They just use their pronouns and that's it, a non-issue.

[@Knightfall182]

LOL Asspen/Angel is a Transgender. Jesse James Keitel is a dude. Look it up 😄

[@Decipher13]

@@Knightfall182 Jesse James Keitel is non-binary and uses she/her pronouns. It says so on her IMDb, Wikipedia page, and more. Maybe you need to “look it up“

[@Geogramblings]

@@ehchagas as a trans non-binary individual, I appreciate both Discovery’s approach and SNW’s approach. Both overdue and both totally valid.

[@GusPlayer94]

@@Knightfall182 from wikipedia "Keitel is non-binary and uses she/her pronouns"

[@JAGGEDJUNKIE103]

Man that Sybok end, Love it. Personally think Star Trek V is extremely underrated yes its got some issues but i love it.

[@billkeithchannel]

ST:V was the first ST movie I made it a point to see on the big screen. I was never a hater of the movie and really liked it. I cheered and clapped when I guessed that was the big reveal and did several fist pumps when Spock said "Sybok". I then shouted "Take that ST:V haters! Sybok is now officially canon! Woohoo!"

[@JAGGEDJUNKIE103]

@@billkeithchannel I wish Paramount would allow Shatner to do a directors cut with some improved special effects, while Shatner is still around.

[@billkeithchannel]

@@JAGGEDJUNKIE103 Trudat!

[@maggierestivo5256]

This was an awesome episode! (Especially after the "Meh" "Chosen One" episode last week--to date, the ONLY SNW episode I didn't like, save for Uhura/La'an and Pike getting busy.) I remain a devoted "Spock/T'Pring 'shipper, and hope that the writers say, "Ehh....it's a Star Trek Multiverse, like the MCU Multiverse, who says we have to follow canon exactly?" I really want Spock and Chapel to remain just friends, because....hey, I saw the chem between Chapel and Ortegas, and THAT is a story waiting to happen! Who says Spock and T'Pring have to break up? I say, let them marry! Sybok I figured out....and I knew that the man playing the Orion must have been a Celt, I just couldn't quite place the brogue. I love him, he was fun to watch. Hope he comes back. Angel I did not see as gender fluid, but...cool. They make a great villain, and I hope they come back. Enjoyed the episode immensely, and loved seeing Pike's "Johnny Bravo" hair have a bit of a meltdown. Heee....Thanks for the video; I always enjoy your take on things! Well done.

[@pathogenofdecay]

Others have probably commented this, but something Sean may have missed is that the scene with Chapel and Spock on the bridge with Captain Angel and T'pring starts to remind one of the TNG episode made famous by memes where Lwaxana and Deanna Troi were both kidnapped by Ferengi and Jean-Luc had to fool the Ferengi captain into thinking Jean-Luc loved Lwaxana.

[@KevinVeroneau]

I originally had the same feelings about them contacting the Federation taking 2 days, and as I was watching the episode during my lunch, I thought to myself that Sean is definately going to bring this up in today's retrospect. However, it only just occured to me that Ta'Pree isn't in Federation space, she'd be in Vulcan space at that penial colony shown during the intro... So, if Vulcan space was closer and not 2 days away, then that scene in the episode could work. Guess it's time to take out our starmaps to see, eh?

[@billkeithchannel]

The internet hive mind is way more knowledgeable than the limited Whatx staff.

[@andrewjohnson6716]

I think that we can imagine that if Angel wanted to free Sybok, she'd stage her operation as close to Omicron Lyrae (which is 692 light years from Earth) as possible. Any orders clearing them to go after the colonists would have to come from Starfleet Command which is on Earth. I'm not seeing a conflict either.

[@TheLJStrong]

Shawn, I'm sure our friends here have mentions this but the episode never says that T'Pring is on Vulcan. There is a title card simply stating "Ankeshtan K'til Vulcan criminal rehab center". Maybe I'm wrong but perhaps it's Vulcan colony planet located closer to where the Enterprise was located in the episode. Which mean the message might not have needed 2 days to be transmitted and received???

[@PatriotStar1283]

Absolutely loved this episode! Also I’ve learned to never sit in Pike’s chair 😂😂

[@christaylor9929]

Rewatched this last night, and every conversation between Agnes/Angel and Spock hits differently, once you know about the relationship between Angel and Sybok.

[@byrlea7703]

Looks like Sean is developing his own version of Pike's Peak.

[@20spree]

My biggest down is how long we've waited for a series like strange new worlds. Amazing show. Best trek since Enterprise. I.M.O

[@salilbhatnagar]

My reaction to Sybok: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

[@CarlosVS]

Loved everything from this episode.

[@zenkizenki]

luv'd your Pike's Peak bit :P

[@PhillBogart]

HAHAHA! Pike's Peak! That's one of the best time trial races, I love watching it every year. LOL. Take all the "ups", you hilarious person, you!

[@joerider3769]

It's so amazing watching how well you do this now, Sean, as I am also wading through Discovery Season 3 and watching the early Ups & Downs! Remember, when you would motion Ups and Downs opposite of where they were? Pepperidge Farm Remembers! Seriously, I head here after watching any Star Trek episode to see what you think and what I may have missed! If yer ever in the States, look me up for a pint or two!

[@stars9084]

I thought for half the episode the Enterprise was taken too easily until Angel’s reveal. She was onboard the Enterprise with who knows how much access for days before this. Who knows what she could have done to smooth things over for the takeover

[@andrewjohnson6716]

Also the original series, which happens ten years after this, was canonically frustratingly easy to take over.

[@stars9084]

@@andrewjohnson6716 Admittedly most of the time they were taken over by Supervillains....

[@TokoGT]

I really enjoyed this episode much more than the previous one. Lots of fun details, great acting and moments. Something I noticed is the sound of the hand phasers seems much like the one used in S3 of TOS. Much approved over the DSC phaser sounds. I don't think the Enterprise was so easily taken over as they were still locked out of the computer till Spock dropped his guard. Unlike in episodes like Space Seed and Way to Eden where the ship was easily taken over from another room. Also glad to know 1701 canonically has escape pods. And the classic rocker buttons/intercom on Spock's desk. Spock and Chapel kicked ass in this one! Fantastic episode!

[@stanilazy6750]

It’s corny, i know.. but i hafta say, that while your in-depth knowledge and opinions make these reviews really enjoyable, its more so singularly you that makes them so damn much fun and entertaining. Thank you for each and every one of them, Sean. 🖖❤️🙏

[@DMSProduktions]

GOOD ep! Nice TWIST with Angel being Sybok's wife!

[@mav3598]

I m ready for Ortega's episode

[@DissociatedWomenIncorporated]

_I too_ am ready to learn more about Erica Ortega. For instance… does she date nerdy chicks, and what are her feelings on a long temporal distance relationship? ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

[@Microsofts_Windows_95]

I can buy the live feed to vulcan. The reason the enterprise was 2 days for comms was because there were no close federation subspace relays close enough to make it faster. Being a pirate, I would assume they would have access to more than just Federation relays.

[@andrewjohnson6716]

The live feed was to the third moon of Omicron Lyrae, which is 692 light years from Earth. If Angel wanted to free Sybok she would have run the gambit as close to the rehabilitation center, and as far from Starfleet backup, as possible. People seem to forget that just because we see flat maps of the galaxy, space is three dimensional. Federation space is an amorphous blob, not a circle.

[@bensneb360]

You know deep down in the bottom of my soul, I really hope Anson improvised that pirate impression, I’ll be really sad if it turns out that was scripted, it would be just so much funnier if that was a gag they left in… also that ending, man the swinging pair on these writers for going there, I have to tip my head to them

[@billkeithchannel]

Sybok is now officially canon. Take that ST:V haters!!!!

[@explorinjenkins349]

Favorite part. Pike doesn't have a stick up his ass like other captains. He's willing to have a little fun.

[@dawigg33]

I absolutely love this show!!!!! The reveal at the end was amazing!

[@TwistedSMF]

SNW is so damn good! As much as we love and admire the original series. I would love just a new timeline from this point on. Just make new cannon at this point. This show has proven while you can respect the past, You still can create something new for this day and age. I love it either way. I am just wanting more trek for the future! (Think about it, If they worry so much about cannon, It's gonna hurt the show after a few seasons.)

[@waltonsimons12]

Honestly, I've been thinking for awhile now that what the Trek franchise could use is a straight-up re-imagining, Battlestar Galactica style. Not in the sense of being dark and gritty. I mean taking the old canon, stripping out the stuff that doesn't work, extrapolating from the stuff that does, and then creating an entirely new canon that reflects the old one, but isn't bound by it. That way you don't have to explain why nobody has ever heard of Spock's adopted sister, or why pre-TOS quarters have holographic projectors, or why everybody from the TOS era forgot about the Xindi attack.

[@rickpinnock2009]

I love that its in cannon, BUT, if that new timeline included Spock getting together with this awesome kick-ass version of nurse Chapel I'm all in! She and Erika Ortegas are becoming my favorite characters.