Monday 15 September 2008

Star Trek: TNG 1.17 - When the Bough Breaks

Review 101 - Episode 97 (Feb 15th 1988)

The One where the kids are kidnapped

Creeeeepy episode this. No matter when it was shown, seeing children led away by old guys is squirmy and weird, despite their Best intentions. And really, that totally torpedoes this episode. Because beyond that, there is quite a good dilemma of how does Picard get them back.

Picard is good in the negotiation (though the end scene was a bit much with the wee girl), Wesley's acting is VERY suspect (especially after he's just been scanned!), Beverly seems remarkably calm all things considering, and the rest just make up the numbers.

I liked the solutions available, Data trying to work out the codes and Geordi working out the shield and the whole concept of acknowledging there are familys onboard. Young harry who benefited from the time on the planet was a nice touch as some kids did learn and the final scenes with the power source are excellent sets and visuals - almost throwaway at the end as they could have done for a BIG threat they are so impressive.

But, kids being kidnapped is icky these days and I didn't like it because of that.

2/5
Overall Star Trek Franchise Rating so far: 286/510

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