This is a show that is more complicated and mature than what came before, but in the best ways, ways which do not discredit the past, but show it’s always possible to change and grow — whether you’re a 79-year-old man, or a 54-year-old franchise.
Season 1 of Picard was impressive, a beloved return to what made TNG special. Season 2 was a meandering mess, focusing too much on the childhood traumas of our protagonist. But season 3 ignited a spark of fandom that always smouldered inside every TNG fan. Now that the finale is over I am choked up with emotion and fulfillment. The writers have expertly woven in the threads of previous seasons, focusing on the meaning of a well-lived life - dedicated to duty and loyalty. If anything the interaction of old crew members shows that bonds forged last forever. A recurring theme is the eternal question of legacy, which certainly plagues any person blessed or cursed enough to reach old age. The struggles of parents and children span the ages, regardless of which galaxy you live in. This season is the most meaningful stellar conjugation and alignment of all the old shows, revisiting relics of the past while paying respectful tribute. The writers did a fantastic job, with quotes such as “Stars in the same galaxy, light years between us” and “We are not in control of what we pass on”. The power of memories demonstrated was very moving - we exist because of the memories that define us. It is fitting that Picard and his faithful crew would face up against his most iconic and lethal intergalactic foe, in yet another monumental showdown across time and space. Sci-Fi offers no greater villains.
If there is a recurring lesson here, sophisticated organizations like Starfleet are incredibly vulnerable to the slow, insidious, internal threat. The sins of past deeds do return on a titanic scale, and the arrogance of those in power hastens the demise. Seeing all the TNG crew together around the same table, older and way cooler, was a truly unforgettable moment in TV history. Other franchises that missed such opportunities will be held accountable for ages to come. It was particularly satisfying to see each of our beloved characters achieving their fullest potential and meaning in a life well-lived. I am so glad there was no empty fan service. This is truly a passing of the torch and legacy preservation. It was so fulfilling to see one last poker game before any of these beloved crew members trekked into the great beyond the afterlife. The after-credits scene aptly lays the ground for much anticipated and appreciated adventures to come.
A bravura send-off for Jean-Luc and the gang that gratifyingly recaptures the feeling of Star Trek at its nineties peak. It’s just a shame it took three seasons to get here.
Although the pace is at times too deliberate and many of the story elements seem familiar (earning the dubious raised eyebrow Mr. Spock put to such good use), it’s not difficult getting to the end of this third episode. For one thing, the series looks terrific. For another, you’re in great company all the way. The cast is marvelous, starting with Stewart, the finest actor ever to wear a Starfleet uniform. His aging and conflicted Picard is an endlessly intriguing revival of the character. He not only keeps you involved but also (to borrow the captain’s trademark phrase) engaged.
Star Trek: Picard may represent a new chapter for Patrick Stewart’s beloved Jean-Luc, but it’s not trying to enlist new fans as much as it’s catering to old ones. For franchise die-hards, that’s likely OK.
Picard has flashes of eccentricity, and any science-fiction show with a Miguel de Unamuno shoutout demands a quantum of hope. But for now, this is another disappointing Star Trek. Should we give it a chance? My advice: Disengage.
It's not bad. Some good acting. I can see how the trek fans might not like it. It seems very different in atmosphere and pacing compared to previous series. Perhaps the single narrative spread out over episodes is the cause.
It had some enjoyable moments, but I couldn't shake the feeling that I was watching mediocre fan-fiction. Moreover, the entire show seemed unnecessary as the series finale of The Next Generation tied up Picard's story well enough. To quote some classic Star Trek, "Let us redefine progress to mean that just because we can do a thing, it does not necessarily mean we must do that thing."
Woke, SJW, LGBTGWTFBBQ+
A bi/lesbian seven of nine all of the sudden? completely kills the atmosphere of an otherwise mediocre sci-fi serie.
Also Patrick Stewart's dramatic over-acting is horrible and cringe to watch.