Caretaker

DVD, Voyager S1 (Caretaker)

It's known as the strongest pilot episode of all the Trek's, and while 'Broken Bow' is close, I think this still has that little bit more. Could be something to do with the mangnitude of what occurs, self-sacrifice, a meeting of two captain's minds, and a solid presence of the ongoing universe we know so well, and the start of an epic journey, that will take the crew through so much. That's the series as a whole, and focusing on just this episode.

The characters are so well set up. Chakotay comes across as one of the best people. He is a strong hands-on captain, he can accept changes in circumstances humbly. He blocks his crewmans angry stride towards Tuvok when the Vulcan reveals himself as a spy. It's in his body language when they go to the Caretaker. He is the one that sits and tries to put what appears an old man at ease. He sacrifices his ship because it's necessary for Voyager to survive. He accepts Janeway's authority as his Captain.

Most of the other characters are really well introduced too. Tuvok shows his Vulcan heritage in his logical statements, though even here he feels the Prime Directive is in effect and it would be correct for them to use the array to return home. But Janeway feels the responsibility of the Caretaker's last wishes hang heavily on her. It would have been interesting if they had stuck around for a while to find out what happened to the Ocampa and Kazon, like Bajor on DS9. But this series' boon or USP is also it's flaw in equal measure. They are doomed to forever move on.

The visual variety and expanse of the world that has been created is still impressive today. There are so many extras and sets, varied locales and detailed make-ups. The effects are also very well done, and as for the title sequence... It never needed to change because it was so perfect, the best theme music and a superb collection of images. Kes is the only character to feel a little unfinished. We don't learn much about her, the focus more on her race.

The ship shows even more ideas to bring it up to being the newest ship in the fleet, with EMH, gel packs and high warp capability while not damaging the fabric of space. There is horror (the needles; the farm folks turning nasty), humour (Neelix, and Tuvok's reaction to him), sadness (at losing contact with the families, most poignantly for Janeway; the Caretaker's death) and exciting action (rescues and ship battles; beaming out of a ship as it torpedoes into another!), diverse sets (the stairwell; the ship itself; the surface of Ocampa) and the host of new characters to explore. You couldn't ask for much more than what's delivered. A very satisfying meal of adventure indeed - almost perfect.

*****