Parallax

DVD, Voyager S1 (Parallax)

It's hard to follow such a strong pilot episode, and I've always considered this as a rather average installment, but watching it now, I notice the nuances, the subtlety of looks between characters, of setting up little things, or paying them off from the pilot. Chakotay has the bridge at one point and looks none too favourably at Paris, he and Tuvok have a bit of a disagreement, and indeed the episode begins with a lot of anger, resentment and harshness (for Star Trek) between people. The Maquis and Starfleet personnel are still simmering on a light heat, ready to stage a mutiny at the drop of Chakotay's hand. Only, he's committed 100% to Janeway, even though he keeps pushing for 'his' people as he thinks of them.

People often moan that the Maquis situation was resolved by the end of 'Caretaker', but there's plenty of mileage used of it here. All the characters come across well, seen in this 'bottle show' doing their jobs, integrating themselves into viewer's minds, ready for more daring stories to come. Perhaps, in fact for certain, there was too much techy talk for a first proper episode. But it does follow on from the last one, which was more action and story. From that to character and science makes for variety.

Neelix and Kes could have been more in evidence, but their scenes were enjoyable (notice the suspicious look Neelix gives Tom when he offers his seat to Kes - the best glance in the episode goes to Janeway after the briefing where she and Torres have hit if off when their minds think alike. Chakotay throws a look back before he exits and Janeway gives him a satisfied smile, as if Torres is on the right track), and Kes shows her outlook by treating the Doctor as an equal.

There's a surprising amount of goodness too, with Torres realising there were some at the Academy that were sad to see her leave. And that wonderful show of graciousness as Carey (in his second appearance - he popped up briefly in the pilot) accepts B'Elanna's new role as Chief Engineer. What makes that scene even better is that it pans up to Janeway, watching as amnesty is reached between the rivals, symbolising Starfleet and Maquis, and Chakotay finds her well contented. Also noteworthy are the beautiful shots of Voyager, fresh and sleek. And Seska's introduction as a quick to rebellion Maquis.

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