Oasis

DVD, Enterprise S1 (Oasis)

They do a good line in creeping round empty ships. I've lost count of how many times this has happened in this season, but I can't say I'm tired of it yet! Although the central concept is really a carbon copy of the 'DS9' Season Two episode 'Shadowplay', it was a good enough idea that it bears repeating with new characters and a different spin. I could be wrong, but the rather spectacular-looking trader who sets them off on their 'ghost' hunt seemed to be called Damar. An oversight, using a name that is familiar to regular viewers of Trek as a whole? Perhaps, or maybe it was another little nod to 'DS9' since the main reason this episode is special is for giving Rene Auberjonois, most famous for playing Odo, a guest role as an alien engineer.

It's a shame it wasn't Odo that was somehow on the crashed ship, but Auberjonois is a close second in my wishlist. He wasn't in it all that much, but he did prove your memories of 'DS9' correct by drawing you in to his character's plight, and that of his daughter. It was a pleasure to see him in a Trek role, two years after his series ended, and made me wish even more that he could come back regularly in some way. There are also almost subconcious references to 'Voyager' - Liana is first seen in the airponics bay, and has that elfin Kes look. And Trip asks if a holographic Doctor is a likely possibility!

The episode itself had a modicum of success in giving more of the main characters screen time, such as Travis continuing his role as creepy storyteller. There is also some humour in T'Pol's reminders of Trip's exploits on the Xyrillian ship earlier in the season. I think the episode is as good as its inspiration, though not better, and continues what has been a strong opening season. Actors from other series' are always welcome, too.

***