Loud As A Whisper

DVD, TNG S2 (Loud As A Whisper)

The perfect evidence to support character scenes. Without the moments between Riva and Troi, what later occurs would not have nearly as much depth and poignancy to it. It's thanks to the introduction of the Chorus, and their careful integration in the understanding of Picard and his crew, that their loss is so devastating. Saying that, the episode isn't perfect - the teaser cuts off at an odd moment, which jerks you out of the story rather than leaving you anticipating what will happen next during the opening credits.

Having a deaf actor play Riva brought a reality to proceedings, but it was the writing that is most inspired, with the Chorus soon descending into the background so that you 'hear' Riva. It also makes for some clever moments when the use of a voice without using the mouth means Riva can leave a room, yet still say something once he's gone out the door (a new way of having the last word in an argument?), or eating while talking (putting Troi at a disadvantage).

The aliens were the least accessible part of the production, appearing like hairy Ferengi, but the swift and full impact of one man's hatred creates such over-riding effects on so many others, so that the episode could be as much about the consequences of hate, than disability, or learning to live without something you're used to. In Riva's case it wasn't his hearing, but his Chorus that he thought he couldn't live without, while the aliens couldn't survive without Riva himself. In a way our complete lack of identification with them is true to the situation since they are opposing forces, not cuddly aliens to talk reasonably with, and how good it would have been to return in a few months time to see the progress Riva would have made. 

Geordi and Data are also shown in a good light - Data's super fast learning skills, and LaForge's complete symmetry with Riva, along with a choice he has for surgery to give him eyes, thanks to Dr. Pulaski. The episode is undoubtedly Troi's, though I'm surprised Riva didn't see through the ploy from the Captain. Maybe Deanna really did plan to attempt reconciliation, and her feelings made Riva want to help her? In terms of minutiae, O'Brien is there again, and he actually gets a line! Plus, I feel sure Thomas Oglesby, one of the Chorus trio, is related to the more familiar Randy Oglesby, who's also been in various Trek roles, as he has a similar face. Riva and his Chorus was a brilliant idea, well executed, if you'll pardon the pun.

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