The Measure of A Man

DVD, TNG S2 (The Measure of A Man)

I had never seen this episode before, but I knew what happened, I knew the outcome, and I had seen courtroom dramas done in Trek before. But it still made an impact. I think that demonstrates a strong episode if anything does! The arguments were conducted effectively, the characters were used in correct ways, and the story and resolution were very satisfying. Not only that, but we also get some different views of the Enterprise (how often does Picard get to look out at his ship?), an expansion of the series with JAG officers and Starbases, and recurring characters too!

Guinan proves her worth again. So far she's been used sparingly and in just the right way to keep mystique about her while exuding her own brand of wisdom. And Chief O'Brien! He's gone from being an unnamed crewmember to someone who joins in the poker game of the senior staff - somebody give that man his own series! In truth there isn't a lot to write about this episode because it's all played out on the screen, but there are some wonderful and affecting touches, not least the hologram of Tasha Yar, who's untimely death still feels a little missed on the ship and series, to me. Commander Maddox struck me as the kind of bright young man whom Section 31, that dark, undercover organisation that doesn't exist officially, would want to recruit. They're always looking for ways to protect the Federation at any cost, and what could be better than an army of androids willing to work for Starfleet, like Data? When Captain Picard says "who do you work for?" Section 31 flashed across my mind, and if they ever get the chance they should retcon in that it was 31 that urged Maddox into his experiment.

Lots of things were referenced, from the Stargazer and its loss, to Dr. Noonien Soong and Lore, and I think this only strengthens the series to have its internal consistency furthered, something that was to keep Trek alive for so many people, for so many years. Helps when the episode is great, too!

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