The Fifth Season of TNG contains some remarkably strong episodes while continuing to push the boundaries of what could be achieved within an episodic television format. It is notable for the tragic loss of its creator, Gene Roddenberry, who died on 24th October 1991 at the age of 70. His influence upon the positive depiction of humanity and diversity in Science Fiction endures to this day. Senior Trekker continues to score all episodes with a 5.
The First Duty is one of the best Star Trek episodes ever made. A thrilling drama unfolds as a group of cadets, under the spell of a charismatic leader, seek to cover up the cause of death of one of their classmates. For once, the courtroom-type hearings are put to excellent use as the realisation of the consequences of their actions gradually cause the cadets' deception to unravel.
Will Wheaton gives an excellent performance as the most conflicted of the conspirators, while Sir Patrick, of course, projects all the gravitas of his rank and experience (even if his authority in the investigation is somewhat unclear) but the stand-out performance has to be that of Robert Duncan McNeill.
So intense was his depiction of Squadron Leader Locano, that it earned him a part in the main cast of Star Trek Voyager three years later. However, a decision was taken that his character in the First Duty was morally irrecoverable and the misguided but rather less corrupt Lt Tom Paris was born. Veteran actor Ray Walson also returned to reprise the part of Boothby in Voyager while Shannon Fill as Ensign Sito met a fittingly heroic end in the final season of TNG.
The First Duty is one of the best Star Trek episodes ever made. A thrilling drama unfolds as a group of cadets, under the spell of a charismatic leader, seek to cover up the cause of death of one of their classmates. For once, the courtroom-type hearings are put to excellent use as the realisation of the consequences of their actions gradually cause the cadets' deception to unravel.
Will Wheaton gives an excellent performance as the most conflicted of the conspirators, while Sir Patrick, of course, projects all the gravitas of his rank and experience (even if his authority in the investigation is somewhat unclear) but the stand-out performance has to be that of Robert Duncan McNeill.
So intense was his depiction of Squadron Leader Locano, that it earned him a part in the main cast of Star Trek Voyager three years later. However, a decision was taken that his character in the First Duty was morally irrecoverable and the misguided but rather less corrupt Lt Tom Paris was born. Veteran actor Ray Walson also returned to reprise the part of Boothby in Voyager while Shannon Fill as Ensign Sito met a fittingly heroic end in the final season of TNG.