Star Trek: Picard was much better than I expected. Of all the characters throughout the Star Trek franchise, Picard would definitely be on the Mount Rushmore of most beloved characters so Trekkers were worried about ruining the legacy of the character. I know some people didn't enjoy the first 2 seasons that much, most did but some did not. Almost everyone liked the third season because of the nostalgia of all The Next Generation characters reunited. I actually really liked all three seasons. Patrick Stewart doesn't miss a beat as an aging Picard and the show has a lot of solid supporting characters to make the show that much better. Definitely would recommend to any Trekkers out there or just sci-fi fans in general.
2,820 Reviews
Thought it was pretty good
Supermanfan-138 March 2024
I have to start by saying I wasn't the biggest Star Trek fan growing up. I wasn't born when the original came out and was like 7 when The Next Generation was on. I would watch episodes of both here and there but I don't remember much at all about those shows. Then JJ Abrams rebooted the franchise in 2010 and I became a huge fan. I really enjoyed all 3 of those movies. I know some didn't because they compared them to the shows but I didn't. I just enjoyed them as a first time Star Trek viewer. The first series I watched was Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and liked that too. I finally gave Picard a chance recently and liked it so much that I blew through all 3 seasons. So, now I consider myself a Star Trek fan. If you're a fan of Star Trek or starting out like me you should watch this because you'll like it either way.
In 3rd season they finally got it right
Zettelhead4 March 2023
The first season has been mediocre. I didn´t expect much and had limited fun. The 2nd season was just so terrible that I refuse to write about it.
But in the 3rd season they finally got the twist and deliver what all fans of Star Trek and especially TNG have been waiting for! This finally feels like Star Trek after decades of boredom and stupidity. We finally meet again with all the great characters that we all missed. Even characters like Rafi who has been a real pain in the *ss in the 1st and 2nd season developes nicely and isn´t so overacted as before. It really feels like in times of Rick Berman and Michael Piller. Thanks!
But in the 3rd season they finally got the twist and deliver what all fans of Star Trek and especially TNG have been waiting for! This finally feels like Star Trek after decades of boredom and stupidity. We finally meet again with all the great characters that we all missed. Even characters like Rafi who has been a real pain in the *ss in the 1st and 2nd season developes nicely and isn´t so overacted as before. It really feels like in times of Rick Berman and Michael Piller. Thanks!
The resplendent culmination of a beloved universe and cherished characters
I_Ailurophile18 February 2024
I can't hide the fact that I'm a huge Trek fan. Imperfect as the franchise has sometimes been since its inception (and occasionally outright problematic in retrospect), it's also been terrifically entertaining at every turn, and filled with fabulous variety. Awe-inspiring visuals, thrilling action, truly great acting (and, okay, some questionable acting), fun comedy, and increasingly rich, deeply compelling storytelling have been the hallmarks of 'Star Trek' from Day One, not to mention a yearning to inspire with progressive ideals, dreams of what could be, and substantial themes that are very relevant to real life. When I learned that Sir Patrick Stewart was participating in a brand new series, reprising Jean-Luc Picard, I knew I would eventually have to watch. As soon as I sat down to do so, I was immediately swept away. I can't necessarily speak to the experience for those who aren't already Trekkies, though given the new series' very high quality I can only trust that folks among the general audience would enjoy it, too. What I can say is that 'Picard' represents everything we've loved about Gene Roddenberry's flagship creation for the past fifty-plus years, and it wouldn't be unreasonable to argue it could be the best entry in the franchise to date.
Though they are few and ultimately minor, it's worthwhile to discuss some issues that are not necessarily abject flaws, but possibly barriers for those who are not already enamored of this universe, and marginal blemishes that prevent the series from achieving perfection. Chief among these is that in each season it simply feels that the story is just too big to be told within the allotted ten episodes, and that a full, once-typical production schedule of more than twenty episodes, if not multiple seasons, would have been preferable. We get this sense somewhat in the first season, but definitely in the second as a bounty of narrative ideas, which in past series would have been restricted to one per episode, are smashed together into one massive, interconnected weave; the third season, in no small part feeling like one of the most epic, impactful ST stories in the franchise's history, needed more room to breathe. In turn, these tales that are so exciting and absorbing, and these characters that are so beloved - written with great depth, complexity, and personality, and portrayed with equal nuance, range, and gravitas - feel ever so slightly shortchanged. Case in point, it was surprising to me how some supporting characters are introduced as seeming integral figures of the series, only to later vanish. Moreover, instances of outright fan service are gratifying in some measure, yet there are facets that feel less like judicious storytelling, and more like a direct appeal to nostalgia and emotion. And while I appreciate that these are not matters exclusive to 'Star Trek' but common to all television writing, the neatness with which some plot elements are resolved, or the "wishful thinking" logic of science fiction that others require, do test the limits of our suspension of disbelief every now and again.
Be all that as it may, when you get down to it 'Picard' is nothing less than a stupendous success, and it's even better than I ever could have hoped. It's true that some aspects are included with pointedly draw from previously established canon, and episodes of past series - but then, given the focus on one of the most famous figures in Starfleet history, that's rather to be expected. Even more to the point, there is no inclusion or nod which is not meaningful. It's readily evident how much care and intelligence the writers were pouring into this new creation, and all this is also tied into how each season more or less focuses on different parts of who Jean-Luc is. I think the overarching theme for each is a matter of individual perspective, and we can toss around words like redemption, legacy, reflection, remembrance, and so on; one way or another, what it comes down to is that there is significant focus on hearty drama here, and introspection, and rumination. We still get everything we want out of 'Star Trek,' including both action (possibly the most violent and thrilling in the franchise to date) and humor (some downright silliness, but mostly fun bits borne of warmth, camaraderie, and tremendous wit), but all told much of the weight here is carried by ponderous themes and story ideas, dour concepts, dark topics, and a somber tone. These, too, we've seen in Trek before, sometimes in television and definitely in the full-length feature films, but it seems to me that as 'Picard' adopts a more serious, realistic tenor, shedding much of the bright hues and theatricality of prior iterations, the heavier portions of the storytelling are more pronounced this time around.
All this is further bolstered by the very best of modern production values, for everything here is top-notch. While practical effects and tangible creations will always be preferred, with rare exceptions my personal opinion is that the computer-generated imagery in these thirty episodes is the best I've ever seen, and as believable as digital wizardry could be. The violence is more visceral, including blood and gore; the scripts do not shy away from profanity that has been decisively absent heretofore. The narrative trades in ideas that we can relate to in real life, for better and for worse, and ports them to a massive futuristic universe with characters that we wish we could call friends and family. Informed by past contributions but not beholden to them, everyone operating behind the scenes turned in superb, wonderfully sharp work: fantastic sets, costume design, hair, makeup, props, and weapons, let alone stellar cinematography, editing, and direction. Even Jeff Russo's score, taking cues from other 'Star Trek' fare,' composed new themes that are all his own, and which lend to the feel of this series that is both sprawling, cinematic, and adventurous, but also intimate, thoughtful, and sincere. And as much as all involved deserve congratulations for all their terrific labor, including marvelously shrewd writing, the show plainly could not have accomplished all it did if not for the very best of casts. It's well established that the actors of 'The next generation' - Stewart, Frakes, McFadden, Spiner, Burton, Sirtis, Dorn - have such a strong rapport that for all intents and purposes they are, truly, a family, even off-screen. That readily comes across on-screen, too, as much because of the players as for the writing; to my pleasure, the same vibes extend to everyone else. I could not be more pleased with just how effortlessly Orla Brady, Evan Evagora, Santiago Cabrera, Alison Pill, and especially Jeri Ryan and Michelle Hurd have fit into the big picture, and I'm only remiss, once again, that they all didn't get even more time together. From one to the next all embody their characters with impeccable fidelity, making it easy for us as viewers to forget that in reality there's a separation between part and player.
As much as I've loved every previous 'Star Trek' series (and movie - yes, even the fifth one), it seems evident to me that everyone participating in 'Picard' went above and beyond to make it the very best it could be. There are characters appearing here that irrefutably receive better treatment than they have at any point in the past; it's hard to imagine that anyone appearing on-camera could some day look back on their careers and not say that this was one of the best projects they ever took on. It may be solemn and grim, but it's not without its lighthearted moments, and from top to bottom the purpose is true and heartfelt and oh so earnest. Since the original series premiered Trek has had its ups and downs, including portions of 'Voyager' and 'Enterprise,' some silver screen flicks that were weaker than others, and some story ideas that were ill-considered and haven't aged well. At its best, however, there is nothing else like it in the world, and I'm overjoyed that watching this new series feels like a long-awaited homecoming. The feelings that 'Picard' elicits cannot be denied. I suppose it bears repeating that while Trekkies will be on board without hesitation, esteem may vary among general audiences; again, however, the sum total is so brilliant and engrossing that I think most anyone who is open to sci-fi will really enjoy themselves. For my money 'Star Trek: Picard' is nothing less than exemplary, and I'm happy to give it my very highest, heartiest, and most enthusiastic recommendation. Bravo!
Though they are few and ultimately minor, it's worthwhile to discuss some issues that are not necessarily abject flaws, but possibly barriers for those who are not already enamored of this universe, and marginal blemishes that prevent the series from achieving perfection. Chief among these is that in each season it simply feels that the story is just too big to be told within the allotted ten episodes, and that a full, once-typical production schedule of more than twenty episodes, if not multiple seasons, would have been preferable. We get this sense somewhat in the first season, but definitely in the second as a bounty of narrative ideas, which in past series would have been restricted to one per episode, are smashed together into one massive, interconnected weave; the third season, in no small part feeling like one of the most epic, impactful ST stories in the franchise's history, needed more room to breathe. In turn, these tales that are so exciting and absorbing, and these characters that are so beloved - written with great depth, complexity, and personality, and portrayed with equal nuance, range, and gravitas - feel ever so slightly shortchanged. Case in point, it was surprising to me how some supporting characters are introduced as seeming integral figures of the series, only to later vanish. Moreover, instances of outright fan service are gratifying in some measure, yet there are facets that feel less like judicious storytelling, and more like a direct appeal to nostalgia and emotion. And while I appreciate that these are not matters exclusive to 'Star Trek' but common to all television writing, the neatness with which some plot elements are resolved, or the "wishful thinking" logic of science fiction that others require, do test the limits of our suspension of disbelief every now and again.
Be all that as it may, when you get down to it 'Picard' is nothing less than a stupendous success, and it's even better than I ever could have hoped. It's true that some aspects are included with pointedly draw from previously established canon, and episodes of past series - but then, given the focus on one of the most famous figures in Starfleet history, that's rather to be expected. Even more to the point, there is no inclusion or nod which is not meaningful. It's readily evident how much care and intelligence the writers were pouring into this new creation, and all this is also tied into how each season more or less focuses on different parts of who Jean-Luc is. I think the overarching theme for each is a matter of individual perspective, and we can toss around words like redemption, legacy, reflection, remembrance, and so on; one way or another, what it comes down to is that there is significant focus on hearty drama here, and introspection, and rumination. We still get everything we want out of 'Star Trek,' including both action (possibly the most violent and thrilling in the franchise to date) and humor (some downright silliness, but mostly fun bits borne of warmth, camaraderie, and tremendous wit), but all told much of the weight here is carried by ponderous themes and story ideas, dour concepts, dark topics, and a somber tone. These, too, we've seen in Trek before, sometimes in television and definitely in the full-length feature films, but it seems to me that as 'Picard' adopts a more serious, realistic tenor, shedding much of the bright hues and theatricality of prior iterations, the heavier portions of the storytelling are more pronounced this time around.
All this is further bolstered by the very best of modern production values, for everything here is top-notch. While practical effects and tangible creations will always be preferred, with rare exceptions my personal opinion is that the computer-generated imagery in these thirty episodes is the best I've ever seen, and as believable as digital wizardry could be. The violence is more visceral, including blood and gore; the scripts do not shy away from profanity that has been decisively absent heretofore. The narrative trades in ideas that we can relate to in real life, for better and for worse, and ports them to a massive futuristic universe with characters that we wish we could call friends and family. Informed by past contributions but not beholden to them, everyone operating behind the scenes turned in superb, wonderfully sharp work: fantastic sets, costume design, hair, makeup, props, and weapons, let alone stellar cinematography, editing, and direction. Even Jeff Russo's score, taking cues from other 'Star Trek' fare,' composed new themes that are all his own, and which lend to the feel of this series that is both sprawling, cinematic, and adventurous, but also intimate, thoughtful, and sincere. And as much as all involved deserve congratulations for all their terrific labor, including marvelously shrewd writing, the show plainly could not have accomplished all it did if not for the very best of casts. It's well established that the actors of 'The next generation' - Stewart, Frakes, McFadden, Spiner, Burton, Sirtis, Dorn - have such a strong rapport that for all intents and purposes they are, truly, a family, even off-screen. That readily comes across on-screen, too, as much because of the players as for the writing; to my pleasure, the same vibes extend to everyone else. I could not be more pleased with just how effortlessly Orla Brady, Evan Evagora, Santiago Cabrera, Alison Pill, and especially Jeri Ryan and Michelle Hurd have fit into the big picture, and I'm only remiss, once again, that they all didn't get even more time together. From one to the next all embody their characters with impeccable fidelity, making it easy for us as viewers to forget that in reality there's a separation between part and player.
As much as I've loved every previous 'Star Trek' series (and movie - yes, even the fifth one), it seems evident to me that everyone participating in 'Picard' went above and beyond to make it the very best it could be. There are characters appearing here that irrefutably receive better treatment than they have at any point in the past; it's hard to imagine that anyone appearing on-camera could some day look back on their careers and not say that this was one of the best projects they ever took on. It may be solemn and grim, but it's not without its lighthearted moments, and from top to bottom the purpose is true and heartfelt and oh so earnest. Since the original series premiered Trek has had its ups and downs, including portions of 'Voyager' and 'Enterprise,' some silver screen flicks that were weaker than others, and some story ideas that were ill-considered and haven't aged well. At its best, however, there is nothing else like it in the world, and I'm overjoyed that watching this new series feels like a long-awaited homecoming. The feelings that 'Picard' elicits cannot be denied. I suppose it bears repeating that while Trekkies will be on board without hesitation, esteem may vary among general audiences; again, however, the sum total is so brilliant and engrossing that I think most anyone who is open to sci-fi will really enjoy themselves. For my money 'Star Trek: Picard' is nothing less than exemplary, and I'm happy to give it my very highest, heartiest, and most enthusiastic recommendation. Bravo!
Incredible turn around, season 3 is amazing!
chudson-894869 March 2023
Season 1 was okay not bad but not great. Had its moments mainly involving... Don't want to spoil it..
Season 2 was a direct sequel to 1 in story but went horribly wrong and for the first time ever I just couldn't be bothered to watch the last episode, it was that bad. I even managed to finish season 4 of Discovery, that's how die hard a trekkie I am lol.
But season 3 is just genius and classic star trek from the start.
Episodes 3 and 4 especially blow me away.
Being Jonathan Frakes back as a director and actor just bring that magic the show was missing.
The story, the cast, the sets, music, effects, acting, humour, it has it all just down to perfection.
Watch them all of you are a die hard fan only, or just watch seaaon 3, you'll pick things up.
If they can keep this up for the rest of the season I will be a very happy trekkie.
Live long and prosper my friends.
But season 3 is just genius and classic star trek from the start.
Episodes 3 and 4 especially blow me away.
Being Jonathan Frakes back as a director and actor just bring that magic the show was missing.
The story, the cast, the sets, music, effects, acting, humour, it has it all just down to perfection.
Watch them all of you are a die hard fan only, or just watch seaaon 3, you'll pick things up.
If they can keep this up for the rest of the season I will be a very happy trekkie.
Live long and prosper my friends.
Star trek is back!
DocDAT10 March 2023
Season one and especially two have been pretty disappointing, but season 3 is completely different. Especially with episode 4. This is now the first proper Star Trek sine Voyager ended in 2001. I'm thankful that someone approved the script for season 3. Yes it has its flaws, but damn it this is real Star Trek - something I've sorely missed. Jonathan Frakes shows how good he is as a director again. Several scenes reminded me of First Contact.
I sincerely hope that season 3 is successful enough that we will get more Star Trek like it. This is very corny, but I really feel the world is a better place with Star Trek - as long as they stick to a positive and optimistic message!
I sincerely hope that season 3 is successful enough that we will get more Star Trek like it. This is very corny, but I really feel the world is a better place with Star Trek - as long as they stick to a positive and optimistic message!
Not aging well
carey-941-75569224 February 2023
I suppose I am like many, kind of a nostalgic completist. I watch the new Star Trek show hoping to feel some of the pleasure I felt watcing them for the first time, in my own relative youth. I was in my mid-twenties when TNG began and my thirties for Voyager and DS9. Like many of the older fans, my memory of TOS was reruns, cartoons and movies.
Putting aside nostalgia, one of the reasons I considered Picard to be my favourite Enterprise captain was the interesting combination of rationality and emotion and of reserve and physicality. Almost tied was Sisko, who brought together such qualities in a different but equally impressive way.
Nostalgia is fine and I enjoy looking back. I appreciate some of the changes that have come over the years with experience and maturity. But I know that my prime has passed and the decline accelerates each year.
Which takes us to Star Trek: Picard. I watch this not because I think it to be the equal of its predecessor. I watch it for the sake of nostalgia. Patrick Stewart is a shadow of his former self, his physicality shrunken and his voice that of an elderly man. But my memory of the original endears him to me. Unfortunately, his character seems to have changed. Not just far more emotional but also a person who prizes his own personal desires above his duty. Many of the themes that made Star Trek so enjoyable have disappeared.
Putting aside nostalgia, one of the reasons I considered Picard to be my favourite Enterprise captain was the interesting combination of rationality and emotion and of reserve and physicality. Almost tied was Sisko, who brought together such qualities in a different but equally impressive way.
Nostalgia is fine and I enjoy looking back. I appreciate some of the changes that have come over the years with experience and maturity. But I know that my prime has passed and the decline accelerates each year.
Which takes us to Star Trek: Picard. I watch this not because I think it to be the equal of its predecessor. I watch it for the sake of nostalgia. Patrick Stewart is a shadow of his former self, his physicality shrunken and his voice that of an elderly man. But my memory of the original endears him to me. Unfortunately, his character seems to have changed. Not just far more emotional but also a person who prizes his own personal desires above his duty. Many of the themes that made Star Trek so enjoyable have disappeared.
Season 3 review
avega7318 March 2022
I can't believe I'm writing this review after the crap they gave us for the first two seasons. But season 3 of Picard is outstanding. Whoever took over for this season is a true fan and knows what they are doing.
Why oh why could we not have had this for the first two seasons. Season 3 is everything I would want: well written, great character development, good pacing and action, adequate amounts of fan service without going overboard- it's fun and great.
The standouts to me are the interactions between Picard and Riker. It's great to see that chemistry once again. Worf is the best he's ever been. Beverly is fantastic as well- especially the scenes between her and Picard.
I have to say, so far, the performances of the TNG cast is the best I've seen from them. They really put in their all.
The only thing that saddens me is that there are no plans to keep going after Season 3. I would totally stick around for more seasons of this. I hope they change their mind.
Why oh why could we not have had this for the first two seasons. Season 3 is everything I would want: well written, great character development, good pacing and action, adequate amounts of fan service without going overboard- it's fun and great.
The standouts to me are the interactions between Picard and Riker. It's great to see that chemistry once again. Worf is the best he's ever been. Beverly is fantastic as well- especially the scenes between her and Picard.
I have to say, so far, the performances of the TNG cast is the best I've seen from them. They really put in their all.
The only thing that saddens me is that there are no plans to keep going after Season 3. I would totally stick around for more seasons of this. I hope they change their mind.
How to FIX Season Two
sujensen-17 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
How to fix Picard, Season Two: Picard DREAMED IT ALL.
Seriously, the entire season needs to be obliterated. Instead of a cohesive plot line, this season was a series of random vignettes, blatant political statements, and weak resolutions to conflict. Though I agree with their politics, they overwhelmed the story to the point of distraction. And what about the BUTTERFLY EFFECT, which they tossed aside when they got to Los Angeles?
WHAT ABOUT Q-the most intriguing part of the Season Two teaser trailers? He was on the screen for about five minutes total. WHAT A WASTE of an iconic and classic villain. His story was incidental.
And it took all of La Sirena's power to jumpstart the Borg Queen-AT THE COST OF ELNOR'S LIFE-but she gained enough power to build a Borg army with an annoying musical performance, smashing a window, and draining the batteries of a dozen old cars?!
And seriously, in 400 years, the best treatment option for a suicidal woman will be to lock her up?
Seriously, the entire season needs to be obliterated. Instead of a cohesive plot line, this season was a series of random vignettes, blatant political statements, and weak resolutions to conflict. Though I agree with their politics, they overwhelmed the story to the point of distraction. And what about the BUTTERFLY EFFECT, which they tossed aside when they got to Los Angeles?
WHAT ABOUT Q-the most intriguing part of the Season Two teaser trailers? He was on the screen for about five minutes total. WHAT A WASTE of an iconic and classic villain. His story was incidental.
And it took all of La Sirena's power to jumpstart the Borg Queen-AT THE COST OF ELNOR'S LIFE-but she gained enough power to build a Borg army with an annoying musical performance, smashing a window, and draining the batteries of a dozen old cars?!
And seriously, in 400 years, the best treatment option for a suicidal woman will be to lock her up?
So the 2010s Star Trek movies are cannon...
jaybeetwr6 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Like the title says - Chris Pine is the official Captain Kirk. It is cemented into Trek legacy by acknowledging the destruction of Romulus as cannon. Shatner and Nimoy's Kirk and Spock were wiped out of reality via time travel in that terrible Star Trek movie. Not only was the original trek completely erased from cannon, but now Picard never had a brother, a nephew, and his mother died young rather than as an old lady as shown in the TNG era.
Q is dead, the borg were neutered and made into a joke, Guinan was made into a joke, 7 of 9 is an emotional mess of rage, the Federation is small and petty and just when you thought Star Trek Discovery was the epitome of anti-trek... in comes Picard to destroy the foundation that made the brand so appealing.
I advise all to skip seasons 1 and 2 and try season 3 as a stand-alone this month (Feb 2023). I have high hopes seeing as the original crew are back for this one. Mistakes were made, perhaps they will be corrected this final season.
Q is dead, the borg were neutered and made into a joke, Guinan was made into a joke, 7 of 9 is an emotional mess of rage, the Federation is small and petty and just when you thought Star Trek Discovery was the epitome of anti-trek... in comes Picard to destroy the foundation that made the brand so appealing.
I advise all to skip seasons 1 and 2 and try season 3 as a stand-alone this month (Feb 2023). I have high hopes seeing as the original crew are back for this one. Mistakes were made, perhaps they will be corrected this final season.
Amazing and emotionally inspiring!
andreaamari13 January 2024
Having watched all the Star Trek series since they first came out in the '60s, and all the movies many times I was totally surprised by this series! It is amazing! All of the characters are superbly performed, and convey deep emotion with authenticity. Each of the episodes portray a parallel to normal life challenges, and convey the feelings with genuine depth. Some of the dialogue is truly inspiring, and causes a self-examining person to collate their own feelings with the character. It was deeply moving, and I highly recommend it to anyone even if they are not a science fiction fan. This will stimulate your heart and mind in a most entertaining way!
Dissapointing from a Trekkie
dragracer12609 August 2021
I can't understand why a show like Firefly gets cancelled and rubbish like this is supposed to take its place. If the TV exec's think that us old Trekkies will watch this just because of a few of the original actors then they are very sadly mistaken. I've tried, really tried to watch it but it just not going anywhere, where is the sci-fi ?. Don't take my word for it, you have to give it a go yourself but DON'T get suckered into paying for it.
Complete lack of respect for anything Star Trek
charliejsch7 December 2021
Patrick Steward is a gifted actor, but thinking anything other falls under the halo effect. With the creative control he had, he added to the mess of all the newer Star Treks, adding his own flavour or something already unique by its own right. All the creative control, production and cast did not seem to understand and comprehend what made Star Trek so great. Star Trek was never about a post-apocalyptic future, where humanity has been corrupted and brought to its lowest point. Star Trek was always unique, in that, it always showed the best humanity has to offer and how this human beings occasionally have stave off corruption and discrimination. Much of Star Trek is humans solving external problems. This is for numerous literary reasons but for on, it enables the viewer to objectively observe the moral dilemmas involved and, if we want, we can relate this to our own problems(in reality). This has always been a strong point in Star Trek.
Star Trek Picard, and STD, has turned this idea upside down. They've focused on one character(Picard in this case) and made any objective moral dilemma non-existent. In Picard, everything is personal now. Every situation is emotional and in your face. There is no time to reflect, and what's worse, the whole method of story-telling and even the foundational principles of Star Trek has become altered. It's become exactly like all the other post apocalyptic sci-fi's, where survival is the main goal and anything else is secondary. Apart from this view, the show makes no sense even if it was not Star Trek. There are so many plot holes, inconsistencies with the story, no character development and in-your-face exposition, it makes watching Picard an absolute chore.
Funnily enough, even though it's the first Star Trek(eh) to name it's show about one character, it really isn't about Picard, at all. Its really about a character called Soji. Picard seems to be portrayed as someone who was egotistical. However, he was never like this in TNG. There are tons of continuity problems and some things just don't make any sense. Swearing being one of them. One of the main themes I picked up from Picard, and STD, is the continual belittlement of males in order to strengthen female characters. Picard will continually get shouted at, sworn at and play minor roles. He has very little impact on the story, is always second guessing himself(or someone else is) and his character seems more of a filler character than anything else.
Star Trek has always had social commentary, but Picard, and STD, type of story telling is poor and sexist. It's gone too far, but not because the topics are controversial but because the writers for the show are terrible. Picard is now overtly sexist with sexist commentary and obvious agendas. Understandably, the previous series always had some underlining sexism, because it was still made by people that lived in discriminating times, but this reduced as more Star Trek was released. However, Picard and STD, has, literally, increased and made sexism overtly apparent. Women characters have taken charge in the newer Star Trek at the expense of males. The problem with this 1: it's done incredible poorly, 2: it seems to run on the incorrect assumption that Star Trek fans are male chauvinists 3: because of 2 males are continually belittled. I honestly don't care if a crew is all female, hell, my favourite captain of all time is Captain Janeway, but everything put together makes this show an insult to a Star Trek fan or anyone who does not like the method in which they're telling their saga.
Every conceivable part of what made the original Star Treks great has now been distorted and disfigured. Star Trek is now edgy, resentful, in your face, angry and spiteful. Self reflection does not exist anymore. Conversing about moral dilemmas went does the toilet. I recommend no one watch this trash if they ever liked the previous series. If you're looking for food-for-thought look at the previous Star Treks or the Orville.
Star Trek Picard, and STD, has turned this idea upside down. They've focused on one character(Picard in this case) and made any objective moral dilemma non-existent. In Picard, everything is personal now. Every situation is emotional and in your face. There is no time to reflect, and what's worse, the whole method of story-telling and even the foundational principles of Star Trek has become altered. It's become exactly like all the other post apocalyptic sci-fi's, where survival is the main goal and anything else is secondary. Apart from this view, the show makes no sense even if it was not Star Trek. There are so many plot holes, inconsistencies with the story, no character development and in-your-face exposition, it makes watching Picard an absolute chore.
Funnily enough, even though it's the first Star Trek(eh) to name it's show about one character, it really isn't about Picard, at all. Its really about a character called Soji. Picard seems to be portrayed as someone who was egotistical. However, he was never like this in TNG. There are tons of continuity problems and some things just don't make any sense. Swearing being one of them. One of the main themes I picked up from Picard, and STD, is the continual belittlement of males in order to strengthen female characters. Picard will continually get shouted at, sworn at and play minor roles. He has very little impact on the story, is always second guessing himself(or someone else is) and his character seems more of a filler character than anything else.
Star Trek has always had social commentary, but Picard, and STD, type of story telling is poor and sexist. It's gone too far, but not because the topics are controversial but because the writers for the show are terrible. Picard is now overtly sexist with sexist commentary and obvious agendas. Understandably, the previous series always had some underlining sexism, because it was still made by people that lived in discriminating times, but this reduced as more Star Trek was released. However, Picard and STD, has, literally, increased and made sexism overtly apparent. Women characters have taken charge in the newer Star Trek at the expense of males. The problem with this 1: it's done incredible poorly, 2: it seems to run on the incorrect assumption that Star Trek fans are male chauvinists 3: because of 2 males are continually belittled. I honestly don't care if a crew is all female, hell, my favourite captain of all time is Captain Janeway, but everything put together makes this show an insult to a Star Trek fan or anyone who does not like the method in which they're telling their saga.
Every conceivable part of what made the original Star Treks great has now been distorted and disfigured. Star Trek is now edgy, resentful, in your face, angry and spiteful. Self reflection does not exist anymore. Conversing about moral dilemmas went does the toilet. I recommend no one watch this trash if they ever liked the previous series. If you're looking for food-for-thought look at the previous Star Treks or the Orville.
Aged like the finnest of wines!
chrisklugh23 February 2024
This is the best TV show in all of the Star Trek universe. By itself, its a good Sci-Fi. But its not by itself. It has history. And what a way to bring it all together!
I need to say I'm not a 'Star Trek Nerd'. Growing up, it was what 'Dads' were into. It was OK, even pretty good, but not my generation. Frankly I enjoyed Voyager more because it was the least like Star Trek. Voyager was my introduction to the franchise.
So when someone said that Seven was a Captain, I really had to see for myself. Needless to say my mind was blown when I seen her take control of a Borg Cube!
They did a fantastic job bring the band back together!
Season 1 8/10 What a great way to start. The plot is quite relevant to the news were having this last past year and a half. Everyone is talking about AI. AI is everywhere, and it would be weird if Star Trek did not have a spin of it too. All in all, I liked what they did with this! I was hooked and the binge watching was in full force!
Season 2 5/10 Its good where its good but bad where it is bad. Anytime you introduce time travel, nothing matters. The only thing that matters is the start and the end. Everything in the middle can be twisted to all degrees in so many ways and still come to the same conclusion. But to be fair, its a concept that does deserve the attempts to create stories with. I just think they fall short most of the time. In this case, you just roll with it, it does start and ends well.
But that's not the bad. Its like were watching the draft of Season 2 that did not get polished up. There are countless little things that just don't fit well as a good story. I do get at time you have to do something just to move the story along, but this season had dozen of such moments.
The good news, it attempts to go into Jean Luc past and uncover some physiological traumas. But I felt they did some dragging and they never really showed or sold me what did actually happen to his mom. Between this and the amount of screen time Rios got in his side story, and how it ended, I think they could have made this season 7 or 8 shows instead of 10 and been better for it.
Season 3 9/10 Now were cooking with dilithium! The Stage is set, the crew is back together, and we have yet another save the Federation against all odds plot, and they have to do it with the old ship. Nostalgia is all over this season! This one is for the Boomers!
All 3 seasons have that 'end of the story' feel. What I mean is it does not drag out for season after season waiting for the big moment. It starts big and stays big. Its going to be hard to see how they can keep pushing big ideas, but I have little worries about the next couple of seasons. Star Trek Picard is pushing hard at being the best Star Trek has ever made!
All in all when you go back to rewatch it, just skip Season 2 and its a great!
Now the 4th season is not out yet and I have some speculations.
(edit - found out there is no season 4 but Ill leave my thoughts about it as is.)
First, I Jean Luc Picard is aging. All the respects for the legacy he has left behind. Truly legendary in the entirety of TV/Movies. Everyone knows who he is, Star Trek nerd or not. What a guy, and what a roll did he play! Well done!
But I have noticed his vitality diminishing from season 1 to 3. His time is limited and I can tell he is trying to pass his baton to the next. I think that's part of the reason for this show. To leave on a good note. But I fear, and what might be best for season 4 is for him to 'slow down' and not be the main character. Put the emphasis on his son, and of course Seven. Jean should be a guest star to tie up some story bits.
His time is near, and I hope its well planned out where he has his final episode while he still has the vitality to leave the last impression to the world before hes gone. I don't want to see him become that frail old man. He earned his time here on earth, he had a good go, and I want to remember him for what and who he is. Not the dying guy. Please don't push him past his abilities. Yet, I hope hes still a part of this in some way for some time yet.
But who knows what full body scans/AI CGI that will exist long after his time? Who knows, maybe a digital Jean Luc Picard will remain and be in 1000's more TV and movies for the next 100 years?
Maybe in some way, Jean Luc Picard will be the first immortalized human in our history whom will live long and prosper in the hearts and minds of all future Star Trek fans for Generations to come!
I need to say I'm not a 'Star Trek Nerd'. Growing up, it was what 'Dads' were into. It was OK, even pretty good, but not my generation. Frankly I enjoyed Voyager more because it was the least like Star Trek. Voyager was my introduction to the franchise.
So when someone said that Seven was a Captain, I really had to see for myself. Needless to say my mind was blown when I seen her take control of a Borg Cube!
They did a fantastic job bring the band back together!
Season 1 8/10 What a great way to start. The plot is quite relevant to the news were having this last past year and a half. Everyone is talking about AI. AI is everywhere, and it would be weird if Star Trek did not have a spin of it too. All in all, I liked what they did with this! I was hooked and the binge watching was in full force!
Season 2 5/10 Its good where its good but bad where it is bad. Anytime you introduce time travel, nothing matters. The only thing that matters is the start and the end. Everything in the middle can be twisted to all degrees in so many ways and still come to the same conclusion. But to be fair, its a concept that does deserve the attempts to create stories with. I just think they fall short most of the time. In this case, you just roll with it, it does start and ends well.
But that's not the bad. Its like were watching the draft of Season 2 that did not get polished up. There are countless little things that just don't fit well as a good story. I do get at time you have to do something just to move the story along, but this season had dozen of such moments.
The good news, it attempts to go into Jean Luc past and uncover some physiological traumas. But I felt they did some dragging and they never really showed or sold me what did actually happen to his mom. Between this and the amount of screen time Rios got in his side story, and how it ended, I think they could have made this season 7 or 8 shows instead of 10 and been better for it.
Season 3 9/10 Now were cooking with dilithium! The Stage is set, the crew is back together, and we have yet another save the Federation against all odds plot, and they have to do it with the old ship. Nostalgia is all over this season! This one is for the Boomers!
All 3 seasons have that 'end of the story' feel. What I mean is it does not drag out for season after season waiting for the big moment. It starts big and stays big. Its going to be hard to see how they can keep pushing big ideas, but I have little worries about the next couple of seasons. Star Trek Picard is pushing hard at being the best Star Trek has ever made!
All in all when you go back to rewatch it, just skip Season 2 and its a great!
Now the 4th season is not out yet and I have some speculations.
(edit - found out there is no season 4 but Ill leave my thoughts about it as is.)
First, I Jean Luc Picard is aging. All the respects for the legacy he has left behind. Truly legendary in the entirety of TV/Movies. Everyone knows who he is, Star Trek nerd or not. What a guy, and what a roll did he play! Well done!
But I have noticed his vitality diminishing from season 1 to 3. His time is limited and I can tell he is trying to pass his baton to the next. I think that's part of the reason for this show. To leave on a good note. But I fear, and what might be best for season 4 is for him to 'slow down' and not be the main character. Put the emphasis on his son, and of course Seven. Jean should be a guest star to tie up some story bits.
His time is near, and I hope its well planned out where he has his final episode while he still has the vitality to leave the last impression to the world before hes gone. I don't want to see him become that frail old man. He earned his time here on earth, he had a good go, and I want to remember him for what and who he is. Not the dying guy. Please don't push him past his abilities. Yet, I hope hes still a part of this in some way for some time yet.
But who knows what full body scans/AI CGI that will exist long after his time? Who knows, maybe a digital Jean Luc Picard will remain and be in 1000's more TV and movies for the next 100 years?
Maybe in some way, Jean Luc Picard will be the first immortalized human in our history whom will live long and prosper in the hearts and minds of all future Star Trek fans for Generations to come!
Alex Kurtzman should never have been given control
davesmagicalmysterytour-992627 February 2023
Either Alex Kurtzman does not know what Star Trek is or he hates it. I really don't understand why this man was given so much control over such a beloved franchise. Discovery wasn't Trek and Picard is definitely not Trek.
It makes me so upset that these wonderful characters have been given such a horrid farewell. TNG should be given the greatest send-off ever!
Where is Gene's vision in any of these new shows? Where is the optimistic future? The excitement of exploration?
Swearing? Ugh. Violence? Ugh. Flashy editing? Ugh!!! Do yourself a favor and NEVER watch this crap. Don't even acknowledge it!
It makes me so upset that these wonderful characters have been given such a horrid farewell. TNG should be given the greatest send-off ever!
Where is Gene's vision in any of these new shows? Where is the optimistic future? The excitement of exploration?
Swearing? Ugh. Violence? Ugh. Flashy editing? Ugh!!! Do yourself a favor and NEVER watch this crap. Don't even acknowledge it!
Nothing Star Trek
alphaprior21 April 2022
Another Star Trek series or movie that doesn't even try to be like Star Trek.
There is nothing in this show that feels like Star Trek.
Picard? No, he is not Picard he is Patrick Stewart playing a role that has nothing to do with unforgettable Picard. And his exceptional quotes.
It's a world where Federation has lost it way and Picard goes rogue at his old age to find answers for... no one knows anymore at season 2.
Many inconsistencies based on original stories and events of Star Trek TNG.
It's a big fail and it hurts to see Patrick Stewart and Jeri Ryan being part of this.
All modern Star Trek shows and movies today are an insult to previous series that were promoting ideals. Today it's just noise and when they try to add some value they fail miserable because it's sp fake and bad written.
There is nothing in this show that feels like Star Trek.
Picard? No, he is not Picard he is Patrick Stewart playing a role that has nothing to do with unforgettable Picard. And his exceptional quotes.
It's a world where Federation has lost it way and Picard goes rogue at his old age to find answers for... no one knows anymore at season 2.
Many inconsistencies based on original stories and events of Star Trek TNG.
It's a big fail and it hurts to see Patrick Stewart and Jeri Ryan being part of this.
All modern Star Trek shows and movies today are an insult to previous series that were promoting ideals. Today it's just noise and when they try to add some value they fail miserable because it's sp fake and bad written.
Not Star Trek
chacham1 April 2020
Pros:
Patrick Stewart. Beautiful graphics. Decent, short fight scenes. Held off on cameos for a few episodes.
Meh:
Computer UI reflects what is shown in other movies today and not very trek-like. Some scenes are out of order. It's cool and all, but will likely date very quickly. Stewart far outshines almost all the other actors. Lots of backstory added to make each episode make sense. The story is mediocre and people's beliefs are cliche.. Trek is more of the setting rather than the content.
Cons:
A lot of cussing. Everybody has a stupid sad backstory. The amount of coincidences in who knows whom is ridiculous. They added a Jedi, except he uses a real sword instead of a lightsaber. There is almost no tension when anyone does anything. People seems to have magical powers to do this or that.
The first episode is very nice, the second episode is stupid. The others are okay. The story itself is meh and cliche. It feels like a stretched out movie, kind of like Star Trek 9.
While i would not say it is a waste of time, it's not really Star Trek either.
Patrick Stewart. Beautiful graphics. Decent, short fight scenes. Held off on cameos for a few episodes.
Meh:
Computer UI reflects what is shown in other movies today and not very trek-like. Some scenes are out of order. It's cool and all, but will likely date very quickly. Stewart far outshines almost all the other actors. Lots of backstory added to make each episode make sense. The story is mediocre and people's beliefs are cliche.. Trek is more of the setting rather than the content.
Cons:
A lot of cussing. Everybody has a stupid sad backstory. The amount of coincidences in who knows whom is ridiculous. They added a Jedi, except he uses a real sword instead of a lightsaber. There is almost no tension when anyone does anything. People seems to have magical powers to do this or that.
The first episode is very nice, the second episode is stupid. The others are okay. The story itself is meh and cliche. It feels like a stretched out movie, kind of like Star Trek 9.
While i would not say it is a waste of time, it's not really Star Trek either.
Jean-Luc Picard is No More
wolfeE-leet28 January 2022
"...he went from a powerful, intelligent figure to a frail wisp of a man, who could barely make his own way home." These words were uttered by Jean-Luc Picard on stardate 44631.2 while recalling his late father. Nothing could be a more apt description of Jean-Luc Picard in this show. If we're honest with ourselves we realize the only reason we watched this show was to see Jean-Luc back in action. What we find is low quality writing and a very senior Stewart who doesn't have the gravitas anymore to headline a TV show.
Fantastic!!! Star Trek is back!!!!!
moowriece30 December 2023
Finally, after lacklustre series, the REAL Star Trek soul is back!!! Thanks to the TNG crew and cast who know what is Star Trek. Jonathan Frakes as actor and director has done phenomenal work! Go on Jonathan! This is the kind of episodes we Trekkies and all other enthousiasts love to watch. Patrick Steward is of course phenomenal and is a real jewel. The visual special effects are top, as well as editing, sounds, music, storytelling and of course acting! This series transports you back to the past and to the future. I hope these new series give the impulse to go on with Star Trek as it is right now! Bravo!!!!!!!!!!
Season 2: Lazy. Season 3: Excellent
lord_orsum26 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Season 2 Review
I really want to like Picard, I really do. But the show keeps annoying me with the lazy writing. I am half way through season 2 and have to write this review just to rant about my grievances.
So Picard and gang get sent to an alternative timeline by Q, where the Federation is a xenophobic fascist empire. So far, so "mirror, mirror". Picard and gang decide to travel back in time (like Star Trek 4) to set things right.
This could work as a story. It SHOULD work as a story. But there are so many dumb decision and nonsensical story elements, that I keep having to shout at my TV.
Upon arriving in the new timeline, Picard and friends are arguably the most powerful people in their society (president, general, head of secret police, head of alien experimentation, fleet captain). They manage to throw this advantage away within the space of minutes.
Upon arriving in 2024, they crash in spectacular fashion near Picard's abandoned vineyard in France. No-one sees this or comes to investigate. How uninhabited do the writers think France is?
Afterwards, the ship has power for transporters and cloaking device, but not internal heating? Really?!?!?!
They transport into major cities in broad daylight repeatedly, yet no one sees them except a small child.
The failure of their communicators over long distances in this period (maybe I missed why this happens) is continuously used to prevent vital information being passed between characters. Yet no one thinks to buy a mobile phone, or hack the mobile phone network with their communicators (yet, they can hack police computers in seconds, by hand).
No one thinks to replicate any money or ID.
Seven can drive a car, but only apparently with her foot flat on the floor, thus once again throwing away their advantage in seconds for the writers to lazily get a car chase sequence into the story.
They kill people without any sign of remorse. And yet when Elnor dies, the writers try to tell the audience how tragic this is. If you treat the taking of life so casually, don't expect the audience to feel anything when a main character dies.
Picard teleports to coordinates without any idea where it will take him. Surely you would look up the location on a map before going?
And on and on it goes...a decent premise pissed away by lazy writing. It is unnecessary and insulting to the audience. Please make it better.
Season 3 Review Clearly the show-runners listened to me ;-) Almost all of the new characters have been jettisoned (alas not literally) and the plot is interesting, the stakes feel real and high, and the dialogue is on point.
I thoroughly enjoyed season 3 - it was everything that Picard should have been from the start!
So Picard and gang get sent to an alternative timeline by Q, where the Federation is a xenophobic fascist empire. So far, so "mirror, mirror". Picard and gang decide to travel back in time (like Star Trek 4) to set things right.
This could work as a story. It SHOULD work as a story. But there are so many dumb decision and nonsensical story elements, that I keep having to shout at my TV.
Upon arriving in the new timeline, Picard and friends are arguably the most powerful people in their society (president, general, head of secret police, head of alien experimentation, fleet captain). They manage to throw this advantage away within the space of minutes.
Upon arriving in 2024, they crash in spectacular fashion near Picard's abandoned vineyard in France. No-one sees this or comes to investigate. How uninhabited do the writers think France is?
Afterwards, the ship has power for transporters and cloaking device, but not internal heating? Really?!?!?!
They transport into major cities in broad daylight repeatedly, yet no one sees them except a small child.
The failure of their communicators over long distances in this period (maybe I missed why this happens) is continuously used to prevent vital information being passed between characters. Yet no one thinks to buy a mobile phone, or hack the mobile phone network with their communicators (yet, they can hack police computers in seconds, by hand).
No one thinks to replicate any money or ID.
Seven can drive a car, but only apparently with her foot flat on the floor, thus once again throwing away their advantage in seconds for the writers to lazily get a car chase sequence into the story.
They kill people without any sign of remorse. And yet when Elnor dies, the writers try to tell the audience how tragic this is. If you treat the taking of life so casually, don't expect the audience to feel anything when a main character dies.
Picard teleports to coordinates without any idea where it will take him. Surely you would look up the location on a map before going?
And on and on it goes...a decent premise pissed away by lazy writing. It is unnecessary and insulting to the audience. Please make it better.
Season 3 Review Clearly the show-runners listened to me ;-) Almost all of the new characters have been jettisoned (alas not literally) and the plot is interesting, the stakes feel real and high, and the dialogue is on point.
I thoroughly enjoyed season 3 - it was everything that Picard should have been from the start!
I tried to like this
sateigdraleah28 March 2022
And that's the problem. If you have to try and like a show or the only reason you keep watching is because you're hoping it will get better then you're just wasting your time. I really loved the Star Trek series as a child and was hoping this would make me feel the same way but it did not. It's slow and boring and I just couldn't like any of the characters and the story is just meh.
Finally!
gogga101113 April 2023
After 30 years of torturing with some half-baked experiments the real Star Trek emerged! No-one, literally no-one is able to replace iconic Picard and his crew. Finally, in the third season they've gathered all of them (including Seven of Nine from Janeway's ship) in an big adventure across galaxies. Fine story and same old feeling of sense and wisdom which was adorned in 90s show are here again, including magical music and blue "star trek" fonts (ending credits of the 3rd season). That and those crew is legandary and timeless. Hope they will continue in these star trek for many more episodes.
Season 3 is what the fans wanted from the start!
dvdandre20 April 2023
Well after the disappointing first 2 seasons of Picard, they finally caved in and gave the fans what they desired after all these years... the STNG crew is back and working together. Absolutely brilliant season and i'm so sorry that the first 2 seasons were so awful that many might not tune in to watch this gem.
If you're an STNG fan, do yourself a favour and watch the third season of Picard. You won't regret it. I'm up to episode 9 and can't wait for the finale!!! I can't say the same for most shows these days.
CBS, please give us more of the same.. put Jean-Luc in charge of an armada in season 4 and watch the subscriptions skyrocket. In the meantime, thank you for Season 3 of Picard.
If you're an STNG fan, do yourself a favour and watch the third season of Picard. You won't regret it. I'm up to episode 9 and can't wait for the finale!!! I can't say the same for most shows these days.
CBS, please give us more of the same.. put Jean-Luc in charge of an armada in season 4 and watch the subscriptions skyrocket. In the meantime, thank you for Season 3 of Picard.
Season 3- INCREDIBLE
abbieenicholson15 November 2023
Having not watched Star Trek for a good few years I had lost the enchantment it once held in my teenage years. I'm talking some high-key obsession level enchantment here. ;)
I was a huge fan of everything space, federation, phasers, borg cubes and differing species but ultimately what I loved the most was the characters and all of their interactions with one another.
Seasons 1/2- I felt missed this, obviously I enjoyed being back in the world however it didn't reignite my love.
And, this is where season 3 threw us a case of budweiser and forced us to hold the beer because WOW!
It was everything I could have hoped it to be.
I was a huge fan of everything space, federation, phasers, borg cubes and differing species but ultimately what I loved the most was the characters and all of their interactions with one another.
Seasons 1/2- I felt missed this, obviously I enjoyed being back in the world however it didn't reignite my love.
And, this is where season 3 threw us a case of budweiser and forced us to hold the beer because WOW!
It was everything I could have hoped it to be.
Unforgivable Misrepresentation: The Butchering of the Borg Concept
NewYorkDude22 April 2023
The portrayal of the Borg in the show is disappointing as it goes against their historical depiction. Instead of their usual focus on assimilation, the show has depicted them as being solely focused on pointless annihilation. This depiction is an insult to the history, concept, and future of the Borg. It is difficult to understand why the Borg would engage in such indiscriminate killing of non-assimilated individuals. Furthermore, the portrayal of the Borg queen as less than regal is inconsistent with her established character. This gross injustice oversimplifies the concept, turning the Borg into pure villains with no nuance. A good villain should have shades of gray, which is lost in this portrayal. The show's approach ultimately does a disservice to the complexity of the Borg and reduces them to a simplistic good versus evil trope.
See also
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