Written by Aaron White
It has been almost 20 years since we last saw Jean-Luc Picard, in the 2002 film Star Trek: Nemesis. During that time, some things have happened to pull the now retired Admiral away from Starfleet, as well as his real life counterpart, Patrick Stewart, away from the character that first made him the acting icon we know and love today.
Before Stewart starred as everyone’s favorite Professor X in the X-Men film franchise, he was leading the crew in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek’s first spin off from the original series. At first Picard seemed to be a drastic change from Kirk’s version of what a Starship Captain was. However, over time he became a whole new generation’s favorite captain.
For seven seasons of TV and four follow up films, Captain Picard became “our captain”. A man who fans grew to love and admire; an authoritative figure that makes viewers feel safe and protected; a leader within which one could have complete faith; and a teacher from which one could always learning. For over thirty years, Jean-Luc has been our safe place, and now, he’s back.
While embracing the nostalgia factor, Star Trek: Picard is also an original show that wants to stand on its own. As a series, it is not content with simply being TNG: Part 2. As a result, this series feels fresh and even looks as sleek as any major Hollywood film. Patrick Stewart has stated publicly for years that he had no interest in coming back to the world of Star Trek, because he felt he had explored the character of Picard as much as he could. However, when the creative team behind this new show presented him the ideas they were working on, he has said he could not pass up the opportunity.
In this first episode titled “Remembrance,” we find Jean-Luc Picard spending his retirement years on his family’s vineyard, Chateau Picard. Long gone are his days as the Captain of the Federation’s flagship. Now he leads a quiet life, taking walks with his pet dog, affectionately named, Number 1, managing the vineyard, as well as giving lectures and writing history. This may seem like a full life to some, but, for Picard, there seems to be something missing. When a mysterious young woman in need of his help shows up at his door, he feels his old life, and connections from it, calling him back.
With 10 episodes in season one, and now officially picked up for a second season, Star Trek: Picard seems to be taking us on a well thought-out journey. A journey not just through space, but through politics, understanding what is right and what is wrong, and self discovery. A personal journey into what makes us want to be the best that we can be, and what we would do to achieve that goal. How selfless are you when it comes to helping those in need? How well do you know your self? Would you give up comfort for living a life that is endowed with meaning?
These are the stories that our favorite captain is leading us through. Once again, and for the first time.
Come to it for the past, stay for the future.
Rating: 10 out of 10
Follow Aaron White on Twitter and Instagram @fozrotten and check his out his Star Trek-themed punk group, Boldy Go!.
