Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ sophomore year has come and gone in a flash, but it delivers big swings and lots of fun. This season takes risks with its format change-ups and character relationships, even though it feels like there’s not enough time to fit everything into 10 episodes.
One notable change in this season is the decision to focus on the bigger ensemble, giving every character on the bridge their own story or character arc. While this allows for great moments for supporting characters like Dr. M’Benga, Ortegas, and La’an Noonien-Singh, it does mean that Captain Pike takes somewhat of a backseat. Anson Mount continues to bring charisma and charm to the role, but his character doesn’t have a significant arc this time around.
The season starts with some weaker episodes, including a premiere where Spock and the crew defy orders for unclear reasons, and a finale that feels like a rehash of last season’s plot. However, the episodes in between have their own highlights. For example, the fourth episode, “Among the Lotus Eaters”, focuses on Pike and his team’s struggle to remember who they are on a forgotten Trek planet, while also providing continuity info about the first episode of Star Trek ever.
The standout aspect of this season is the creative team’s willingness to take big swings. The crossover episode with the animated Trek comedy Lower Decks, titled “Those Old Scientists”, is an instant classic that successfully combines the zaniness of Lower Decks with live-action Trek. This season also includes a war episode reminiscent of Deep Space Nine and an all-singing, all-dancing musical episode called “Subspace Rhapsody”.
Despite the short length of the season, the characters remain the heart of the show. The evolving relationship between Chapel and Spock, as well as the non-romance between La’an and Kirk, provide engaging storylines. The bond between M’Benga and Chapel, forged during the Klingon War, is also a highlight. This cast stands out as one of the best-cast Trek shows since Deep Space Nine.
Overall, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 delivers another must-see season of Star Trek. The show takes risks with different genres, showcases clever concepts, and features a polished production. While the short episode run leaves some plot points and ideas underexplored, the strong and likable cast makes up for it. Fans of the Star Trek universe won’t want to miss this season.
