When the U.S.S. Discovery first graced our screens in 2017, a disagreement arose online about whether or not Star Trek: Discovery was a good show — specifically if it’s a good Star Trek show. A lot of the criticism was unfair (and racist, let’s be honest), and some of it was valid (the first season did setup, not so much payoff). But one thing is for sure: the show has a spirit of optimism and hope that is a hallmark of excellent Star Trek content. The show has only become stronger and more compelling with every season. With season three airing this fall now is the perfect time to be watching Star Trek: Discovery.
Discovery is worth watching for Michael Burnam (Sonequa Martin-Green) alone. She is one of the most wonderfully written and acted characters on television. Along with being the definition of a strong female character, she is also kind, a scientist, a lover of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and (after the initial conflicts of season one) finds herself a family that supports her and forgives her mistakes. Isn’t that something we all need?
At the heart of the show is the crew of the Discovery, who with every season, find themselves dealing with new dangers and difficult choices. These situations are often dire and seemingly hopeless: but the beautifully constructed family of characters faces those challenges as a community, not allowing each other to fall into despair and give up. They handle their problems together, with humour and genuine compassion.
Beyond the characters, the show leans right into the joyfully imaginative possibilities of science fiction. Just a few of these instances include an oversized space tardigrade, a delightful time-loop episode, alternate universes, and a young Spock (Ethan Peck) going through his edgy, rebellious phase.
All of this, from the characters to the show’s optimistic tone, makes for a comforting show to watch when you need to escape from the current dystopian hell we’re living through. Grab a bowl of popcorn, sink into the couch and let Star Trek: Discovery beam you into a better state of mind.