86: Preemptive Strike (7.24)

Synopsis:  The penultimate episode further reveals the Federation to be the well-meaning, but flawed government it would have to be to exist.

Memory Alpha SummarySay it ain’t so, Ro!

Review:  This might be the only episode of TNG that feels like it could have also run on Deep Space Nine, and not just because it involves the Maquis.  It also seriously questions Roddenberry’s tendency to view the Federation as altruistic.  Ro Laren probably represents this better than anyone, and it was nice to see her one last time.  Finally, there’s continuity with previous episodes with appearances by Gul Evec and Nachayev for the fourth time.

As for the plot, it could have been stronger as the relationship that develops between Ro and Marcias feels a bit manipulative, especially with him giving the “last final wish” for his dying breath.  Still, it’s nice to see the crew struggle with the idea that someone they trusted and gave a chance to became a traitor.

One thought on “86: Preemptive Strike (7.24)”

  1. I thought I left a comment here earlier… it seems to have disappeared. Or was never left. Either way, we’ll assume operator error.

    I think that this episode felt both like it needed more length and like it had filler. A weird middle-zone.

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