| Review : |
This was the only TNG episode I had never seen before, because the BBC refused to screen it during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. By portraying the terrorists in a possibly sympathetic light, as well as Data's 'reunification' remark, I can see why it might be considered inflammatory. It is very effective, and possibly a warning to those fighting terrorism. If you are not careful, you could end up as bad as the terrorists. Flynn was certainly believable, and almost a sympathetic character, although I would not like to think what his country might become if he won. Still, in all his pontificating, he forgot that most wars tend to be lost by the aggressor, and the people who defended freedom had no choice but to fight. Gates McFadden did fairly well in showing Dr Crusher's changing sympathies, although you always knew where she thought she ought to stand. Overall, it was handled quite well. |
| Review : |
Like the previous episode, this was another one that handled moral and ethical issues present in our own world. When I first watched this episode, there were several wars for independence. East Timor, Sri-Lanka and Northern Ireland among others. Looking back on this, you do tend to sympathise with the terrorists, if only initially. The episode is well structured, and the viewer constantly experiences a change in sympathies. I found myself supporting the plight of the "freedom fighters" until they decided to attack the Enterprise itself. At that point, you see the real cost of extremism. Well handled overall and a very watchable episode. |
