IR TV Review: STAR TREK - PICARD - EPISODE 9 (“Vox”) [Paramount+-S3]
The context of voice as "Star Trek: Picard" leans into the last episodes of its 3rd season is interesting. The fact of the title of Episode 9: "Vox" directly references this. The last shot of the previous episode seemed to focus on what Jack was afraid of seeing. The episode does reveal it and it makes alot of sense (and it won't be revealed here). But, suffice to say, it does pay off in how it works. The show, though not directed by Jonathan Frakes (instead it is Terry Matalas), has that weight and cinematic element as the two Frakes episodes did. The last 5 minutes alone just drop one back in and feels totally motivated and along the lines of what a Next Generation movie was.
Among other things, in addition to the obvious, "Star Trek III: The Search For Spock" has definite connotations here (as did "Wrath Of Khan" earlier in the season) and the last bit, even with the camera moves really plays to that (and required rewinding -- which is always a good sign). Jack Crusher is turning out to be an interesting parable for Jean-Luc Picard and the intent of what he represents inside the psyche, balances back to the man we saw in TNG 30 years ago versus the man here. And with Data back, that evolution also needs to reflect the intent of the man in Season 1. But it is nice at one point how a simple line or two takes care of this...and the humor bits (as they always have) reflect an evolution and a weight. Stewart -- in a certain side shot -- visibly changes in a way and you can picture him right back 30 years ago. The strategy of what Frontier Day means is quite well handled but also the shift of personnel although understood really plays to this as the final episode looms. A-
By Tim Wassberg
