Star Trek: Picard

If I had a phaser and I could set it to stun I would set it to kill; pointing it at the mirror of my reflection.

Season 1 of Picard was impressive, a beloved return to what made TNG special. Season 2 was a meandering mess, focusing too much on the childhood traumas of our protagonist. But season 3 ignited a spark of fandom that always smouldered inside every TNG fan. Now that the finale is over I am choked up with emotion and fulfillment. The writers have expertly woven in the threads of previous seasons, focusing on the meaning of a well-lived life - dedicated to duty and loyalty. If anything the interaction of old crew members shows that bonds forged last forever. A recurring theme is the eternal question of legacy, which certainly plagues any person blessed or cursed enough to reach old age. The struggles of parents and children span the ages, regardless of which galaxy you live in. This season is the most meaningful stellar conjugation and alignment of all the old shows, revisiting relics of the past while paying respectful tribute. The writers did a fantastic job, with quotes such as “Stars in the same galaxy, light years between us” and “We are not in control of what we pass on”. The power of memories demonstrated was very moving - we exist because of the memories that define us. It is fitting that Picard and his faithful crew would face up against his most iconic and lethal intergalactic foe, in yet another monumental showdown across time and space. Sci-Fi offers no greater villains. If there is a recurring lesson here, sophisticated organizations like Starfleet are incredibly vulnerable to the slow, insidious, internal threat. The sins of past deeds do return on a titanic scale, and the arrogance of those in power hastens the demise. Seeing all the TNG crew together around the same table, older and way cooler, was a truly unforgettable moment in TV history. Other franchises that missed such opportunities will be held accountable for ages to come. It was particularly satisfying to see each of our beloved characters achieving their fullest potential and meaning in a life well-lived. I am so glad there was no empty fan service. This is truly a passing of the torch and legacy preservation. It was so fulfilling to see one last poker game before any of these beloved crew members trekked into the great beyond the afterlife. The after-credits scene aptly lays the ground for much anticipated and appreciated adventures to come.