In Theory is one of those episodes I kinda suspect they always wanted to try but kept deciding it was a bad idea. And it wasn't a terrible idea, but it also was pretty obviously not going to work out for Data. In the end Geordi ends up being the one with the most accurate advice and how does that work? This is also one of those episodes with a subtle B story that gradually takes over as the A story starts wrapping up. Even it this isn't my favorite of all time it is hard to argue with a Data driven story.
The episode opens with Data working with Jenna D'Sora on modifying a photon torpedo to explore a dark matter nebula (not actually a thing from what we can tell now, but not unreasonable, especially at the time). She is preparing to go on a date with her ex and Data is reminding her as she requested of why that relationship didn't work. Next we see the two of them playing together in a concert in Ten Forward along with Keiko and a few other crew members. After the performance Jenna notices Miles and Keiko being romantic and is clearly a bit jealous. She starts talking to Data about he she feels she messed up during the concert but he is supportive of her playing and she clearly appreciates it. In a brief aside we see Dr. Crusher in sickbay finding a hypospray on the floor for no good reason.
We return to the torpedo bay and after another conversation Jenna leaves, but not before giving Data a kiss on the lips. Data then asks pretty much all the other characters in the show what he should do any only Geordi advises caution and the captain refuses to give him advice. There is another small incident, this time Spot has escaped from Data's quarters and is found wandering the halls. Data then shows up at Jenna with flowers and after some awkwardness they end up kissing on her couch. Back on the bridge the B story is becoming more relavent as the captain finds the objects on his desk in his ready room messed up and Worf can't figure out why. Next there is a decompression in the observation lounge and they know there is trouble.
Jenna shows up in Data's quarters with a gift but he doesn't understand he should stop painting and pay attention too her. Later he shows up at her quarters and attempts a lovers quarrel but it doesn't really go so hot. Back on the bridge Data has discovered the source of the problems. The nebula they are in is filled with bubbles of unreality (or something) that are floating through the ship causing mayhem. The only way out is for someone to pilot a shuttle ahead of the ship the scout things out. And despite Riker being a better pilot Picard insists on doing it himself. He gets them out but almost dies in the process. Data's love resolves with Jenna showing up for their dinner date and telling Data their relationship is over.
Review: I am not the hugest fan of Trek love episodes, but this is one of the better ones. There is no way a normal person could actually date Data without it getting awkward and that is pretty much exactly how it goes down. Having an intense B story really helped as well.
7 out of 10
No comments:
Post a Comment