Beam into Hilarity: How TNG's Troi & Betazoid Comedy Outshines 'Strange New Worlds' Spock & Vulcans
SNW's fresh take on comedy surpasses TNG's Troi & Betazoid dynamic, with Spock & Vulcans displaying a deeper understanding Both shows emphasize the importance of nurturing and strong maternal figures
Summary
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds improves on a plot from Star Trek: The Next Generation by embracing a comedic tone and delivering an emotional story.
The development of characters in Strange New Worlds enhances the impact of their engagement scenes and elevates the effectiveness of the humor. Additionally, the presence of strong and caring mothers like Lwaxana Troi and Amanda Grayson adds depth and contrast to the storylines in both Star Trek shows.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds improved upon a plotline from an episode in the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation. In the original episode, titled "Haven," Counselor Deanna Troi is forced into a marriage arrangement with a man from her past by her mother, Lwaxana Troi. While Deanna tries to bond with her betrothed, Wyatt, Lwaxana makes herself comfortable on the USS Enterprise-D.
The choice to give Deanna Troi an arranged marriage storyline was likely influenced by the character's initial purpose in TNG, which was to fulfill a role similar to Spock from the original Star Trek series. This decision echoes Spock's own experience in the classic episode "Amok Time."
While "Haven" does have a few humorous moments, such as Captain Jean-Luc Picard struggling with Lwaxana's heavy bag, the overall tone of the episode is overly serious and doesn't fully embrace the comedic potential. Additionally, Wyatt's character lacks depth, making him an unconvincing romantic interest for Troi. The episode ultimately resolves the marriage dilemma in a predictable and convenient manner, allowing for a return to the established status quo.
Strange New Worlds' Spock & Vulcans Understood Comedy Better Than TNG's Troi & Betazoids
In the second season of Strange New Worlds, episode 5 titled "Charades," the plotline takes a comedic turn without sacrificing the emotional aspect. Lt. Spock finds himself transformed into a fully human being after a shuttle accident, which leads him to feign being Vulcan when his fiancee's parents visit the Enterprise. T'Pring, Spock's fiancee, along with his mother Amanda, also make their way onto the Enterprise for a significant Vulcan engagement ceremony. While T'Pring's parents may exhibit some stereotypical in-law behavior, they possess more individuality in comparison to Troi's betrothed parents.
Despite Strange New Worlds' embrace of the episodic nature reminiscent of classic Star Trek shows, character development is more substantial throughout the series than in TNG. Having pre-established knowledge of T'Pring's character and witnessing the progression of her relationship with Spock adds gravitas to the engagement dinner scenes. The episode's humor effectively complements the genuine emotions these characters experience, relying on viewers' familiarity with the characters to uncover new aspects of their personalities. Moreover, the cast of Strange New Worlds delivers exceptional comedic performances that enhance the overall experience.
Both Star Trek Shows Highlight Spock's & Troi's Good Mothers
Lwaxana Troi's character is often divisive and outrageous, but that doesn't mean she's a bad mother. In TNG season 1, episode 11, despite her larger-than-life presence on the Enterprise-D, there's a moment where Lwaxana takes the time to connect with her daughter. After Captain Picard accompanies her to her quarters, Lwaxana turns to Deanna and genuinely apologizes for the whole situation. Though not explicitly said, it's implied that she would do whatever it takes to protect Deanna from the arranged marriage if Deanna truly objected to it. Majel Barrett injects the character of Lwaxana with a vibrant energy that stands in stark contrast to the more serious personalities on the Enterprise crew.
In Strange New Worlds season 2, episode 5, Spock's mother, Amanda Grayson, also shines. While she possesses a quieter personality than Lwaxana Troi, Amanda is just as devoted to her son. She exudes kindness, compassion, and a quiet strength. Amanda goes above and beyond to support Spock in reconciling with his newfound humanity and stands by him in whatever choices he makes. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds manages to successfully showcase a comedic arranged marriage storyline, but both shows feature exceptional mothers who embody the spirit of Star Trek.
