Patterns of Force
A Federation historian brings order to a fractured world by recreating the most ruthlessly efficient state Earth has known: Nazi Germany. Kirk must stop the darkest aspects of this era from repeating.
We can see where some viewers would take offence, but since the Nazis act no differently from the gangsters, the Romans, et al. down to the American accent, we can't really. Though not entirely in good taste, there is fun to be had. The truly bizarre prison escape is one example, Why not pull the bed over to stand on instead of Kirk's bloody back? Then there's Kirk slapping Gill, the "logical" way to put boots on, and the hilariously wrong sight of our heroes dressed in Nazi uniforms in a closet. The more serious aspects of the show don't work as well. John Gill's reasoning doesn't make much sense. Even if he wants to implement a fascist regime, why use Hitler's visuals? It'll only confuse visitors. The guest characters aren't too noteworthy, though Daras generates some glamour. The camera crew is clever, though it's a little too easy for the "good" Ekosians to regain control. Are the entire upper ranks of the SS composed of underground spies? Apparently. What have we learned? Nazis are bad. And absolute power corrupts absolutely. And two Jewish actors playing aliens playing Ekosians can frequently go unrecognized.
Spock Saves the Day: He makes several strategic pinches, creates a laser that cuts through the prison door, builds a communicator, and creates a mental condition whereby Gill can answer questions.
Oops: The toque and helmets don't seem effective on these people. Standing on the aching captain might not be appreciated.
Developments: Spock's many skills come in handy, but nothing new is seen. Spock admires Nazi efficiency, but generally agrees they're bad.