Sarek
The Enterprise transports Ambassador Sarek to his final diplomatic mission. But his worsening condition put the crew and the conference in jeopardy.
The Next Generation delves into Vulcan mystery, and the quandaries of old age. Picard and Riker's opening exchange is enough to have TOS fans salivating, as they share news that the legendary Sarek is again married, and that Picard had last seen him at his son's - Spock's - wedding. The events of the episode's first half recall TOS episodes Day of the Dove, in which tempers inexplicably flare; and Journey to Babel, with Sarek and his wife en route to a conference, plagued by ill health. The crew's aggression seems contrived, but once the explanation comes to light, emotions become truer. Sarek's aides, whom at first appear to be villains, are only trying to protect him. So is his wife Perrin, who shares Amanda's grace and wisdom. Sarek is clearly not himself, displaying tears and rage due to the Bendii syndrome. Naturally a mind meld is the solution, though this one is different than previously seen. It is closer to body-switching than the close physical contact Spock would demand. Through Picard (and a performance by Patrick Stewart that straddles the line between powerful and overblown), we experience Sarek's deep and volatile feelings. What we don't see is the conference, brushed aside in a voice over. We were looking forward to seeing the Legarans in their slime bath.
Spock Saves the Day: Spock is not available at this time.
Oops: Sarek has no regrets about Sybok? Oh well.
Developments:As mentioned, we find out that in the years between The Undiscovered Country and The Next Generation, Spock marries. This episode is a set-up for the two-part episode Unification - in which we find out where Spock has been, and he at last finds closure with his father. Yet we suspect that, like Perrin, Spock might already know how much he's loved.