Lower Decks: Brad Boimler’s deference to Starfleet regulations may be his own undoing
As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for sci-fi and a soft spot for Star Trek, I must say that the character of Brad Boimler in Lower Decks has been quite an intriguing journey. Now, don’t get me wrong, I appreciate his unwavering dedication to Starfleet and his meticulous attention to detail, but let’s face it, the guy is as rigid as a Klingon bat’leth!
Star Trek imagines a future where individuals can achieve success through talent and effort, regardless of their background or connections. If you excel in your profession, recognition will follow. However, this raises some questions: What defines being “good” at one’s job, and is Lower Decks‘ character Brad Boimler truly proficient in his role?
In the initial episode of “Star Trek: Lower Decks,” Bradward “Brad” Boimler makes his debut as our first character. Though he holds the lowly rank of ensign, he’s secretly recording what appears to be a captain’s log, hinting at his ambition to climb the Starfleet ladder and command his own vessel one day. It’s during this introduction that we become acquainted with his dynamic with Beckett Mariner.
It’s fair to say that Boimler is quite strict with rules compared to Mariner, but that doesn’t fully capture it. He has an almost obsessive need for orderliness, paying great attention to his personal grooming, and he frequently shows eagerness to please and defer to higher-ranking officers. On the other hand, Mariner seems to crave independence and self-determination, while Boimler finds comfort in established structures and guidelines.
Essentially, in the series Lower Decks, Mariner and Boimler represent two distinct approaches to handling insecurities. Mariner challenges authority as she doubts that traditional structures can provide her with a meaningful life. On the other hand, Boimler appears to lack faith in his ability to create a satisfying existence for himself, which leads him to follow rules and submit to authority figures.
In certain aspects, Boimler’s readiness to perform tasks without hesitation suits him well for a lower decker, as he is content with simply taking on work. In the episode “Temporal Edict,” Boimler welcomes the stricter work schedule that has left his crewmates exhausted, and even asks for additional tasks to fill his spare time. Unlike others, Boimler does not view his free time as an opportunity to explore other passions or engage in personal projects.
Boimler believes that his unwavering devotion to his job is the key to becoming a captain. However, it’s important to note that captains in Starfleet are portrayed as self-reliant thinkers who aren’t just rule followers. They possess their own ideas and interests outside of Starfleet, which significantly influence their decision-making process.
Paraphrasing: Captain Picard’s love for old books or Captain Sisko’s enthusiasm for baseball aren’t just amusing peculiarities (as Lower Decks might depict); they’re aspects that expose their characters. Picard, being thoughtful and articulate, is reflected in his bookish hobby. Similarly, Sisko’s patient and observant nature mirrors his interest in baseball. These are traits that one could reasonably infer from their pastimes.
Brad Boimler, unlike others, is quite devoted to Starfleet. He possesses great intellect and skill, but his unwavering love for Starfleet often makes his involvement in Starfleet self-reinforcing. Instead of pondering his own actions, Boimler tends to seek instructions. This behavior doesn’t typically showcase the analytical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills that commanders in Star Trek are known for.
Absolutely, Brad Boimler, similar to other characters in Lower Decks, is a caricature, meaning his traits are intentionally over-the-top for comedic effect. Yet, despite being a cartoon character, he still has room for growth and learning beyond Starfleet rules before he can command his own ship. I anticipate that Season 5 will provide Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Boimler with the opportunity to evolve.
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2024-10-18 21:23