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This list of best entry points for newcomers to Star Trek could prove to be more than confusing

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As someone who has spent countless hours traversing the infinite expanse of the Star Trek universe, I must say that diving into this grand saga can be as daunting as navigating the uncharted reaches of space itself. While Whatculture’s list offers some gems for newcomers, it leaves a seasoned Trekkie scratching their head at times.

As a die-hard Star Trek fan, I find it overwhelming to explain where a novice should dive into this expansive universe that’s been thriving for over fifty-eight years. With 930 episodes spanning across forty-eight seasons of television and thirteen movies (soon to be fourteen with the release of Section 31), choosing a starting point can be daunting. While many might suggest beginning with The Original Series, I find a more balanced approach more appealing. That’s why I recommend checking out the combination list of essential episodes and films for Star Trek newbies, as suggested by Whatculture. It provides a well-rounded introduction to this incredible franchise.

In my opinion, Sean Ferrick’s list contains titles that I find agreeable, but there are a few entries that leave me puzzled – Star Trek (2009) being one of them. This film, set in an alternate timeline, offers fresh interpretations of both Captain Kirk [Chris Pine] and Mr. Spock [Zachary Quinto]. On the other hand, “Balance of Terror” from The Original Series introduces new viewers to the original Captain Kirk [William Shatner] and Mr. Spock [Leonard Nimoy], both of whom are in their original timeline. It might be perplexing for novices to watch two distinct versions of the same characters, even seasoned Trek enthusiasts had difficulty adjusting to the recasting.

This list also contains “Yesterday’s Enterprise” from Star Trek: The Next Generation. It’s another fantastic TV show, though it may confuse new Star Trek viewers as it brings back Lt. Tasha Yar, a character who had previously perished. For those unaware of parallel realities or alternate timelines, understanding the plot and identifying the characters could prove challenging.

Again, I know it’s difficult to prepare a list or an introductory course for those just beginning to watch Star Trek, but without the basics of Starfleet and the Federation, it wouldn’t be easy for a viewer to understand what’s happening and why. I can’t imagine having started watching Trek in any way other than from the beginning. But now, it would be possible for someone to start with Star Trek: Enterprise before going to Star Trek: The Original Series then Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and then they are on their way to knowing enough about the ins and outs of Starfleet and the Federation to really get what Star Trek is about. And I say this as someone who was asked about the best way to start Star Trek not too long ago. So far, the new viewer hasn’t been disappointed. Okay, well, maybe with “The Way to Eden,” but that’s understandable.

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2024-08-29 01:23

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