James Maddison

As someone who never really enjoyed anything Star Trek post the end of the next generation era (TNG, DS9, VY) I was fairly sure Lower Decks was going to be yet another series to disappoint much like everything under the CBS banner of late. The most recent forays into Trek have felt, to me, lifeless and devoid of the heart and enthusiasm for discovery, fun, and adventure harking back all the way to TOS and upheld by the aforementioned earlier inheritors of Trek. But to my surprise LD feels like it was made by fans of Trek for fans of Trek who don't take themselves too seriously. I respect that Discovery was trying for the "importance of science and self discovery" and Picard is basically 'Logan' for Patrick Stewart's iconic character. But in trying to "elevate" Star Trek it left so much behind. Lower Decks remembers that while the universe can bring up serious topics and address the best and worst of people, even in the ideological Federation, it was never intended to be some somber, grim dark take. Its about wanting to be better and the path to building something better with those elements told through the lens of science, action, crazy weird adventures mixed with tongue 'n cheek humor, all under the umbrella of a rad looking future. Bottom line is if you miss the old fun of Trek, this series will appeal. If not, well, I'm sure more Picard is in your future.