Star Trek: Discovery takes a detour into time travel shenanigans with "Face
the Strange." This episode prioritizes character development for Captain Burnham
and the newly appointed First Officer Rayner, using a time loop as a springboard
for introspection. While the plot contributes little to the overarching season
arc, it delivers an entertaining exploration of growth and the value of
emotional connection.
A Time Loop with Historical Echoes
The episode centers around a time bug planted on Discovery by L'ak and Moll, causing the ship to relive snippets from its past. Burnham and Rayner, unaffected by the loop, must work together to break free. This journey through time throws them into iconic moments from Discovery's history, including the arrival in the 32nd century, the battle with Control, and even a glimpse of a bleak future shaped by L'ak and Moll's actions.
Burnham's Past and the Value of Growth
The time loop serves as a catalyst for Burnham's self-reflection. She confronts her tumultuous past as a mutineer and lingering feelings for Book. Witnessing her own transformation highlights the significant personal growth she's undergone throughout the series.
Rayner's Lesson in Emotional Connection
Rayner, initially resistant to Burnham's emphasis on emotional bonds, is forced to confront his own perspective. Through conversations with a past version of Burnham, he learns the importance of trust and connection within a crew. This experience softens his initial rigidity, showcasing a potential shift in his leadership style.
A Light-Hearted Exploration with Filler Elements
"Face the Strange" leans more towards entertainment than plot advancement. With only five puzzle pieces to collect, the lack of a new clue feels like a necessary filler episode. Additionally, the absence of characters like Saru, T'Rina, Culber, and Adira hinders the overall story progression. L'ak and Moll's motivations remain vague, creating a desire for a deeper dive into their backstory.
A Look Ahead
Despite being a standalone episode, "Face the Strange" offers valuable moments of character growth for Burnham and Rayner. As the season progresses with only a handful of episodes remaining, it will be interesting to see how this experience influences their dynamic and the overall quest to uncover the Progenitors' secrets.