Boldly Concluding: Ranking the 'Star Trek' Series Finales
The conclusion of a series is a crucial moment, especially in the realm of space exploration. Each "Star Trek" series has had its own finale, some more successful than others. From bold experiments that missed the mark to last-minute scrambles to wrap things up, the "Star Trek" finales have sparked discussions among fans. Let's delve into the nine "Star Trek" finale episodes to determine which one stands out as the best.
The "Star Trek: Enterprise" finale, "These Are the Voyages...," faced severe backlash for its departure from the series' core. The episode, set as a holodeck simulation within "Star Trek: The Next Generation," sidelined the original "Enterprise" characters and made controversial plot choices. Despite a decent penultimate episode, "Terra Prime," many fans choose to ignore the finale altogether due to its missteps.
Closing the chapter on "Star Trek: The Animated Series" is "The Counter-Clock Incident," an episode that introduces the USS Enterprise's first captain, Robert April. While the episode has its merits, it falls short of feeling like a true series finale, lacking the grandeur expected of a show's conclusion.
The third season of "Star Trek: The Original Series" wraps up with "Turnabout Intruder," a problematic episode marred by its sexist undertones. The body-swapping narrative between Captain Kirk and Dr. Janice Lester fails to deliver a satisfying conclusion, leaving fans disappointed with its uncomfortable portrayal of gender dynamics.
"Star Trek: Discovery" faced mixed reactions from fans, with its series finale, "Life, Itself," receiving a lukewarm reception. The unexpected status of the episode as the series finale led to rushed storytelling and unresolved plot points, leaving viewers wanting more closure.
"Star Trek: Picard" managed to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling in its series finale, "The Last Generation." The episode pays homage to "The Next Generation" crew while setting the stage for new adventures, striking a chord with fans who appreciated the blend of old and new elements.
"Star Trek: Voyager" bid farewell with the two-hour finale "Endgame," where Admiral Janeway's time-traveling mission to alter the past and save her crew from the Borg Queen captivated audiences. While some fans praised the high-concept finale, others found it rushed and lacking in closure.
"Star Trek: Lower Decks" concluded with "The New Next Generation," a satisfying series finale that showcased the USS Cerritos crew's camaraderie and growth. The episode's blend of humor, heart, and character development resonated with fans, making it a standout conclusion to the animated series.
In the vast universe of "Star Trek" finales, each episode brings its own unique take on wrapping up beloved series. While some finales soar to great heights, others fall short of expectations, leaving fans divided on which one truly reigns supreme.