Plot: What’s it about?
Episode #57- “Elaan of Troyius” >>> Airdate 12/20/68
As usual, Kirk’s smooth ways with the ladies has gotten him into some trouble, but this time, it’s more serious than ever. Kirk and his faithful crew are to deliver Elaan to her husband to be, who happens to be the leader of her homeworld’s rival planet. As such, she is reluctant and has no wish to marry her suitor, to say the least. Elaan is beautiful to be sure, but she also has some special powers, which she plans to use in an effort to avoid this marriage, no matter what. She uses her irresistible tears to turn Kirk to her side, which results in him falling head over heels in love with her. As if that isn’t enough, now Klingons have started to attack and unless Kirk snaps out of it soon, the entire Enterprise will go down in flames.
Another Star Trek episode, another love interest for Kirk, another good time had by all. I like this episode due to the massive Kirk presence, but Elaan is pretty hot and adds a lot to the episode’s fun as well. The writing here isn’t too bad by the usual Trek standards, with a solid premise and consistent details, quite good indeed. It also has a believable storyline, as Kirk would for sure fall for Elaan, without a doubt. As opposed to some slime monster turning the crew into rock salt, we have a decent sci/fi premise, which this series doesn’t have too often. Of course, William “The Cat” Shatner is in fine form and delivers another prize performance, while the rest of the cast often just stands in awe of his skills. This episode is a must see for all Trek nerds out there of course, but even casual fans might want to give this one a spin, I think.
Episode #58- “The Paradise Syndrome” >>> Airdate 10/4/68
Whenever there is trouble, the U.S.S. Enterprise is called and this most vital mission is no exception. The crew is assigned a crucial mission this time also, as they must prevent a massive asteroid from striking a planet, as impact would demolish all life there. So the team decides to beam down to the surface and have a look around, with Kirk, Spock, and Bones on detail. The three beam down and start their expedition, but soon after they land, Kirk vanishes and no one is sure just where he has gone. After a failed attempt to find Kirk, the others beam back to the Enterprise to ward off the asteroid, but where is Kirk and what has happened to him?
This is a tragic episode to be sure, as the brave Kirk is torn from his crew, leaving them afraid and helpless in the wake of his disappearance. But don’t worry about the lack of Shatner, as he is present and in grand form, turning in a performance loaded with uncertainty, but also strength and courage. It is also kind of cool to see Spock and Bones in the limelight for a change, but with an ace in the hole like Shatner on deck, you don’t want to keep him off camera too much, as the audience would revolt, without a doubt. The writing is weak however, so the episode has little merit if you ask me, though Trek fans will want to check it out, to be sure.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame transfers, as intended. As with all Shatnervision releases from Paramount, these episodes look good and offer much improvement over prior editions, as well as reruns, of course. The colors look good for a show from the 1960s, while contrast and sharpness remain high also. I saw no serious compression errors or print defects either, another round of good looking Trek episodes from Paramount, hurrah!
Audio: How does it sound?
As per usual, these episodes feature whiz-bang new Dolby Digital 5.1 track, which provide a fine overall sound experience. You’ll hear some presence in the surrounds, but not too much and come on, this is an older television show, you can only expect so much. The cool sound effects and cheese laden music sound good though, while the dialogue is crisp at all times also. Each command delivered by Kirk is forceful, yet fair and each order sounds great in this release. This disc also includes English subtitles, should you need those.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc contains a promotional trailer for each episode.
