5.10 New Ground

Rating: 2.5

The Enterprise participates in an experiment that, using a soliton wave, will attempt to propel a conventional ship at warp speed without any warp engines. Although initially successful, the wave rolls out of control and threatens to destroy a colony and planet in its path. Meanwhile, Worf has to adjust his life and priorities when he receives surprise guests: his mother, and his out of control son Alexander.

Comments

This attempt at character-building, written by two contributing writers rather than staff members, doesn’t completely work, due to a few contrivances. But Alexander is cute and his performance is believable.

Nits

Geordi seems overly excited at the prospect of viewing the soliton wave. I have never seen Geordi so excited, and he has already seen some amazing things. Warp without warp drive? Big deal. How about time travel and the Borg?

Why would Worf’s mother simply show up, unannounced, with a plan in mind to dump Alexander on Worf? It isn’t fair to either Alexander or Worf.

Memorable Moments

•    Shouldered with the actor’s nightmare – having to make a Styrofoam beam look virtually unliftable – Michael Dorn (Worf) does a commendable job.

Quotable Quotes

"Let’s see it!"
- Riker, tired of the dependable but monotonous "On screen" command