7.11 Parallels

Rating: 2.5

Worf returns alone via shuttlecraft after winning a batleth tournament, and, after an unexpected birthday party, begins to experience unusual changes in his environment. People appear and disappear, memories fade, and his first place tournament trophy suddenly becomes a ninth place one.

Comments

Once again, writer Brannon Braga seems unable to come up with any script ideas that are not based on some type of alternative dream, timeline, or reality. Doesn’t anything interesting ever happen in real time on his version of the Enterprise? Still, there are enough nice touches here and more of an emphasis on character development than usual.

Nits

It seemed lenient of Dr Crusher to allow Worf to remain on duty, even after he has admitted to being conflicted about his recent memories. Sure enough, soon after that, he ends up endangering the ship by zoning out as the Cardassian ship attacks.

When Worf hails the Enterprise, his is pleased to hear Picard answer. This confirms that he is back in his own reality. But why is Picard answering hails?

Memorable Moments

•    Troi kneeling on the bed, giving husband Worf a neck massage

•    Worf looking good in red

Quotable Quotes

"Because it is my birthday, I assumed that you or one of the others would try to mount an unexpected social gathering."
- Worf

Troi: That would make my mother your stepmother.
Worf: I had not considered that…it is a risk I am willing to take.

Data: I am not privy to the exact details of when, where or how your first coupling took place. I could investigate it.
Worf: No, that is alright.