Reunion Stardate not given: Synopsis in main TNG listing

"Reunion" does many things: it introduces Gowron and Alexander, kills off K'mpec and Duras, and, lamentably, K'Ehleyr, provides a complex problem of interstellar diplomacy and delves further into Klingon culture. Yet with all of this, the episode is tightly written and never feels crowded. K'Ehleyr was an interesting character to begin with, but in this episode she comes into her own as ambassador to the Klingon Empire, advisor to Picard in his role as arbiter, and delving into Worf's discommendation. Her arid brand of sarcasm is perfected as she browbeats Worf, Gowron and Duras. And then she dies. Had she lived, the plot possibilities would have been endless, particularly in the way she brings Gowron to heel. In terms of emotional content though, the murder and all that follows rings true. Worf's duel with Duras is a high point, particularly when he doesn't stop when Riker orders him to. Picard's stuffy dressing-down afterward is a disappointing denouement, showing that the Federation's "respect" for other cultures is somewhat limited by human cultural bias, a recurring problem. In light of what we learn in Enterprise of the Andorian duelling tradition, is it believable that humans have such a chokehold on Federation policy? Altogether, though, this is certainly the best episode of the Klingon arc, and one of the best of the series.
Nitpicking: What was the point of the bomb? It was clearly too small to be effective, and, if you watch when it goes off, Duras' men are closer to him than to anyone he might want to kill. What was the purpose of killing K'Ehleyr? What did Duras think would be the consequence if Worf had not killed him? Compare the Klingon political system as portrayed here with that seen in "Star Trek VI". Here, power goes to the strongest, with the implication that in "modern" practice the succession is settled exclusively by a duel. While "Star Trek VI" featured an urbane and sophisticated political class, here one is left wondering how these bumpy-headed barbarians could run a village, much less an interstellar empire.
Remarkable Dialogue: "Not even a bite on the cheek for old times’ sake?"-K'Ehleyr to Worf, "Opportunities that will present themselves only if you come to power. You talk like a Ferengi."-  K'Ehleyr in response to Gowron’s bribe, "A Klingon who kills without showing his face must not be allowed to lead the Council. Such a man would be capable of anything." -K'mpec to Picard, "Have you ever seen death? Then look, and always remember." -Worf to Alexander
Great Moments: K'Ehleyr's caustic remarks - confronting Worf about his discommendation, snubbing Gowron and confronting Duras, and every other scene. Worf avenging K'Ehleyr.
Remarkable firsts: This is the first time we see a bat'leth fight, and also the introduction of the Vor'cha class attack cruiser, the first new Klingon ship of the TNG era.
Rating: 9 (Anthony Rodger)

The Drumhead Stardate not given: When an explosion aboard the Enterprise disables the ship, its cause is suspected to be initiated by visiting Klingon officer J'Dan. As a result, investigators from Starfleet are sent to confirm this incident. However, although J'Dan is found to have been stealing data from the Enterprise, the explosion is an accident. Nevertheless, the investigators are convinced that J'Dan did not work alone, and as a result a witch hunt starts aboard the flagship of the fleet, not sparing anyone to achieve its agenda.

I love this episode because this is to me what would happen to a society dedicated to the betterment of themselves and their attitudes to other "lesser" cultures. Despite their high ideals, there is still a lot of ignorance and pride about. They claim to have shunned their old ways but when push comes to shove it can come to the surface - and in this episode this is well played out.
So many elements here to emphasise this - the immediate accusation of J'Dan because he is different - and that difference is that he is a Non-Starfleet officer - instinctual obvious choice. Then the attitudes of the investigators - noticeably Admiral Norah Satie (played well by Jean Simmons) who is no doubt proud to be heading this investigation, especially aboard the flagship of the fleet, convinced their is more to this than meets the eye. Her support in the Betazed Sabin is like interrogation PC style - subtle in appearance but brutally effective in result. Then the way the incident changes - from a simple investigation, then an accident to a blatant witch hunt. The finest part of all of this is the dialogue exchanged between Picard and Worf - Picard wisdom and experience, Worf warrior and defender. It is here that Star Trek - sci-fi at its best - makes us stop, listen, and most important of all think. No phasers, no ships, no special effects, no silliness - just good acting. Only gripe was the slight over the top challenge at Picard's trial but on the whole a real rare gem.
Remarkable quote: "Mr. Worf, villains who twirl their mustaches are easy to spot. Those who clothe themselves in good deeds are well-camouflaged." And the exchange ends on this...perfect. Here it shows that we must be vigilant, as Worf admits. And how easily we are duped by those we think have good intentions.
Remarkable dialogue: "Sir, the Federation does have enemies! We must seek them out!" - "Oh, yes. That's how it starts, but the road from legitimate suspicion to rampant paranoia is very much shorter than we think. Something is wrong here, Mr. Worf. I don't like what we have become!" (Worf - Picard: The exchange in the ready room begins with this)
From Memory Alpha: In the Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion Jeri Taylor names this episode's script as the one she was most proud of. This is one of Michael Dorn's two favorite TNG episodes, the other being "The Offspring".
Rating: 8 (Chris)

 

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