Star Trek: Discovery

:

Season 1
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
4.5

Mixed or average reviews- based on 1324 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 527 out of 1324
  2. Mixed: 158 out of 1324
  3. Negative: 639 out of 1324
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  1. FansAreTrolls
    Oct 11, 2017
    9
    I'm tired of fans who are trashing this show for absolutely no reason other than the fact that this is a little different from the Treks we've seen in the past. I'm tired of people who think they own the legacy of Trek just because they did a cosplay at a convention or watched all 7 seasons of every Star Trek series. I'm tired of the whiny **** in the Trek community who stifle creativityI'm tired of fans who are trashing this show for absolutely no reason other than the fact that this is a little different from the Treks we've seen in the past. I'm tired of people who think they own the legacy of Trek just because they did a cosplay at a convention or watched all 7 seasons of every Star Trek series. I'm tired of the whiny **** in the Trek community who stifle creativity and innovation just because this show doesn't conform to their rigid and frankly inane standards of what Trek can or cannot be. It literally makes me laugh when I read comments like "Trek is supposed to be more humanist and optimistic because there is no conflict in the future since there is no money or hunger and the universe is one big happy jolly utopia". That is just BS. Have these people even seen Star Trek? Trek is not about a bunch of pencil pushers in a space ship marveling at the amount of cubic feet of iron ore in a comet. Trek is about the vastness of space challenging the limits of human psychology, human constructs about what does or does not constitute 'order' in the universe, human thought, and even human morality. From ToS to DS9, the best episodes/movies have always been about the internal conflicts of the characters, juxtaposed against the external conflicts of the vast unknown they are placed in, and how the characters navigate through this in order to arrive at a greater understanding of themselves as well as the universe at large. Worf vs Picard in First Contact. Kirk vs Spock in Amok Time. Picard vs Sisko in the DS9 pilot. The Militaristic Cardassians vs the Spiritual (and somewhat obscurantist) Bajorans. The Ba'ku vs the Son'a. Picard's diplomacy vs the blood feuds of the Klingon Empire. The collective of the Borg vs the individuality of humanity. That is the Star Trek I know. And this show takes that to the next level. Yes this Trek is darker than the rest. But that is awesome. It's like Trek finally graduated from its PG rating into more mature themes so that it can ask the tougher, more troubling questions. This tone also makes sense given that it's exploring the formative years of the federation. And this tone makes much more sense in the serialized format where you want to deeply explore the evolution of characters as we progress through the seasons.

    A couple things that could improve though - better exposition with less direct storytelling, but I expect that will improve as the characters settle into their roles moving forward.

    P.S. I'm a long time fan myself and have seen all the previous series. For the record I'm not a particular fan of the new JJ-verse. But the only common thread between the recent movies and Discovery is the visual style and special effects - which are frankly the best I've ever seen in a Trek TV series.    … Expand
  2. myneesh
    Dec 20, 2017
    9
    Wasn't sure what to expect with this new Star Trek series.
    Pleasantly surprised.
    Love the visuals, the tone and the characters
    I look forward to each new episode!.
  3. OldHippy
    Jan 29, 2018
    9
    Every first season of Star Trek, in any of the series, is usually a fairly laughable version of what every series eventually became. Ok, maybe the Enterprise series never really got there, but the rest follow that trend. So far I find Discovery one of the better first seasons, and it seems to be getting better as the season progresses.
  4. NeilDunford
    Jan 29, 2018
    9
    I am not a very sophisticated viewer--of anything. After many, many years, for me, "good" or "not good" comes down to whether I think about a movie or a show the next day. Ninety nine percent of what I watch, on TV or in a movie theatre, goes in one ear and out the other.

    Discovery got off to a slow start for me and I don't strongly disagree with many of the negative reviews. Its    I am not a very sophisticated viewer--of anything. After many, many years, for me, "good" or "not good" comes down to whether I think about a movie or a show the next day. Ninety nine percent of what I watch, on TV or in a movie theatre, goes in one ear and out the other.

    Discovery got off to a slow start for me and I don't strongly disagree with many of the negative reviews. Its format and pace are very different from past versions of Trek--I have mostly enjoyed the different series but I wouldn't qualify as a Trekkie. However, after about the 3rd episode of Discovery, I can't wait for the following week's episode. The last couple of episodes have left me at the edge of my chair counting down the days until the next installment. I wouldn't have said Bravo in months, but, I will now. Take it or leave it. But if you are considering diving in...prepare yourself to persevere through the first few episode, then, get ready for a fun ride.    … Expand
  5. Byronotron
    Feb 6, 2018
    9
    Star Trek: Discovery is absolutely Star Trek. Every new show has been derided by fans, only to later find their footing and bring in new fans, this show is no different. What is different is that unlike every single other Star Trek show besides TOS, season one is great. It has little stumbles, being a bit too dour compared to the lofty ideals it upholds later in the season, but it gives usStar Trek: Discovery is absolutely Star Trek. Every new show has been derided by fans, only to later find their footing and bring in new fans, this show is no different. What is different is that unlike every single other Star Trek show besides TOS, season one is great. It has little stumbles, being a bit too dour compared to the lofty ideals it upholds later in the season, but it gives us something that few Star Trek shows have, a season long narrative with themes that permeate and surround the show, giving each individual episode more context and meaning to the larger story, which actually works very well for this franchise. Aside from that the acting, special effects, VFX, costumes, sound design, music, direction are all incredible. The writing takes a noticeable and dramatic climb in quality at the end of the first half of the season, and continues into some truly epic and must see sci-fi in the second half. This show WILL go down as another classic sci-if and Star Trek shows, while bringing in a lot of new and younger fans. Long Live the Discovery.… Expand
  6. AlbinoAlligator
    Feb 7, 2018
    9
    Disco polarized many at first because it seemed to discard many of the principles that made people love Star Trek. Part of this was a move toward a more narrative based format rather than the very episodic nature of classic Star Trek, which had a side effect; it took quite some time for the true foundations of the show to emerge. You might find yourself questioning the show a lot in theDisco polarized many at first because it seemed to discard many of the principles that made people love Star Trek. Part of this was a move toward a more narrative based format rather than the very episodic nature of classic Star Trek, which had a side effect; it took quite some time for the true foundations of the show to emerge. You might find yourself questioning the show a lot in the first half of the first season, but as it unwravels and twists and turns then all of a sudden you begin to believe and find yourself both shocked and impressed in equal measure at the detail and direction the show has taken. The production qualities are fantastic, and it is really worth sticking with. Don't judge it on just the first 4-5 episodes. All good stories have to spend time establishing themselves.… Expand
  7. MimiDuck
    Feb 7, 2018
    9
    A wonderful return to form for Star Trek! It is a very modern, brilliantly paced show that sticks to some of the themes that made old Trek interesting - ethical quandaries, fantastic scenarios, and complex characters. The core cast is fantastic and genuinely believable as real people (except for one unusual choice late in the first season).

    It is definitely on the soft side of scifi (as    A wonderful return to form for Star Trek! It is a very modern, brilliantly paced show that sticks to some of the themes that made old Trek interesting - ethical quandaries, fantastic scenarios, and complex characters. The core cast is fantastic and genuinely believable as real people (except for one unusual choice late in the first season).

    It is definitely on the soft side of scifi (as opposed to, say, The Expanse) - about the same as Next Generation, but this works very well for exploring a wide range of plots.    … Expand
  8. jipi050
    Jan 24, 2019
    9
    Defenetly a show with some growing pains, given the changes behind the scenes, but all things considered they still managed to come out with a quality product. Jason Isaacs is perfect for the role, Stamets and Tilly bring some humanity to the show.

    I'm just glad to have Trek back on TV! :)
  9. RADErX4
    Apr 20, 2019
    9
    It's a shame that the anti-CBS crowd decided to vote bomb this show because it's the best first season, consistency-wise in the franchise's history.
  10. TjC_ocean
    Apr 29, 2019
    9
    I waited until the end of the second season to write a review. I too at times felt like the show was moving in new directions and was quite frankly unsure where it was going. I enjoyed the ride so far. I thought the second season rebounded from the lengthy attempts at character building and storyline development. This is natural for new shows...the star trek audience is probably a littleI waited until the end of the second season to write a review. I too at times felt like the show was moving in new directions and was quite frankly unsure where it was going. I enjoyed the ride so far. I thought the second season rebounded from the lengthy attempts at character building and storyline development. This is natural for new shows...the star trek audience is probably a little less patient with that sort of development given the history of the franchise.

    I am not a fan of the idea that you have to remain loyal to any franchise. If you can't grow and explore then what's the use. If the same old stuff worked for today's audience it would still be on TV and we wouldn't be talking about a new series but rather a continuation of Star Trek TNG, Voyager, DS9, albeit a prequel and not a sequel, given the timeline. I am okay with the show being creative, being bold, and taking the franchise where no fan has gone before (pun intended)!

    I enjoyed every single Star Trek series, each movie, and each special on the topic. Star Trek Discovery is no exception. Roddenberry was master at dealing with the issues, challenges, and complex emotional societal quandaries of his time. Star Trek Discovery should be equally bold. I still do think the franchise has done a poor job in managing the look and consistency of the Klingons over the years and through several series. This new Klingon look caught me off guard at first. They need to explain how we get from here to Worf by way of what we saw in the original Kirk series...genetic manipulation, interbreeding, Eugenics, or something else...just help us tie it all together.

    Overall, the show is excellent...my only issue is all this talk about characters leaving the show...are you kidding me!!! Just when you got to love the dynamics of Pike and his crew, Philippa Georgiou, Spock, Spock's family, Michael, Stamets, Tilly, Klingon L'Rell, and others there is talk that several folks are not returning. That would be a mistake in my view. The Star Trek community needs both Discovery and the Pike evolution in my view. If that is being explored as a separate series then fine but to just stop it altogether is ridiculous.

    Do more time travel, do more cross-over, do more Borg (please), and do less soap opera-like material and explore a world where Star Trek Discovery can be the new science lab for kids learning physics, chemistry, biology, and such. I still recall how the original Spock's analysis of a silicon-based life form (discovered in a cave on some planet) compared to carbon-based life forms, helped me on a chemistry test. You have a whole new generation of kids wanting to learn about computer coding, AI, data science, space travel, aliens on other worlds, etc. Spend time teaching them how you got to "Computer" and the science behind that mastery of integrated technology that Trekkies take for granted as a talking problem solver. Show them how do you create hollow deck technology we saw in TNG, Voyager, and DS9, how you formed the Federation of planets, debate the evidence of the famed The Hatona Council, challenge Sitchen, Erich von Däniken, and others...make Star Trek the experimental imagination on where so many are afraid to go...you can do it...you are off to a great start so far...Don't let biased skeptics stuck in the past slow you down!!!    … Expand
  11. sarichj
    Feb 14, 2018
    8
    I can understand why some are sceptical and I see that it departs in major ways from the franchise. But I feel the hatred is way over the top. I think the early episodes were weak and there are some problems with the pacing of the series as a whole, but I think it slowly gets better as it goes. The last few episodes were what won me over (ep15). They reestablish the importance ofI can understand why some are sceptical and I see that it departs in major ways from the franchise. But I feel the hatred is way over the top. I think the early episodes were weak and there are some problems with the pacing of the series as a whole, but I think it slowly gets better as it goes. The last few episodes were what won me over (ep15). They reestablish the importance of Federation regulations and principles. I think its now really well setup to a more traditional trek format. BIGGEST GRIPE - I don't really like what they have done to the Klingons - just a little too much of a departure from the lore established in TNG and DS9.… Expand
  12. HarryNuggets
    Oct 9, 2017
    8
    Well done lads, looks good, and so far, that being the first three episodes, so good. It looks a bit grittier than the previous series and a bit darker in terms of storyline.
  13. rootz
    Oct 16, 2018
    8
    Why the hell they always have to change the look of the Klingons ? This is wrong ...They not look like that !! They look like in Deep Space Nine . They are like that !!! In Star Trek Discovery you dont see the emotions of the Klingons and they are not honorable. What a disaster !! They are just standing in a room every time and whining about each other . You dont see them in the BirdsWhy the hell they always have to change the look of the Klingons ? This is wrong ...They not look like that !! They look like in Deep Space Nine . They are like that !!! In Star Trek Discovery you dont see the emotions of the Klingons and they are not honorable. What a disaster !! They are just standing in a room every time and whining about each other . You dont see them in the Birds of Prey anymore ...They give this SF the wrong name ! But i am so crazy about sci fi....Still like this ....but actually its a complete different time line what is not running synchrone with the real Star Trek universe .… Expand
  14. JLC
    Sep 30, 2017
    8
    The only problem was the visual (Lens Flares and the battle scenes).
    The characters were amazing, and the script was fine and well written
    If you consider the visual as canon, you wont like it.
    If you consider only the history, well...you'll be rewarded.

    3/4
  15. TheFilmFanatic
    Apr 20, 2018
    8
    This season of Star Trek: Discovery is an action-heavy, sci-fi adventure that takes the best of both worlds mixing the style of the new Star Trek films with the tone of older Star Trek shows. Despite some uneven pacing and questionable continuity, the characters are strong enough to carry this show out of the darkness and beyond.
  16. Eliasc
    Nov 14, 2017
    8
    Pay attention to the negative reviews. All are accurate criticisms. We can only hope that the next revival of Star Trek does not get it so very very wrong. The series has great CGI and valiant attempts by the cast by nothing can save this poorly conceived show. Blame the show runners and producers for this terrible series and watch 'The Orville' instead. The wonder is how so many criticsPay attention to the negative reviews. All are accurate criticisms. We can only hope that the next revival of Star Trek does not get it so very very wrong. The series has great CGI and valiant attempts by the cast by nothing can save this poorly conceived show. Blame the show runners and producers for this terrible series and watch 'The Orville' instead. The wonder is how so many critics could get it so wrong. This is NOT Star Trek. The only reason I do not rate this series a 'zero' is that later episodes are actually good, though far removed from the optimism of the original TOS, TNG, etc series'. This new version will not inspire viewers to be optimistic of the future and study science and engineering as the originals did so admirably.
    UPDATE: 11/14/17 - A general rule of television is to never review a tv series until it has found its footing. This usually happened after the production and acting teams have worked together through at least 6 episodes. STD has reached that point and has made an astonishing turnaround. The last few episode of the first half season has returned to what made TOS so good - a compelling plot and great character development. Too bad the series did not start with episode 4 instead of the abysmal first three episodes. STD has become a series worth your time. It is still too bad that CBS has placed it behind a paywall.    … Expand
  17. RosstheBoss0
    Sep 27, 2017
    8
    (Episode 1 & 2)

    Star Trek Discovery sets a much more dramatic viewing than any series before, while not having much in common with earlier series' of which I'm fond, I still found things to like. So far, this season appears to be a more gritty and conflict filled series than previous series' which I can get behind, though I admit I do miss the old style. One thing I've noticed to be    (Episode 1 & 2)

    Star Trek Discovery sets a much more dramatic viewing than any series before, while not having much in common with earlier series' of which I'm fond, I still found things to like.
    So far, this season appears to be a more gritty and conflict filled series than previous series' which I can get behind, though I admit I do miss the old style.

    One thing I've noticed to be cautious about within the critic reviews and in contrast, the
    user reviews are the reasons for their respective high and low scores. Critics are giving the series high praise for its depiction of women in authority positions and women of colour, while this is not a bad thing by any means I feel the praising of such things to be counter-active. The point of Star Trek and in general, is things like Race/Orientation should not matter, highlighting things like race only provides reason to question why they are praising it, rather than just taking it as is. In contrast many reviews from users are more like protest scores, this series is unusual for Star Trek, far higher budget and is more story driven, be careful when considering the score of this series as so far, it is promising.

    Overall however the first two episodes have been very interesting and look forward to know what comes next with cautious-optimism.    … Expand
  18. Injun
    Nov 18, 2017
    8
    I didn't like it to begin with but it has grown on me.

    People's expectations are high because it's Star Trek but surely they won't make it a s bad as 'Enterprise' and I'm hoping it will continue to improve and be around for quite a few seasons
  19. elyh
    Sep 27, 2017
    8
    I loved the first two episodes! I really don't get why the series is getting so much hate the production values are off the charts. People need to relax and enjoy stuff.
  20. Muzwon
    Mar 19, 2019
    8
    Absolutely loving this show. I don’t really get the excess of negative teviews and suspect they are based on sentimentality and a sense of fandom entitlement. The acting, plot line and visual effects are all high quality and as someone who is not a historical fan of the genre I think this is a great gateway drug to the rest of the franchise.
  21. GunnerMcDagget
    Sep 25, 2017
    8
    10 minutes in I was ready to throw this show in the bin. It was horribly uncomfortable to watch. Awkward dialogue, misdirected attempts at humour, some of the worst acting I've seen. I'd forgive most people for giving up in the first 10 minutes as I almost did and I love Star Trek. But I gave it a chance.

    The rest of the first half of the prologue improved, not a lot though. There was a    10 minutes in I was ready to throw this show in the bin. It was horribly uncomfortable to watch. Awkward dialogue, misdirected attempts at humour, some of the worst acting I've seen. I'd forgive most people for giving up in the first 10 minutes as I almost did and I love Star Trek. But I gave it a chance.

    The rest of the first half of the prologue improved, not a lot though. There was a little injection of back story to help understand the driving force for the decisions of the main character. All in all it was rather boring and felt like a strain to watch. But I fought on.

    The end of the first part raised some interest. I was somewhat curious to see what happened next. Fortunately it didn't take long into the second part to realise that the entire first half of the prologue was a troll. It seems like it is only there to convince you that this will be a terrible show. The ensuing conflicts of allies and enemies turned the show from a total failure to something I genuinely wanted to watch. By the end of the prologue I was charged. I wanted more.

    But at this stage it's hard to judge. Where will the show go from here?

    By the end of the prologue everything has changed and the show is much better for it. If they can build on this formula then this could be a very special show. If it falls back into the style of the start of the prologue then the show won't last a season.    … Expand
  22. jstdude
    Apr 20, 2019
    8
    I wish it would have more exploration and encounters with new alien species instead of the ongoing onslaught of action. That said, I am happy that the Star Trek story continues and pulls in some new viewers.
  23. Bibliographer
    Sep 25, 2017
    8
    Off to a good, if slightly uneven, start, the new Trek holds a lot of promise. Good character and a good story, along with a lot of care or the visuals, will keep me coming back -- at least for a while.
  24. skaz001
    Feb 11, 2018
    8
    As the season has worn on, it's become a better show. I noticed that most of the bad scores were from earlier in the season. The majority of those that have watched the entire season have enjoyed it. As one fellow trekker told me, it grew on me.
  25. Naessarne
    Oct 10, 2017
    8
    The first two 'pilot' episodes were woeful. I think it was because there was too much similarity in the characters being that the main character Michael, the Captain and the science officer chap were all quite dry...now, four episodes in with the introduction of a ship full of seriously emo humans, particularly the new Captain, there is much better scope for dialogue etc to improve. LikingThe first two 'pilot' episodes were woeful. I think it was because there was too much similarity in the characters being that the main character Michael, the Captain and the science officer chap were all quite dry...now, four episodes in with the introduction of a ship full of seriously emo humans, particularly the new Captain, there is much better scope for dialogue etc to improve. Liking the whole 'war is hell' theme and the plot is starting to develop. Also...its basically Brexit in space with the UK as the Klingons.… Expand
  26. RogieSantos
    Nov 19, 2017
    8
    Despite a few hiccups here and there, I've really been enjoying the re-imagining of the Star Trek universe. While I can acknowledge some of the liberties the show has taken with character timelines and connections, I believe the show goes beyond all that in a refreshing direction. I'm really looking forward to deeper character arcs as the show moves forward. Hey guys, there's a new Star Trek!
  27. nysplendor
    Sep 24, 2017
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is based on the first 2 episodes. I don't like being forced into a subscription service, but I don't fault the show for that. It will hopefully last far longer than this inconvenience. As a Trek show, I am pleasantly surprised. I wanted a new episodic TNG and I am still disappointed this show is a character driven narrative, but so far, I find the main character and the Klingons remarkably deep. Vulcan adoption has been long a feature of the universe, but this background story so far seems fresh. I also found the Klingon/Federation conflict pretty spot on. There's a rich appreciation of Klingon honor and brutality, and a legitimate understanding that the Federation presents a real threat to their group identity. The Federation is a little more one-note--the leaders are naïve and want to negotiate and no one properly understands the Klingons' motivations. So, all in all, I'm looking forward to where it goes.… Expand
  28. vilthean
    Sep 25, 2017
    8
    A promising start, despite all the hate from people who apparently forgot how much TNG changed trek compared to TOS (and how much hate it received back then as well). A modern-looking, intriguing show with much star trek in it, as well as many things of its own. Remains to be seen which way will it go from here.
  29. Hausner85
    Sep 25, 2017
    8
    I like it. Off to a good start. I like the characters i don't have problem with lead woman. We will see where it will go from here. And to all "Trekkies" complaining that it isn't "pure enough", "doesn't stick to the canon", "they change the designs""it's to dark" and all those complains stop whining... This is a FICTION and we are allowed to change it. If you want to watch Start TrekI like it. Off to a good start. I like the characters i don't have problem with lead woman. We will see where it will go from here. And to all "Trekkies" complaining that it isn't "pure enough", "doesn't stick to the canon", "they change the designs""it's to dark" and all those complains stop whining... This is a FICTION and we are allowed to change it. If you want to watch Start Trek like the Originals go watch the Originals. What the point of making something that is exactly like the thing that already exist? It like with book adaptations. If they don't present at least a little different approach what the point of doing exactly the same thing. Want to relive it read it once more. I want to see new adaption and ideas, i already know the old. And let's be honest you think that in old series they had all races looking the same what an intended idea or result of technical limitations? The fact that most races are humanoid is already annoying, all of them looking like humans in makes is plain stupid and could be only tolerated when we couldn't do better.… Expand
  30. Strykenine
    Sep 28, 2017
    8
    I picked up CBS all access just for Star Trek, and while I am not sure weather this was the right purchase, it feels like a promising beginning. I have been a Star Trek fan since the release of TNG back in '87 (I was 6) and I remember the first time I watched The Best of Both Worlds. That was a little taste of what Star Trek could be, and I have watched just about anything 'Star Trek'I picked up CBS all access just for Star Trek, and while I am not sure weather this was the right purchase, it feels like a promising beginning. I have been a Star Trek fan since the release of TNG back in '87 (I was 6) and I remember the first time I watched The Best of Both Worlds. That was a little taste of what Star Trek could be, and I have watched just about anything 'Star Trek' related since then. I even like the Abramsverse-Trek, but I feel like those movies will eventually be a side-note in Trek history. Television is where this franchise belongs, due to the ability to tell long-form stories and explore themes and topics both political and scientific that don't necessarily need to have 100-million dollar budgets to be interesting.

    'The Vulcan Hello' isn't quite 'The Best of Both Worlds' and due to the chaotic nature of the first few episodes, it's hard to tell if there will be strong, memorable characters like Picard, Q or Data. That being said, I like the main character thus far and I think that depending on where they take her, this could be a really good series. I thought that shoehorning in Sarek was a bit of a stretch, and it added almost nothing plot-wise, but I will reserve judgement for how that choice plays out. If they wanted to have her be a human-raised-by-Vulcans, they didn't have to include him. That feels forced.

    Luckily, almost nothing else does. The Klingons are far more distinct than they were in TNG, and I like them. They are certainly different, but one of my favorite TOS films was 'The Undiscovered Country' where General Chang was essentially Christopher Plummer with no makeup. I guess my point is that the looks don't spoil anything, but I hope they decide to develop the Klingons into something distinct. It looks like this season will focus on the Klingons, and I'm okay with that.

    One other thing - Star Trek has always needed conflict. It's going to be interesting to see how an organization like the Federation responds to provocation by an enemy that is afraid of them, and with good reason. The Federation usually looks good, but we sometimes forget to think that what looks good from our side of the fence isn't necessarily what looks good to everyone. The Klingon war can be that kind of conflict, I think, where not only is there combat (glorious combat!) but there can be a philosophical presentation of multi-cultural representative nations vs monocultural systems. Sound relevant?

    Long story short, I liked these episodes. I don't watch much television, despite having Netflix and Amazon Prime as well as this CBS all-access. None of the other shows on CBS look that appealing, and quite a few of them actually look bad outright (Seal Team? Really?) but here is hoping that Star Trek makes it worthwhile. If it isn't, I won't be renewing for Season 2.    … Expand
  31. cwayne
    Oct 3, 2017
    8
    While there are things that i don't like about the show (in particular, the mushroom FTL and the futuristic styling of the ship's interior) overall I think it is the most fun ST since TOS. Sonequa Martin-Green is great as the main character. The show is a little darker and grittier that previous ST shows, even more so than DS9. But we have to wait to see if they have any wonderousWhile there are things that i don't like about the show (in particular, the mushroom FTL and the futuristic styling of the ship's interior) overall I think it is the most fun ST since TOS. Sonequa Martin-Green is great as the main character. The show is a little darker and grittier that previous ST shows, even more so than DS9. But we have to wait to see if they have any wonderous explorations. At least i don't expect too many god-like aliens to be taking over the ship each episode.… Expand
  32. Honan
    Oct 6, 2017
    8
    A new story with an interesting theme. I really did not go into this show expecting to like it, I just started re-watching DS9. But wow. It looks like it will have a constant story like instead of "bad guy / funny event of the week" and it looks like it will do more to explore the reason starfleets "Science vessels" out gun just about everything in space. I'm looking forward to more ofA new story with an interesting theme. I really did not go into this show expecting to like it, I just started re-watching DS9. But wow. It looks like it will have a constant story like instead of "bad guy / funny event of the week" and it looks like it will do more to explore the reason starfleets "Science vessels" out gun just about everything in space. I'm looking forward to more of this story. HOWEVER I must admit I did not like what they did with the Klingons at all. Did not like the look, or the speech style. These are not the Klingons I love at all.… Expand
  33. YodaOldBoy
    Jun 3, 2018
    8
    The show starts off fairly slow over the first few episodes, I found. It didn't grab me, but it also wasn't uninteresting, just... lacking in purpose, I suppose. Then things get moving a bit, and by what was the Holiday break, the show turns amazing! Things come together in unexpected fashions, plots twists just dazzle you and the stories are better than ever. During the final episode, IThe show starts off fairly slow over the first few episodes, I found. It didn't grab me, but it also wasn't uninteresting, just... lacking in purpose, I suppose. Then things get moving a bit, and by what was the Holiday break, the show turns amazing! Things come together in unexpected fashions, plots twists just dazzle you and the stories are better than ever. During the final episode, I can say that it finally felt like Star Trek. So for a "die hard Trekkie", this might be disappointing, as it doesn't feel like you're watching Star Trek for most of the season. But if you want good TV and a new entry into the Star Trek universe, this will fill your share. (But those new Klingons are ugly...)… Expand
  34. runeborsjo
    Jan 29, 2018
    8
    Discovery is another one of those scifi IPs that received "a certain label" by fanboys before it even aired the first episode. I admit I was highly skeptical of this show before it aired - but luckily my fears amounted to nothing and I was proven wrong. I will agree it doesn't "feel like Star Trek" exactly, but then when people identify that "feeling" it seems to be associated with camp,Discovery is another one of those scifi IPs that received "a certain label" by fanboys before it even aired the first episode. I admit I was highly skeptical of this show before it aired - but luckily my fears amounted to nothing and I was proven wrong. I will agree it doesn't "feel like Star Trek" exactly, but then when people identify that "feeling" it seems to be associated with camp, wooden acting and poor effects. This is not your dad's Star Trek. It's also not the millenial-SJW Star Trek many claim it to be. This is a modern, sleek, production, for recruiting new audiences and old fans capable of appreciating change which is at least mostly for the better.… Expand
  35. prider90
    Jan 31, 2018
    8
    + for the effects
    + for the setting
    - didn't gave me that star trek feeling.
    - plot needs to be more complex
    Overall OK to watch
  36. ShaakTi
    Feb 6, 2018
    8
    This was much better than I was prepared for. I will admit my husband and I were skeptical, but we ended up really enjoying it. We are long time Star Trek fans, and I cannot believe how much hate it's been getting. One main thing we had a hard time with was the klingons. Their style is so different compared to previous incarnations. However, if you can get over that, and take Discovery atThis was much better than I was prepared for. I will admit my husband and I were skeptical, but we ended up really enjoying it. We are long time Star Trek fans, and I cannot believe how much hate it's been getting. One main thing we had a hard time with was the klingons. Their style is so different compared to previous incarnations. However, if you can get over that, and take Discovery at it's face for what it is, I think you will be surprised.… Expand
  37. katkatkat9
    Feb 18, 2020
    8
    I'm a bit late to the party....but having a great time. This is not much like past series - maybe more akin to the newer Battlestar Galactica - but has a lot of entertainment value. Is is flawed? Yes, the way they've done the Klingons is distracting. Yes Burham is a bit wooden. After the first couple episodes, this will make sense and the show really takes off with some fun plotI'm a bit late to the party....but having a great time. This is not much like past series - maybe more akin to the newer Battlestar Galactica - but has a lot of entertainment value. Is is flawed? Yes, the way they've done the Klingons is distracting. Yes Burham is a bit wooden. After the first couple episodes, this will make sense and the show really takes off with some fun plot twists. It may be a bit violent/edgy for some, but I would rank it above Enterprise, DS9 and Voyager (though not better than TOS or TNG). Cool visual effects too. After bingeing season 1 I'm looking forward to season 2.… Expand
  38. kheas
    Nov 15, 2017
    7
    Star Trek Discovery is a series with an identity crisis. Much like it’s lead character, Michael Burnham, it is trying to live between two worlds and succeeding completely at neither of them. for more: https://latetothegame.blog/2017/11/15/star-trek-discovery-season-1-part-one-full-review/ Just a fair warning, the way forward is dark and full of spoilers so go back if you want to remainStar Trek Discovery is a series with an identity crisis. Much like it’s lead character, Michael Burnham, it is trying to live between two worlds and succeeding completely at neither of them. for more: https://latetothegame.blog/2017/11/15/star-trek-discovery-season-1-part-one-full-review/ Just a fair warning, the way forward is dark and full of spoilers so go back if you want to remain ‘pure’.… Expand
  39. Vasot
    Sep 28, 2017
    7
    From the 2 episodes that i have watched so far it's not the greatest Star Trek ever but it's not as bad either as some negative people claim around here. The action and the battles are great and for a series the cinematography is better from most movies i have watched. There are only 2 episodes released so far so it's very early to make final assumptions about this show. The only problemFrom the 2 episodes that i have watched so far it's not the greatest Star Trek ever but it's not as bad either as some negative people claim around here. The action and the battles are great and for a series the cinematography is better from most movies i have watched. There are only 2 episodes released so far so it's very early to make final assumptions about this show. The only problem for me is the leftist and SWJ trash ideologies that they have put into the show… Expand
  40. WNxWind
    Sep 24, 2017
    7
    Had the pleasure of attending the red carpet premiere. The budget seems as if it was a film per episode. This is an incredible addition to the Star Trek Universe.
  41. mech
    Sep 28, 2017
    7
    As a long time Star Trek fan I came with an open mind. Unfortunately this show is really stupid so far.

    An uncontrollable starfleet first officer that acts like an emo teenager (she is supposed to have been brought up by Vulcans, lol) looks completely out of place. Kilngons are super annoying with their long-winded caveman speeches. Star Trek was always more on the philosophical    As a long time Star Trek fan I came with an open mind. Unfortunately this show is really stupid so far.

    An uncontrollable starfleet first officer that acts like an emo teenager (she is supposed to have been brought up by Vulcans, lol) looks completely out of place.

    Kilngons are super annoying with their long-winded caveman speeches.

    Star Trek was always more on the philosophical side and less pew pew bang bang. This one is the opposite.    … Expand
  42. MonkeyKing1969
    Oct 6, 2017
    7
    I am simply not seeing on the screen what some critic see. We are three shows in and very little of this show feels like Star Trek and ist is actually rather frighting that in teh current political and social climate CBS when with such a dour, dire, and un-optimistic show. This is light millennia away from being a good TV show, but it is all we will get. I hope they can turn thisI am simply not seeing on the screen what some critic see. We are three shows in and very little of this show feels like Star Trek and ist is actually rather frighting that in teh current political and social climate CBS when with such a dour, dire, and un-optimistic show. This is light millennia away from being a good TV show, but it is all we will get. I hope they can turn this around; yet, I know they won't.… Expand
  43. DukeJon
    Oct 3, 2017
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I thought the first two episodes were pretty poor. Firstly there was far too much talking. Oh there's a probe with weapon damage and a mysterious object on our scanner. Let's all stand around talking about it. An large enemy ship has just appeared right in front of us. Time for a long chat with my boss. Loads of enemy ships have just arrived. Let's line up all our ships right in front of theirs then have a big meeting about it.

    The scenes with the klingons were long and dull. They didn't look or behave anything like the klingons I am familiar with; their language was slow and tiresome to listen to. They should have switched to english rather than have us read all those subtitles. The reference to skin color/race was unsubtle to say the least. Lots of scenes were ripped from other shows; the spacesuit trip to discover an object (from star trek the motion picture), crossing space from the brig to an escape hatch (from 2001 a space oddysey, though in that movie it was at least plausible), "we haven't heard from the enemy in a hundred years" from battlestar galactica. Starfleet fleet tactics seem to be "line up all your ships at point blank range in front of the enemy and wait for them to take the first shot". The main character was ice cold like a vulcan one minute then a rash hotheaded human the rest. She ran about shouting like a hormonal teenager, not a disciplined starfleet officer. I found her quite unlikeable, a critical flaw for a show like this. Michelle Yeoh phoned it in. The only interesting character was Sari. Everyone else was dumb; like the crews in the recent alien movies they have only their own stupidity to blame for their deaths. My main gripe; why does the main female character have a male first name? Episode three didn't really improve things. I like the whole "derelict ship" vibe to this episode but why would they allow a convicted mutineer to wander around a top secret research ship without any handcuffs? The main character pretty much comes and goes as she pleases, she's either being thrown in the brig or being lectures on how wonderful she is. Hand me the sick bag! Another thing; calling an episode "battle of the binary stars" is a bit of a spoiler, don't you think?

    On the plus side production values were high and the ships look cool. It usually annoys me how they always have to shoehorn Sarek into a show but they used him well this time.    … Expand
  44. Shekky
    Nov 20, 2017
    7
    I'm a fan of the show I'm a long time star trek fan and have for the most part enjoyed the series thus far. I'm not a fan of these changes they have made to how Klingon look. pretty sure they could have made a better attempt at reimaging the traditional Klingon look from the original star trek movies to the shows. Thats my only real complaint about the show.
  45. mrmonster
    Jul 23, 2019
    7
    It's fine. It's nothing mind blowing or special, but if you have this particular streaming service, it's worth watching, or at least worth giving a shot.
  46. papajohns
    Jul 10, 2018
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. While it is disappointing that the science is taking a back seat to the character drama, but that may be a symptom of today's TV expectations. Overall i think the show is entertaining and visually stunning. There are many moments that are absolutely awesome(Georgiou's conversation with Sarek at the end was a wonderful juxtaposition of ideologies), but there are many that just dont quite hit the mark(Tyler and Burnham's "romance" was completely unconvincing).

    It's very obvious that the show was written from the perspective of modern successful shows. Lots of GoT deaths and plot twists dont automatically make it good. However, it is a fresh new take on the Star Trek universe and i think it is a good starting point for a modern show. Let's not forget, almost every first season of Trek is EXTREMELY rough.    … Expand
  47. ComandanteCobra
    Mar 25, 2019
    7
    Overall is ok...it can be better but it's not the worst .
    First bunch of episodes have a strange feeling..something is missing, show is slow and Klingons are different from what I know 'bout them....but improve a lot in lates episodes.
    PROS: Decent mix of personal story, space combat, sci-fi experiment, parallel universes, Starfleet regulations debates and so on... CONS: low on aliens    Overall is ok...it can be better but it's not the worst .
    First bunch of episodes have a strange feeling..something is missing, show is slow and Klingons are different from what I know 'bout them....but improve a lot in lates episodes.
    PROS: Decent mix of personal story, space combat, sci-fi experiment, parallel universes, Starfleet regulations debates and so on...
    CONS: low on aliens numbers for a star trek show, not the most appealing bridge crew out there, lots of liberty with some well known star trek background...a little too much on the non-canon side.    … Expand
  48. DioGren
    Nov 6, 2017
    7
    After 3ep Series i up to 7 (Zero is done) But after 4Ep its 5.
    3Ep -Good Capitan.Good Atmosgering. Good Sientic idea(but not new) yea yea. Good Sientic oficer actor. Good 1-T.
    4Ep - Good moments Captain-Admiral-Spore Master) (Mike and Saru) but badly - traumatic animal, jump after kill klikngon bird (or fater or not jump or jump little and not traumatic animal) Minuses - Badly    After 3ep Series i up to 7 (Zero is done) But after 4Ep its 5.
    3Ep -Good Capitan.Good Atmosgering. Good Sientic idea(but not new) yea yea. Good Sientic oficer actor. Good 1-T.
    4Ep - Good moments Captain-Admiral-Spore Master) (Mike and Saru) but badly - traumatic
    animal, jump after kill klikngon bird (or fater or not jump or jump little and not traumatic animal)
    Minuses - Badly fight presoners,Capitan killed?(order) an draiver Prisones Ship(badly capitan - this is need be a secret)

    8EP - UP my Score 5 to 7.5. Good comonication mision, good astmoshere.

    Minuses 8EP - not save a Ship, this hardcore moments not like to Star Trek. Bad filling litenant and not reaction captain for this situation (his need more interesting for his comands personal)    … Expand
  49. bigbro29
    Sep 25, 2017
    7
    though I will not pay to continue watching this show I will admit I liked the episode I watched of it I had fun watching the action and just having a good time in general I really enjoyed the female lead as well she was fantastic and a good example for young girls and also young boys when looking for a girlfriend her qualities and values are excellent this is a must watch believe me
  50. LaurentV
    Oct 1, 2017
    7
    Finally got around to watching the first two episodes and...we seem to have a winner! Lots of good potential in characters and SFX. I give it a "7" because I do wish the series would stay in line with the young concussed officer's lament "We're Star Fleet. We're explorers, not soldiers". I also find the new design for the Klingons to be baroque (literally) and most...unfortunate. It'sFinally got around to watching the first two episodes and...we seem to have a winner! Lots of good potential in characters and SFX. I give it a "7" because I do wish the series would stay in line with the young concussed officer's lament "We're Star Fleet. We're explorers, not soldiers". I also find the new design for the Klingons to be baroque (literally) and most...unfortunate. It's solid enough otherwise to just pretend it's an eight-hour "action episode" of Star Trek, like "Doomsday Machine" or "Best of Both Worlds"… Expand
  51. Smolenski7
    Sep 24, 2017
    7
    There are several things that make the Star Trek "enterprise" fantastic. Among those is the witty family like banter between crew members, cool futuristic tech, action, depth of characters, and of course plot lines. Although I've only seen the first episode of Star Trek: Discovery, which means I'm still holding out hope, so far this current incarnation of Gene Roddenberry's baby has itsThere are several things that make the Star Trek "enterprise" fantastic. Among those is the witty family like banter between crew members, cool futuristic tech, action, depth of characters, and of course plot lines. Although I've only seen the first episode of Star Trek: Discovery, which means I'm still holding out hope, so far this current incarnation of Gene Roddenberry's baby has its phaser set to stun. And boy, am I stunned.

    There is one alien science officer who is more afraid and cautious than anything else. He describes himself as being bread to sense oncoming danger and death, which he would like to avoid at all costs. How could he possibly be 3rd in command of a star ship? It doesn't fit.

    The current captain is a small, middle aged Asian women who appears to be more frail than my grandmother....sorry grandma. I can't possibly imagine her in hand-to-hand combat with a chiwawa let alone a Klingon. This is just poor casting, especially when taking into consideration that at this point in the Star Trek universe hand-to-hand combat was much more common than later series like Generations.

    I did like the first officer, Michael Burnham. She is clearly a strong black woman who has been cast to a perfect role. She apparently was raised by Vulcans after her parents were killed by Klingons and still maintains a close relationship with a young Seric. That's cool and connects various other series to this one. Good touch.

    The only technology that kind of stood out to me were several interstellar holographic conversations that took place between the ship and other locations around the Star Trek universe. I did like the classic design of the phase pistols and the sound of the doors opening and closing, both connected well to the original series in my opinion. There was also a space walk, which included some wonderful CGI, to a sleeping Klingon ship. The production value is super.

    The Klingons' look has been directly taken from the most recent movies. Personally, I prefer the look of Klingons from Generations, but there is at least a clear connection between this series and the movies. I can appreciate that effort, i just don't like it.

    So, in short, there are definitely things I didn't like about this one episode, however, i did like the cliff hanger at the end so there is hope. I can also clearly remember the first episodes of Generations 30 years ago, and they were awful. However, changes were made and the series has become a classic. So, please add some depth to the characters, some banter between crew mates, and plot lines that keep us interested and coming back. Don't try to be political, just entertain.    … Expand
  52. Slavens
    Sep 25, 2017
    7
    There was plenty i didnt like but if i was honest there was a lot i didnt like when i watched farpoint the first time. Hopefully the writing and the story gets smoothed out some and the klingons learn to talk fluently. I like the look of the ship, and the modern bridge doesn't bother me like some on here, but cannon is pretty much broken which i kinda knew going into it. I wish theyThere was plenty i didnt like but if i was honest there was a lot i didnt like when i watched farpoint the first time. Hopefully the writing and the story gets smoothed out some and the klingons learn to talk fluently. I like the look of the ship, and the modern bridge doesn't bother me like some on here, but cannon is pretty much broken which i kinda knew going into it. I wish they would have set the series after STNG been fighting klingons for 60 years now. The actors seemed good and the special effects are movie quality so there is that, but i agree with a lot of people that Orville feels more like trek than this does but so long as the ship battles aren't waged with a beastie boys track playing in the background i will hang on for a little while longer.… Expand
  53. edejong
    Sep 27, 2017
    7
    I'm rather surprised by all the negative reviews. It's easy to see TOS and TNG through a lens of humanist perfection and compared with the few top episodes of these series, Discovery falls bleak. However, these two episodes are promising. Interesting characters and good actors, an antagonist that needs to develop. Diplomatic feuds. Possibilities of storylines. Please, give this series aI'm rather surprised by all the negative reviews. It's easy to see TOS and TNG through a lens of humanist perfection and compared with the few top episodes of these series, Discovery falls bleak. However, these two episodes are promising. Interesting characters and good actors, an antagonist that needs to develop. Diplomatic feuds. Possibilities of storylines. Please, give this series a chance. It's definitely better than the last couple of movies. 7/10… Expand
  54. Rissois
    Oct 18, 2017
    7
    I take back my earlier positive review. This show is full of unlikable characters, nonsensical plot devices, and plot holes so vast you could fly a starship through. Great acting and special effects though.
  55. Dont4get2wipe77
    Feb 1, 2018
    7
    I actually liked this show. Nothing special and a bit rough around the edges but I personally enjoyed it. I see mine isn’t a popular opinion and I’m seeing a pattern. This show, and several other recent remakes, revamps or belated sequels would have probably been a lot better received by audiences if they hadn’t cashed in on an existing, beloved franchise. Let’s face it most plot points,I actually liked this show. Nothing special and a bit rough around the edges but I personally enjoyed it. I see mine isn’t a popular opinion and I’m seeing a pattern. This show, and several other recent remakes, revamps or belated sequels would have probably been a lot better received by audiences if they hadn’t cashed in on an existing, beloved franchise. Let’s face it most plot points, set pieces etc etc are pretty much interchangeable within a genre. My point is that if the producers had let the creative team actually come up with their own premises, ideas and characters instead of relentlessly rehashing old ideas then a new and exciting franchise could have been born. Or crashed, burned and fizzled our after one season but you know what? That’s the nature of the beast. That’s what keeps people interested. While I definitely didn’t hate Star Trek discovery personally, I can understand why people feel let down. I honestly think that if the exact same team that made STD (wow unfortunate acronym) had made a new, original sci-fi series it would have been great. Sadly it seems that creative and innovative ideas are growing rarer every year. By the time I die I’ll probably have watched Star Wars episode 87b. And **** hated that one too.… Expand
  56. Fluffybutt
    Nov 13, 2017
    7
    If you're expecting TNG2, it's not. If you want some Sci-Fi entertainment you're on.
    It's certainly not old school star trek. But that being said, it was more enjoyable than i anticipated. So far (ep09). It is more action orientated, much darker.
    Fans of TOS, TNG, VOY or DS9 surely don't get what they want, but reliving the past respectively to pick up where TNG ended - that was 1994 -    If you're expecting TNG2, it's not. If you want some Sci-Fi entertainment you're on.
    It's certainly not old school star trek. But that being said, it was more enjoyable than i anticipated. So far (ep09). It is more action orientated, much darker.
    Fans of TOS, TNG, VOY or DS9 surely don't get what they want, but reliving the past respectively to pick up where TNG ended - that was 1994 - doesn't guarantee CBS a success more than two decades later. Times have chanced, so did TV. While fans being fond of their memories of past great shows, actual re-watching them not so much. Like Xena, X-Files or Hill Street Blues (and many others) it's GoT, Stranger Things and Breaking Bad now. Not that i am saying that ST:D (horrible shortcut by the way) is living up to that standard, it is a fresh take on ST. It got even some of the old feeling in ep07 and ep08.
    It has its flaws, but also potential.    … Expand
  57. BooshAC
    Nov 22, 2017
    7
    I thought the first few episodes of the show were a bit mediocre but the quality has certainly spiked up. The writing and acting has improved drastically. I actually care about these characters now, and am interested to see what happens to them next. Jason Isaacs and Anthony Rapp are particularly great performance wise, and I am very interested to see what happens with Ash Tyler. Plus theI thought the first few episodes of the show were a bit mediocre but the quality has certainly spiked up. The writing and acting has improved drastically. I actually care about these characters now, and am interested to see what happens to them next. Jason Isaacs and Anthony Rapp are particularly great performance wise, and I am very interested to see what happens with Ash Tyler. Plus the sets and special effects are really great - amazing production quality for TV which makes every episode feels like a movie. Hopefully the second half of this season keeps up the quality. I'm honestly shocked by the sheer volume of negative reviews as they really don't feel warranted.… Expand
  58. DavidDaniel
    Dec 22, 2017
    7
    I am not a sucker for space dramas. However, Star Trek: Discovery is a good one. It is often great. If you manage to get passed the first three episodes which are the weakest, you are in for a treat. Things start to get moving from that point on. It's also to be appreciated that the creators opted for a serialized format.
  59. kneedictate
    Jan 9, 2018
    7
    Give it a chance. Ignoring the CBS all-access crap, the show starts off pretty bad but it has started to get much better. I think I'll give it until the end of this season.
  60. Callumunga
    Feb 7, 2018
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Discovery is a decent Sci-Fi show.
    For all the people complaining about the questionable science, watch TOS again and tell me the science makes sense.

    I agree that it is an imperfect show. My gripes toward it range from minor annoyance that in Enterprise they refer to Cloaking Devices as 'Cloaking Devices' but 100 years later, they call them 'invisibility screens, to how they seem to have forgotten what the ships and uniforms are supposed to look like in 10 years.

    This show does not deserves neither a ten nor a zero.    … Expand
  61. veshches
    Mar 31, 2019
    7
    Season 1 is really good until about the last two episodes. It season seems to promise something really different for Star Trek. Characters are not always good guys. Things are complicated and stories do not always conclude nicely at the end of each show. Unfortunately, the writers quickly wrapped everything up at the end of the season with some truly unbelievable plot jumps.
  62. DolphinsTalkMel
    Apr 6, 2019
    7
    I'm gonna start out on a bit of a rant. Kurtzman, Orci and Abrams need to quit smashing all over Roddenberry's legacy. The first two episodes Phillipa Georgiou was calling her first officer "Number One." I'm sorry, but I do not like that. It is disrespectful for one of my childhood idols. I hope Patrick Stewart sues paramount for that. Furthermore, we don't need to hear the classical StarI'm gonna start out on a bit of a rant. Kurtzman, Orci and Abrams need to quit smashing all over Roddenberry's legacy. The first two episodes Phillipa Georgiou was calling her first officer "Number One." I'm sorry, but I do not like that. It is disrespectful for one of my childhood idols. I hope Patrick Stewart sues paramount for that. Furthermore, we don't need to hear the classical Star Trek theme song at the conclusion of the first season. We got enough of that in the reboot films which is another prime example of smashing all over a legacy that started with Gene Roddenberry.
    Now there were some elements that were brought back for this new show that I felt played in very well. Let's start with Ambassador Sarek played by James Frain. I really like the continuation of this character and I could almost argue that Sarek is as big as his son, Spock in the ST universe and deserves his own show. I was particularly impressed with the episode where Sarek is stranded in a nebula and his adoptive daughter, Michael of whom he shares a Katra with is trying to reach him and the story was executed beautifully as we got to get a little more of an origin story between the two characters.
    The second thing is the Mirror Universe. I love the Mirror Universe and you can never go wrong I guess and what they did was make Lorca, the Mirror Lorca that is in a cool in unique storyline with lots of effect and action and fighting. I enjoyed it. But, let's not forget that DS9 smashed all over this storyline in their series and so at this point, I think it is fair to ask "why are they still using this one?" I'm just grateful they didn't drag it out too long.
    What really sells this series for me is the character Michael Burnham played by Sonequa Martin-Green. She is a human femaie that has learned to repress her emotions. In a lot of ways, she reminds me of Seven of Nine from the Voyager series of who I am a huge fan of. Like Seven, Michael is trying to rediscover her humanity in the series. But, Kurtzman needs to be careful. I think towards the end of season 1 , I didn't recognize her anymore. They developed her character too fast.
    Tone it Down and Slow it Down when season 2 comes around. This is the sixth series in the Star Trek franchise. You aren't going to get a pass for just doing Star Trek anymore. I want to see innovation. I want to see more Michael and more Sarek and stay away from Jean-Luc Picard anecdotes.
    Because of the amount of negatives, I settled on a solid 7. I'm intrigued enough to see season 2 because they did do some things properly.    … Expand
  63. Wsg1138
    Mar 2, 2020
    7
    An unorthodox take on Star Trek, but not a bad one. Ignore the most aggressively negative reviews, they only make sense if you think Star Trek from 1966-2005 is a religion, and this is an act of blasphemy. Star Trek fans have a strong tendency to judge new entries largely on their intense love for the past, so almost any new series/film will be judged as a bitter disappointment. The showAn unorthodox take on Star Trek, but not a bad one. Ignore the most aggressively negative reviews, they only make sense if you think Star Trek from 1966-2005 is a religion, and this is an act of blasphemy. Star Trek fans have a strong tendency to judge new entries largely on their intense love for the past, so almost any new series/film will be judged as a bitter disappointment. The show is far too well acted, technically polished, and well-paced to warrant a "0" rating. So such a rating only makes sense if you think such things are irrelevant to quality.

    But that's not to excuse this season's flaws. It starts clunky and ends worse. The Klingons are a tad awkward (and more than a tad dull). The plotting occasionally gets convoluted.

    But the cast is uniformly excellent, and the themes of fractured identity and moral duality tend to shine through. As an action spectacle it can also be quite fun. There were several surprising yet well-foreshadowed plot twists. It was a flawed but mostly good start.

    Now don't even get me started on season 2...    … Expand
  64. spacie
    Feb 7, 2018
    6
    My love for the show mostly stems from it being in-universe Star Trek, not on its own merits. It's kind of too dark, the Klingon stuff is laid on too thick, literally and figuratively, and just in general, war in space gets boring/repetitive after a while. What I do like is it has some solid dramatic moments, I'm becoming invested in some of the characters, and the on screen diversity isMy love for the show mostly stems from it being in-universe Star Trek, not on its own merits. It's kind of too dark, the Klingon stuff is laid on too thick, literally and figuratively, and just in general, war in space gets boring/repetitive after a while. What I do like is it has some solid dramatic moments, I'm becoming invested in some of the characters, and the on screen diversity is great. I'm not going to be one of those "It's not Star Trek!" hacks, but I will say it's not strong sci fi. This show doesn't have me chewing on ideas about the human condition. I miss that.… Expand
  65. pianocomposer
    Sep 25, 2017
    6
    It was pretty to look at, boring to watch, politically correct with the female leads, and hard to believe in terms of how crazy the Burnham character went off the reservation. If I were her captain, I would have shot her. The Sarek character was not interesting without his human wife. The whole thing was just blah. It doesn't help that I can't watch the rest of the show because CBS isIt was pretty to look at, boring to watch, politically correct with the female leads, and hard to believe in terms of how crazy the Burnham character went off the reservation. If I were her captain, I would have shot her. The Sarek character was not interesting without his human wife. The whole thing was just blah. It doesn't help that I can't watch the rest of the show because CBS is hiding it behind an expensive digital pay system (All Access). For all of these reasons, I will never watch another episode.… Expand
  66. Masterhummel
    Sep 26, 2017
    6
    I think there are a lot of people who will enjoy it and i'm happy for them. But the series hasn't grown on me yet. It has the same issues for me the new star trek movies have - everything feels overdesigned and everyone acts like being a freshman on a camping trip with characters all over the place instead of what i would associate with star fleet. Also i'm not very keen on the expositionI think there are a lot of people who will enjoy it and i'm happy for them. But the series hasn't grown on me yet. It has the same issues for me the new star trek movies have - everything feels overdesigned and everyone acts like being a freshman on a camping trip with characters all over the place instead of what i would associate with star fleet. Also i'm not very keen on the exposition dumps being so inorganic.
    But then, the new Star Trek movies where incredibly popular so it's probably just me. I've read a few times that people would've liked it as a new IP - i'm pretty much in that camp right now.    … Expand
  67. Surg3on
    Feb 14, 2019
    6
    The acting is all over the place. The writing is just passable. I think they are attempting to steer the ship more toward 'star trek' and discovering rather than the Star Trek Crew Drama of season 1 so I'm looking forward to things improving.
  68. Diosys
    Sep 24, 2017
    6
    The updates to the visuals and the Klingons were the saving grace of the premiere. Starfleet crew is as unStarfleet as it gets. Too many flashbacks, Katras. Show is really disjointed and needs work. Pacing is way off. Two hour premiere and I didnt connect with a single character, except Yeoh's character, and anyone who watched the premiere understands why thats an issue for the rest of the season.
  69. Bluntage
    Mar 2, 2018
    6
    This show has a lot of potential. I started watching it being very skeptical and would probably give it a 3 or 4 based on the first couple episodes. I'm liking the return to standard non-100 frame per second battle scenes and the whole idea of the spore drive. At this point, the show isn't as good as Enterprise so I can't see it making it past the second season unless it gets a lot better.
  70. Nobilis1984
    Oct 21, 2017
    6
    Criticism to star Trek: Discovery episode 1

    To All only I must say that this is no more star Trek like I know it. Everything feels strange. There are first sometimes the Klingonen. Supposedly it plays 10 years before Spock, Kirk und Co. Why look then so lousy? Why not as well as in the series of 1966-69?? In addition there come the dull characters. Earlier one had Spock, a Data or a    Criticism to star Trek: Discovery episode 1

    To All only I must say that this is no more star Trek like I know it.
    Everything feels strange. There are first sometimes the Klingonen. Supposedly it plays 10 years before Spock, Kirk und Co. Why look then so lousy? Why not as well as in the series of 1966-69??
    In addition there come the dull characters. Earlier one had Spock, a Data or a Seven of Nine they have protruded. Now I see only one pale heap of types.
    It is not also any more about discoveries of foreign species and cultures in all. No one gets the old Klingonen of the attic again.
    But for the end still what of positive. Visually simply first-class made.
    If no star Trek stood, however, before it, it could be any Scifi series.
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Episode 2: See episode 1
    Episode 3-5: Clear increase and improvement with stories and Cast.
    The stories it is entertaining and persuade me.
    The action is clearly driven back.    … Expand
  71. Mooncalfian
    Sep 25, 2017
    6
    Beat by beat reaction:

    They saw their footprints, but not the two figures walking? From space? New opening sequence doesn't feel very Trek at all. Not really feeling it. Banter feels forced. The comment about sarcasm for example. It didn't really flow, and just felt a bit fake. Bernham's character seems to know way more about science than the science officer. Wonder if she'd    Beat by beat reaction:

    They saw their footprints, but not the two figures walking? From space?

    New opening sequence doesn't feel very Trek at all. Not really feeling it.

    Banter feels forced. The comment about sarcasm for example. It didn't really flow, and just felt a bit fake.

    Bernham's character seems to know way more about science than the science officer. Wonder if she'd know more than him if their genders were reversed? In fact, all of the men seem snivelling and idiotic. Even the Klingons are depicted as an all male ship crew. What does that say about men? Even the admiral is idiotic and bull-headed. And then the Klingons show up, and guess who actually listens to reason? The one single female Klingon in the entire show so far. She even stands at the head of all 24 houses, leading them. Which would be fine, if by this point they hadn't painted all men to be idiots or weak or cowardly.

    There's so much focus on the one character, that you lose a chance to get to know everyone else as much. It ends up just being 4 or 5 central characters, with one single main one. Other minor characters get lines but there's no depth to them, and that doesn't feel very Trek at all. Trek was always about the characters, and not just one character, and not even just the Captain. It was always about all of the characters, and there were usually a lot of them.

    'Oh hey! A ship couldn't navigate that asteroid field! Let's send in a person on a jetpack instead!' What?!

    The main character is smart, capable, brave, strong, and her only weakness appears to be that she feels emotion. In what way does that make her an interesting character? She has nothing about her that's captivating or makes her unique as a protagonist. She's basically the same as every other heroin from the past 20 years; emotional yet capable. Where's the extra depth that all the other Trek characters had?

    Despite the failings so far, I'm enjoying the Klingons and the tension. Those parts are well done.

    "We are your livestock of old," was a great line. It harkens back to The Next Generation where they say they no longer enslave animals for food purposes, and that shows a respect for canon in regards to the canon's heart, if little else. I found that to be a subtle and welcome nod to true lifelong fans.

    Speaking of canon, however, the holograms are truly canon destroying. In the future they talk to people on screens, and in the past they talk to people on screens. Moreover, holograms are impractical and require much more power than a screen. It seems illogical that they'd use them for simply talking to a commanding officer. Plus, the Klingons use holographic communication technology also? Why? Why would both cultures use it and give it up at the same time?

    The camera tilt and lens flares and dark sets are trying too hard to emulate JJ Abrams' Trek. Why you'd want to do such a thing, I'll never understand. Moreover, it's an overdone, trite aesthetic, which has been used in just about every space sci fi show and movie for the past 20 years, except for the Trek shows.

    The pacing and atmosphere so far is close to excellent. It builds slowly but surely, rather than jumping headlong into it like the more recent movies did. There's still perhaps too much action, but it at least takes its time in making you care.

    The moment where she starts demanding they fire first is ludicrous. Of course they can't, this is Starfleet. And then the neck pinch on her captain is an extreme over reaction, and not believable. It absolutely does not endear us to her character. She's also extremely rude and condescending, as is seen in the second episode.

    More canon breaking with the vulcan neck pinch from a human. It feels more like JJ Abrams has brushed them up on their canon, rather than actual former writers of Trek (who are now mostly working on The Orville anyway).

    Why are they sending two small people against a crew of super strong Klingons, in a close quarters environment where they are likely to have to go hand-to-hand? And the two highest ranking officers? They have security members, so send them. It's the little details like this that are ruining a show which was on the right track.

    Why are the judgement council all sitting the dark, like some X-files villains? What's all that about?

    Overall, I enjoyed these first two episodes. A fair amount, in fact. But there's just too many plot holes and tropes and a pretty unlikeable, uninteresting protagonist to make it something that is sure to last. It's a good show, but it's not Trek.    … Expand
  72. jim_taltontish
    Jan 15, 2018
    6
    BSG and SG:U had a baby, and they asked J.J. Abrams to be the godfather. To me, this is by far the worst Star Trek series to date. Given the lack of options for my sci-fi cravings, this is still worth watching. I remember thinking how awful ST:TNG was, but by the third season, it was my favorite show of all time. I'm praying that this show will follow suit. There are a lot of greatBSG and SG:U had a baby, and they asked J.J. Abrams to be the godfather. To me, this is by far the worst Star Trek series to date. Given the lack of options for my sci-fi cravings, this is still worth watching. I remember thinking how awful ST:TNG was, but by the third season, it was my favorite show of all time. I'm praying that this show will follow suit. There are a lot of great cast members, and it's still too early to write this show off. I hope they can tone down the semi-shaky cam and the overly earnest emotional discussions where everyone looks like they're about to cry.

    The Orville, Dark Matter, BSG, all the other Star Trek series, SG-1, SG:Atlantis, Babylon 5, and Firefly made us care about multiple characters by their respective episode 11 airing. I'm hoping by the end of season two they can greatly improve both their storytelling and character development.    … Expand
  73. rbunge
    Feb 7, 2018
    6
    Excellently written and top notch effects. Unfortunately it falls into the Hollywood agenda. Multi-verse is now run by females backed up by blacks, Asians, gays, and aliens. Only straight white male is a treasonous turncoat that they kill off. I am sure the will have some red shirts though in the future.
  74. shoulderoforion
    Sep 25, 2017
    6
    the show was better than i expected it to be, the klingons were awful, but the space battles were mint. i'm in, i'll be adding this to my weekly schedule. boldly.
  75. WhiskeyStories
    May 1, 2018
    6
    Season 1 part 2: While the second part of season one started out pretty strong with a fun premise and probably the most enjoyable episode of the whole show (episode 10), it quickly went downhill. The showrunners pretty much wasted the concept's potential and made it into a schlocky space war, yet again, not really keeping with the spirit of Star Trek. As a whole Discovery is a decent showSeason 1 part 2: While the second part of season one started out pretty strong with a fun premise and probably the most enjoyable episode of the whole show (episode 10), it quickly went downhill. The showrunners pretty much wasted the concept's potential and made it into a schlocky space war, yet again, not really keeping with the spirit of Star Trek. As a whole Discovery is a decent show with fantastic high quality production and some fun characters, but unfortunately it's second half was just as underwhelming as the first, without any kind of improvement really.… Expand
  76. EasternCanuck
    Oct 16, 2017
    6
    I like this show for what it is - a Star Trek 'themed' show. Characters are not very interesting, though the captain is growing on me as we learn more about him. The Klingons are a small disaster. I don't know why they were re-invented but they haven't got that correct. I appreciate that there is Klingon language but there are so many Klingon scenes that I get tired of reading subtitles.I like this show for what it is - a Star Trek 'themed' show. Characters are not very interesting, though the captain is growing on me as we learn more about him. The Klingons are a small disaster. I don't know why they were re-invented but they haven't got that correct. I appreciate that there is Klingon language but there are so many Klingon scenes that I get tired of reading subtitles. It's like I'm watching a foreign film at times.… Expand
  77. u182506
    Feb 17, 2018
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So I'm glad I waited until the end of the season to write this. I was super excited about Discovery and couldn't wait for it to show. And then when I sat down all excited to watch it I was massively disappointed. It really just sucked.... So much so that after watching the first 9 episodes (up until the break) I didn't even bother watching the last 6.

    But I decided I should see how this giant missed opportunity finished up, and I found myself having a mini-binge. I watched the last 6 episodes in 2 nights and they were pretty good. The whole parallel universe storyline was interesting and perhaps helped explain some of the 'darkness' in the first 9 episodes. If I've voted after the first 9 eps I'd probably have given it a 3, but now its earned another 3.

    There are still a bunch of things that I think make no sense, and generally just blow: rotating saucer section (that appears to serve no purpose), the whole fantastical 'spore-drive' thing, and why in the name of all things holy would said spore drive cause a starship to roll rapidly when activated?!    … Expand
  78. Grizwald
    Sep 25, 2017
    6
    Pretty good, but not as good as I expected! Writing was generally poor, and the character development patchy as best. Even the special effects were disappointing! BobSmash
  79. scorpion999
    Oct 21, 2017
    6
    Nice try but no cigar.
    Too many historical errors.
    Too dark. Plastic robot Klingons. Poor script in places. Poor acting in parts. Poor casting with several characters. Over the top politically correctness. Over stretched storyline. Swearing not relevant. Star Trek doesn't swear because it doesn't need to. Too arty farty with camera work and editing. Apart from that I loved it.    Nice try but no cigar.
    Too many historical errors.
    Too dark.
    Plastic robot Klingons.
    Poor script in places.
    Poor acting in parts.
    Poor casting with several characters.
    Over the top politically correctness.
    Over stretched storyline.
    Swearing not relevant.
    Star Trek doesn't swear because it doesn't need to.
    Too arty farty with camera work and editing.
    Apart from that I loved it.
    I will be watching and enjoying it for what it is.
    A mildly entertaining new sci fi series loosley based around the Star Trek theme that I have come to love and cherish.    … Expand
  80. BarbaraS
    Nov 29, 2017
    6
    My husband and I very much looked forward to this new series and we really wanted to like it. So we tried to focus on the positive sides, like some of the interesting characters. But After 7 episodes we must conclude that it is a big disappointment.

    The storylines are very bad. The technology is inconsistent with all the previous shows. The speed of the episodes is tiring. It is too    My husband and I very much looked forward to this new series and we really wanted to like it. So we tried to focus on the positive sides, like some of the interesting characters. But After 7 episodes we must conclude that it is a big disappointment.

    The storylines are very bad. The technology is inconsistent with all the previous shows. The speed of the episodes is tiring. It is too dark and violent: countless tortures and killings in each episode. The Klingons are no Klingons in both appearance and behaviour. Klingons are honourable warriors, but in this series they resemble underhand Cardassians. Very disappointing. I hate the unfriendly sarcasm in the dialogues. This doesn't fit with the harmonious integrity among the crew of Star Trek ships, which is one of the things why I am a fan.

    I keep watching because I hope that it will improve. I would love to enjoy a good new Star Trek series with intelligent stories about interesting ethical problems, in the ideal world of the Federation. That is what we like about Star Trek and that is what's missing in this series.

    --addition--
    It gets much better after episode 7. Therefore I changed my score from 4 to 6. I recommend to skip the first seven episodes. In episodes 8 and 9 it finally starts feeling more like Star Trek again. It's still badly written, each episode still has actions that don't make any sense, we still miss depth in the stories, we miss Federation ethics, and the inconsistent technology and weird Klingons remain a shame. But we did enjoy these last two episodes better. We absolutely love main character Michael, she is great. Saru as well. And Tilly and other characters are growing on me. I have good hopes that it will keep improving.

    To the writers, director and producers of the show, please listen to the criticisms! Please involve Trekkies with the writing!    … Expand
  81. TheWalkingLost
    Mar 27, 2018
    6
    Purely as a Sci-fi series, without dragging the franchise into it, I rate Discovery a 6.7.

    As a Star Trek Series I rate it a 5.3.

    (1-4: Unwatchable swill // 5: Genre fanatics only // 6: OK // 7: Good // 8-10: Degrees of Awesome)
  82. Nasher
    Nov 26, 2017
    5
    Gave it a chance. The story is somewhat interesting, but most the characters are just not convincing and don't seem natural. Feels more like an outlet for "diversity" and "special people" issues than Star Trek.
  83. Boreas
    Sep 26, 2017
    5
    The problems with the show will be written about at length by others, all I'll say is that the show doesn't fit in the same universe as the earlier Star Trek shows and is best viewed as a separate continuity.

    One thing I did think was interesting was the way T'Kuvma articulated the Klingon view of the Federation, it says it comes in peace but in reality it's an existential threat to the    The problems with the show will be written about at length by others, all I'll say is that the show doesn't fit in the same universe as the earlier Star Trek shows and is best viewed as a separate continuity.

    One thing I did think was interesting was the way T'Kuvma articulated the Klingon view of the Federation, it says it comes in peace but in reality it's an existential threat to the Klingon way of life. I'm not sure how much the writers intended it to be the case but this actually echos very clearly Islamist views of the West and Liberal Democracy.

    The other parallel is with the theme of reuniting the Klingon Empire, more than one Muslim (usually Arab) leader has talked about the need to reunite some form of caliphate as a way to combat Western values and political power.

    It'll be interesting to see how they manage to show both sides of the conflict and to what degree the audience may find itself in sympathy with the Klingons, I think there is some real potential there.    … Expand
  84. SuperKev
    Sep 24, 2017
    5
    This is about the first 2 episodes only. I thought the general quality of the sets, actors, wardrobe etc.. were really good. They went with action and a quickly moving dialog which is probably a good thing to retain audiences later. My problems with the series so far are: 1) They completely redesigned the Klingons basically top to bottom. The Klingons dialog is laughably slow and the timeThis is about the first 2 episodes only. I thought the general quality of the sets, actors, wardrobe etc.. were really good. They went with action and a quickly moving dialog which is probably a good thing to retain audiences later. My problems with the series so far are: 1) They completely redesigned the Klingons basically top to bottom. The Klingons dialog is laughably slow and the time gap between each word is just very grating and hard to hear/watch. 2) 65 minute episode, just 37 minutes of actual "show" you don't even get a 1:1 ratio show to ads and intros which will drive away and 3) they added a "mystical" element with the Vulcans which is a clear lack of understanding of all the previous series data on their capabilities. I liked the plot, it had to be simple because what can you do within just 37 minutes? 4) The actual space combat was very weak. They seem to regularly confuse phasers with photon torpedoes. If they clean this up it could be a good series.… Expand
  85. Doomfrost
    Sep 6, 2018
    5
    On it's own, it wouldn't be a bad sci-fi show, but CBS isn't about taking risks or creating new IP, so they've gone the safe route and have used Star Trek as it's an already established brand. I don't think Star Trek will by any means be harmed by Discovery, but I think the show will be forgotten a lot quicker once it runs its course and will cater to an abysmally small audience who onlyOn it's own, it wouldn't be a bad sci-fi show, but CBS isn't about taking risks or creating new IP, so they've gone the safe route and have used Star Trek as it's an already established brand. I don't think Star Trek will by any means be harmed by Discovery, but I think the show will be forgotten a lot quicker once it runs its course and will cater to an abysmally small audience who only care about chic syfy than actual science fiction.… Expand
  86. revillo
    Mar 4, 2018
    5
    They put a lot of effort into the production, but the writing and acting are pretty awkward. My main problem is the tone of this show, which comes off as hyper-anxious and obssessed with war and personal shame, as if determined to convince viewers that intergalactic exploration is a no-nonsense affair, full of dead-serious but emotionally petty professionals in high stakes situations.They put a lot of effort into the production, but the writing and acting are pretty awkward. My main problem is the tone of this show, which comes off as hyper-anxious and obssessed with war and personal shame, as if determined to convince viewers that intergalactic exploration is a no-nonsense affair, full of dead-serious but emotionally petty professionals in high stakes situations. Fun? Well that's for children. It does add a lot of action, tension and some cliffhanger filled continuity between episodes to make it a bit more exciting and binge-worthy for streaming, so many will probably appreciate those aspects, but most of what made star trek noteworthy in the first place is gone.… Expand
  87. danghe
    Oct 14, 2017
    5
    This is not star-trek from my perspective. They go in the past and they change the looks/voices for an entire species (the Klingon). I am sorry, but if I was the director and I would have seen the proposal of the new Klingon species, I would have fired that guy instantly. They could have improved the known look, not change it entirely.
    If you are a fan of old start trek series, probably    This is not star-trek from my perspective. They go in the past and they change the looks/voices for an entire species (the Klingon). I am sorry, but if I was the director and I would have seen the proposal of the new Klingon species, I would have fired that guy instantly. They could have improved the known look, not change it entirely.
    If you are a fan of old start trek series, probably you would be disappointed as I am. This decision shows lack of respect to the previous star trek fans, especially to the ones that have got attached to Worf. Even their voice is off. You would expect an imposing voice, considering they have 3 lungs and a big chest/resonance chamber. Well, no...it's like they speak through their nose...

    I've recently found The Orville. That is a lot more star trek than this one. Seriously!    … Expand
  88. Fiestykitten
    Sep 25, 2017
    5
    The Klingon makeup was too restrictive, hiding any any chance of the actors expressing emotions. It was so Abrams in appearance it would have been better not being part of the TV series universe. Plus the opening music was a pathetic whimper with a tiny bit of Trek theme thrown in like a bone at the end. They should have set it after Voyager and my mind boggles at their reasoning for 10The Klingon makeup was too restrictive, hiding any any chance of the actors expressing emotions. It was so Abrams in appearance it would have been better not being part of the TV series universe. Plus the opening music was a pathetic whimper with a tiny bit of Trek theme thrown in like a bone at the end. They should have set it after Voyager and my mind boggles at their reasoning for 10 years before Kirk. Didn't they learn anything from Enterprise?
    Yes the effects were great and I can see it going somewhere, just not where I might have loved it to go. Orville, save me.    … Expand
  89. ScienceAdvisor
    Feb 13, 2018
    5
    (Based on seeing all 15 episodes instead of just 3)
    A curious mix of good, bad, and downright ugly. Too much development in areas that are to be later discarded, convenience as a major story elements, and shaky handicam moments, albeit with the same UHD quality, drags this down to sub-par town. A near total disregard for continuity, where the writers/director/showrunner cannot    (Based on seeing all 15 episodes instead of just 3)
    A curious mix of good, bad, and downright ugly. Too much development in areas that are to be later discarded, convenience as a major story elements, and shaky handicam moments, albeit with the same UHD quality, drags this down to sub-par town. A near total disregard for continuity, where the writers/director/showrunner cannot understand that a destination only one light year away takes about 1 second at max. warp, is never going to please those weaned on Star Trek. CBS is committed, so here is hoping season two sees significant improvements.    … Expand
  90. Akilax
    Sep 27, 2017
    5
    "Hopeful" is what I would call my attitude towards this new series after having seen the first two episodes.

    Granted it has quite a few flaws, but I hope that many of them may just be caused by todays need to hook viewers immediately. If that is the case and they manage to get to the roots of what made the old Star Trek series great, I think we may be in for a treat. Visually the    "Hopeful" is what I would call my attitude towards this new series after having seen the first two episodes.

    Granted it has quite a few flaws, but I hope that many of them may just be caused by todays need to hook viewers immediately. If that is the case and they manage to get to the roots of what made the old Star Trek series great, I think we may be in for a treat.

    Visually the show is amazing so far. It is absolutely AAA quality and does not have to hide from any cinema releases. Unfortunately, that does not help to ignore its flaws, like the flat dialogs when a character has to explain some background information.

    In general I would say that the show often seems to try and introduce complete newcomers to Star Trek, with as much lore as possible. That's not a bad thing in itself. It does become bad though when you have characters talk about themselves or their species in a way that seems detached, void of personal relation and more like a narrative explanation. And there are many times where the behaviour of characters seems to be decided more by the need to push forward with the story than by the need for consistency of a personas actions.

    - People with apparently deeply rooted convictions are convinced by someone to do something that would normally not even cross their minds, after just a short talk.
    - Reasonable people and people who normally excel at thinking logically fail to see how a situation proves a hypothesis in an obvious way and continue to act as though the hypothesis was wrong.
    - Flashbacks try to show us why someone acts the way they act, but in such a brief and abstract manner, that it does not help understand as much as it just stipulates it.

    The huge advantage of TV shows as opposed to movies in my opinion is, that they have much more time to narrate. They can let the viewer experience the development of a character and therefore allow them to better understand them. So far, "Star Trek: Discovery" seems to rush through this potential. The creators appear desperate to serve everyone their cup of tea and seem to end up giving nobody what they really want.

    As I assume, that all these shortcomings are just owed to the financial pressure of the producers and their need to appeal to a huge audience as fast as possible, I am hopeful. Hopeful, that once the audience is hooked after a few shows the creators will take their time and let us live through the experiences together with the characters in this show.

    The basis for an awesome show has been set by the team behind it. The style of telling their stories still needs some refinement. I will follow the show and hope to see the necessary changes for it to become what I think it could and should be. If it stays the way it is now though, I can't recommend it.    … Expand
  91. megawavez
    Feb 13, 2018
    5
    The last episode was pretty cringe worthy with a miraculous solution to a difficult problem then a strange handing over of responsibility to the enemy, it.. just... didn't... make... sense. Additionally, I just don't like the main character. She's supposedly raised on Vulcan, but how did she survive? She's extremely emotion, and prone to be rash, although the show says she's supposed toThe last episode was pretty cringe worthy with a miraculous solution to a difficult problem then a strange handing over of responsibility to the enemy, it.. just... didn't... make... sense. Additionally, I just don't like the main character. She's supposedly raised on Vulcan, but how did she survive? She's extremely emotion, and prone to be rash, although the show says she's supposed to be very logic and competent - it's simply doesn't jive. The first season wasn't that good - hopefully they're are just getting warmed up and we'll see more intricate characters and dialogue.… Expand
  92. sefrabu
    Feb 12, 2018
    5
    Despite a few quite intriguing and well conceived plot twists, and some nice (although slightly wooden) social commentary a Star Trek always was, this series is one of the most disjointed, unfocused and erratic I've ever seen. "Throw somenthing at the wall and see what sticks" is almost literal here, and I have every reason to believe that it were not real people who wrote the script, butDespite a few quite intriguing and well conceived plot twists, and some nice (although slightly wooden) social commentary a Star Trek always was, this series is one of the most disjointed, unfocused and erratic I've ever seen. "Throw somenthing at the wall and see what sticks" is almost literal here, and I have every reason to believe that it were not real people who wrote the script, but some kind of a highly advanced script generator, analysing every single sci-fi concept used in the last 20 years and applying them to a single series.

    But the biggest sin of Star Trek Discovery is that it is not Star Trek at all; and if it wasn't called "Star Trek", and featured a new universe, it would have died unnoticed after the first few episodes.    … Expand
  93. apannilsson
    Oct 25, 2017
    5
    I have never been much for Star Trek, but I do love Sci-Fi.
    The first episode felt stale and uncertain. But after episode 3 I am totally hooked.
    I like the characters, the setting and the premise and am very curious about where the show will go from here. Very good! ---- Edit--- Am now on episode 6 and unfortunately the series has become a bit boring, whimsical and predictable at    I have never been much for Star Trek, but I do love Sci-Fi.
    The first episode felt stale and uncertain. But after episode 3 I am totally hooked.
    I like the characters, the setting and the premise and am very curious about where the show will go from here.
    Very good!
    ---- Edit---
    Am now on episode 6 and unfortunately the series has become a bit boring, whimsical and predictable at moment. I am afraid I wont even make it through episode 6 because its just not very interpreting anymore. It peaked at episode 3 and then just went straight downhill. So Im gonna leave it at a 5 now.    … Expand
  94. abm0
    Oct 4, 2017
    5
    It has its moments, mostly due to the visuals they invested in (except the intro, which is completely out of place), but overall it's an incoherent, self-important, cliche-ridden and overly violent mess so far. I'm definitely enjoying The Orville more right now, but I'll still follow this along for another while, just because of the title.
  95. katieelizabeth
    Sep 30, 2017
    5
    I can only review the first 2 episodes, because that's all that has aired so far. As someone who has enjoyed Star trek since TNG and has basically watched every episode since then at least twice, I am qualified to say that Star Trek: Discovery really isn't a Star Trek series. It has been "2017'd" - meaning it has lots of padded sequences, poor and pointless dialogue, juvenile conflictI can only review the first 2 episodes, because that's all that has aired so far. As someone who has enjoyed Star trek since TNG and has basically watched every episode since then at least twice, I am qualified to say that Star Trek: Discovery really isn't a Star Trek series. It has been "2017'd" - meaning it has lots of padded sequences, poor and pointless dialogue, juvenile conflict between characters that are supposed to be professional star trek officers, and the show's writers seem to value shock value at times - all evidence of the 2017 tv show formula. Star Trek is supposed to look forward - it has got to be better than this, and treat it's audiences with some respect.

    Seeing as Enterprise started it's season with a Klingon arc, and has already explored these early Klingon-era stories quite well before, doing it yet again feels like the series is going over well-explored territory already. The Next Generation had the best Kligon focused stories, and DS9 even went to war with them. Honestly, what is there left to do?

    The show's special effects are quite amazing, but that's honestly the only thing that's really going for it. I'll take the rich characters, deeper plots and intrigue from DS9 over this any day.

    Maybe I shouldn't be too critical - most Star Trek series have started fairly poor after all - but the acting and direction is very clear here... it's almost as if I can predict the tone for the rest of the series, just because I've seen it all before with other modern tv shows. Uninspiring to be sure, and very disappointing.    … Expand
  96. flowbeus
    Sep 26, 2017
    5
    I have to give this a low score. It's just not the Star Trek I want it to be. I don't want to watch space explosions and amazing CGI and nothing else interesting for a whole season.

    It's not all bad, but I'm not sure why I'm watching it, what's this show going to be about? There's nothing to care about and no one to identify with. I want Star Trek to make me think and show us an    I have to give this a low score. It's just not the Star Trek I want it to be. I don't want to watch space explosions and amazing CGI and nothing else interesting for a whole season.

    It's not all bad, but I'm not sure why I'm watching it, what's this show going to be about? There's nothing to care about and no one to identify with. I want Star Trek to make me think and show us an optimisitc vision of humanity. I don't want generic space conflict. I just didn't see anything interesting or thought provoking here.

    Nevertheless, I want to see more, I'm willing to give a show some time to gain it's footing. But CBS please don't put this behind a pay wall. Just make the paywall early access. If it is really Star Trek, and has a real message for humanity, Gene Roddenberry would want it to be over the airwaves.    … Expand
  97. Dubeau
    Feb 13, 2018
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Overall the visuals got better with time. That part didn’t disappointed. I like that they took the sober road for the Andorians, Orions. I wish they would have done the same for the Klingons from the start. The season was going everywhere but nowhere...I think they could have saved it, if the Discovery would have come back at the time they left and without Georgiou…and 1-2 episodes sooner. Then they could have ended the war in a more sensible way regarding the Klingons. Allowing themselves time to setup how the Klingons would stop and not resolving to so many magic shortcuts. They switched so many times the villains that none of them were really important to the story. They put themselves into a corner where they could only use L’Rell in the end, without even set her up properly toward the other Klingon clans. And Kahless and the religion point got forgotten in the end. I did loved the actors, their acting. The FX were very well done, better in the end. But the story was just like a disaster in motion and spinning out of control, leaving us with a blatant rushed and shorthanded ending. I gave a 50%. This makes me regret Anaxar somehow.… Expand
  98. MrNonono
    Nov 19, 2017
    5
    Average show. While the acting is done well (Rapp is fantastic), the writers lack inspiration, the story doesn't have any depth or surprises and the costumes are just horrible to watch. Especially in the clumsy fighting scenes, done in a giant rubber Klingon suit. Or the non-existing facial expression in 'emotional scenes' with First Officer Saru with the autistic/Vulcan main character.
  99. anandb
    Sep 27, 2017
    5
    This is based solely on the first 2 episodes.

    Design was interesting, I'm not bothered by the fact that the tech looks more advanced than TOS. I think the klingons were a misstep though. That design was so silly and derivative of every ancient mystical race sci-fi design trope. The acting was a bit stiff but initial episode awkwardness is a time honored trek tradition. Action packed    This is based solely on the first 2 episodes.

    Design was interesting, I'm not bothered by the fact that the tech looks more advanced than TOS. I think the klingons were a misstep though. That design was so silly and derivative of every ancient mystical race sci-fi design trope.

    The acting was a bit stiff but initial episode awkwardness is a time honored trek tradition. Action packed episode so we don't really get to know any of the characters. But the action was a bit incoherent.

    Overall I don't get the need to brand it as Trek. In this age of The Expanse and Westworld does Sci Fi really need the franchise assist? I would say this is mediocre to slightly better than mediocre as a piece of space sci fi. As Trek, it is poor. I realize that hating on new Trek is also a time honored tradition going back to TNG but somehow I suspect this show will not win me over down the line.    … Expand
  100. tkoosting
    Jan 16, 2018
    5
    Update:
    During and after episode nine the show gets better (so I upped my score from 0 to 5). Only thing which is still disappointing is the continuity: this trek universe is way more advanced than the trek universe it is supposed to precede. It should have been a less techie-trekkie...
    --- Really trying hard to watch this show. But this show shouldn't have been called Star Trek: -    Update:
    During and after episode nine the show gets better (so I upped my score from 0 to 5). Only thing which is still disappointing is the continuity: this trek universe is way more advanced than the trek universe it is supposed to precede. It should have been a less techie-trekkie...

    ---

    Really trying hard to watch this show. But this show shouldn't have been called Star Trek:
    - bad acting;
    - everybody 's angry, always!
    - the ship design/other visuals is/are nothing like Roddenberry's and Jeffries (and Okuda's) vision;
    - a spore drive, really?!
    - story doesn't fit the Star Trek universe;
    - The Klingons... What were they thinking! Or as Kirk would have said: KAAAAAAAAAAAAAHN!

    Will keep trying to watch it, but it sure is painful...    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

80
#80 Best TV Season of 2017
1
#1 Most Discussed TV Season of 2017
9
#9 Most Shared TV Season of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 20
  3. Negative: 0 out of 20
  1. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: James Poniewozik
    Oct 19, 2017
    50
    Discovery feels like it’s adrift between the adventure-of-the-week format of its network-TV predecessors and the kind of complex serial favored by cable and streaming.
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  2. The Oregonian
    Reviewed by: Kristi Turnquist
    Sep 26, 2017
    60
    Star Trek: Discovery feels like it's just finding its footing. On the promising side, Doug Jones is already a standout as Science Officer Lt. Saru, who's from an alien race called Kelpiens. And James Frain is perfectly cast as Sarek, the Vulcan who veteran "Trek" fans know as the father of Spock. The relationship between Burnham and Sarek is one of the more intriguing aspects of Star Trek: Discovery.
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  3. Salon
    Reviewed by: Melanie McFarland
    Sep 26, 2017
    80
    Happily Star Trek: Discovery strikes a balance between what diehard Trekkies love about Roddenberry’s universe and what J.J. Abrams injected into its theatrical resurrection. Ethical dilemmas and a clash between cultures and traditions comprise the fore of the narrative, but the hours don’t skimp on phaser blasts and broadcast-appropriate carnage.
    Read full review
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