Star Trek: Discovery (3×03) People of Earth Review

For our review of the last episode of Star Trek: Discovery, click here.

Synopsis: Finally reunited, Burnham and the U.S.S. Discovery crew journey to Earth, eager to learn what happened to the Federation in their absence. (IMDb)

With the cast back together, Discovery can dive into its first ensemble narrative set in this strange, new universe. The story that unfolds feels like a return to some great classic Star Trek with a smart twist. No doubt this can be contributed to the directing of Jonathan Frakes who continues to prove himself to be the top-tier director of this world, which is understandable given his place in it.

After a quick debriefing, the crew decides on what the season’s main storyline will be: reuniting the broken Federation! Sounds daring and totally easy, right? The first mission is of course to head back to Earth and follow up on an old signal, but it cannot be easy because they are an old ship carrying a high-value resource that has pretty much been used up. This mystery becomes more complicated with a rebellious Earth colony that defied Starfleet after The Burn and a signal whose owner died over a decade before they arrived. The trip is not all a bust though as they pick up teen genius Adira who instantly vibes with the Discovery crew.

Again the series’ strength is seen through the characters and the performances as Frakes manages to bring out some important development moments throughout. Burnham has changed after a year in this new world into a more lighthearted, flirty and well-rounded character. The crew around her notices and play off this new version of herself. This character has gone through a lot of growth since the pilot episode and it certainly series, which is exactly what any series needs in order to sustain itself.

The trip to Earth also has Discovery come in between a conflict with Earth and some nearby raiders (who prove to be a Saturn colony of humans). In good Star Trek fashion, they get both sides to take and resolve things diplomatically which is not the norm for Discovery, but a welcomed sight. As they bid adieu to Earth, it is revealed that Adira is the host of a Trill and the memories of Admiral Tal, the original signal sender. Seems like the key to saving the Federation may have landed in Discovery’s lap.

Captain’s Log

• Is there some force that took over the Federation’s territories after it lost influence?
• Who is Adira?
• What is so important about Admiral Tal?
• Will Burnham revert to her original self being around a familiar setting?
• What is Georgiou’s plan?
• What happened during The Burn?

What did you think of People of Earth? Let me know in the comments below!

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Dylan Phillips