"Redemption" is a two-part episode of the American science fiction television series Star Trek: The Next Generation. Parts I and II of "Redemption" comprise the 100th and 101st episodes of the series, also being the fourth season finale and the fifth season premiere.

Set in the 24th century, the series follows the adventures of the Starfleet crew of the Federation starship Enterprise-D.

Plot

Part I

Captain Jean-Luc Picard (as K'mpec's chosen Arbiter of Succession) and the Enterprise-D are asked to attend the installation of Gowron as the Chancellor of the Klingon High Council. Gowron informs Picard that the House of Duras will challenge Gowron's position and may lead to a Klingon civil war. Meanwhile, Worf requests a leave of absence to visit his brother, Kurn, who controls a small fleet of Birds of Prey, and to urge him to back Gowron, as, once installed as Chancellor, Gowron can reinstate their family's honor.

Interrupting the ceremony, the Duras sisters present their deceased brother's illegitimate son, Toral, who has the lineage to challenge Gowron. Picard is called on to determine Toral's candidacy. The Duras sisters try to influence Picard; he in turn remarks that if he finds for Toral, Gowron will soon be dead, but if he finds for Gowron, Toral will lead a call for a rebellion against Gowron. At the restart of the ceremony, relying on Klingon law, Picard comes to the conclusion that Toral lacks the experience to lead, and secures Gowron's candidacy. This, however, prompts a majority of the council members to abandon Gowron. Gowron returns to his ship to meet with Worf, who offers his brother's fleet's support in exchange for the return of his family name to honor. Gowron initially refuses, but they are attacked by two ships loyal to the House of Duras. Worf and the arrival of Kurn's fleet dispatch the attackers. Picard completes the rite and installs Gowron as Chancellor; Gowron restores Worf's family honor.

Reception

CBR ranked "Redemption" (Parts I & II) as the 15th best multi-episode story of Star Trek. The Hollywood Reporter rated it the 36th best of all Star Trek prior to Star Trek: Discovery, including live-action and the animated series but not counting the movies.

Variety listed it as the seventh best episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. The Hollywood Reporter ranked it among the top 25 episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Den of Geek also included it as one of their 25 recommended watches for Star Trek: The Next Generation.

;Characters

Popular Mechanics highlighted "Redemption, Part I" as one of the best Captain Picard episodes and as recommended viewing for audiences to prepare for a new television series based upon that character, Star Trek: Picard. They point out his advice to Worf and his nuanced approach to navigating the difficult politics of the Klingon homeworld Qo'noS. They noted this episode for featuring a Klingon civil war, Tasha Yar's half-Romulan daughter and Worf's resignation from Starfleet. In particular they noted actor O'Reilly's powerful performance in scenes with the character as Chancellor of the Klingon empire. Popular Mechanics also thought Lursa and B'Etor were particularly good.

"Redemption, Part I" was released in the United States on September 3, 2002, as part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation Season 4 DVD box set.

"Redemption" was also released on VHS cassette tape.

See also

  • "Reunion", the predecessor to "Redemption".
  • "Yesterday's Enterprise" where Tasha Yar went back in time.

References

Bibliography

  • Star Trek The Next Generation DVD set, volume 4, disk 7, selection 2.
  • Star Trek The Next Generation DVD set, volume 5, disk 1, selection 1.
  • "Redemption I" rewatch by Keith R. A. DeCandido
  • "Redemption II" rewatch by Keith R. A. DeCandido