Star Trek: Strange New Worlds vs Discovery: A Comparative Analysis

As an avid fan of the Star Trek franchise, I've found myself siding strongly with Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (SNW) over its predecessor, Discovery (DSC). This comparison isn't just personal, but a reflection of differing approaches to character development, storytelling, and the overall viewing experience.

Character Development in DSC and SNW

Discovery took a different path, attempting to emulate the success of The Walking Dead and Game of Thrones through a more depressing and dark storyline. The characters were predominantly unlikeable, and the series' overall "vibe" was heavily influenced by this approach. However, this method had its flaws. For instance, the narrative was characterized by dark and often morally ambiguous themes, with characters such as the Klingon fighters and officers who committed mutiny becoming the focal points. The character portrayals were so dark and flawed that it became hard to maintain interest in the series beyond a few standout episodes, particularly those featuring Captain Christopher Pike and the adventures of the USS Enterprise.

In stark contrast, Strange New Worlds avoids these extremes. The series returns to a more progressive storyline that emphasizes the power of diverse and likeable characters. For example, in SNW, Captain Christopher Pike entrusts Lt. Ortigas, who is not 100% biologically a woman, with piloting the ship through a dangerous mission. This instance showcases progressive storytelling, where character identities are celebrated rather than defined by their shortcomings. This approach aligns with Trek's long-standing tradition of having diverse and relatable characters, such as Captain Picard's blind engineer and the various commanding officers tasked with maintaining the very fabric of a technology-driven society.

Distinct Storytelling Approaches

Discovery’s darker narrative and reliance on character flaws often led to a story that felt unsurprising and repetitive. Characters, often just to push a specific narrative, would become stereotypes, known more for their shortcomings than their abilities. This approach was criticized for being overly focused on pushing certain social issues at the expense of engaging storytelling. In contrast, Strange New Worlds offers a refreshing change. The episodic storytelling in SNW allows for the exploration of a wide array of issues, discussed and debated intelligently. Instead of telling viewers what to think, the series invites them to engage in thought-provoking and meaningful conversations.

Characters like Dr. M'Benga, Lt. La'an, and Commander Chapel are not marginalized for their mental health issues or past traumas; rather, these aspects of their characters are integral to their development and are depicted with nuance and respect. This attention to detail makes the characters more relatable and engaging, fostering a deeper connection with the audience. Moreover, the standout moments in Discovery, like the gay engineer or the trans kid, often felt more like ticking boxes in a checklist rather than fleshed-out, three-dimensional characters.

Engaging Characters and Storylines

Discovery struggled to create a compelling storyline that would hold viewers' attention outside of its few standout episodes. In contrast, Strange New Worlds delivers a fun and enjoyable viewing experience with episodes that challenge the audience's understanding and imagination. Characters in SNW, such as Captain Pike, Lt. La'an, and Commander M'Benga, are not just a series of jokes or plot devices; they are fully realized individuals with their own histories, strengths, and weaknesses. These characters are designed to engage the audience on multiple levels, encouraging viewers to care about their fates and the challenges they face.

It’s not just about the characters; it's also about the storylines. SNW’s meta-plot and standalone episodes work in conjunction to create a rich, dynamic narrative that feels both familiar and fresh. This episodic structure allows the series to delve deeply into various themes, from the challenges of leadership to the complexities of interspecies diplomacy. Unlike DSC, which often felt like a formulaic problem for the heroes to solve, SNW’s episodes invite viewers to explore the potential of the characters and the universe in which they exist.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

While the Nuevo Zealand series (another name for SNW) might be a prequel, its quality and execution suggest a promising future for the Star Trek franchise. Attention to character development, progressive storytelling, and engaging narratives set it apart from its predecessors. Both Discovery and Strange New Worlds have their strengths, but it's clear that SNW is the franchise's strong contender for the future. The show's future-focused approach, combined with its current level of execution, indicates that it is not just a temporary hit but a series that has the potential to grow and evolve over time.

For now, I would recommend Strange New Worlds to any fan of the Star Trek universe, as it offers a fresh take on a beloved franchise. Whether it's the engaging characters, the progressive storytelling, or the sheer enjoyment of the episodes, SNW is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the best of what a show can offer.