Star Trek Episode of the Week: Resolutions

Continuing with my selection of Voyager episodes as I happen to catch them on TV, this week’s Star Trek episode is “Resolutions,” from season 2.

Plot: The episode begins with The Doctor reporting to Janeway and Chakotay that he has been unable to find a cure for their mysterious illness. He suspects the Vidiians could help, but contacting them would be too dangerous. Due to some plot convenience, Janeway and Chakotay will be unable to return to the ship, and must instead stay on the planet on which they were originally infected.

From there, “Resolutions” unfolds precisely as anyone familiar with episodic television can immediately guess. Tuvok is put in charge under strict orders not to contact the Vidiians, he follows those orders and the rest of the crew gets unruly because of it, Tuvok eventually contacts the dangerous aliens anyway, they are easily able to help, and order is restored by the end of the episode.

Character Development: In an act of pure fan-wank, Chakotay and Janeway spend a lot of time together getting awfully cozy during their little camping trip. Janeway wants to find a cure and get back to Voyager, Chakotay wants to settle down and start banging.

Forehead of the Week: That would have to be the mysterious alien creature that Chakotay and Janeway befriend when they are marooned. The creature is referred to as a primate, and looks, strangely enough, exactly like one of Earth’s spider monkeys. That such a creature could evolve independently of Earth, and yet be so much like one of Earth’s species, is a true marvel of science.

Memorable Quote: “…I can tell you a story, an ancient legend among my people.” – Chakotay, doing his best to put the audience to sleep