Star Trek Discovery Episode 12 Review: Because Why Not?

So, Episode 12 of 15 happened. Three of my four midseason predictions have been explicitly confirmed, and #4 is set up nicely. We’re still in the Mirror Universe. It still doesn’t feel like Star Trek. There is an end in sight.

But first, a word with you, my audience. There’s a few misconceptions about my relationship with Star Trek Discovery. I’m a vocal critic of the show, no question about it. But if STD churns out a good show or good idea, I have no problem saying so. I love Anthony Rapp’s and Doug Jones’ acting. Shazad Latif has had a few good episodes in a row, as well, and Mary Chieffo is doing a great job underneath that stupid Klingon suit. I like the aesthetic of the Mirror Universe. And I even laughed at the “Captain Killy” joke (seriously).

However.

There are fundamental problems with the show — structural problems, organizational problems, storytelling problems. Yes, the prime uniforms and the ship designs make me sick, but they’re nothing compared to the weak protagonist, ham-fisted plot “twists,” and of course, the nonsense that is the mycelial network. Great special effects and flashy costumes are not a substitute for storytelling. They’re spending $8 million an episode, there better be great special effects! Quick cuts are the TV show equivalent of slight-of-hand to keep you (the viewing audience) distracted and not questioning what you just watched. So I explicitly question it. Some might call that “being a critic.”