REVIEW: ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,’ Season 2 Episode 3 — “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow”

Time travel has always been a beloved plot device in the Star Trek franchise, with over 50 episodes showcasing its potential across multiple series. Episodes like “The City on the Edge of Forever,” “Yesterday’s Enterprise,” and “Trials and Tribble-Ations” stand among some of the best of the franchise and have withstood the tests of time, no pun intended. Strange New Worlds Season 2 Episode 3 aims to contribute to the legacy of these thought-provoking narratives. Written by David Reed and directed by Amanda Row, “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” offers a captivating exploration of alternate realities and the weighty choices they entail.

Continuing the series’ foray into time travel, Strange New Worlds Season 2 Episode 3 places La’an Noonien-Singh (Christina Chong) in the spotlight. Still grappling with the aftermath of a significant court decision from the previous episode, La’an finds herself thrust into an alternative reality where everything has changed. Starfleet no longer exists, humans remain isolated, and James T. Kirk (Paul Wesley) leads the Enterprise, oblivious to La’an’s existence. Sent back to mid-21st century Toronto, La’an and the alternate reality Kirk must work together to prevent an event that would irreversibly change not only human history but the history of the entire galaxy for centuries to come.

The dynamic between La’an and Kirk, who are unfamiliar with each other in both timelines, drives much of the episode’s intrigue. The chemistry between La’an and this alternate Kirk unfolds naturally. La’an, embodying the role of a no-nonsense officer, contrasts effectively with Kirk’s daring and charismatic persona. Christina Chong’s performance as La’an is exceptional, infusing her character with a wide range of emotions that underline the weight and vulnerability she carries given the weight of her augmented legacy. Paul Wesley brings a refreshing take to the iconic character of James T. Kirk.

Wesley strikes a perfect balance, seamlessly blending Kirk’s gravitas with his trademark warmth and compassion. The chemistry between Chong and Wesley adds depth to their interactions, showcasing the series’ commitment to highlighting the entire ensemble rather than solely focusing on the captain.

Despite their stellar performances, Strange New Worlds Season 2 Episode 3 loses a bit of steam when it forces romance between Kirk and La’an. As “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” unfolds and their tension comes to a head, the interaction between them feels out of place and detracts from the focus on La’an’s legacy as a genetically modified human. While Kirk could have served as the supportive friend she needed, the romantic element diminishes the exploration of tough decisions and the weight of choices that they both must make. For me, a platonic bond and support between the characters would have been a more fitting and impactful choice.

Handling time travel narratives requires careful attention to avoid plot holes and paradoxes, and “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” does an excellent job of tying up loose ends. As Strange New Worlds Season 2 Episode 3 enters its third act, the plot still very much remains believable without sending the entire franchise into temporal disarray. Further, the inclusion of characters like Sarah (Adelaide Kane), an alien conspiracist aiding La’an and Kirk, and Carol Kane’s Pelia, who offers unique perspectives as a nearly immortal crew member, enriches the storyline without overshadowing the main characters. Kane’s character alone creates a variety of questions by the episode’s end but doesn’t detract from La’an’s arc. Additionally, her quirky performance solidifies Pelia as one of the standout additions to the series’ cast. Their contributions seamlessly propel the plot forward and enhance the episode’s thematic depth.

Ultimately, “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” raises pertinent questions about the nature of time travel. The episode prompts viewers to ponder who determines the “better” future, the consequences of altering established realities, the enduring legacies shaped by difficult choices, and the personal sacrifices required to make those same choices. La’an’s journey highlights these themes, and the direction by Amanda Row and the writing by David Reed effectively bring them to a satisfying conclusion while leaving room for La’an to build off her experiences in the past.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 Episode 3 “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” takes viewers on a captivating journey through time. With its strong character dynamics, exceptional performances, and the seamless integration of time travel elements, this episode adds another compelling chapter to the Star Trek franchise’s rich tradition of temporal adventures. While the romantic element feels slightly forced, the thought-provoking questions raised and the satisfying conclusion make this episode a worthy addition to the series’s repertoire.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 Episode 3 is streaming exclusively on Paramount+ with new episodes every Thursday.