Star Trek: Voyager Season 2 presents viewers with a mix of innovative storytelling and episodes that may not resonate as strongly. Under Captain Kathryn Janeway, played by Kate Mulgrew, the team dives into the unpredictable Delta Quadrant. This season’s risk-taking sometimes leads to bizarre narratives, such as Lieutenant Tom Paris (Robert Duncan McNeill) transforming into a salamander in the infamous “Threshold,”or Tuvok (Tim Russ) and Neelix (Ethan Phillips) merging into the character Tuvix (Tom Wright). Interestingly, Janeway’s battle against her own fears in “The Thaw”becomes a memorable standout, highlighting that even the primary characters undergo strange and notable transformations.
While the most celebrated episodes showcase creativity, there are a few missteps that can be considered skippable. It’s not unusual for writers to take bold chances; high stakes can yield high rewards. However, some narratives may falter, either due to inconsistent characterization or rushed storytelling, particularly in the early stages of a series. Viewers might find themselves overlooking certain episodes due to their unremarkable nature.
5. Star Trek: Voyager Season 2, Episode 2 – “Initiations”
The Kazon: A Missed Opportunity as Villains
The episode “Initiations”introduces guest star Aron Eisenberg, known for his role as Nog on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, portraying Kar, a young Kazon. The storyline depicts Kar threatening Commander Chakotay (Robert Beltran) in a ritualistic test of bravery. Despite an effort to delve into Kazon culture, the episode simply reinforces the notion that the Kazon are akin to lesser Klingons. Originally slated to kick off Season 2 instead of the more memorable “The 37s,””Initiations”ultimately lacks the depth necessary to engage viewers effectively.
Though it aims to depict Chakotay’s compassionate leadership, the episode struggles, as Kar remains unresponsive to any attempts at meaningful dialogue. Fortunately, the series moves past the Kazon saga as it progresses, allowing viewers to bypass this episode without losing critical narrative elements.
4. Star Trek: Voyager Season 2, Episode 3 – “Elogium”
The Uncomfortable Dynamic of Neelix and Kes
The relationship between Neelix and Kes (Jennifer Lien) reaches an uncomfortable pinnacle in “Elogium.”As Kes enters her brief mating cycle, she must make a quick and life-altering decision about having a child with Neelix. Unfortunately, this episode reduces her character to a mere pawn in a narrative framed around reproduction, echoing themes reminiscent of previous interactions on the show.
Though Lien gives a commendable performance, Kes appears out of character, stripped of her agency and depth. This episode unwisely highlights the troubling nature of their relationship, as it fails to critically analyze the dynamic between a sheltered young woman and her significantly older partner. Instead of offering a nuanced perspective, “Elogium”presents a romanticized version of this ill-fated pairing.
3. Star Trek: Voyager Season 2, Episode 7 – “Parturition”
The Bizarre Rivalry Over Kes
“Parturition”features an odd conflict between Tom Paris and Neelix, stemming from competing affections for Kes, even though her feelings are clear. Stranded on a planet after a crash, the two must work together to care for an egg they find, echoing themes of cooperation seen in earlier Star Trek series. However, the execution falls short of the mark, lacking the profound connections found in episodes from other series.
The episode’s resolution only perpetuates outdated tropes, as Tom reassures Neelix of his intentions towards Kes rather than including her in the conversation. It’s disheartening to see such a lack of respect for Kes’s autonomy and decision-making processes, resulting in an episode better left unwatched.
2. Star Trek: Voyager Season 2, Episode 12 – “Resistance”
Janeway’s character feels passive throughout, leading to a narrative that misses the chance to explore her thoughts and emotions fully. The absence of meaningful character interactions diminishes the episode’s impact, making it feel unworthy of the Star Trek legacy.
1. Star Trek: Voyager Season 2, Episode 22 – “Innocence”
Tuvok and the Underwhelming Child Mystery
As the second season nears its conclusion, “Innocence”stands out for all the wrong reasons. Tuvok must handle three children left in the care of Starfleet after an unfortunate incident, tasked with solving a mystery that feels forced and unconvincing. The narrative lacks the suspense typically associated with a well-crafted mystery, and the big reveal—children who age backward—is delivered without any build-up or investigation from Tuvok himself.
The episode awkwardly navigates themes of vulnerability and protection without delivering the emotional payoff viewers might expect. While it presents new ideas, the execution fails to create a compelling narrative, rendering it yet another episode to skip in a season that otherwise displays potential.
Despite these five missteps, Season 2 of Star Trek: Voyager still maintains a relatively strong trajectory. The dynamics between the Starfleet and Maquis crew members evolve, setting the stage for more cohesive storytelling. Viewers can appreciate the show’s willingness to experiment with unusual plots while recognizing that not every episode lands successfully.