My father, a retired army colonel, watched this episode with me when it first aired. At the end of this scene he stated that this was a rare show that got command decisions right and that Picard was the only fictional officer he'd seen with whom he would have been happy to serve.
To be Fair DS9 is probably the best Trek as produced and Gul Dukat did outrank Gul Macet considerably at his peak. So a tactical retreat followed by a generous promotion now is it not?
This scene, though not flashy or action-packed, is actually one of my favorites in all of TNG. It does so much to show exactly why Picard is such a highly respected Star Fleet Captain. He can be diplomatic when he needs to be, but he's nobody's fool.....and he is not to be trifled with.
Many of the best episodes of TNG were not flashy or action-packed. The writers and producers of the series understood that compelling drama doesn't require physical fights or lots of FX, in fact those elements can detract from the human dimension of a story.
@@shiz777 Topics that could be discussed in the time TNG took place can not be discussed today because of the oversensitivity of people. Anything that hints towards sexism (or racism, but mostly sexism), to name an example, will be frowned upon and destroy the reputation of the show (only applies to new shows and ideals). You're exaggerating the problem in your statement. I believe Picard will be more mentally crippled in the new series than diplomatic and noble like in TNG. He will be more like he was in First Contact, where his past altered his thinking. That will be his drive, at least in my opinion.
If he cannot find a role in peace, we may pity him but we will not dismiss him...I feel like this is such an important line to apply to veterans today...
Reminds me of the letter that King George V had written, where he made plain his views that the Victoria Cross, the UK's highest military honour shouldn't be forfeited from an individual in any circumstance. That even if he does wrong later on, the valour shown and represented in that award cannot be dismissed or ignored, and that even if a recipient should find himself being hung from the gallows, they should be allowed to wear the decoration proudly. It seems war often takes a part of individuals that go to fight in it, a change that can never really be undone. We expect veterans to just move on with their lives like with any old job, but even if that job didn't take the lives it can take their body and soul in part. They are allowed unique honours, and a veteran never stops being a veteran for that reason in my opinion, we just forget a lot of the time as a society.
I was a filmmaker in a former life. if my actors were using their hands and body language too dramatically I had an exercise for them. I'd tell them to sit in a chair and pretend they were in an electrical chair about to be executed and they had to attack the corrupt warden with their words. (The scene they were doing did not have anything to do with prison, just an exercise.) They were strapped in including hands, legs and even their head so they could only use their two biggest weapons as actors. Their voices and their eyes. It was really effective for bringing their hand gestures down and getting them to use their voice like Picard does in this scene. If you've ever seen the movie Philadelphia, I love how all the attorneys sit still during the court scenes and don't move around a la 'your out of line!' style. It must have been difficult to get all that great talent to sit still for a whole scene!
I really miss the "Old" warp effects. not this hyperspace like stuff they do now. Startrek use to reserve that only for slipstream or transwarp conduits
Turning his back was basically saying fuck you in the most diplomatic way available. He was just talking about not dismissing people and then he dismissed Gal Macet right in front of him because they both knew he was a liar. If you don't understand things don't comment about them. Picard is ten times the man you will ever be. Are we clear? ..................................................................................................................... Good.
@@HRHMANSOURSleepinggorilla was stating that Picard turned his chair because he neither respected nor feared him. It was complimentary toward the Captain, not derogatory.
@@HRHMANSOUR Picard neither respected Macet, nor feared him. It's a fierce, final power move in diplomacy. Don't talk to him about not understanding things, when YOU dont understand what's going on. Sleepinggorilla is 10x as perceptive as you will ever be. Get it? Got it? *Good.* Now fvck off. 👍
I think, more so than disrespect, it signifies action behind the message Gal left with. As he turns and looks out to space, he (the federation), IS watching. I think the threat is very well punctuated that way. “Let me get to watching you right now!”
And this is EXACTLY how a threat, a very, very dangerous and quite powerful threat, is delivered. You do not scream. Losing control is a sign of weakness. You do not curse. Insults are futile against someone who can anytime ignore and laugh at them. But you can follow Picard's example. ''I am there. I am watching''. Maintaining absolute control, even against the most powerful enemies.
Possibly yes. Unfortunately Maxwell would later be somewhat vindicated when Cardassia sided with the Dominion (even though the Federation had proof the Dominion was responsible for engineering the war between Cardassia and the Klingon Empire).
What I love about this segment is when Picard explains how much the other captain was a great war hero who risked much for others, and yet he fell to such a low point, while Gul Macet merely brushes him off as a murderer. It shows something about how well educated and enlightened people view the world with all its subtleties and variations, and others just don't care to see past the immediate image that is in front of them.
Love the way Picard just swings around after delivering his warning leaving Macet nothing to do but slink out. This was the first appearance of the Cardassians as I recall so they hadn't settled on the make-up or uniforms yet but you can see in this scene between Picard and Macet the beginnings of what would be some epic scenes between Dukat (same actor) and Sisko later on.
it set the stage for one of the best arcs they ever dd on Star Trek, several TNG episodes, and the entirety of DS9 that eventually led to the Dominion War. Really very well done
One of my favorite episodes. They really did a good job through TNG and DS9 with the Cardassians. It wasnt just a weakly justified war for the sake of some action. They took alot of time to build a situation that made war seem like the natural course for the events that unfolded
"the price of peace... how much are you willing to PAY to get it?" "ANY COST!" "That is the kind of RECKLESS spending that causes so many business ventures to fail!"
I enjoy his airy vocal cadence. Oh so slightly mischievous and even almost a little tongue-in-cheek; subtly suggesting the holding back of one's true intentions.
“There are three things all wise men fear: the sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man.” ― Patrick Rothfuss, The Wise Man's Fear The Fjords are full of bodies of those that mistook Norwegians for soft and weak. - Lilyhammer S3E8 point here Gul is the Federation and starfleet are FILLED with people who are gentle and kind, but made with steel spines. Anger and reap the whirlwind of they're Wrath at your Own peril.
Quark : Let me tell you something about Hew-mons, Nephew. They're a wonderful, friendly people, as long as their bellies are full and their holosuites are working. But take away their creature comforts, deprive them of food, sleep, sonic showers, put their lives in jeopardy over an extended period of time and those same friendly, intelligent, wonderful people... will become as nasty and as violent as the most bloodthirsty Klingon. You don't believe me? Look at those faces. Look in their eyes.
"You people of the South don’t know what you are doing. This country will be drenched in blood, and God only knows how it will end. It is all folly, madness, a crime against civilization! "You people speak so lightly of war; you don’t know what you’re talking about. War is a terrible thing! You mistake, too, the people of the North. They are a peaceable people but an earnest people, and they will fight, too. They are not going to let this country be destroyed without a mighty effort to save it… "Besides, where are your men and appliances of war to contend against them? The North can make a steam engine, locomotive, or railway car; hardly a yard of cloth or pair of shoes can you make. You are rushing into war with one of the most powerful, ingeniously mechanical, and determined people on Earth-right at your doors. "You are bound to fail. Only in your spirit and determination are you prepared for war. In all else you are totally unprepared, with a bad cause to start with. At first you will make headway, but as your limited resources begin to fail, shut out from the markets of Europe as you will be, your cause will begin to wane. If your people will but stop and think, they must see in the end that you will surely fail."--William T. Sherman "Let me tell you what is coming. After the sacrifice of countless millions of treasure and hundreds of thousands of lives you may win Southern independence, but I doubt it. The North is determined to preserve this Union. They are not a fiery, impulsive people as you are, for they live in colder climates. But when they begin to move in a given direction, they move with the steady momentum and perseverance of a mighty avalanche."--Sam Houston
' If he couldnt find himself a role in peace we can pity him but we shall not dismiss him'. What a superb dialogue and psychology only equalled by the acting. The way he turns his back to express his contempt.. Ah! ❤😍
@@luvmenow33 yup. the same guy. another tidbit .... the actor that played Weyoun in DS9 ... played FIVE/SIX total characters in DS9, Voyager, and Enterprise. in fact, I believe I read that he played TWO separate characters in ONE episode.
Here's a shocker though. You know that species of very hair almost wolf looking aliens in the 1st seasons. The one that said to Tasha that eating replicated food was barbaric.... Yeah that was him too. Edit: The species called the Anticans. S1 Ep6
This was what was great about the old trek, they can have small conversation and evoke emotions to audience, nothing new can reenact this again, especially the new trek
Never occurred to me before now-Captain Maxwell was awarded the Federation's version of the Medal of Honor TWICE in 1 war. Guy was definitely a badass and would have been a legend (Starfleet cadets probably had to study his exploits at the academy) before this happened.
This is why Picard is the BEST captain. He doesn't need a firearm, his fists, or even the arsenal of his starship to be a bad ass... His words cut too deep; when he speaks, YOU LISTEN.
Actually in a novel it was revealed that Macet was a nephew or cousin of Dukat but was NOT the sociopath that Dukat was. Macet actually had a sense of honor and it conflicted with unethical orders at times.
@@iamnotanuggetblackhart5103 That is unusual in a Cardassian. To them, honor narrows down to "serving the state". If it is for the good of Cardassia then it is an honorable thing to do for them,.
I dunno .... the actor that played Garak was pretty damn good too. Those two BY FAR were the most in-depth Cardassians portrayed in ST lore, and the two actors that played them were phenomenal.
It gets glossed over sometimes, but Picard was known to all the major powers. When he let the hammer fall, the conversation was over and people knew a line had been drawn.
Something people seemed to miss a lot with this scene was that generally, if you're someone of an equal rank to your guest, you don't stand when having a discussion. Much of this scene is about perspective. Gul Macet sees himself as superior to Picard because he believes he successfully pulled two tricks over on the "naive Federation" and he wants to establish as much. His speech, his swagger, they're all indicative of a man who believes he has won. Then, Picard not only tolerates the mannerisms, but follows it up with addressing the fact that he knew better, and unlike Macet, his duty is to the principles of the Federation and all that entails. He does not need to like the treaty or his counterparts in the Cardassian chain of command, but he will certainly do what he must to maintain the peace. Turning his back to Macet is not a simple gesture of disrespect. Often, a dismissal is issued even to your equal from another military. Picard may recognize Macet's rank in public, but in private, Macet might as well be a greenhorn who didn't tuck his sheets. This was about more than just disrespect. This was Picard boldly stating that the next time Cardassia wants to have a dialogue, they best send someone who isn't Macet or anyone associated with him.
1:51-1:56 I was here to protect the peace ... a peace that I firmly believe is in the best interest of BOTH our peoples. the fact that Cardassia could NOT hold the peace ultimately led to its own dismantling. that Picard/Macet dialogue is one of the top 10 moments in Star Trek TELEVISION history since TNG revived the franchise.
I agree 100% and at the end where he tells the Cardassian, "We will be watching" in that grim shift of his voice and turns away. Gives me goosebumps. A masterclass of acting and Star Trek history.
2:11 when Marc Alaimo says "xy, I assure you..." be it gul macet or gul dukat, it always gets followed by some major takedown by the other party calling his bullshit :D
Picard is silently saying "I know damn well Ben Maxwell was right" but I came here to do my duty and preserve the peace by whatever means necessary. Even if it means watching such a decorated and commended hero be reduced to a prisoner. I don't envy Picard, but his stern look to Macet said it all. And the chilling end to Picard's conversation: We'll be watching...........(Basically follow the treaty stipulations and keep on your side of the fence). Because if you dip ONE TOE into Federation territory, the next time you see me, it may not be under more "agreeable" terms.
Now THIS is the Star Trek I grew up with! This was back when equality actually meant something and the stories were well written without the need to be demeaning to a group of people.
To turn your chair away from somebody in the middle of a conversation is an incredible boss move you could never pull off in real life without being as badass and secure in himself as Picard is
I love how Macet is outraged and railing at the actions of Maxwell but Picard strikes fear into him with mere words. Maxwell tried to stop the freighters with force. Picard made the Cardassians too scared to send them. This is not a dare or a challenge. Picard is, with a very calm demeanour, informing Macet that the line has been drawn.
There is a coldness to the final line "We will be watching" which makes the federation seem quite sinister if one were to look at this scenario from the Cardassian perspective. It's a moment which makes Picard and the Federation almost look like Romulans.
Klingons, not Romulans. Romulans work the cloak and dagger, treacherous, deceitful. Klingons are honorable, and in your face - and Picard was both here.
I’m a HUGE Star Trek fan, this was one of my favorite TV series of all time. But it’s really weird to me how the arguments in the comments section of this video and others get so heated like this is all about real events that really happened.
If only Picard was still this man by the time of ST: Picard. I suppose it makes sense that he's changed, though. Twenty years and a boatload of trauma will change anybody.
The Worst Parent it’s mostly the effort to make a multi-season story ark. Writers forget that that they can just cast talented actors/actresses and make one good story. and that story is fun to watch, so people will watch the next one. And then the next, and so on. Edit: By one story, I mean one episode. This isn’t the Avengers. Make an entertaining story, with an entertaining crew that lasts for about 45 minutes.
Picard changed because the writers and showrunners and whole purpose of the show changed. Much thought was put into the making of this TNG episode. Much eye-candy gets put into the making of each PIC episode. Even the most talented performers can't salvage a role which turns them into passive background wretches.
I think the problem was that not much time was spend on that change and therefore felt kind of forced or just not well done. I also think that unless a person is really broken inside that it would still be essentially the same person. He doesn't need to act as if he was still a captain of Starfleet, but I think that ST: Picard should have shown much more of his diplomatic, humanistic and wiser character traits. Apart from some very few moments, if any, I never got the feeling that it was the same character. Picard on ST: Picard seemed kind of lost to me for the entirety of the show. I also think that most of the new characters weren't very well written (1 or 2 of them I found downright annoying) apart from a few scenes. 3-4 episodes I quite enjoyed, but found the overall show lacking.
No, just horrific writers who: 1: Don't like Star Trek. 2: Never seen TNG. 3: Checked a box for must hire because politics. That's why he "changed". But no Trek fan I know even acknowledges anything after ST: Enterprise.
Chills in my fucking bones with Picard's unfetterred commitment and conviction to the statement. "We'll be watching". Tremendous chops of acting. Almost unbelievable. No one else could ever do better. Just look into his eyes and you see it.
If this had been the Imperial version of Picard. He would have not bothered to talk with Gul Macet, simply just have his bodyguard remove his bloodied corpse and instructed the guard to insure the airlock his corpse was ejected from led to his ship.
I think captain Benjamin maxwell of the uss pionex nebula class starship gave a good insight to the oncoming dominion war,I think he should be given back command.
I would like to think that the writers of Picard's dialogue were influenced by their knowledge of Patrick Stewart already being a well-versed classical stage actor.
Brilliant writing and showed Picard got there by being the better Captain. Maxwell couldn't know how else to stop this. Picard however knew Maxwell was entirely right, but saw a different way. As Gul Macet leaves and thought this incident was closed, thinking he pulled the wool of the Federation's eyes, Picard checks him and told Macet that not only did you not fool the Federation, but federation is aware of what you're trying to pull here. Sometimes simply foiling your enemy's plan to conceal is deterrent enough to stop it going any further.
My father, a retired army colonel, watched this episode with me when it first aired. At the end of this scene he stated that this was a rare show that got command decisions right and that Picard was the only fictional officer he'd seen with whom he would have been happy to serve.
God bless you father, my friend. It takes a lot to serve this country for so long.
@@williamnone Thank you. He was a good officer and an even better man.
@@fabrisseterbrugghe8567 You're welcome. As the son of a vet, and the brother of one, I know how it feels to be in the presence of such honorable men.
@fukuanimepfpusing piecesofshits Neither do justice, mercy, duty, and those sort of things. But we still believe they do.
@fukuanimepfpusing piecesofshits I think you may have missed the reference, which is a shame, but still...
Picard embarrassed Macet so badly that he changed his name and moved to an entirely different series.
Hehe good one 🤭😉
😂
I was just thinking that he knew a very good plastic surgeon on Cardassia Prime!
To be Fair DS9 is probably the best Trek as produced and Gul Dukat did outrank Gul Macet considerably at his peak.
So a tactical retreat followed by a generous promotion now is it not?
At least he left that terrible hat here.
This scene, though not flashy or action-packed, is actually one of my favorites in all of TNG. It does so much to show exactly why Picard is such a highly respected Star Fleet Captain. He can be diplomatic when he needs to be, but he's nobody's fool.....and he is not to be trifled with.
Many of the best episodes of TNG were not flashy or action-packed. The writers and producers of the series understood that compelling drama doesn't require physical fights or lots of FX, in fact those elements can detract from the human dimension of a story.
Yep and now nutrek has phasers firing everywhere all the time. They don't know how to write for quality.
I want to see THIS picard in the new series, diplomatic, yes, but icy cold at the same time!
Well said.
Unfortunately, if Alex Kurtzman has ANYTHING to do with the new Picard show, we won't be seeing anything that made Picard an icon on TNG.
New picard is gonna be a lesbian sjw trans woman, and I bet you will still pay to watch it.
@shiz777
^THIS
@@shiz777 Topics that could be discussed in the time TNG took place can not be discussed today because of the oversensitivity of people. Anything that hints towards sexism (or racism, but mostly sexism), to name an example, will be frowned upon and destroy the reputation of the show (only applies to new shows and ideals). You're exaggerating the problem in your statement.
I believe Picard will be more mentally crippled in the new series than diplomatic and noble like in TNG. He will be more like he was in First Contact, where his past altered his thinking. That will be his drive, at least in my opinion.
If he cannot find a role in peace, we may pity him but we will not dismiss him...I feel like this is such an important line to apply to veterans today...
Reminds me of the letter that King George V had written, where he made plain his views that the Victoria Cross, the UK's highest military honour shouldn't be forfeited from an individual in any circumstance. That even if he does wrong later on, the valour shown and represented in that award cannot be dismissed or ignored, and that even if a recipient should find himself being hung from the gallows, they should be allowed to wear the decoration proudly.
It seems war often takes a part of individuals that go to fight in it, a change that can never really be undone. We expect veterans to just move on with their lives like with any old job, but even if that job didn't take the lives it can take their body and soul in part. They are allowed unique honours, and a veteran never stops being a veteran for that reason in my opinion, we just forget a lot of the time as a society.
@@MemekingJag brings to mind Oswald Mosely and Philippe Petain
I agree.
Especially those who still feel they are at war
Now we kick these veterans out of their homes out to make room for illegals.
Masterclass acting by all involved.
actually, just average acting for the 90s- but agreed for 2020s, this is masterclass.
Absolutely correct.
I was a filmmaker in a former life. if my actors were using their hands and body language too dramatically I had an exercise for them. I'd tell them to sit in a chair and pretend they were in an electrical chair about to be executed and they had to attack the corrupt warden with their words. (The scene they were doing did not have anything to do with prison, just an exercise.) They were strapped in including hands, legs and even their head so they could only use their two biggest weapons as actors. Their voices and their eyes. It was really effective for bringing their hand gestures down and getting them to use their voice like Picard does in this scene.
If you've ever seen the movie Philadelphia, I love how all the attorneys sit still during the court scenes and don't move around a la 'your out of line!' style. It must have been difficult to get all that great talent to sit still for a whole scene!
The reflection of the moving stars on the table is a nice touch.
I hope some forgotten CGI artist reads this ^^
Impressive anyone actually noticed that.
The reflection is wrong, annoyingly. It looks like a superimposed window instead of a reflective surface.
Definitely a nice touch though
holy shit. absolutely.
I really miss the "Old" warp effects. not this hyperspace like stuff they do now. Startrek use to reserve that only for slipstream or transwarp conduits
"Never turn your back on a man you either respect or fear." - Picard turns his chair around.
Turning his back was basically saying fuck you in the most diplomatic way available. He was just talking about not dismissing people and then he dismissed Gal Macet right in front of him because they both knew he was a liar. If you don't understand things don't comment about them. Picard is ten times the man you will ever be. Are we clear? ..................................................................................................................... Good.
@@HRHMANSOURyou are both saying the same thing you tool lol.
@@HRHMANSOURSleepinggorilla was stating that Picard turned his chair because he neither respected nor feared him. It was complimentary toward the Captain, not derogatory.
@@HRHMANSOUR Picard neither respected Macet, nor feared him.
It's a fierce, final power move in diplomacy.
Don't talk to him about not understanding things, when YOU dont understand what's going on.
Sleepinggorilla is 10x as perceptive as you will ever be.
Get it?
Got it?
*Good.*
Now fvck off. 👍
I love the way he turns his back on Macet at the end.
"You are no longer worthy of being looked at."
I know!!! That is EXCEPTIONALLY cold and ultimately - dismissive. There's anger in that gesture.
I took it more as "what needed to be said has been said. This conversation is over"
Picard was a master of diplomacy. He knows what his opponents will respond to and what they respect.
I think, more so than disrespect, it signifies action behind the message Gal left with. As he turns and looks out to space, he (the federation), IS watching. I think the threat is very well punctuated that way. “Let me get to watching you right now!”
@@jeremykline6687 I like that. You're right. He's literally watching space.
Good grief, Picard commands an authority like no other person: you can see Gul Macet about to swallow his adam's apple whole.
Imagine what Sisko would’ve done
And then they promptly cut off his scrotum when they brought him back for Picard.
Such a savage, didnt even chew first.
Yes! This is how I will remember Star Trek! Shows of TNG quality!
Gul Macet or Gul Ducat.... but whose keeping score
And this is EXACTLY how a threat, a very, very dangerous and quite powerful threat, is delivered. You do not scream. Losing control is a sign of weakness. You do not curse. Insults are futile against someone who can anytime ignore and laugh at them. But you can follow Picard's example. ''I am there. I am watching''. Maintaining absolute control, even against the most powerful enemies.
Absolutely.
Wasn't even a threat, it was a fact
The ultimate insult is also delivered: turning your back on a perceived enemy. Savage
An empty threat. The Cardassians do not fear war or the Federation even if they did lose the first conflict.
Imagine if Picard's chair squeaked as he turned...
Imagine if Patrick Stewart gave a fuck while making 'Picard'
HA! Both these comments are gold
Internet, get on this.
*turns chair*
*squeaky version of "La Cucharacha" plays*
@@mikerochburns4104 Imagine if Patrick didn't hate the character that was Picard.
This is the captain Picard that made us fall in love with the character. The gentleman's warrior.
He was an ideal starfleet officer. He was a diplomat with a scientist's curiosity, an academics desire to learn and a warrior's resolve.
“A gentleman warrior” is the perfect description of Picard.
He's not a warrior you have missed the point of Picard thanks
“Diplomacy is a velvet glove over an iron hand” - T. Roosevelt
"Speak softly, and carry a big stick." - Someone
@@procerusgigas Both quotes are from the same dude
@fukuanimepfpusing piecesofshits wrong Roosevelt.
I doubt Picard would be picking up diplomacy pointers from T. Roosevelt
@@zachkh ?
The writing on this show set the bar for all time.
It was gold from season 3 onwards, though took a slight dip in the later seasons.
I couldn’t agree more.
“We’ll be watching,” combined with that prolonged, intense stare into Gul Macet’s eyes, was such a powerful moment and so well acted.
"Take this message to your leaders Gul Macet: _We'll be watching."_
That sent a shiver down Macet's spine. Bet those "cargo ships" stopped after that.
it sends shivers down my spine, I bet Gul Macet went for a change of underwear right away
He was shook so hard that he changes his name to Gul Dukat!
Possibly yes. Unfortunately Maxwell would later be somewhat vindicated when Cardassia sided with the Dominion (even though the Federation had proof the Dominion was responsible for engineering the war between Cardassia and the Klingon Empire).
I get chills every time he says "We'll be watching".
What I love about this segment is when Picard explains how much the other captain was a great war hero who risked much for others, and yet he fell to such a low point, while Gul Macet merely brushes him off as a murderer.
It shows something about how well educated and enlightened people view the world with all its subtleties and variations, and others just don't care to see past the immediate image that is in front of them.
Many people like their reality neatly packaged in a small box, with a bow on it.
Gul Macet also had a political reason to dismiss Maxwell. He's maintaining the pretense that his people are not arming for war.
I kind of like how the ending theme sounds like a darker version of DS9s theme, as if it is a prelude to what is coming
The composer definitely went back to see what he had composed for the first cardassian encounter. Would love to hear that story...
So glad the show was filmed using movie film, not tape. These HD rescans are impressive.
Love the way Picard just swings around after delivering his warning leaving Macet nothing to do but slink out.
This was the first appearance of the Cardassians as I recall so they hadn't settled on the make-up or uniforms yet but you can see in this scene between Picard and Macet the beginnings of what would be some epic scenes between Dukat (same actor) and Sisko later on.
Gul Macet was Dukat's slightly more ugly cousin.... maybe...
We can dispute your opinion all we like, but we shall NOT dismiss you.
@@maddslothii2532 yeah...lots of inbreeding going on on Cardassia Prime...lol! :-D
Ian, Picard knew how to be cold when he had to be....and i think Patrick Stewart was perfect to play his part!
it set the stage for one of the best arcs they ever dd on Star Trek, several TNG episodes, and the entirety of DS9 that eventually led to the Dominion War. Really very well done
One of my favorite episodes. They really did a good job through TNG and DS9 with the Cardassians. It wasnt just a weakly justified war for the sake of some action. They took alot of time to build a situation that made war seem like the natural course for the events that unfolded
"the price of peace... how much are you willing to PAY to get it?"
"ANY COST!"
"That is the kind of RECKLESS spending that causes so many business ventures to fail!"
The way that he said “under lock and key” was so gratifying
I enjoy his airy vocal cadence. Oh so slightly mischievous and even almost a little tongue-in-cheek; subtly suggesting the holding back of one's true intentions.
"Remember... it's not that we can't. It's that we didn't."
That was the most epic chair spin in the history of chair spins.
“There are three things all wise men fear: the sea in storm, a night with no moon, and the anger of a gentle man.”
― Patrick Rothfuss, The Wise Man's Fear
The Fjords are full of bodies of those that mistook Norwegians for soft and weak. - Lilyhammer S3E8
point here Gul is the Federation and starfleet are FILLED with people who are gentle and kind, but made with steel spines. Anger and reap the whirlwind of they're Wrath at your Own peril.
Good men don't need rules. It's a bad idea to find out why some men have so many of them.
*their
Quark : Let me tell you something about Hew-mons, Nephew. They're a wonderful, friendly people, as long as their bellies are full and their holosuites are working. But take away their creature comforts, deprive them of food, sleep, sonic showers, put their lives in jeopardy over an extended period of time and those same friendly, intelligent, wonderful people... will become as nasty and as violent as the most bloodthirsty Klingon. You don't believe me? Look at those faces. Look in their eyes.
@@JPHandel I feel sorry for the Jem'hadar.
"You people of the South don’t know what you are doing. This country will be drenched in blood, and God only knows how it will end. It is all folly, madness, a crime against civilization!
"You people speak so lightly of war; you don’t know what you’re talking about. War is a terrible thing! You mistake, too, the people of the North. They are a peaceable people but an earnest people, and they will fight, too. They are not going to let this country be destroyed without a mighty effort to save it…
"Besides, where are your men and appliances of war to contend against them? The North can make a steam engine, locomotive, or railway car; hardly a yard of cloth or pair of shoes can you make. You are rushing into war with one of the most powerful, ingeniously mechanical, and determined people on Earth-right at your doors.
"You are bound to fail. Only in your spirit and determination are you prepared for war. In all else you are totally unprepared, with a bad cause to start with. At first you will make headway, but as your limited resources begin to fail, shut out from the markets of Europe as you will be, your cause will begin to wane. If your people will but stop and think, they must see in the end that you will surely fail."--William T. Sherman
"Let me tell you what is coming. After the sacrifice of countless millions of treasure and hundreds of thousands of lives you may win Southern independence, but I doubt it. The North is determined to preserve this Union. They are not a fiery, impulsive people as you are, for they live in colder climates. But when they begin to move in a given direction, they move with the steady momentum and perseverance of a mighty avalanche."--Sam Houston
The callback to the “Minstrel Boy” song right at the end was masterly.
2:20 the birth of the Deep Space 9 theme? :D
sounds like!
that would be an excellent easter egg!
Definitely is ONE of them.
Well spotted, Dave!
Most likely a favorite of Dennis McCarthy, who provided the music for this episode of TNG and the first episode of DS9.
Nice catch there. I had never thought about that.
That look on Picard's face when he said "we'll be watching".. pretty sure Gul Macet realized there was no bullshitting this man. The game is over.
That look man. Gives me chills even the 100th time.
This is my favorite episode in every Star Trek series combined, I love this one. Especially that scene at the end with O'Brien and Maxwell
Picard called him out so smoothly he didn't even have to tell this man to leave his sight he turned his back and allowed his actions to speak. LMAO
' If he couldnt find himself a role in peace we can pity him but we shall not dismiss him'.
What a superb dialogue and psychology only equalled by the acting. The way he turns his back to express his contempt.. Ah! ❤😍
Powerful scene. The DS9 theme always gets me at the end too
Gul: “you shouldn’t turn your back on an enemy”
Picard: “I haven’t. You’re an annoyance Gul, nothing more.”
I can't believe I never realized Gul Macet is played by Marc Alaimo, the same actor who played Gul Dukat on DS9.
And the romulab captain in season one episode the netural zone
@@luvmenow33 yup. the same guy.
another tidbit .... the actor that played Weyoun in DS9 ... played FIVE/SIX total characters in DS9, Voyager, and Enterprise. in fact, I believe I read that he played TWO separate characters in ONE episode.
Here's a shocker though. You know that species of very hair almost wolf looking aliens in the 1st seasons. The one that said to Tasha that eating replicated food was barbaric....
Yeah that was him too.
Edit: The species called the Anticans. S1 Ep6
As well as one of the poker players in Times Arrow part two.
Brining him back as Dukat was a stroke of genius.
I'm glad they included this scene. It shows Maxwell as a tragic and complex figure, rather than a one-dimensional bigot.
This was what was great about the old trek, they can have small conversation and evoke emotions to audience, nothing new can reenact this again, especially the new trek
That steely gaze from Picard. Wow. Patrick Stewart fucking nailed this.
Oh damn that line. We'll be watching
That chair swivel power move is everything.
Take this message to your leaders, Gul Macet: We'll be watching.
*turns away*
He was giving the guy a clue that the meeting was over and he should leave.
His way of saying "Now, duh fuq offah my ship."
Well he never said WHAT he'll be watching.
"That star over there is a funny color..."
Gul macet: "Well, after he said he'd be watching, he just turned away."
Leaders: "Damn."
I am assuming that the leaders were in that precise direction a few light years away.
Never occurred to me before now-Captain Maxwell was awarded the Federation's version of the Medal of Honor TWICE in 1 war. Guy was definitely a badass and would have been a legend (Starfleet cadets probably had to study his exploits at the academy) before this happened.
And after his unfortunate court martial and expulsion from star fleet, he became the warden of shawshank prison.
Would have been nice if they brought him back on DS9 for a cameo.
@@spyder357 “I told you all not to trust the Cardis!!!! years ago now looks them”
And when Picard says, "We'll be watching," depend on that. Bet the farm and your shirt.
Turning his back at the end was the perfect punctuation.
This is why Picard is the BEST captain. He doesn't need a firearm, his fists, or even the arsenal of his starship to be a bad ass... His words cut too deep; when he speaks, YOU LISTEN.
This is one of my favorite TNG scenes; possibly even my favorite. So charged with emotion.
Love the last few notes at the end of that dialogue. It almost sounds like the theme to DS9.
Macet then shaved and changed his name to Dukat, apparently... XD
Seriously, nobody could play a Cardassian better than Marc Alaimo.
Actually in a novel it was revealed that Macet was a nephew or cousin of Dukat but was NOT the sociopath that Dukat was. Macet actually had a sense of honor and it conflicted with unethical orders at times.
@@iamnotanuggetblackhart5103 That is unusual in a Cardassian. To them, honor narrows down to "serving the state". If it is for the good of Cardassia then it is an honorable thing to do for them,.
@@CSLucasEpic True, then again this was pre DS9, so we didn't get the entire 'mystique' behind Cardassian honor.
I dunno .... the actor that played Garak was pretty damn good too. Those two BY FAR were the most in-depth Cardassians portrayed in ST lore, and the two actors that played them were phenomenal.
@@dhinton1. Yes, Andrew Robinson, one of my favorite character actors, there is him getting walloped by Cobra.
ua-cam.com/video/EdiZzm9bA2I/v-deo.html
It gets glossed over sometimes, but Picard was known to all the major powers. When he let the hammer fall, the conversation was over and people knew a line had been drawn.
Every actor in that episode absolutely murdered. Bob Gunton (Maxwell), Stewart, Alaimo, Colm Meaney. Lightning in a bottle.
"Take this message to your leaders, Gul Macet. We know. We'll be watching. And we'll be ready."
I love the end musical punch that harkens to the 'Deep Space 9' theme.
Something people seemed to miss a lot with this scene was that generally, if you're someone of an equal rank to your guest, you don't stand when having a discussion. Much of this scene is about perspective. Gul Macet sees himself as superior to Picard because he believes he successfully pulled two tricks over on the "naive Federation" and he wants to establish as much. His speech, his swagger, they're all indicative of a man who believes he has won. Then, Picard not only tolerates the mannerisms, but follows it up with addressing the fact that he knew better, and unlike Macet, his duty is to the principles of the Federation and all that entails. He does not need to like the treaty or his counterparts in the Cardassian chain of command, but he will certainly do what he must to maintain the peace.
Turning his back to Macet is not a simple gesture of disrespect. Often, a dismissal is issued even to your equal from another military. Picard may recognize Macet's rank in public, but in private, Macet might as well be a greenhorn who didn't tuck his sheets. This was about more than just disrespect. This was Picard boldly stating that the next time Cardassia wants to have a dialogue, they best send someone who isn't Macet or anyone associated with him.
1:51-1:56 I was here to protect the peace ... a peace that I firmly believe is in the best interest of BOTH our peoples.
the fact that Cardassia could NOT hold the peace ultimately led to its own dismantling.
that Picard/Macet dialogue is one of the top 10 moments in Star Trek TELEVISION history since TNG revived the franchise.
I agree 100% and at the end where he tells the Cardassian, "We will be watching" in that grim shift of his voice and turns away. Gives me goosebumps. A masterclass of acting and Star Trek history.
2:37 Stars reflecting off the table's reflective portion... good attention to detail!
"We'll be watching. NOW GO HOME AND GET YER FUCKING SHINE BOX!"
2:11 when Marc Alaimo says "xy, I assure you..." be it gul macet or gul dukat, it always gets followed by some major takedown by the other party calling his bullshit :D
This is probably my favorite, and in my opinion, the best episode for a multitude of reasons.
Picard is silently saying "I know damn well Ben Maxwell was right" but I came here to do my duty and preserve the peace by whatever means necessary. Even if it means watching such a decorated and commended hero be reduced to a prisoner. I don't envy Picard, but his stern look to Macet said it all. And the chilling end to Picard's conversation:
We'll be watching...........(Basically follow the treaty stipulations and keep on your side of the fence). Because if you dip ONE TOE into Federation territory, the next time you see me, it may not be under more "agreeable" terms.
That chair turning at the end is basically Picard telling him to F off
Now THIS is the Star Trek I grew up with! This was back when equality actually meant something and the stories were well written without the need to be demeaning to a group of people.
Say what?
Nowadays of course equality means some animals are more equal than others, and the less equal ones need to be reminded constantly.
@@conorcorrigan765 what?
@@NPCSingularity What?
@@conorcorrigan765 I’m not understanding what you’re trying to say. Could you clarify?
This, Janeway's last words to Fear in "Thaw" and Sisko dressing down Dax & Worf. Literally, crub-stomping.
I love that scene with Dax and Worf.
Acting in that Star Trek is on another level!
You don't see acting like that anymore!
I miss the old Trek!
This is really one of the finest endings in all of the TNG series....
I like how the musical swell at the end is a precursor to the DS9 main theme.
"Mom, can go get Gul Dukat?"
"We have Gul Dukat at home."
Gul Dukat at home:
Great Value Gul Dukat right here.
Kirkland Signature Dukat.
Once in a while in a rare moment a show captures a plethora of emotìon to stagger the imagination. Such is this one.
What an excellent comment. I wholeheartedly agree. Excellent comment.
@@KH4444444444N thank you
I’ve never swivel turned away from someone whilst they are still talking to me... Goals
When you put a Shakespearean actor in the 25th century
To turn your chair away from somebody in the middle of a conversation is an incredible boss move you could never pull off in real life without being as badass and secure in himself as Picard is
He was really regal in this clip, especially at the end when he turns his chair around. What a classy way to say: "all has been said.".
Thank you for the captions. Very thoughtful.
I come back once a year for this scene.. damn Cardassians thought Picard was slow..
I love how Macet is outraged and railing at the actions of Maxwell but Picard strikes fear into him with mere words. Maxwell tried to stop the freighters with force. Picard made the Cardassians too scared to send them. This is not a dare or a challenge. Picard is, with a very calm demeanour, informing Macet that the line has been drawn.
Captain Picard, the only Starley officer that could put a Cardi in his place, and dismiss him by turning his chair and back to him.
This is when Picard set himself apart from Kirk.
"Take this message to your leaders Gul Macet, THERE ARE FOUR LIGHTS!"
There is a coldness to the final line "We will be watching" which makes the federation seem quite sinister if one were to look at this scenario from the Cardassian perspective.
It's a moment which makes Picard and the Federation almost look like Romulans.
Klingons, not Romulans. Romulans work the cloak and dagger, treacherous, deceitful. Klingons are honorable, and in your face - and Picard was both here.
Section 31 will be doing more than watching.
I’m a HUGE Star Trek fan, this was one of my favorite TV series of all time. But it’s really weird to me how the arguments in the comments section of this video and others get so heated like this is all about real events that really happened.
maybe they did multiple universes and realities.
star trek at its best
If only Picard was still this man by the time of ST: Picard. I suppose it makes sense that he's changed, though. Twenty years and a boatload of trauma will change anybody.
The Worst Parent it’s mostly the effort to make a multi-season story ark. Writers forget that that they can just cast talented actors/actresses and make one good story. and that story is fun to watch, so people will watch the next one. And then the next, and so on.
Edit: By one story, I mean one episode. This isn’t the Avengers. Make an entertaining story, with an entertaining crew that lasts for about 45 minutes.
Picard changed because the writers and showrunners and whole purpose of the show changed.
Much thought was put into the making of this TNG episode.
Much eye-candy gets put into the making of each PIC episode.
Even the most talented performers can't salvage a role which turns them into passive background wretches.
Being ass deep in Romulans will change the best of men
I think the problem was that not much time was spend on that change and therefore felt kind of forced or just not well done. I also think that unless a person is really broken inside that it would still be essentially the same person. He doesn't need to act as if he was still a captain of Starfleet, but I think that ST: Picard should have shown much more of his diplomatic, humanistic and wiser character traits. Apart from some very few moments, if any, I never got the feeling that it was the same character. Picard on ST: Picard seemed kind of lost to me for the entirety of the show. I also think that most of the new characters weren't very well written (1 or 2 of them I found downright annoying) apart from a few scenes. 3-4 episodes I quite enjoyed, but found the overall show lacking.
No, just horrific writers who:
1: Don't like Star Trek.
2: Never seen TNG.
3: Checked a box for must hire because politics.
That's why he "changed". But no Trek fan I know even acknowledges anything after ST: Enterprise.
Chills in my fucking bones with Picard's unfetterred commitment and conviction to the statement. "We'll be watching". Tremendous chops of acting. Almost unbelievable. No one else could ever do better. Just look into his eyes and you see it.
The video should be titled "Don't f*** with Starfleet"
YESSSS!!!!!!!!
The forerunner of the saying "Don't fuck with the Culture"
If this had been the Imperial version of Picard. He would have not bothered to talk with Gul Macet, simply just have his bodyguard remove his bloodied corpse and instructed the guard to insure the airlock his corpse was ejected from led to his ship.
Such an epic scene.
Picard turned around so he can start watching now.
Only Picard could issue a warning to a Gul, and practically make him soil himself.
"Now get the hell off of my ship..."
jajajjajajaajaaaaaaaaaaaa
I think captain Benjamin maxwell of the uss pionex nebula class starship gave a good insight to the oncoming dominion war,I think he should be given back command.
Picard's speeches are mightier than any sword.
I would like to think that the writers of Picard's dialogue were influenced by their knowledge of Patrick Stewart already being a well-versed classical stage actor.
You can turn your back on a Cardassian, but never turn your back on a Breen.
And I thought only my people had that saying...
*pulls off beard* Dukat: how did you know it was me?!
The embodiment of "Do no harm, but take no shit"
Macet is terrified of chair swivels to this day
Notice that in the final moment, neither blinked. Now that's acting.
Just realized I heard echoes of DS9’s theme.
Take this message to your leaders Gul Macet, we'll be watching
WOWWWW PICARD!!!
2 years later... all 3 actors appeared on DS9.
Brilliant writing and showed Picard got there by being the better Captain.
Maxwell couldn't know how else to stop this.
Picard however knew Maxwell was entirely right, but saw a different way.
As Gul Macet leaves and thought this incident was closed, thinking he pulled the wool of the Federation's eyes, Picard checks him and told Macet that not only did you not fool the Federation, but federation is aware of what you're trying to pull here.
Sometimes simply foiling your enemy's plan to conceal is deterrent enough to stop it going any further.