Cross your fingers this episode stays up!! Please be cool Paramount!! 🤞🖖 If this gets removed, all my eps are still available on Patreon! 🖖 TNG Playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PLQHhQlj8i5dqskzLNqeSNyMGa1rBWe3h1.html Original Series & Movies: ua-cam.com/play/PLQHhQlj8i5drsrCtQd-FDuZZ99vKlPTyZ.html
Popcorn in Bed is also suffering from problems with her TNG reactions. The Gallifrey Gals have had their TNG reactions to the entire 7 seasons up for ages now so they may be able to offer some advice.
Didn't know that you were having problems with keeping STTNG up. I hope they are not blocked because I am loving your heartfelt reactions to the show. Keep up the great work.
@@Paul-br Absolutely! Altough it is not my go to episode, "The Drumhead" is an excellent moral lesson, without demonizing any side of an argument (except, if you like pointless prosecutions and fearmongering. But if so, one has bigger issues, lol.)
@@nealsterling8151 Yeah I've got to admit that as a kid, Measure of a Man and The Drumhead didn't capture me, but as I got older, these are the episodes I remember fondly because there's a lesson in there and they make us think, it also resonants a lot with real life and things that are going on in society, which with how things are going in the world, we could do with more of these life lessons.
This is the one that put TNG on the map as not just a pale copy of TOS but a proper show in its own right. This didn't launch its reputation into orbit, that was still to come, but it established a rock solid foundation.
Star Trek is at it's very best when it's literally just people sitting in a room conversing about extenstensial/philosophical topics and this episode is the pinnacle of that.
We finally get a great payoff for them casting such strong actors for the series. Patrick Stewart, Brent Spiner, Whoopi Goldberg and Jonathan Frakes really hit it out of the park here.
While giant space battles, explosions & even technobabble ARE enjoyable from time to time, I agree. Star Trek IS at its "best" when the 'Sci Fi' is the background/ setting/ ambiance, instead of the main focus of the episode. When the Core is something "deeper" and more intellectual.
I always loved that Data went to get Riker to bring him to the party. I also found it very touching when Picard said he didn't think Tasha would mind Data revealing his and Tasha's confidence under the circumstances. She absolutely would not mind.
One of the best episodes of Star Trek. Guinan helping Picard realise they are talking about slavery is powerful stuff. Beautifully written and performed by all involved. Top tier Trek.
It's what I like about Picard, he's not stubborn in sticking to a point, he's quick to realise if he is wrong when someone makes a good case against his view, Guinan made Picard realise the bigger implications of what is at stake, Picard at first worried about one of his officers and wanting to protect him, Guinan made him see the bigger picture that this is more about slavery than just protecting one officer.
"Measure Of A Man" is not only one of the best TNG Episodes, but one of the most influential ST episodes ever. Its tendrils intertwine throughout the run of the Series and beyond.
This episode is so well written! It was the first TV screenplay by newly hired writer Melinda Snodgrass, who had previously been an attorney. Online I read a shooting script for the episode labeled "final draft". Some of the most crucial hard-hitting dialog, like Guinan's conversation about "disposable people", isn't in it. It must have been revised at the last minute.
It's possible that they hadn't expected Whoopi Goldberg's schedule to allow for her to appear in this episode, but her schedule opened up and so the brief Guinan scene was added at the last minute.
The Measure of a Man is Star Trek at it's best, when it actually looks at the deeper issues that honestly can't be answered by science. When the JAG officer answers "Does he have a soul? Heck I don't know if I have one.", sums up one of the existential problems that philosophers have been arguing over for millenia.
Brent Spiner was interviewed about his role as Data and asked if the character had feelings. His reply was, "Data has always had feelings. Data is innocent."
Oddly, I'm pretty sure Pulaski was the first one to actually say that he had emotions, though she may have been snarking. (When she suggested he was butt hurt about how she pronounced his name.) Still, from the very beginning, he exhibited mild emotions.
Some of the things you said in your reaction to this amazing episode are exactly why you're a great fit for reacting to this series. My partner and I are re-watching the series on our own (for the upteenth time, but first time in a few years) and greatly enjoying watching your reactions. Picard's final statements, so to speak, in that hearing are just marvelous, both in word and in performance. As are her final words during her ruling of the case. This is just the start of that extraordinary relationship between Picard and Data.
Can we admire Engineer O'Brien's poker skills. (Without spoilers) They return to the poker game throughout the series. At various times he's playing against an android who can instantly run the potential of any hand. A command officer. A cyborg who can read his cards. An empath. A Klingon who doesn't like to lose. And the captain of his ship. He looks at all of them and decides "Finally, a challenge."
Reminds me of the incredible skills of another Star Trek engineer... Scotty's special skill was godlike toughness. He was the only guy on the whole crew who wore a red shirt and didn't die.
This is what Star Trek is, it is why it has endured in the hearts of fans for so long. When TNG gets good it's really good - you have some amazing stuff ahead of you. thank you for sharing your experience
Picard is the best Captain to ever sit on the bridge of a federation ship and this episode is yet another example of that. This is one of my favourite episodes of TNG
This for me I think has always the point where ST:TNG went from being an enjoyable series to being a genuinely brilliant one, not to say there weren't clunky or poor episodes along the way but this is for me where all the great writing starts. You've got so many episodes of this quality or better to look forward too.
Strong candidate for best episode in all of Star Trek. I really appreciated Jen's question -- whether it makes a difference if Data makes US, (or rather his cremates), feel things. I'd never looked at this question that way before.
First time I watched TNG all the way through, I was fully enamored by Patrick Stewart as Picard. A year or two later when I watched it again, I thought, "Holy sh!t, Data is awesome." Would love to know the number of times everyone would be dead if Data wasn't there. It would be a LOT.
This was the episode outside the norm, there was no murder, there was no mystery, and there was no intergalactic threat to overcome. This was a moment that would define a single character's existence for the rest of the series. We learn more about Data himself, that he has 'feelings' for his fellow crewmates, he experienced love and intimacy along with a broken heart, and he was in fear of losing his life and everything that made him who he was. Data-sentric episodes were some of the best episodes as far as I was concerned.
I've broken wind in a courtroom more than the average cat. (Rookie police year 1982 Texas, retired 2016 Nottingham England)...the one-two punch Pickard missed was: If Data is property, it means Star Fleet needs to show its "title," how much latinum did they pay? None? Oh...ok...where did you find him? You didn't find him did you...Dr. Soong didn't will him to you either did he. Data walked into a recruiters office and JOINED Star Fleet of his own free will didn't he. The Enterprise didn't join Star Fleet, Star Fleet payed good latinum (sorry Ferengie comes out in me when money is involved) to have her build, show all the billions of citizens in the federation that Star Fleet legally holds title to commander Data and has a right to determine his fate. That's the slap, followed up with, the he's a life form argument/ backhand.
Measure of a Man is in my opinion one of the best episodes of any show on television. The problems explored in it will definitely be tackled in the future, maybe near future. I'm glad you are enjoying the series, I think I am with tons of others when I say, TNG is the best Star Trek show ever made.
I agree Jen Murray!! This is one of my favorite episodes in all of Star Trek!! I'm glad you loved it as well!! It talks about a lot of important topics, very thought provoking!!! 🙂
This is by far one of my favorite episodes of the entire series. I was late diagnosed with ADHD & Autism so, although I didn’t know why growing up, I always connected to Data & getting to see people look after their wellbeing was something I always wanted growing up
Not only one of my absolute favourite Star Trek episodes ever, but one of my favourite episodes of any show I have ever watched. An extraordinarily important episode that highlights how powerful and thought provoking well written entertainment can be.
I love Guinan's way of wording things in this episode...and of course, NOTHING beats Data's line when he says "We were...intimate." when referring to Tasha.
Any time they delve into who/what Data is always makes for an interesting watch. Brent Spiner does such a great job making us care for Data. He's such an innocent character and yet still so complex.
Speaking for myself and I suspect a large part of your community, this is one of the episodes we've been waiting for you to watch. You did not disappoint, thank you.
THIS is really good writing...and writing about issues. They discuss the issue in detail and at the end they don't really tell us what we should believe but instead leave us to decide for ourselves. If only modern day TV and movies would take note!
This episode brings tears to my eyes. Also hands up everyone who has been salivating for Jen to reach this one 🤚 . Every time she wanted to know more about data 🤤 😝
This is one of the greatest episodes of Star Trek of all time, and by far and wide one of the best episodes of television of all time. It deals with the fundamental questions of "what is human" and "what is alive" and we are ALL going to be struggling with them in the real world as technology goes forward. I love this episode! Thank you for the amazing reaction!
This is one of those Trek episodes that really make Star Trek what it is. It doesn't need flashy space battles or convoluted plots, it's dealing with questions that we can all relate to and is still as relevant today as it was when it was broadcast. I don't know if you watch DS9 but 'In the pale moonlight' has a similar feel when it comes to morality, albeit from a different direction. Love the reaction.
I do hope she starts watching DS9. The nerd in me wants her to stagger watching the TNG episodes and the DS9 episodes as they were transmitted at the time, then do the same with DS9 and Voyager. 😁
I am not a fan of DS9 or Sisko (I know, unpopular opinion). At the same time, In The Pale Moonlight is one of the very best episodes in all of trek history.
I think that as much as Stewart and the creators had locked in who and what Picard was all about in this episode I think Spiner also has gotten to refine his Data here into what we think of the character today. You can see him truly considering Data's "inner life" through his performance. A must watch episode for anyone who is interested in getting into TNG or Trek in general.
Here we go! "Measure Of A Man" - an important _TNG_ episode, when the show stopped trying to be _TOS 2.0_ & briefly evolved fully into the thoughtful, challenging, mature drama it would eventually become in Seasons 4-7. Also an early taste of _Trek_ at it's philosophical best in _DS9,_ _Voyager_ & beyond. Ep written by real life attorney & author Melinda Snodgrass.
Not just one of the best Next Generation episodes, not just one of the best Star Trek episodes, not just one of the best sci-fi stories, but also one of the best television stories ever.
Watching this with you again reminds me why TNG was such a good show. Great actors telling great stories. I think the Original Series set out the lore, established the brand while TNG spread Star Trek’s wings and showed what it could be capable of.
This episode is an example of rare television. The question of Data's sentience also serves as a broader question about human rights and what we, as humans owe to one another in our society. I just realized that Data's quest to be more human is really incorrect. He aspires to be more like Spock. He wants to feel the emotions but have the ability to control them. BTW, can anyone envision any other actor as Data? I sure can't. Brent Spiner is perfect. Anyway, that's my 2 cents. Loved your reaction Jen. Always makes me smile.
I cry at like 10 different points every time I watch this damn episode. It's brilliantly written, amazingly acted, and so insightful, even as an episode that is more than 30 years old. Probably in my personal top 5 TV episodes of all time.
This is one of my favorite episodes. The "bar" style ranks are for admirals. One pip on each side is a Rear Admiral Lower Half; two is Rear Admiral Upper Half; three is Vice Admiral; and Four is Admiral. I think 5 would be Fleet Admiral, but that would be pretty rare to see.
"That was a very good episode" One of the best! There are more too. I'm so happy you are going through TNG. For as many years as there are seasons this show was a weekly can't miss I was always looking forward to and hardly ever came out of unsatisfied. Looking forward to more, the uniform looks good on you. Thanks.
I love that you've been asking questions about Data since the beginning of the series; questions that are explored in this episode... Questions that we're perhaps going to have to start asking about AI in our generation. Such an important episode, both for Data and for us as watchers.
I said it last week: this season and Riker himself gave us the term "Growing the Beard" -- essentially the reverse of "Jumping the Shark" -- but this episode is really when it _happened._
This is my absolute favorite episode of all of Star Trek. I've been getting a kick out of you asking so many questions in previous episodes that are answered by this one. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
oh I forgot. If you liked the computer reading off Data's service record, you can see McCoy's, Spock's, and THE James T. Kirk's in the 5-year mission episode "Court Martial". :)
This might be my favorite episode of anything Star Trek. I have always loved anything that centers around Data, but this episode is particularly meaningful.
Really enjoy the court room episodes of the series. You're just waiting for that moment Picard hits them with a slam dunk speech that makes everyone eat humble pie. Loved both of this Sunday's reactions Jen!!!
'Measure of a Man' was the first GREAT episode of ST: TNG. It's amazing to me that this episode was generated during a writer's strike shortened season with picket line crossers. There is one more season two ep that will knock your socks off.
The moment that an "artificial person" is advanced enough for others to ask whether or not it should have rights it when it, indeed, should be granted those rights. The honest question is enough proof that the time is NOW.
One argument in defense of Data occurred to me: in giving Data rank (Lt. Commander) and responsibilities, Starfleet acknowledges that Data ISN’T their property. Tricorders, phasers and starships among other things are property, but they have no rank nor assigned responsibilities of any kind. They are inanimate objects. If Starfleet did not trust Data, they would not have allowed him to be an officer.
At the beginning, you said "I wanna see Whoopi again". Which made me remember that her monologue with Picard on slavery was probably her best dialogue in all of STTNG. Love the channel. :)
Another good video. Your philosophical musings on Data and life are thoughtful and insightful. And yay thoughts on the characters, including Picard and Riker. More growth for Jonathan Frakes, IMHO. This episode also got a re-airing in the movie theaters in 2012. Melinda Snodgrass, who wrote this episode, trained and practiced as a lawyer. Brian Brophy, the actor who played Maddox, also played the Parole Board chair in The Shawshank Redemption who granted Red parole. I haven't discussed Star Trek with anyone in many years. Thank you for getting me to talk. I hope my comments are helpful.
This episode gives me chills. Picard's passion and the weight that a misstep could doom Data. Riker's anguish at his role. And Data just sitting there in the middle without clearly notable emotion. Wonderful! Also a great clumsy decision to make it Picard vs Riker. Makes it such a stronger episode because the villain is secondary.
Like many, I don't think this show takes off until season 3 (a common theme in Star Trek shows) but this episode really stands out. Definitely one of the best.
A great episode! Thanks for going through each episode and allowing us to experience this wonderful series all over again with you. I look forward to seeing your reaction every Sunday. Can’t wait for next week
To me, this was the first GREAT episode of the series and really shows where things can and will go. Fun bit: Amanda McBroom, the actress who played the Admiral, was in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. She played Clark's boss' wife. Also, I recently saw an old episode of M*A*S*H and she played a member of a USO group (people entertaining the troops). She played an accordion and backing vocals. She's a singer/songwriter in addition to acting.
I think you meant to say Captain Louvois (same 4 pips as Picard)... the only admiral in this episode was Vice-Admiral Nakamura (who served as a lieutenant on the Reliant while Ensign Picard served there). Having said that, she sounds like a very interesting performer, cool to hear that fun fact.
Considered one of the GREATEST episodes of Star Trek TNG (and even of ALL Star Trek everywhere)! So wonderfully done. That final scene always makes my tear ducts well up. So moving.
It's one of the best episodes, imo. All these years later, I still tear up watching it through. I just wish the a.i. we had today was anywhere near as hopeful...
The comment that Guinan made "in the history of many worlds there has always been disposable creatures, they do the dirty work" jarred me when first viewing the episode in the 80's and still today.
Have loved re-living my love of TNG through the eye of someone seeing it for the first time. This episode in particular because it plays SO much in the future of the series, the movies, and most importantly, the Picard series.
Picard has always been an idol of mine. A hero. A staunch defender of the rights of others. An honourable man in every sense of the word. He would die for each and every member of his crew.
Cross your fingers this episode stays up!! Please be cool Paramount!! 🤞🖖
If this gets removed, all my eps are still available on Patreon! 🖖
TNG Playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PLQHhQlj8i5dqskzLNqeSNyMGa1rBWe3h1.html
Original Series & Movies: ua-cam.com/play/PLQHhQlj8i5drsrCtQd-FDuZZ99vKlPTyZ.html
Popcorn in Bed is also suffering from problems with her TNG reactions. The Gallifrey Gals have had their TNG reactions to the entire 7 seasons up for ages now so they may be able to offer some advice.
Happy to see you're getting to the really amazing episodes of this series. There are plenty more to come!
Didn't know that you were having problems with keeping STTNG up. I hope they are not blocked because I am loving your heartfelt reactions to the show. Keep up the great work.
Jen, perhaps you can try putting a watermark on the screen for copyright purposes. Something small but noticeable 😊
This episode was a lot better when I watched it with you
This episode shows why I love Star Trek so much: it doesn't need big special effects and action to tell a great sci-fi story.
Absolutely!
Another example of this is the TNG episode: "The Drumhead". No action, no special effects (a little), but one of the best episodes
@@Paul-br Absolutely! Altough it is not my go to episode, "The Drumhead" is an excellent moral lesson, without demonizing any side of an argument (except, if you like pointless prosecutions and fearmongering. But if so, one has bigger issues, lol.)
@@nealsterling8151 Yeah I've got to admit that as a kid, Measure of a Man and The Drumhead didn't capture me, but as I got older, these are the episodes I remember fondly because there's a lesson in there and they make us think, it also resonants a lot with real life and things that are going on in society, which with how things are going in the world, we could do with more of these life lessons.
I never shut up about Star Trek at all!
_"That action injured you, and saved me. I will not forget it."_
“The measure of a Man” is one of the best episodes ever, so glad to finally see your reaction to it Jen🖖.
The episodes that deal with the court system... the two that I can think of... so good.
This and "The Inner Light" are the two best episode of all time from Star Trek TNG.
@@JimKlus-jc4dwThe Inner Light is a wonderful episode.
I couldn't agree more!
This is the one that put TNG on the map as not just a pale copy of TOS but a proper show in its own right. This didn't launch its reputation into orbit, that was still to come, but it established a rock solid foundation.
Star Trek is at it's very best when it's literally just people sitting in a room conversing about extenstensial/philosophical topics and this episode is the pinnacle of that.
We finally get a great payoff for them casting such strong actors for the series. Patrick Stewart, Brent Spiner, Whoopi Goldberg and Jonathan Frakes really hit it out of the park here.
True, but it's pretty cool when they blow stuff up too. 😁
While giant space battles, explosions & even technobabble ARE enjoyable from time to time, I agree.
Star Trek IS at its "best" when the 'Sci Fi' is the background/ setting/ ambiance, instead of the main focus of the episode. When the Core is something "deeper" and more intellectual.
Correction: when it's literally people just sitting in a room IN SPACE...
_"That action injured _*_you,_*_ and saved _*_me._*_ I will not forget it."_ That one hits hard. Data is rich with the best of us.
Still causes a bit of teariness on my part when he says that.
I always loved that Data went to get Riker to bring him to the party.
I also found it very touching when Picard said he didn't think Tasha would mind Data revealing his and Tasha's confidence under the circumstances.
She absolutely would not mind.
One of the best episodes of Star Trek. Guinan helping Picard realise they are talking about slavery is powerful stuff. Beautifully written and performed by all involved. Top tier Trek.
Well said, I really liked Guinan's contribution also.
It's what I like about Picard, he's not stubborn in sticking to a point, he's quick to realise if he is wrong when someone makes a good case against his view, Guinan made Picard realise the bigger implications of what is at stake, Picard at first worried about one of his officers and wanting to protect him, Guinan made him see the bigger picture that this is more about slavery than just protecting one officer.
The scene between Picard and Guinan and the realization that it was a question of slavery was probably my favorite STNG scene.
"Measure Of A Man" is not only one of the best TNG Episodes, but one of the most influential ST episodes ever. Its tendrils intertwine throughout the run of the Series and beyond.
Beyond part is the evil we do not speak of ... LOL
@@taylemgames2652 It was a good day until you brought up the specter of Fake Trek. Thanks a lot Taylem.
I'm glad they picked up on that again in Voyager with the Doctor and how starfleet uses holograms as slaves.
This episode is so well written! It was the first TV screenplay by newly hired writer Melinda Snodgrass, who had previously been an attorney. Online I read a shooting script for the episode labeled "final draft". Some of the most crucial hard-hitting dialog, like Guinan's conversation about "disposable people", isn't in it. It must have been revised at the last minute.
It's possible that they hadn't expected Whoopi Goldberg's schedule to allow for her to appear in this episode, but her schedule opened up and so the brief Guinan scene was added at the last minute.
The Measure of a Man is Star Trek at it's best, when it actually looks at the deeper issues that honestly can't be answered by science. When the JAG officer answers "Does he have a soul? Heck I don't know if I have one.", sums up one of the existential problems that philosophers have been arguing over for millenia.
Brent Spiner was interviewed about his role as Data and asked if the character had feelings. His reply was, "Data has always had feelings. Data is innocent."
Oddly, I'm pretty sure Pulaski was the first one to actually say that he had emotions, though she may have been snarking. (When she suggested he was butt hurt about how she pronounced his name.)
Still, from the very beginning, he exhibited mild emotions.
They made it clear that his tryst with Tasha was special to him, he would always miss her.
Some of the things you said in your reaction to this amazing episode are exactly why you're a great fit for reacting to this series. My partner and I are re-watching the series on our own (for the upteenth time, but first time in a few years) and greatly enjoying watching your reactions. Picard's final statements, so to speak, in that hearing are just marvelous, both in word and in performance. As are her final words during her ruling of the case.
This is just the start of that extraordinary relationship between Picard and Data.
14:38 "I don't know if I have (a soul)"
Jen: "Correct! You don't!"
Can we admire Engineer O'Brien's poker skills. (Without spoilers) They return to the poker game throughout the series. At various times he's playing against an android who can instantly run the potential of any hand. A command officer. A cyborg who can read his cards. An empath. A Klingon who doesn't like to lose. And the captain of his ship.
He looks at all of them and decides "Finally, a challenge."
hahahaha
Reminds me of the incredible skills of another Star Trek engineer... Scotty's special skill was godlike toughness. He was the only guy on the whole crew who wore a red shirt and didn't die.
And someone who can see through the cards.
"Starfleet was founded to seek out new life ... well there it sits!"
One of my favorite lines in the whole franchise.
Episode written by Melinda Snodgrass. She wrote many of the best TNG episodes. One of the best writers of the show.
Also wrote the SF Circuit novel series -- also SF legal scenarios. Lot of fun.
Thats what I love about us-americans. Over here in Germany writers usually dont get any credit by the audience, critiques and awards aside.
This is what Star Trek is, it is why it has endured in the hearts of fans for so long. When TNG gets good it's really good - you have some amazing stuff ahead of you.
thank you for sharing your experience
"There it sits!!!" Terrific episode, hope we get to see it all.
One of the BEST episodes not just of TNG but the whole series.
One of the great episodes of any star trek series. The help from Guinan that makes Picard to believe that the treatment of Data is like Slavery.
Picard is the best Captain to ever sit on the bridge of a federation ship and this episode is yet another example of that.
This is one of my favourite episodes of TNG
This for me I think has always the point where ST:TNG went from being an enjoyable series to being a genuinely brilliant one, not to say there weren't clunky or poor episodes along the way but this is for me where all the great writing starts. You've got so many episodes of this quality or better to look forward too.
Strong candidate for best episode in all of Star Trek.
I really appreciated Jen's question -- whether it makes a difference if Data makes US, (or rather his cremates), feel things. I'd never looked at this question that way before.
I love Data. He is my favorite Star Trek character.
First time I watched TNG all the way through, I was fully enamored by Patrick Stewart as Picard. A year or two later when I watched it again, I thought, "Holy sh!t, Data is awesome." Would love to know the number of times everyone would be dead if Data wasn't there. It would be a LOT.
He is pretty fly, For an AI
Been depressed lately. Glad today is Sunday Star Trek with Jen.
Ditto. Grateful to have this reaction to a classic episode.
When Riker was looking at the schematics on Data... The look on his face sums up the situation
in 5 seconds.
Jen, I can't tell you how much I luv Sundays.
This was the episode outside the norm, there was no murder, there was no mystery, and there was no intergalactic threat to overcome. This was a moment that would define a single character's existence for the rest of the series. We learn more about Data himself, that he has 'feelings' for his fellow crewmates, he experienced love and intimacy along with a broken heart, and he was in fear of losing his life and everything that made him who he was.
Data-sentric episodes were some of the best episodes as far as I was concerned.
I've broken wind in a courtroom more than the average cat. (Rookie police year 1982 Texas, retired 2016 Nottingham England)...the one-two punch Pickard missed was:
If Data is property, it means Star Fleet needs to show its "title," how much latinum did they pay? None? Oh...ok...where did you find him? You didn't find him did you...Dr. Soong didn't will him to you either did he.
Data walked into a recruiters office and JOINED Star Fleet of his own free will didn't he. The Enterprise didn't join Star Fleet, Star Fleet payed good latinum (sorry Ferengie comes out in me when money is involved) to have her build, show all the billions of citizens in the federation that Star Fleet legally holds title to commander Data and has a right to determine his fate.
That's the slap, followed up with, the he's a life form
argument/ backhand.
Measure of a Man is in my opinion one of the best episodes of any show on television. The problems explored in it will definitely be tackled in the future, maybe near future. I'm glad you are enjoying the series, I think I am with tons of others when I say, TNG is the best Star Trek show ever made.
Look at her in star trek outfit. Lol. Fits right in 💜.
The blanket isn't standard issue, I don't believe.
Absolutely one of the best episodes of all of trek!
I agree Jen Murray!! This is one of my favorite episodes in all of Star Trek!! I'm glad you loved it as well!! It talks about a lot of important topics, very thought provoking!!! 🙂
The first all-time great episode from TNG. There will be more, but this is where you start seeing its true greatness emerge.
This is by far one of my favorite episodes of the entire series. I was late diagnosed with ADHD & Autism so, although I didn’t know why growing up, I always connected to Data & getting to see people look after their wellbeing was something I always wanted growing up
Not only one of my absolute favourite Star Trek episodes ever, but one of my favourite episodes of any show I have ever watched. An extraordinarily important episode that highlights how powerful and thought provoking well written entertainment can be.
I love Guinan's way of wording things in this episode...and of course, NOTHING beats Data's line when he says "We were...intimate." when referring to Tasha.
Yes, they danced around the wording a bit, but the meaning behind that to me was that Data loved her.
Any time they delve into who/what Data is always makes for an interesting watch. Brent Spiner does such a great job making us care for Data. He's such an innocent character and yet still so complex.
Speaking for myself and I suspect a large part of your community, this is one of the episodes we've been waiting for you to watch. You did not disappoint, thank you.
one of the best hours of not just Trek, but television as a whole in history
and it's not even the best episode of this show.
THIS is really good writing...and writing about issues. They discuss the issue in detail and at the end they don't really tell us what we should believe but instead leave us to decide for ourselves.
If only modern day TV and movies would take note!
This episode brings tears to my eyes. Also hands up everyone who has been salivating for Jen to reach this one 🤚 . Every time she wanted to know more about data 🤤 😝
This is one of my favorite episodes of the entire franchise, and some of my favorite sci-fi I've ever seen.
Ooh, one of the truly great episodes of the show.
Hi Jen... this is one of the best episodes of Start Trek.. not just TNG but the whole franchise... Lessions to be learned.. Eyes open...
This is one of the greatest episodes of Star Trek of all time, and by far and wide one of the best episodes of television of all time. It deals with the fundamental questions of "what is human" and "what is alive" and we are ALL going to be struggling with them in the real world as technology goes forward. I love this episode! Thank you for the amazing reaction!
The first truly great episode of the series! ❤
This is one of those Trek episodes that really make Star Trek what it is. It doesn't need flashy space battles or convoluted plots, it's dealing with questions that we can all relate to and is still as relevant today as it was when it was broadcast. I don't know if you watch DS9 but 'In the pale moonlight' has a similar feel when it comes to morality, albeit from a different direction. Love the reaction.
I do hope she starts watching DS9. The nerd in me wants her to stagger watching the TNG episodes and the DS9 episodes as they were transmitted at the time, then do the same with DS9 and Voyager. 😁
I am not a fan of DS9 or Sisko (I know, unpopular opinion).
At the same time, In The Pale Moonlight is one of the very best episodes in all of trek history.
Brent Spiner himself said this is his most favorite episode. He really enjoyed what he got to do in this one.
I think that as much as Stewart and the creators had locked in who and what Picard was all about in this episode I think Spiner also has gotten to refine his Data here into what we think of the character today. You can see him truly considering Data's "inner life" through his performance.
A must watch episode for anyone who is interested in getting into TNG or Trek in general.
Here we go! "Measure Of A Man" - an important _TNG_ episode, when the show stopped trying to be _TOS 2.0_ & briefly evolved fully into the thoughtful, challenging, mature drama it would eventually become in Seasons 4-7. Also an early taste of _Trek_ at it's philosophical best in _DS9,_ _Voyager_ & beyond. Ep written by real life attorney & author Melinda Snodgrass.
Think that's a bit unfair. While perhaps a bit hokey, TOS took strides in presenting some great dramatic and thoughtful episodes.
Not just one of the best Next Generation episodes, not just one of the best Star Trek episodes, not just one of the best sci-fi stories, but also one of the best television stories ever.
This is a fantastic episode, I like the scene at the end with data and riker, kinda pulls on your heart strings a little 🖖
Wanna know who else loved Picard? My mom. She had a full-size standing cardboard figure of him back in the day. Top that if you can!
Watching this with you again reminds me why TNG was such a good show. Great actors telling great stories. I think the Original Series set out the lore, established the brand while TNG spread Star Trek’s wings and showed what it could be capable of.
This episode is an example of rare television. The question of Data's sentience also serves as a broader question about human rights and what we, as humans owe to one another in our society. I just realized that Data's quest to be more human is really incorrect. He aspires to be more like Spock. He wants to feel the emotions but have the ability to control them. BTW, can anyone envision any other actor as Data? I sure can't. Brent Spiner is perfect. Anyway, that's my 2 cents. Loved your reaction Jen. Always makes me smile.
"Does it matter if he makes us feel things?" I love that you asked that. YES!
I love this episode. The bulk of it takes place in one room, with a handful of people talking, yet it's absolutely riveting.
I knew you’d love this episode. This is the type of quality that TNG is known for, and will show up so often in the future. Love this reaction!
I cry at like 10 different points every time I watch this damn episode. It's brilliantly written, amazingly acted, and so insightful, even as an episode that is more than 30 years old. Probably in my personal top 5 TV episodes of all time.
This is one of my favorite episodes.
The "bar" style ranks are for admirals. One pip on each side is a Rear Admiral Lower Half; two is Rear Admiral Upper Half; three is Vice Admiral; and Four is Admiral. I think 5 would be Fleet Admiral, but that would be pretty rare to see.
"That was a very good episode" One of the best! There are more too. I'm so happy you are going through TNG. For as many years as there are seasons this show was a weekly can't miss I was always looking forward to and hardly ever came out of unsatisfied. Looking forward to more, the uniform looks good on you. Thanks.
I love that you've been asking questions about Data since the beginning of the series; questions that are explored in this episode... Questions that we're perhaps going to have to start asking about AI in our generation. Such an important episode, both for Data and for us as watchers.
I said it last week: this season and Riker himself gave us the term "Growing the Beard" -- essentially the reverse of "Jumping the Shark" -- but this episode is really when it _happened._
14:39 - “Does Data have a soul? I don’t know that I have.”
‘Correct, you don’t!’ 🤣 (savage)
Well, she IS a lawyer.
This is my absolute favorite episode of all of Star Trek. I've been getting a kick out of you asking so many questions in previous episodes that are answered by this one. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
I'm SO glad you haven't skipped episodes. Measure of a Man is a fantastic episode.
I was looking forward to see you react on that episode. One of my favorites. I knew you'd LOVE it and give us a great reaction video.
I like how it was established early that Data is strong. After that it's never on the nose, the real strength of Data is in his character.
oh I forgot. If you liked the computer reading off Data's service record, you can see McCoy's, Spock's, and THE James T. Kirk's in the 5-year mission episode "Court Martial". :)
LOVE these reactions! Can’t wait for you to get to my 2 favs…
The perfect mate and Data’s day
This is one of the best episodes of TNG. It will always be relevant.
There is no fire in the vacuum of space. But there are plenty of old flames.
This might be my favorite episode of anything Star Trek. I have always loved anything that centers around Data, but this episode is particularly meaningful.
Whoopie says Guinan is her favorite thing she ever did in her career....and understandably so.
Really enjoy the court room episodes of the series. You're just waiting for that moment Picard hits them with a slam dunk speech that makes everyone eat humble pie. Loved both of this Sunday's reactions Jen!!!
'Measure of a Man' was the first GREAT episode of ST: TNG. It's amazing to me that this episode was generated during a writer's strike shortened season with picket line crossers. There is one more season two ep that will knock your socks off.
The moment that an "artificial person" is advanced enough for others to ask whether or not it should have rights it when it, indeed, should be granted those rights. The honest question is enough proof that the time is NOW.
One argument in defense of Data occurred to me: in giving Data rank (Lt. Commander) and responsibilities, Starfleet acknowledges that Data ISN’T their property.
Tricorders, phasers and starships among other things are property, but they have no rank nor assigned responsibilities of any kind. They are inanimate objects. If Starfleet did not trust Data, they would not have allowed him to be an officer.
At the beginning, you said "I wanna see Whoopi again". Which made me remember that her monologue with Picard on slavery was probably her best dialogue in all of STTNG.
Love the channel. :)
Another good video. Your philosophical musings on Data and life are thoughtful and insightful. And yay thoughts on the characters, including Picard and Riker. More growth for Jonathan Frakes, IMHO. This episode also got a re-airing in the movie theaters in 2012. Melinda Snodgrass, who wrote this episode, trained and practiced as a lawyer. Brian Brophy, the actor who played Maddox, also played the Parole Board chair in The Shawshank Redemption who granted Red parole.
I haven't discussed Star Trek with anyone in many years. Thank you for getting me to talk. I hope my comments are helpful.
This episode gives me chills. Picard's passion and the weight that a misstep could doom Data. Riker's anguish at his role. And Data just sitting there in the middle without clearly notable emotion. Wonderful! Also a great clumsy decision to make it Picard vs Riker. Makes it such a stronger episode because the villain is secondary.
Like many, I don't think this show takes off until season 3 (a common theme in Star Trek shows) but this episode really stands out. Definitely one of the best.
one of my favourite episodes because its one of the best episodes of trek.
Next Jen Sunday's are the best 🖖 thought I was not going to be here but flights tomorrow so here I am . All aboard the jenterprise Engage !
The dramatic commercial break proclamations just kill me😂❤
A great episode! Thanks for going through each episode and allowing us to experience this wonderful series all over again with you. I look forward to seeing your reaction every Sunday. Can’t wait for next week
Jen looking official with the hair up and uniform! 🖖
Season 2 has some really high highs, and The Measure of a Man is peak amoung them. Loved your reaction, it was just what I needed today.
So glad you're doing this series, Jen. Always makes my day just a little bit better!
One of the GOAT episodes of the entire franchise from the 60s till modern times.
To me, this was the first GREAT episode of the series and really shows where things can and will go.
Fun bit: Amanda McBroom, the actress who played the Admiral, was in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. She played Clark's boss' wife. Also, I recently saw an old episode of M*A*S*H and she played a member of a USO group (people entertaining the troops). She played an accordion and backing vocals. She's a singer/songwriter in addition to acting.
I think you meant to say Captain Louvois (same 4 pips as Picard)... the only admiral in this episode was Vice-Admiral Nakamura (who served as a lieutenant on the Reliant while Ensign Picard served there). Having said that, she sounds like a very interesting performer, cool to hear that fun fact.
@@CanuckGod Thanks. I had a feeling I might have been wrong about the rank.
Considered one of the GREATEST episodes of Star Trek TNG (and even of ALL Star Trek everywhere)!
So wonderfully done. That final scene always makes my tear ducts well up. So moving.
An incredible, Data centered, episode. Great job on your Star Trek journey.
Hands down one of the best episodes in the series. Always love it when Data gets the spotlight. Brent Spiner never disappoints!
It's one of the best episodes, imo. All these years later, I still tear up watching it through. I just wish the a.i. we had today was anywhere near as hopeful...
Who doesn't love Jen in her starfleet uniform!
This is an iconic Star Trek episode, and one of the best episodes of ST:TNG of all time.
The comment that Guinan made "in the history of many worlds there has always been disposable creatures, they do the dirty work" jarred me when first viewing the episode in the 80's and still today.
FINALLY WE'RE HERE!!! I think the Measure of a Murray is in her candor, confidence, and grace. As you were, Commander!!! 🫡❤
Have loved re-living my love of TNG through the eye of someone seeing it for the first time. This episode in particular because it plays SO much in the future of the series, the movies, and most importantly, the Picard series.
Picard has always been an idol of mine. A hero. A staunch defender of the rights of others. An honourable man in every sense of the word. He would die for each and every member of his crew.