It was a different time when tv shows didn't really win those kinds of rewards, probably because they were looked down upon by the ones that stared and produced movies. Today it's very different and he very likely would have won an award if not multiple ones, being that tv shows, the quality is a lot better today then the average tv show back then, but TNG was a big budget tv show back then, but snobs will be snobs and change doesn't happen overnight, nowadays, there are many high quality tv shows so it's hard for them to ignore them.
It can sometimes be a little hacky, like "United States of Tara" or a Dr. Jekyll thing. Stewart really nailed this kind of roiling, expulsive expression that lagged whatever was going on in the mind-meld. I've only ever seen that in a psych ward. EXTREMELY convincing.
My step-father is dealing with early onset dementia and we just laid my beloved grandfather to rest a month ago after he'd suffered from full blown dementia after years of decline. When I heard that just days before he passed he decided he wanted to play the piano at the hospice facility(he used to play it masterfully) and was quite happily jamming out on the one they had there only his fingers weren't even touching the keys it killed me. He had stopped recognizing my grandmother and kept mistaking my aunt for her a few weeks before as well. That man was a loving and devoted son, brother, father, and grandfather not to mention a true blue decorated war hero(1st Special Forces Airborne Tech Sergeant, Bronze Star and Purple Heart awards among others), he deserved so much better. Dementia is a horrifically heartbreaking affliction for all those involved.
I hated to hear anyone suffers with that. I've had family members with Alzheimer's, and I can see it in me sometimes when I get confused. I'm so scared it's happening to me. I've been evaluated and told I'm ok, but it still worries me.
One of the hallmarks of dementia and related illnesses is that the sufferer is usually incapable of noticing their own impairment. When told directly they can react angrily and even violently, paranoia taking over instead of reason. It's usually more trouble than its worth to continue trying to convince them that they have a problem so it's pretty common for caregivers to keep them in the dark about their own conditions. (though, usually they keep them away from diplomatic negotiations and other political shenanigans where their incapacity would be a huge liability, usually) I never fail to tear up at this episode. Both Mark Lenard and Patrick Stewart were absolutely fantastic.
This is one of Sir Patrick Stewart’s best performances. The acting range of emotions as a man without emotional stability was outstanding. I tear up watching this episode as I had elderly family suffer mental decline. It closely relates to society’s views on dementia and cognitive decline in the elderly and how we view it. Many of us know family or friends who suffered this know how difficult, devastating, and painful it can be to both the victims and their loved ones.
True, Patrick Stewart's talent was a real boon for TNG and without a successful TNG, then all the future series of Trek probably wouldn't have happened. Losing DS9 alone would be a huge loss for TV.
One of the more overlooked episodes imo. Seeing Sarek the first time since Star Trek IV, really connects the Star Trek universe a bit more together. I really appreciated that they didn't straight out fill each second episode with a reference to TOS, but tried to establish the Next Gen era on its own. i hindsifght it made the Star Trek universe so much bigger and grander in scope. Btw, i love Jens insights at the end of each episode.
@@xzonia1 I agree. And I think her experience helped her catch metaphors that others might have missed (the fact that dementia doesn't just change those who are afflicted, but those around them, for example).
Sunday afternoons have become one of the highlights of the week. This show, and your reactions to it, are a gift. Riker and Worf "I hadn't noticed" walking in on that massive brawl is such a moment haha
Good dialogue is often overlooked in sci-fi episodes. Patrick is literally on another level, and for Mark Lenard to accurately elevate a 30 year old character is astonishing. Great analysis Jen.
To be fair, it's not usually all that great. People thought I was a sci fi nerd but I really only like trek. Farscape had great dialoge. SW isn't sci fi, it's fantasy. Lexx was hokey but had its moments and was more adult fantasy, and overall disjointed. But my 2nd favorite straight sci fi show was outer limits reboot. And you can't say there's great dialoge. So the next best for dialoge imo would be x files, if you count that as true sci fi and not sub genre it since a third of the episodes are monster of the week and another third are conspiratorial.
It wasn't just a difficult situation for his family. Sarek was not only a celebrity, he was also still an active government official as an ambassador. The family and close advisors were aware on some level that something was wrong, but they wanted to believe that he could still do his job. So they protected him as long as they could and thus also reinforced his own denial, until the problem became so painfully obvious that it simply couldn't be hidden anymore, and then it all abruptly and painfully spilled out into public view in a way that could no longer be denied. Sort of reminds me of recent real-life events...
11:30 And you know, this scene has got to be especially heartbreaking for _Picard._ Sarek is the kind of legend whose diplomatic accomplishments he has been reading about since he was a cadet at the Academy. Here he is, now, a fracturing shell of the man he once was.
3:14 Funny how Wesley mentioned to Geordi about "spending the night with a good book". That's the wrong show. I'm not sure if you know or not, but LeVar Burton hosted the popular PBS educational show "Reading Rainbow" from 1983 to 2006. The season 6 premiere of that show apparently included a behind the scenes look of this show.
Both Mark Lenard and Sir Patrick Stewart gave a master class in acting during this episode. It's as powerful now as it was when it first aired! Whenever I see this one, it reminds me of when I saw Sir Patrick perform on stage with the Royal Shakespearean Company.
Another totally rad reaction on the best day of the week.....Next Jen Sunday! This episode is so , well for lack of a better word, emotional. Everybody did a fantastic acting job ESPECIALLY Patrick Stewart and Mark Leonard, they were phenomenal! This episode always brings chills and a few tears every time I watch it. You continue to make good observations during your reactions Jen and you can tell the genuine love you have for the Star Trek franchise, it is so awesome, joyful and refreshing! As always, keep up the great reactions, live long and prosper and many blessings to you and yours.
This is an example of how you do "fan service". What a great gimmick to have Mark Lenard appear on the show as Sarek, but they wrote a really compelling and relatable story for him. This is one of a few episodes of the show that moves me to tears, multiple times. An episode with a guest appearance by a Vulcan that is overflowing with emotion.
Empathize with you, Jen. My mom had dementia for 4-5 years, and died at 86. My dad was clear-headed to the end, dying at 99, almost 100. Now I ponder the fates of me and my sister, aged 70 and 73. Which path will we follow? When my father was helping my mom in hospice, he hinted to me sadly that he thought I was more like my mom. I knew what he meant. He meant that though I followed his excellent example in life, he thought I would follow her genetic path. It’s a sad meditation, but life is a wonderful gift. In wisdom, we all come to appreciate that.
Lost someone last year to dementia. At the start we all denied it was happening and shielded him. Once we accepted what was happening, we were able to act reasonably. It didn’t make things easier but did allow us to handle his passing.
These are the voyages of ensign Jen, To explore strange new episodes, To seek out new life and new tv shows, Boldly going where no one has gone before. And i will always follow her...
Jen, I'm sorry to hear about those in your family with health struggles. Everyone's family has been there at one time or another in one form or another. Thank you for being here for us all. I wish you and your family well - Thomas
This episode of one of my favourite. We all knew how great Patrick was as Jean-Luc, but this showed his amazing range and acting skills. Thank you for sharing with with us.
It's interesting to think that originally, they wanted Spock for this episode but considered Nimoy too expensive. Ultimately, it was the right choice to have Sarek, and Mark Lenard is wonderful.
And yet! We see Sarek as the epitome of Vulcan. And in a way he is, an ancient house who has the high priestess there to officiate his son's wedding, a founder of the Federation, and Ambassador extraordinaire. AND AT THE SAME TIME on Vulcan he's a radical firebrand targeted for assassination because of what he represents.
@@ianburns1167 Well, Sarek has married (at least) two human women in his life, something I'm sure must've been considered quite scandalous by any Vulcans who were very traditional.
@@bigdream_dreambig Yes! He's an Ambassador to and for the Federation, which some parts of Vulcan have *always* been ambivalent about. He adopted a human daughter, one son joined Star Fleet, another abandoned logic entirely. His service has been extraordinary, his mind is sharp, and his logic is disciplined. He's at once the epitome of Vulcan, a failure of a Vulcan, and everything reactionaries despise.
Any form of deterioration of family is really difficult. My Father developed Vascular Dementia in his last years, no where near as bad as Senile Dementia or Alzheimer's. The main symptom being the death of synapses due to lack of blood resulting in memory loss. So sad to see he could no longer remember his mother or his sister, and towards the very end not even my mother his wife. He would often confuse me with my brother. He died just three months before his 97th birthday, so he did have a long life but that also meant he lost so many memories. Something that moved me was that the only thing he could remember about the WW2 was being scared, all the time. - This is a brilliant, poignant episode and a great reaction from you.
Hi there Jen, that was a very emotional episode. Another great example of how well Star Trek succeeds in portraying so many different aspects of life. In a way we all can identify with the one or the other topic. Have a wonderful day, Jen and a big hug to you and everybody else who needs one❤
This story was originally pitched with a on-off Vulcan diplomat suffering from the illness, but one of the writers suggested that it would be more impactful if it was a character the fans already knew. They took the script to Mark Leonard, who was basically retired at that point, and he said "yes" to the initial pitch without reading the script.
This episode is a tribute to Gene Roddenberry and his unfortunate decline which happened during this series. It makes it doubly sad that it's about the real life of the creator of Star Trek.
These episodes together really showcase the different ways Jean-Luc can get flustered, whether by Lwaxana's teasing or his boyish admiration for Sarek. The Vulcan lifespan would lend itself to them having a great amount of hero worship if they dedicate their lives to ambassadorial efforts like Sarek (and Spock in his footsteps). Seeing a man who did so much for so many brought low by an untreatable ailment is a true tragedy, and the way Picard struggles to accept it is really well written and performed.
Fantastic reaction Jen. I've said before I love how invested you get in the storylines/characters. Your empathy and compassion for others is obvious. I appreciate that. Its one of many traits that makes you so endearing to your fans.
My aunt has been in decline the past few years with alzheimer and it is heartbreaking to see someone you love lose themselves that way. This eps has some great acting and is very relatable. It makes me sundays when I get to see you continuing your Star Trek Journey and I can't wait till you get to the other spinoffs.
This is one of my favorite episodes . I get to see the crew act out of character and get pissed off with one another add to that a classic trek Barroom brawl 👊 Mark Lenard does a great guest spot as SAREK and of course Patrick Stewart gets to emote in his full theatrical glory !! Happy Sunday JEN !! 😄
One of the best episodes. Masterful performances by Patrick Stewart and Mark Lenard. I love episodes where actors from The Original Series get to reprise their roles.
Patrick Stewart gave such a moving performance in this episode! Always love it when I watch this one. Such a perfect episode to bring Sarek back for. Absolutely loved getting to see a new Trekkie watch this episode for the first time; brings back seeing it my first time too. Thanks for reacting to this, Jen! Peace and long life. :)
Sir Patrick Steward is a Shakespearean trained actor. Both he and Mark Lenard played off each other very well. It helped them in their performances. On a personal note my Mom supposedly had Dementia and beginning Alzheimers, so said a Doctor. I didn't believe nor agree with his dianogsis. However, whether or not she truly had those. Thankfully God spared the suffering of her and I (Primary Caregiver). In his mercy she died of another condition. Pneumonia. RIP Mom 7 June 2007 (77yo) Miss you Mama
Right there with you, i was a teen during the 80's nuclear war scares, but when Alzheimer's became a thing fear of slipping mental faculties has been the number one fear of getting older for me.
When I was young, this episode went over head. But now since I work in healthcare and I've seen patients with Alzheimer's, dementia, and sundown syndrome. It's so heartbreaking to see Sarek's breakdown and the chaotic hell that Picard must experience.
Before she passed away my grandmother suffered two strokes and had dimentia. She would always recognize me and my mom faster than other members of our family but it was still so heart breaking to have seen her that way. Naturally when I watch something in a movie or TV show that talks about these kinds of conditions I can't help but be reminded of her situation. I wouldn't wish that on anyone.
So happy we finally reached this episode and the last, they show that the unthinkable can be possible, to see Sarek losing control and Data in the last episode display the emotion of anger and vengeance. These were a crucial turning point for the series, opening doors to any possibility. There are more great episodes coming up, hang in there, you're in for a treat. Anyway, loved the review, love you, take care and stay safe ❤️
It's hard to feel the impact of this episode when I already saw you upload Manage a Troi next. I love Lwaxana Troi and every episode she's in so much. XD
Thanks for reacting to this great show Jen! Patrick Stewart should definitely have won an Emmy for his performances as Picard, an incredible actor! This is a sad episode but I always enjoy connecting to the original series on this show!
Patrick Stewart got to meet a legend of Star Trek, and push his acting chops to the limit in this one. This was a high point for one of the greatest actors in the franchise
i loved your perspecive about this episode.. its exactly the same i have. its funny because i watched this episode for the first time when i wasa kid.. and i didnt quite understand it at the time.. but after i became an adult i watched it again, and i really loved it.. and a few years back after my grandpa suferred a bit from something similar that this episode hit me even harder and became one of my favorites.
This episode always breaks my heart. So deeply. To me it's one of several key incidents in Picard's life that shows he has the emotional resolve and willpower beyond that of most humans. He's a remarkable man for all the pain he's endured. Even one of these incidents could shatter someone else. He's a survivor. Truly. As is O'Brien. As a survivor myself with PTSD they both resonate with me. And Sarek... there's just no words. Great reaction, Jen. ♥
My maternal grandmother and later on my aunt suffered from dementia for tears before they died. Ny mom's greatest fear was suffering the same fate but that didn't happen. Pancreatic cancer took her. To me that was much worse because she was in so much pain, even with a morphine pump. I told her she could increase the dosage. She said she was afraid of addiction. I told her that was the least of her problems at that time. That was 1997.
Happy Next-Jen Sunday Y'all. 🥃☮❤ 6:05 "Have tempers become a little frayed?" "I hadn't noticed." Cue giant Bar-Fight. 🤣 13:05 Patrick Stewart should've won an Emmy for this episode.
15:11 - PROFESSIONAL PATRICK'S PURE POWERFUL PERFORMANCE PORTRAYED PICARD'S PRECARIOUSLY PASSIONATE PREDICAMENT PERFECTLY - I admit to getting a little choked up there. 5 stars.
Other than the very first episode with DeForest Kelley, who played Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy, this is the first time the TNG cast was able to reference the original series. Also, it was one of the most emotional episodes because Sarek's decline was intended to mirror the decline of of Gene Roddenberry who was becoming uncommunicative. Roddenberry would die two years later.
I love the friendship between Picard and Riker, the mutual respect. After they snap, Picard apologies and Riker looks upon him regretfully. Awesome team.
This episode is one of a few TNG episodes which brings a tear to my eye every time. With that said, it’s great reliving these episodes and seeing someone’s new point of view on it.
Just astounding episode. I really forgot how good this one was. When Jen is taken aback, it really resonates. Just love this channel, and Next Jen sunday!
One of the best episodes of the season by far. My grand mother suffered a brain stroke and she never was the same. I saw a couple of other people suffering from Alzheimer as well and it's heartbraeking.
This is incredibly touching and applicable - I hadn't thought of how Sarek projecting his emotions is the effects dementia has on loved ones. And so good to see Sarek once more, while so upsetting to see him like this when he's been such an important figure through Star Trek by this point.
I’ve done some studies on this. Dementia can be avoided if you catch it early by continuously learning new things. Doctors now know that as you learn new complex tasks like brain puzzles and in particular, learning a new language creates new neural pathways in the cerebral cortex and actually increases brain mass. Dementia forms when the brain shrinks with age. But learning new and complex tasks prevents brain shrinkage and enforces memory capacity with larger neural pathways. In short, even though it might be hereditary, it can be avoided with preventive measures.
6:13 Worf "Finally, 10 Forward is becoming a Klingon friendly bar!" Picard probably had greater admiration for him when it was over. He realized that he couldn't handle a few hours of what Sarak was dealing with all the time.
Sarek and Picard together is epic! Both putting on great displays of emotional acting! Gives me chills! Data on the violin was the Cherry on top! Great reaction Jen thanks for sharing ❤️💛
If I could cure one thing, it would be dementia, in all of its forms. We don't seem to realize, how much of us is our emotions, feelings, memories, and life's lessons.
I really appreciate your unique surrounding this subject. It has been more than 20 years since I have seen this episode and I never realized the metaphor that the writers presented as how dementia affects those around you. The writers really hit it out of the park with this episode. Despite all our advances, we are still just finite; in this form.
Great episode, bringing back Mark Lenard as Sarek. He played Sarek for decades. This is one of the Trek episodes that deals with getting older, the passage of time. The loss of dignity is a big part of dementia. Patrick Stewart gives some great performances.
A great episode. The concert is very absurd though, if you know anything about music. It’s supposedly a Mozart concert, but they play a Brahms String Sextet, despite only having 4 rather than 6 players. Data is ”our featured soloist”, but it’s quite puzzling as to what on earth he could be playing from Mozart’s (Brahms?) ouvre where a soloist accompanies just 3 other musicians (it surely can’t be any of the violin concerti by either, unless someone made a string quartet reduction)
Check out my Star Trek Original Series videos! ua-cam.com/play/PLQHhQlj8i5drsrCtQd-FDuZZ99vKlPTyZ.html
One of the strongest performances by Patrick Stewart in the series.
Can’t wait for “There are four lights!”
@@blacklite911 I can't wait for a future mind meld.
Family and Chain of Command are also up there
It's a shame Patrick Stewart never got an Emmy for his role as Jean Luc Picard.
Sir Patrick has something better through Star Trek, immortality.
It was a different time when tv shows didn't really win those kinds of rewards, probably because they were looked down upon by the ones that stared and produced movies.
Today it's very different and he very likely would have won an award if not multiple ones, being that tv shows, the quality is a lot better today then the average tv show back then, but TNG was a big budget tv show back then, but snobs will be snobs and change doesn't happen overnight, nowadays, there are many high quality tv shows so it's hard for them to ignore them.
Brent Spiner too.
I would call it a glaring omission.
@@3Rayfire it depends how one feels about the Emmys and the other award shows. As you can tell I don't think highly of them.
The rapid and sudden changes in Picard's emotional state really highlight Stewart's skill in his profession.
It can sometimes be a little hacky, like "United States of Tara" or a Dr. Jekyll thing. Stewart really nailed this kind of roiling, expulsive expression that lagged whatever was going on in the mind-meld. I've only ever seen that in a psych ward. EXTREMELY convincing.
That line is SO smooth, _"You _*_exaggerate_*_ Captain I recall only _*_one_*_ tear."_
It's masterful how Picard coolly, logically picks apart Saraks words as Sarak gets more and more irrational.
My step-father is dealing with early onset dementia and we just laid my beloved grandfather to rest a month ago after he'd suffered from full blown dementia after years of decline. When I heard that just days before he passed he decided he wanted to play the piano at the hospice facility(he used to play it masterfully) and was quite happily jamming out on the one they had there only his fingers weren't even touching the keys it killed me. He had stopped recognizing my grandmother and kept mistaking my aunt for her a few weeks before as well. That man was a loving and devoted son, brother, father, and grandfather not to mention a true blue decorated war hero(1st Special Forces Airborne Tech Sergeant, Bronze Star and Purple Heart awards among others), he deserved so much better. Dementia is a horrifically heartbreaking affliction for all those involved.
I hated to hear anyone suffers with that. I've had family members with Alzheimer's, and I can see it in me sometimes when I get confused. I'm so scared it's happening to me. I've been evaluated and told I'm ok, but it still worries me.
My dad, and his mother, were similar. I can't say more or I'll get maudlin.
Once again Star Trek makes the fans happy by showing us Ambassador Sarek AND having it be Mark Lenard.
Sarek is like you Jen. Deeply emotionally effected by the sound of strings.
Surely a contender for best comment on this video.
This one is unreal levels of tough. Seeing such powerful gentlemen lose control is just awful. And Beverly... such a great woman.
One of the hallmarks of dementia and related illnesses is that the sufferer is usually incapable of noticing their own impairment. When told directly they can react angrily and even violently, paranoia taking over instead of reason. It's usually more trouble than its worth to continue trying to convince them that they have a problem so it's pretty common for caregivers to keep them in the dark about their own conditions. (though, usually they keep them away from diplomatic negotiations and other political shenanigans where their incapacity would be a huge liability, usually)
I never fail to tear up at this episode. Both Mark Lenard and Patrick Stewart were absolutely fantastic.
This is one of Sir Patrick Stewart’s best performances. The acting range of emotions as a man without emotional stability was outstanding.
I tear up watching this episode as I had elderly family suffer mental decline. It closely relates to society’s views on dementia and cognitive decline in the elderly and how we view it. Many of us know family or friends who suffered this know how difficult, devastating, and painful it can be to both the victims and their loved ones.
Indeed and the episode frames Sarak in a very sympathetic way - he is a great man being brought low by an condition he has little to no control over.
Patrick Stewart is a phenomenal actor. We Star Trek fans were so lucky to get him cast as Captain Picard.
True, Patrick Stewart's talent was a real boon for TNG and without a successful TNG, then all the future series of Trek probably wouldn't have happened. Losing DS9 alone would be a huge loss for TV.
"I've heard the same story from ten different people over the last two days." Man, Wesley's having a crappy week, isn't he?
I wonder how many people just saw the opportunity and took it
One of the more overlooked episodes imo.
Seeing Sarek the first time since Star Trek IV, really connects the Star Trek universe a bit more together. I really appreciated that they didn't straight out fill each second episode with a reference to TOS, but tried to establish the Next Gen era on its own. i hindsifght it made the Star Trek universe so much bigger and grander in scope.
Btw, i love Jens insights at the end of each episode.
Didn't you see Star Trek VI?
@@Trygvar13 This episode aired in May 1990, that movie came out in December 1991.
@@RickZarber Ah yes. That was so long ago that I got my dates mixed up.
@@Trygvar13 Mark Lenard's final performance as Sarek in a later season came out right before ST VI premiered.
This is a fantastic episode. Patrick Stewarts acting is immense here and raised the level of the story. A great reaction Jen. Thanks❤
There’s no better way to spend a Sunday than with our beloved Captain Jen and her incredible Star Trek reactions 🖖.
Thanks D!
This was absolutely meant as an analog to dementia. This was a tough one, and sharing your fears I definitely feel you there. Thank you as always.
She expressed her thoughts on dementia so well. It's sad anyone has to go through that.
@@xzonia1 I agree. And I think her experience helped her catch metaphors that others might have missed (the fact that dementia doesn't just change those who are afflicted, but those around them, for example).
Sunday afternoons have become one of the highlights of the week. This show, and your reactions to it, are a gift.
Riker and Worf "I hadn't noticed" walking in on that massive brawl is such a moment haha
I love Star Trek Sundays too! :)
Good dialogue is often overlooked in sci-fi episodes. Patrick is literally on another level, and for Mark Lenard to accurately elevate a 30 year old character is astonishing. Great analysis Jen.
To be fair, it's not usually all that great. People thought I was a sci fi nerd but I really only like trek. Farscape had great dialoge. SW isn't sci fi, it's fantasy. Lexx was hokey but had its moments and was more adult fantasy, and overall disjointed. But my 2nd favorite straight sci fi show was outer limits reboot. And you can't say there's great dialoge. So the next best for dialoge imo would be x files, if you count that as true sci fi and not sub genre it since a third of the episodes are monster of the week and another third are conspiratorial.
It's amazing how relevant the premise of this episode is right now.
🖖😎 Mark Lenard was an extremely prolific character actor for over three decades. He was a regular on the series "Here Come The Brides" (1968-1970).
A brilliant and powerful episode. Patrick Stewart and Mark Lenard were both fantastic. It never ceases to bring a tear to my eye.
It wasn't just a difficult situation for his family. Sarek was not only a celebrity, he was also still an active government official as an ambassador.
The family and close advisors were aware on some level that something was wrong, but they wanted to believe that he could still do his job. So they protected him as long as they could and thus also reinforced his own denial, until the problem became so painfully obvious that it simply couldn't be hidden anymore, and then it all abruptly and painfully spilled out into public view in a way that could no longer be denied.
Sort of reminds me of recent real-life events...
11:30 And you know, this scene has got to be especially heartbreaking for _Picard._ Sarek is the kind of legend whose diplomatic accomplishments he has been reading about since he was a cadet at the Academy. Here he is, now, a fracturing shell of the man he once was.
3:14 Funny how Wesley mentioned to Geordi about "spending the night with a good book". That's the wrong show. I'm not sure if you know or not, but LeVar Burton hosted the popular PBS educational show "Reading Rainbow" from 1983 to 2006. The season 6 premiere of that show apparently included a behind the scenes look of this show.
Wesley burned him twice with the book reference and the holodeck reference
Both Mark Lenard and Sir Patrick Stewart gave a master class in acting during this episode. It's as powerful now as it was when it first aired! Whenever I see this one, it reminds me of when I saw Sir Patrick perform on stage with the Royal Shakespearean Company.
Patrick Stewart displaying his full acting chops.
The logical way to spend my Sunday afternoon.
Spock/Data for President. The logical choice.
Another totally rad reaction on the best day of the week.....Next Jen Sunday!
This episode is so , well for lack of a better word, emotional.
Everybody did a fantastic acting job ESPECIALLY Patrick Stewart and Mark Leonard, they were phenomenal!
This episode always brings chills and a few tears every time I watch it.
You continue to make good observations during your reactions Jen and you can tell the genuine love you have for the Star Trek franchise, it is so awesome, joyful and refreshing!
As always, keep up the great reactions, live long and prosper and many blessings to you and yours.
Thank you bradley! I do love Star Trek TNG so much & have such a great time watching all these episodes. I look forward to Sundays every week 🖖
This is an example of how you do "fan service". What a great gimmick to have Mark Lenard appear on the show as Sarek, but they wrote a really compelling and relatable story for him. This is one of a few episodes of the show that moves me to tears, multiple times. An episode with a guest appearance by a Vulcan that is overflowing with emotion.
Empathize with you, Jen. My mom had dementia for 4-5 years, and died at 86. My dad was clear-headed to the end, dying at 99, almost 100. Now I ponder the fates of me and my sister, aged 70 and 73. Which path will we follow? When my father was helping my mom in hospice, he hinted to me sadly that he thought I was more like my mom. I knew what he meant. He meant that though I followed his excellent example in life, he thought I would follow her genetic path. It’s a sad meditation, but life is a wonderful gift. In wisdom, we all come to appreciate that.
For Sarek to have the equivalent of Alzheimer's Disease is devasting. And Picard's handling of Sarek's emotions is equally devasting.
Lost someone last year to dementia. At the start we all denied it was happening and shielded him. Once we accepted what was happening, we were able to act reasonably. It didn’t make things easier but did allow us to handle his passing.
These are the voyages of ensign Jen,
To explore strange new episodes,
To seek out new life and new tv shows,
Boldly going where no one has gone before.
And i will always follow her...
Jen, I'm sorry to hear about those in your family with health struggles. Everyone's family has been there at one time or another in one form or another.
Thank you for being here for us all.
I wish you and your family well - Thomas
Sir Patrick Stewart is an amazing actor. He will always be my captain 🖖❤️
This episode of one of my favourite. We all knew how great Patrick was as Jean-Luc, but this showed his amazing range and acting skills.
Thank you for sharing with with us.
It's interesting to think that originally, they wanted Spock for this episode but considered Nimoy too expensive. Ultimately, it was the right choice to have Sarek, and Mark Lenard is wonderful.
Spending time with Sarek highlights how much of a rogue Spock really is. 😆
And yet! We see Sarek as the epitome of Vulcan. And in a way he is, an ancient house who has the high priestess there to officiate his son's wedding, a founder of the Federation, and Ambassador extraordinaire. AND AT THE SAME TIME on Vulcan he's a radical firebrand targeted for assassination because of what he represents.
@@ianburns1167 Well, Sarek has married (at least) two human women in his life, something I'm sure must've been considered quite scandalous by any Vulcans who were very traditional.
@@bigdream_dreambig Yes! He's an Ambassador to and for the Federation, which some parts of Vulcan have *always* been ambivalent about. He adopted a human daughter, one son joined Star Fleet, another abandoned logic entirely. His service has been extraordinary, his mind is sharp, and his logic is disciplined. He's at once the epitome of Vulcan, a failure of a Vulcan, and everything reactionaries despise.
@@ianburns1167 Always glad to see someone who considers both Burnham and Sybok part of the family
Any form of deterioration of family is really difficult. My Father developed Vascular Dementia in his last years, no where near as bad as Senile Dementia or Alzheimer's. The main symptom being the death of synapses due to lack of blood resulting in memory loss. So sad to see he could no longer remember his mother or his sister, and towards the very end not even my mother his wife. He would often confuse me with my brother. He died just three months before his 97th birthday, so he did have a long life but that also meant he lost so many memories. Something that moved me was that the only thing he could remember about the WW2 was being scared, all the time. - This is a brilliant, poignant episode and a great reaction from you.
Hi there Jen, that was a very emotional episode. Another great example of how well Star Trek succeeds in portraying so many different aspects of life. In a way we all can identify with the one or the other topic. Have a wonderful day, Jen and a big hug to you and everybody else who needs one❤
The acting - amazing from Pat Stu here ❤
Sarek is one of the best ongoing characters
This story was originally pitched with a on-off Vulcan diplomat suffering from the illness, but one of the writers suggested that it would be more impactful if it was a character the fans already knew. They took the script to Mark Leonard, who was basically retired at that point, and he said "yes" to the initial pitch without reading the script.
Fitting episode given current events.
This episode is a tribute to Gene Roddenberry and his unfortunate decline which happened during this series. It makes it doubly sad that it's about the real life of the creator of Star Trek.
"to me the parallels are the same"-- They knew what they did..
These episodes together really showcase the different ways Jean-Luc can get flustered, whether by Lwaxana's teasing or his boyish admiration for Sarek. The Vulcan lifespan would lend itself to them having a great amount of hero worship if they dedicate their lives to ambassadorial efforts like Sarek (and Spock in his footsteps). Seeing a man who did so much for so many brought low by an untreatable ailment is a true tragedy, and the way Picard struggles to accept it is really well written and performed.
Fantastic reaction Jen. I've said before I love how invested you get in the storylines/characters. Your empathy and compassion for others is obvious. I appreciate that.
Its one of many traits that makes you so endearing to your fans.
One of my all-time favorite episodes. The emotional performances of Lenard and Stewart were second to none.
classic star trek! this one is high in the list of favorites! absolutely enjoy every time you mention the music! great reactions as always!
Great episode & reaction. My heart goes out to anyone who has to deal with something like this irl. Thanks for sharing.
When Wesley makes that crack about Geordi spending the night with a good book, it was a reference to Burton's other show "Reading Rainbow".
Mark Leonard is one of those actors with such a distinct voice.
My aunt has been in decline the past few years with alzheimer and it is heartbreaking to see someone you love lose themselves that way. This eps has some great acting and is very relatable. It makes me sundays when I get to see you continuing your Star Trek Journey and I can't wait till you get to the other spinoffs.
This is one of my favorite episodes .
I get to see the crew act out of character and get pissed off with one another add to that a classic trek Barroom brawl 👊
Mark Lenard does a great guest spot as SAREK
and of course Patrick Stewart gets to emote in his full theatrical glory !!
Happy Sunday JEN !!
😄
This episode hits hard right now.
One of the best episodes. Masterful performances by Patrick Stewart and Mark Lenard.
I love episodes where actors from The Original Series get to reprise their roles.
Patrick Stewart gave such a moving performance in this episode! Always love it when I watch this one. Such a perfect episode to bring Sarek back for. Absolutely loved getting to see a new Trekkie watch this episode for the first time; brings back seeing it my first time too. Thanks for reacting to this, Jen! Peace and long life. :)
Sir Patrick Steward is a Shakespearean trained actor. Both he and Mark Lenard played off each other very well. It helped them in their performances. On a personal note my Mom supposedly had Dementia and beginning Alzheimers, so said a Doctor. I didn't believe nor agree with his dianogsis. However, whether or not she truly had those. Thankfully God spared the suffering of her and I (Primary Caregiver). In his mercy she died of another condition. Pneumonia. RIP Mom 7 June 2007 (77yo) Miss you Mama
Right there with you, i was a teen during the 80's nuclear war scares, but when Alzheimer's became a thing fear of slipping mental faculties has been the number one fear of getting older for me.
When I was young, this episode went over head. But now since I work in healthcare and I've seen patients with Alzheimer's, dementia, and sundown syndrome. It's so heartbreaking to see Sarek's breakdown and the chaotic hell that Picard must experience.
Before she passed away my grandmother suffered two strokes and had dimentia. She would always recognize me and my mom faster than other members of our family but it was still so heart breaking to have seen her that way. Naturally when I watch something in a movie or TV show that talks about these kinds of conditions I can't help but be reminded of her situation. I wouldn't wish that on anyone.
So happy we finally reached this episode and the last, they show that the unthinkable can be possible, to see Sarek losing control and Data in the last episode display the emotion of anger and vengeance. These were a crucial turning point for the series, opening doors to any possibility. There are more great episodes coming up, hang in there, you're in for a treat. Anyway, loved the review, love you, take care and stay safe ❤️
It's hard to feel the impact of this episode when I already saw you upload Manage a Troi next. I love Lwaxana Troi and every episode she's in so much. XD
Thanks for reacting to this great show Jen! Patrick Stewart should definitely have won an Emmy for his performances as Picard, an incredible actor! This is a sad episode but I always enjoy connecting to the original series on this show!
Patrick Stewart got to meet a legend of Star Trek, and push his acting chops to the limit in this one. This was a high point for one of the greatest actors in the franchise
I love watching your reactions. Knowing what comes further in the series and watching you guess and speculate is fantastic.
i loved your perspecive about this episode.. its exactly the same i have. its funny because i watched this episode for the first time when i wasa kid.. and i didnt quite understand it at the time.. but after i became an adult i watched it again, and i really loved it.. and a few years back after my grandpa suferred a bit from something similar that this episode hit me even harder and became one of my favorites.
This episode always breaks my heart. So deeply. To me it's one of several key incidents in Picard's life that shows he has the emotional resolve and willpower beyond that of most humans. He's a remarkable man for all the pain he's endured. Even one of these incidents could shatter someone else. He's a survivor. Truly. As is O'Brien. As a survivor myself with PTSD they both resonate with me. And Sarek... there's just no words. Great reaction, Jen. ♥
Watching you go through TNG is my therapy! 🥰
Powerful and meaningful episode connecting the original series with The Next Jeneration! 🖖
My maternal grandmother and later on my aunt suffered from dementia for tears before they died. Ny mom's greatest fear was suffering the same fate but that didn't happen. Pancreatic cancer took her. To me that was much worse because she was in so much pain, even with a morphine pump. I told her she could increase the dosage. She said she was afraid of addiction. I told her that was the least of her problems at that time. That was 1997.
Happy Next-Jen Sunday Y'all. 🥃☮❤
6:05 "Have tempers become a little frayed?" "I hadn't noticed." Cue giant Bar-Fight. 🤣
13:05 Patrick Stewart should've won an Emmy for this episode.
15:11 - PROFESSIONAL PATRICK'S PURE POWERFUL PERFORMANCE PORTRAYED PICARD'S PRECARIOUSLY PASSIONATE PREDICAMENT PERFECTLY - I admit to getting a little choked up there. 5 stars.
I'm surprised Jen didn't cry. I'm a 40 year old man and I cry every time I see that scene. But then again, I'm kind of a softy.
watch it once then rewind and watch it again to see Jen react, that look of shock when Jean-Luc was shouting and again when he lost it
I can’t wait until Jen gets to the later season episodes of Unification pts 1 & 2. That should be a rollercoaster of a ride worth watching
So much good in the future from this one episode. :)
Mark Leonard is always great in everything ive seen him in its just too few things
that is an emotional episode for me, each time I watch it. even here with the broken replay.
Wowwwwww! What a nice reaction Jen!
Awesome! Can’t wait for your reaction to this incredible episode!
Other than the very first episode with DeForest Kelley, who played Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy, this is the first time the TNG cast was able to reference the original series. Also, it was one of the most emotional episodes because Sarek's decline was intended to mirror the decline of of Gene Roddenberry who was becoming uncommunicative. Roddenberry would die two years later.
In 'The Naked Now' Picard says "Constitution Class Enterprise, Captain James T Kirk commanding."
I love the friendship between Picard and Riker, the mutual respect. After they snap, Picard apologies and Riker looks upon him regretfully. Awesome team.
This episode is one of a few TNG episodes which brings a tear to my eye every time.
With that said, it’s great reliving these episodes and seeing someone’s new point of view on it.
Just astounding episode. I really forgot how good this one was. When Jen is taken aback, it really resonates. Just love this channel, and Next Jen sunday!
One of the best episodes of the season by far.
My grand mother suffered a brain stroke and she never was the same. I saw a couple of other people suffering from Alzheimer as well and it's heartbraeking.
This is incredibly touching and applicable - I hadn't thought of how Sarek projecting his emotions is the effects dementia has on loved ones. And so good to see Sarek once more, while so upsetting to see him like this when he's been such an important figure through Star Trek by this point.
I’ve done some studies on this. Dementia can be avoided if you catch it early by continuously learning new things. Doctors now know that as you learn new complex tasks like brain puzzles and in particular, learning a new language creates new neural pathways in the cerebral cortex and actually increases brain mass. Dementia forms when the brain shrinks with age. But learning new and complex tasks prevents brain shrinkage and enforces memory capacity with larger neural pathways. In short, even though it might be hereditary, it can be avoided with preventive measures.
6:13 Worf "Finally, 10 Forward is becoming a Klingon friendly bar!"
Picard probably had greater admiration for him when it was over. He realized that he couldn't handle a few hours of what Sarak was dealing with all the time.
Sarek and Picard together is epic! Both putting on great displays of emotional acting! Gives me chills! Data on the violin was the Cherry on top! Great reaction Jen thanks for sharing ❤️💛
If I could cure one thing, it would be dementia, in all of its forms. We don't seem to realize, how much of us is our emotions, feelings, memories, and life's lessons.
I really appreciate your unique surrounding this subject. It has been more than 20 years since I have seen this episode and I never realized the metaphor that the writers presented as how dementia affects those around you. The writers really hit it out of the park with this episode. Despite all our advances, we are still just finite; in this form.
This is easily one of my favourite episodes, and it HURTS. DAMN everyone did such a good job with this.
Great episode, bringing back Mark Lenard as Sarek. He played Sarek for decades. This is one of the Trek episodes that deals with getting older, the passage of time. The loss of dignity is a big part of dementia. Patrick Stewart gives some great performances.
“We come to serve”
“Your service honors us”
This shit slaps HARD!
A great episode.
The concert is very absurd though, if you know anything about music. It’s supposedly a Mozart concert, but they play a Brahms String Sextet, despite only having 4 rather than 6 players. Data is ”our featured soloist”, but it’s quite puzzling as to what on earth he could be playing from Mozart’s (Brahms?) ouvre where a soloist accompanies just 3 other musicians (it surely can’t be any of the violin concerti by either, unless someone made a string quartet reduction)
Great episode, I'm sorry it hit so close to home.
To be fair, that's a major part of the show - to explore modern issues through its stories.
12:12 "This is like dementia."
An apt comparison, actually.
Patrick Stuart plays this so perfectly, he is such a great actor, isn't he?