PATRON TAKES - DS9 S1E1&2 (Pilot)

Overall I did enjoy this extended pilot episode. I find Sisko's acting to be very off putting tho. His facial expressions don't match the tone of the scene or the dialogue half of the time. His emotions never quite reach his eyes so it feels unnatural. Sometimes it gets so deep into the cringe i need to look away from the screen or pause the episode. I'm left wondering how come they couldn't do another take? or was that the best take??

Stretch Incredible

Hi Target Audience..., been a "watcher" for a long time..., DS9 comes along.., I gotta Join !! even if only for a month ! xx AUD $ 17.95 + Tax..., my budget can't handle the truth. But I'm here till 26th May, so LETS GO !! Takes me back tp my 1990's WESTREK Days : https://fanlore.org/wiki/Westrek , All Hail "Malcom the Wise" our learned Club leader after Ray..., thru the 90's - ah the memories, we lived for our once a month Club meeting !!

Laurie Rebisz

While they are worshipped by the Bajorans as the gods of their religion, it’s not like other religions(the very fact it’s based around tangible evidence makes it VERY different from most religions that rely entirely on faith alone). It’s a race of 4 dimensional aliens SO alien to us compared to say the Klingons or Vulcans, that you could see a species treating them like gods(especially since they appear to be relatively benevolent, or at least non-hostile/friendly).

Todd “Canuck” Schmuck

It’s hard to say…yet, if they knew he was a full cast member, or just a guest cameo like Scotty or Bones. And that’s assuming they knew anything at all about him being in the show. As someone who owned the DVD sets, unless there was an extra added label on the plastic packaging, or on the outer casing because they bought a complete series set with all 7, they should actually be ok. There was NO pictures of any people on the season one casing box, or the DVD disc labels when I bought mine. And the DVD menu screen was of the station, with no cast images(even the Easter egg bonuses on the final disc were hidden in the station itself(you could highlight sections of the station itself with the movable cursor instead of the video title). Guess we’ll find out. 🤷‍♂️

Todd “Canuck” Schmuck

Had this been released in the modern era, you would have toxic super-fans review-bombing this episode for featuring a black commander who hates Picard. So disrespectful to the real fans!

Aramis Calcutt

There's a lot I love in all seasons and a lot I hate in all seasons. I think DS9 is one of the more consistent shows when you average it all out over a season.

Evan Guthrie

They probably would have no idea who it is though

Evan Guthrie

DS9 is the least 'Starfleet' of Trek series, of the 8 cast members in the opening credits, only half are Starfleet officers. And a trivia fact - the actor who plays Odo; his great great great grandmother was Napoleon's younger sister - Caroline Bonaparte.

nigel valentine

Living on the shore of the Danube my entire life I never was aware that all the 'river runabaouts' were Danube class. Thanks very much much for this information!

Sam Langanke

In my opinion this is another example of a two parter's first half being the better one. The scenes with the 'prophets' showing as people of Sisko's life are way too long.

Sam Langanke

They stated in the pre-discussion that they know some things. I think this is one of them. It's hard not to know. I mean he is on the DVD cover.

Sam Langanke

Most ships cannot split in two.

captveg

No spoilers here. The characters you love... you will love even more. The characters you hate... you will learn to love. So many character arcs, especially among the 20+ background characters. TNG didn't get good until Riker grew a beard. DS9 gets great when a main cast member grows facial hair.

John Deardurff

I don't think anyone's mentioned this, but the video quality of DS9 does improve as it goes on. It's never going to look as good as TNG's remaster or anything close, but improves almost every season and it's pretty good by the last few seasons.

Wrestling With Gaming

Outside of a few episodes, I didn't watch DS9 when it was airing. I was very much in the "this isn't Star Trek cause it's not TNG" camp. I was also a stupid 12 year old kid. Watched it as an adult and loved it. People say it's dark, but it's still a very optimistic show. It's no darker than TNG imo (chain of command, anyone?).

Wrestling With Gaming

I love the interaction of Picard and Sisko, seeing the fall out of Wolf 359 and how hard that hits Picard. Sisko is so raw and just masking his pain from the loss of Jennifer, his ship, his old crew. The man needed his old friend Dax so much. He’s a man with a life shattered, by Picard in a manner Picard isn’t really at fault for, yet can never atone for. What a hell of a character set up.

Adrian Burton

I'll be honest. I saw the pilot when it first aired on tv back then. For some reason, I didn't enjoy that much. I think it was mostly, because i was still tied to TNG. However, this show grew on me and it became in my opinion the best written Trek show ever. I only wish that the character that was introduced at the end of season 6, would've been introduce way earlier in the series.

The_Dahar_Master

It was more than 24 hours before Enterprise arrived. They were still repairing the damage to their deflector from using it as a weapon. Plenty of time for rescue teams to pick up escape pods.

Aaron Thorpe

Spoilers!

Aaron Thorpe

I'm very sorry for posting spoilers earlier. I didn't understand how these were supposed to work. Please forgive me.

Brandon Blume

It's Com Meanie's time to shine :D

lee - ber nool

eh, they'll live.

Jason Norwood

Chief Miles O'Brien!

Kimmo Siniluoto

24th

Smear Campaign

If you can’t resist spoilers, don’t comment.

Smear Campaign

Spoiler. They don’t want to know which characters they will see again.

Smear Campaign

Did a bit for a while but he soon went off the boil and it felt like an “any port in a storm” situation…. Don’t think he’s been that bothered since she was fired from being head of starfleet medical and replaced Pulaski.

Smear Campaign

Spoilers

Smear Campaign

Underrated? Pretty much everyone in these 300 comments loves it and many are saying it’s their favourite pilot of any ST series so far.

Smear Campaign

Will you delete this and the spoilers please

Smear Campaign

Are you kidding me?! Have you even been watching? Alex doesn’t crush on Beverly CRUSHER?? 😅

KingPin124

Why are you even naming characters that haven’t been introduced in the pilot??

KingPin124

spoiler?

Loot Narsbaar

Picard separated the Enterprise at warp. It can be done!

Loot Narsbaar

Not quite correct. In Season 1, Episode 1 - "Emissary", Quark tells Odo: “Morn, no spitting on the bar!”

Badger

my condolences.

Crankygrandma

It’s really about human nature

Crankygrandma

Brandon Blume

I exist here.

Artribution

Soooo.... whos excited for the reaction to the cold open and when they see main character O'Brien?

Christian Levesque

This is my favorite pilot of any of the Trek shows and most of TV for that matter. IMO it is some of Michael Piller's best work. The older I get, the more I think I understand the state of mind behind "it is not linear...". Incredible and arguably underrated pilot episode.

Steven Donahue

Cinedazed

An ATM?! WHERE?!

GreenCauldron08

Guinan

GreenCauldron08

"Let's get the civilians to the escape pods", really underpins how psychologically unprepared the Federation was for conflict at the scale of the Borg.

#MaxwellDidNothingWrong

Just realised this - that’s a disappointment

Brian Dunleavy

Thank you!

Aroha

Better than TNG??? Not even close.

Raphael Gaytan

Emissary is a good pilot, and we get to see Colm Meaney promoted to series regular as well which i know you guys will absolutely love! The whole cast of DS9 is amazing, really looking forward to your vids!

Scott Hadlington

Definitely wasn't enough time, they had rallied the fleet as an emergency to stop the cube from reaching Earth

Clint Larvenz

About time, Starring Colm Meaney as Chief O'Brien in the opening credits!

Clint Larvenz

So they'll just be confused by who it is until they are named. Personally don't even find it to be a spoiler; just a in-joke for others

Jason Norwood

Best Star Trek pilot for the best Star Trek show. Introduces all the characters well, setting up an interesting cast. It's a lot of setup, but there's still a deep emotional story on Sisko's end, and I really like the setup becuase it's one of those episodes that's cool looking back on after you've watched the show and be like "oh yeah, that's how that started." The "you exist here" scene is one of my favorites of the season, and episodes like this are why, even with Season 1 being DS9's weakest imo, it's still a good season. I give this one a 8.1/10, A Tier, Very Good (and if you're curious about my weird ratings, I'm super strict with higher number ratings, so I adjusted my letter ratings accordingly so that there isn't like 1 S Tier episode per series)

Steven Cressler

Unfortunately, O'Brien is showed on their dvd collection-box, so I would guess that they already suspects that he is in the main cast.

Potatonano

- Sisko not a Picard copy ✓ - More Cardassians ✓ - O'Brien ✓ What more do you need? A solid pilot that successfully establishes that DS9 will be quite different, while still keeping the Star Trek feeling.

Potatonano

That character is not named at this point in season 1, so you may want to delete your comment.

Matt Everkoul

They are posting the unedited version on Patreon on the 24th

Troy

Chief!, chief!, chief! Need I say more? Well, not much. A commanding officer who is broken, a young gun-ho doctor. A broken down station. Great vehicle for Drama. Oh and the chief!

Troy

I'm really curious how you two will like the Prophets and the emissary storyline. The religious element is somewhat unpopular with a big chunk of the fandom. I predict you two will therefore like it, but I'm stoked to see your reaction either way.

ageric

Here's a tl;dr for A&J of my original comment: I have been looking forward to your reaction of this episode for a long time. First time I saw it, I didn't think too highly of it, but this being my 4th time rewatch I think it is the best Trek Pilot episode as on reflection I know where the series goes from here! At the start, Sisko wants to quit Starfleet and hates Picard, but explains how TIME as a concept works to wormhole aliens in true Trek fashion. Also, Cheif O'Brien is a leading character!

Kristopher

Which bar tender came off better in their first episode: Guinan or Quark?

Smear Campaign

I love seeing the battle of Wolf 359 and Sisko's reaction to Locuts/Picard. I also don't understand why Starfleet wouldn't remove the civilians and families on these ships before the battle. Maybe there wasn't enough time to evacuate them before the battle.

Gregory Foster

DS9. Friends, this is why I've been here. Your journey has taken us to what I believe is the best ST series of all. Not to set your expectations too high, there are many good episodes, many not so good, but I think you'll love the cast right away and moreso as the series progresses. Keep the faith, like a well directed play, the sometimes excruciatingly slow build up is the best part... So looking forward to your takes.

Michael Metrick

I don’t think either of you have a crush on any of the TNG main cast. Do any of the DS9 crew put a twinkle in your eye?

Smear Campaign

I don't know if I'm in the minority on this or not but this is by far my favorite Star Trek pilot episode. It does a great job seeing up some storylines and characters and I was hooked from day one on this show, TNG was the first Star Trek I ever watched so I do have a soft spot for that but DS9 is still my favorite Star Trek series and with Chief Obrien coming over I thought it was amazing and I hope you guys enjoy the show and the ride, especially the last few seasons but I liked the entire show

Eric Traylor

As far as plot and execution of that plot, I think this may be the best of any Star Trek pilot. Hope y’all agree 🖖

TrekNerd85

First of many Morn appearances. Crazy to think he ends up with the most lines out of the cast

Jason Norwood

Just here to say I can not wait to see y'all's reaction to O'Brien getting main cast

Shane Ogle

You both mentioned in your intro to DS9 that you knew of some TNG character crossover. Now we know that it's O'Brien making the leap to DS9. You've been a big fan of his since before he had a name on TNG. How do you hope his character will evolve now that he'll be getting more focus?

JStrong

The pilot sets up so many possible plot threads: the Cardassians as villians, Bajor and its issues, a wormhole to the other side of the galaxy, god-like beings that live outside time, etc. The Creators packed in so many directions the show could possibly go to compensate for the fact that it's set on a space station that doesn't go anywhere.

Steve Syme

Let's go, let's f#$%&ing go!!!!

JStrong

BUT, on the flip side, they kept talking about The Ship, and, like, the idea that they were so spoiler free that they didn't even realize it was a space station never occurred to me in my wildest dreams!

JStrong

I definitely struggled with Deep Space Nine when it first came on, because I was deep into TNG by then. It was only when I came back after TNG finished seeking more Trek that I finally got it. Emissary is not my favourite Trek pilot, because it really is quite plodding over the two parts and the dialogue is a bit jank in places. But it is a good introduction to the crew and the key concepts of the series, and the Chief being elevated to main crew is chef's kiss! Or should that be "Chief's Kiss"! I'd still give it a B though - it does what it needs to and is compelling enough.

PixelsAtDawn

I was losing my mind when you guys were guessing the show's premise. Portal, far away, Cardassians. Man you guys nailed some of the stuff. Not to even mention the BORG in the opening 5 minutes.

SetsunaYuki

Will they be reading these on the 17th and posting the reaction another time or do we know when it will be posted?

Aroha

Probably the best of all the Star Trek pilot episodes. great introduction to the setting of the show and Sisko's internal struggle. And opening a show with Wolf 359... what more can you want. Also... great use of the Trill species. Having a beautiful young woman in the main cast, being addressed by SIsko as "Old Man" :D

Andreas Schmitt

This was an amazingly well made first episode. I cannot wait to see all of your reactions to this show. It’s my favorite of the Treks!

Steephill

I'm so excited we are finally at DS9! In my opinion the best written series. You get a good introduction to amazing characters in the pilot, you also see the potential for depth of story with all the elements that are introduced. You are in for a wonderful journey, let's go!

Holly Davis

The early seasons of DS9 really push Religion and Politcs so its hard predict how they will feel, as it shifts intoo war , the same thing, DS9 is my favorite series

Scarpad’s Domain

I rewatched the pilot of DS9 as an adult, after I had experienced some life. It was a couple years after I had lost my little brother in a drowning accident. The way this episode captured grief and being stuck in that defining tragic moment of life helped me. I realized I had been living in my moment. I cried like a baby while rewatching Star Trek and I felt immediately connected and relating to Benjamin Sisko in a way I never had when watching as a kid.

brian

I haven't looked closely. When roughly when will their DS9 premier post?

Nathan Cline

this episode feels like the beginning of an rpg. heres your new base, heres the main characters, heres the main political conflict youll have to navigate, here are the factions, youre given your main quest by picard and your side quest by opaka.

Gabbyb133

They're gonna need an extra long Patron Takes section for this... 😆

The Ninth Doctor

“You exist here” got me, watching the pilot all those years ago. Sisko thinks he does not understand non linear time…but finds he does.

Crankygrandma

After your comments about Mavel anbd seeing a scene from different Angles, i am curious how you feel about the Intro with the Wolf 359 Fight. I like it because it, because it shows that Events in Star Trek have consequences. And that big Events will have an Impact on Star Trek as a whole.

Naglfarius

So many takes. I’m so happy that we have so much excitement over our ugly floating cardassian bicycle wheel

Phil Ken Sebben

The Chief!!!!

Wade MacKinnon

I have such mixed feelings about the pilot, but I’ve rewatched it three or four times over the years now and it grows on me each time. I think I’m getting used to the things that used to make me cringe and it’s letting all of the things that it DOES do well stand out better, haha. On my most recent rewatch, I found that I genuinely loved it. A lot of the acting and some of the dialogue is, to me, undeniably clunky—and unfortunately, some of the clunkiest sections are at the emotional core of the episode. All of Sisko’s interactions with his wife feel painfully stilted. But overall, there are plenty of things that this episode does better than any other Star Trek pilot so far: the story this episode is telling, the scope it’s covering, and the emotion and efficacy with which it introduces us to all of these new characters, to name just a few. I’m excited to see your reaction to Colm Meaney in the credits, and I’m curious what will stand out to you most as we move into this new series!

KR Thompson

Picard, with his multiple traumatic experiences, has to share Troi with over 1000 other crewmembers while Sisko gets a therapy session with the bajoran gods in the first episode. Great Pilot, probably the best of the entire franchise!

ThorE

How do you live without the love of your life? How do you overcome that grief when the rest of the world moves on without you? DS9 really opens on those questions. Maybe the best, and certainly the most profound, introduction to a lead character in all of Star Trek. It's like if the pilot episode of TNG was "The Inner Light".

Ally Roth

I think It's a good introductory episode. probably the best first episode in star trek in my opinion. also because of your love for chief O'Brien even in TNG I can't wait to see your reactions to him being in the main cast. another thing, based on your expectations video you thought it was going to be on a ship. nope, its a station. I wonder what your reaction will be to that.

reese jones

Just wanna say, I can't wait to see your reaction to the cold open. The opening crawl ALONE has gotten every reactor I've watched hyped as hell as they realize what they're about to see.

CaptainJZH

A, no contest. The strongest opening to any Trek series, IMO. Brooks crackles, especially when he goes toe to toe and holds his own with Sir Patrick Stewart. We immediately get to see that he's a different kind of captain, too; Kirk is a warrior, Picard a scholar, but right from the start we see that Sisko is a builder--and one who's very good with people, holding his own with Kira and manipulating Quark to get everyone to stay. Kira shines in this episode too, though she's still a bit too Ensign Ro (whom she was added to replace after Michelle Forbes declined). And of course, the reason I'm betting Alex is going to give this an S: O'Brien finally getting that CHIEF engineer job he deserves. The other characters aren't quite there yet, but give them time.

Jen A. Blue

By the prophets there's so many comments! How does anyone make the patron takes! I'm so excited for this. I know some of the die hard fans feel it is the least trek, but it's still my favorite. I love how right out if the gate we get continuity from previous shows and events, plus lot's of signals how this is a different kind of trek show. I think you guys are going to get lots of character moments you'll love.

D Gyre

I joined for yous starting ds9. Listening to what yous wanted from this show I can't wait to see your reaction.

Scott Purdie

I'm so excited to experience Deep Space Nine with you both. You're going to see so much beyond what TNG has given us so far -- familiar species' cultures completely fleshed out, serialized plotlines that are continuously revisited, and a less-polished view of the Star Trek universe. I'd say "bear with it, it gets better," but honestly, DS9 starts strong with the pilot and even Season 1 is full of decent A- and B-tier episodes, far more than you experienced with Season 1 of TNG. Thanks for taking us on this journey with you.

Jesse Manning

It’s not linear.

jclgaft

"This is where you live" - probably the strongest Trek pilot. Loved the beginning, finally! This is Wolf 359! The Prophets? Are they Q like entities? Or true Supreme Beings (Gods?) Okay, boys! Your about to embark on the first TREK of "the dark age" & the BEST salute to TOS in the entire franchise! Enjoy!

Owen Madden

"Why do you exist here?"

Kristopher

After watching the pilot, I think y’all should take a picture with bright lights on your faces, mimicking Sisko’s, as a teaser.

Sainjl

I give it an A. I loved revisiting Wolf 359. Sisko hating Picard bothered me the first time I watched, because Picard is our guy, right? But I think him warming to Picard by the end of the episode is supposed to symbolize some healing, that his anger towards Picard was misdirected.

JoeCensored

Sisko and Picard are both victims of The Borg. Kira was a last-minute addition to the cast. The original plan was to include the Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) character of Ro Laren, but Michelle Forbes didn't want to do a series at the time. There is a ATM machine in Quark's bar. Colm Meaney was initially reluctant about signing onto the series. Meaney was comfortable playing O'Brien on an episode by episode basis for Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987), and at the time, was unsure if he wanted to play a full time television role.

empirejeff

Agreed. I do think it's the best opening episode but not the best series.

Greg Quinn

The Kira role was written for Michelle Forbes and you can definitely hear Ro Laren for the first couple of episodes before the writers start to find Major Kira's voice.

Jeffrey P

DS9 comes out swingin’! The writers haven’t quite worked out a few characters yet, and the pacing lags here and there (tho not as much as most Trek 2-parters), but it largely excels as a pilot and a feature length drama.

rear adm. crackbiscuit

Yep! It was based off Ensign Ro (just like the character) and they changed it after the pilot because Nana basically said it made no sense for a terrorist/freedom fighter having time to do her hair.

Column Meanie

BTW, Nana Visitor's first name is pronounced na-NA, with the emphasis on the second syllable. I listened to her name being pronounced on a recent podcast interview she was featured on, which was hosted by 2 members of another 'Trek cast (ST: Enterprise) which you haven't seen yet. No spoiler: the entire 'Trek cast membership considers each other Family - no surprise there. That includes the new shows, too, according to all of them. With more, new 'Trek still being filmed (2 more live action shows and an audio-only series for 2025 and 2026), you guys can't get to watching 3 shows a week, just to catch up, soon enough. LOL.

Rhett Coates

I think this is a strong pilot with a good emotional hook as we learn about Sisko's back story. I hope y'all like it.

Cirk Bejnar

I also like this first episode of DS9. But I'm not a fan of DS9 in general. TNG is my Trek. Everything since has been "meh"

Jovet

I still think this and "Encounter at Farpoint" are just fine.

Jovet

IMO, one of the best Star Trek Pilots, though that bar is not set that high at this point. Very Intelligently written. Upon first viewing back in the day, I was almost sad the Enterprise was leaving after O'brien beamed off. This series was written before its time, and while the it takes a bit for it to get into the groove of things, it by far ages the best out of all the series of this generation. Lore Dump: Kira was originally envisioned to be Ensign Ro's character, but that fell through. In retrospect I can't complain though. She grew on me and hopefully you too.

Nathan Walker

A good intro to the show that sets up the setting & introduces deep & complex characters. Definitely a better start than "Encounter at Far Point" The backdrop of a recently liberted but devastated Bajor trying to rebuild sets the stage for some interesting stories. The Bajorans themselves being a religious people having a more spiritual outlook on the world brings an interesting angle to Trek which previously almost exclusively presented a secular outlook. Overall there are elements that I think you'll really enjoy as DS9 has often been described as a "Soap Opera" having full episodes & arcs dedicated to characters doing character stuff. This show also masterfully pulls off "Dark Star Trek" something the newer streaming Trek shows, who's idea of mature writing is having characters Cuss like 12 year olds, never seemed to pull off. Plenty of Great "Let's get the Hell out of here" (Fades to Credits endings) in DS9. I also like to call DS9 "Star Trek: The LuooOOOOrrre" as many species get fleshed out. It was a major goal of Armin Shimerman (Quark) to fix the Ferengi, to give them more depth than the buffoonish villains they were presented as in TNG. Though I feel a necessary heads up is required before you dive in as almost everyone here has been singing DS9's praises, personally it's tied with TOS as the best Trek show for me, but Season 1 is kinda Stale. I just hope you guys haven't been given an expectation that the show can't live up to, especially with it's weaker first season (which is better that S1 TNG with some peraonal "S" tiers sprinkled in) Yet be patient with this & you'll be rewarded as thr seeds planted in season1 lead somewhere Great. Now with that said, Josh & Alex, the question is Are you ready to dwell into the depths of Deep Space 9!?

Justin DiBari

One thing it does remarkably well is that it is true to the tone of the series. You watch this episode and you basically know what to expect moving forward. That's pretty impressive for a pilot episode. And I think it holds up better once you've seen the whole series than it does as your first exposure to this new franchise and new characters.

L J

I think this pilot is very polarizing: you either love it or it's very off-putting. It is a sharp contrast from the tone of other Star Trek series. But I suppose that's what some people love about it. For me, that was what made it so hard to care about it. It's a good episode... it just didn't feel like Star Trek. I didn't like that the majority of the characters didn't want to be there and were very confrontational with one another. The story felt choppy and never really captured my interest. I expect there will be a couple of things you really like about it but I think overall you're going to be left feeling a little unsure about this new series.

L J

I feel that this is the best pilot episode of the entire franchise. It is quite evident from the jump that this is going be a different kind of Star Trek. A relatively remote location. The fleshing out of the Bajorin culture. [note: The Kira Nerys role was initially written to be Ro Laren, but Michelle Forbes had scheduling issues and reportedly didn't want to tie herself down an ongoing series]. Nana Visitor sells it. A conflicted warrior now forced to straddle the fence in peacetime. And a position for her character that would have been a bit different had it been Ro Laren. Over a third of the main cast are either are not members of Starfleet or not members of the Federation, which gives a different dynamic. And everyone gets enough play to get a feel for the characters, even though they are in the nascent stages. Avery Brooks gives two bravura performances in this. And even when he's not giving a speech, his intensity keeps you riveted. And he is just getting started. Armin Shimerman rules. DS9 will salvage the Ferengi in your eyes. Mark my words. I can't wait to see Alex turn cartwheels when he realizes that, not only is Colm Meany coming along for the ride but is now part of the main cast. Dax is immediately likable. Terry Farrell manages to project a young spirit and wisened experience simultaneously. Dax's rapport with Sisko comes off I think because Brooks and Farrell have a good onscreen chemistry. Highlights for me: We have seen Picard as being a venerated personage in Starfleet, if not the Federation as a whole. But to Sisko, he was the spearhead of an assault that destroyed his ship and killed his wife. Even if he is aware of the circumstances and that Picard wasn't really in control of himself, he would still have a mighty ax to grind. The Wormhole Aliens [i.e. The Prophets] The entire scene with Sisko explaining linear time to creatures with no concept of it. The pain and anguish of losing his wife. Watching her die over and over. "You exist here." "I exist here." "Why?" Jake and Nog were more interesting in 10 minutes than Wesley Crusher was in four seasons. IMHO As others have mentioned, this really kicks into high gear in season three, but seasons one and two are essential world and character building. And honestly, there are more hits than misses. The biggest criticism of season one for me is that the weaker episodes were very obviously reworked TNG scripts. PS. Sorry Alex. You guessed wrong on the opening credits. No cast head shots. Just cruising through space like always. This time with a comet. LOL

StealthMomo

Hot take: I don't like this as much as the pilot eps of TOS, TNG or Voyager. Three main reasons. 1. The pacing gets really bad in the 2nd half when we're switching between the wormhole and the station a lot. I could've enjoyed both plot threads much more if they didn't keep interrupting each other! 2. The characters don't have much chemistry. (Encounter at Farpoint might've been worse in this area, but still) Most of the characters' relationships feel like they're being forced because the actors still aren't comfortable enough to interact naturally. The only case this works is between Sisko and Kira, because the situation requires them to work together even though they just met and got off to a rocky start. (But there ARE examples of good chemistry here: Sisko and Jake, Odo and Quark, Sisko and O'Brien) Also, some of the actors seem to be struggling to establish their roles. Specifically Dax, Bashir, and Kira. 3. Although Sisko's arc is very well done, the rest of the story feels rushed, unfocused, and disconnected. Why did Dax randomly decide to touch the Orb, triggering a flashback? Why did the computer suddenly give O'Brien a hard time when he wanted to move the station? Why were the Cardassians so quick to believe DS9 destroyed their ship if they thought DS9 had no weapons? There's one point where Sisko needs to leave in a runabout without the cardassians knowing. Normally this would be accomplished with technology or technobabble, but the writers wanted to give Odo something to do, so they go through a slightly confusing song a dance that involves closing Quark's bar (even though Sisko earlier told Quark he needed his bar to flourish) and having Odo shape-shift through the cardassian ship. Basically, too many things feel forced or unnecessary in this story. btw if you think that was a wall of text, you should see the 12-page review I once wrote for Voyager's pilot episode

GreenCauldron08

If Star Trek was Gene Roddenberry’s version of “Wagon Train" then Deep Space Nine is “Bonanza” or "The Rifleman" - a static town with its own cast of characters and new visitors wandering through each & every week. You can tell when Commander Sisko accepts his role by when he ditches the TNG-style uniform for one of the DS9-style uniforms. Very similar to the cadet uniforms featured in “Allegiance” and “The First Duty” but with the turtleneck underneath. How long before Alex buys one?!? The galaxy is divided into four quadrants. So far, we’ve mainly seen the Alpha quadrant and the Beta quadrant (Earth is kind of in-between the two) and the Enterprise briefly visited the Delta Quadrant (home of the Borg) in “Q Who.” The Delta Quadrant is also where those two Ferengi were stranded in “The Price.” But the Gamma Quadrant? Brand new territory! The Danube-class runabout is one of my favorite types of ship. It’s a lot bigger than a shuttlecraft - and is equipped with weapons, replicators, a transporter, and can go up to warp 4. You could probably fit around 50 people in a runabout if you needed to, they are like winnebagos. Each runabout is named after a different river on Earth.

Matt Everkoul

I'm surprised Boothby in The First Duty didn't say, "Remember you? You killed thousands of starfleet officers that passed through these grounds over the years. So many names and faces, I remember them all."

Matt Everkoul

Then for you... there is no linear spoilers...

The Ninth Doctor

Fixed version: Firstly, there are a couple of familiar faces you might recognize. Gul Dukat is played by Marc Alaimo, who played Commander Tebok (TNG's 1st Romulan), and is more recognizable as Gul Macet in The Wounded, so it's good to see him back as another cardassian. Then there's Quark, played by Armin Shimerman, who was one of the original Ferengi in The Last Outpost. He felt he did such a poor job portraying the Ferengi that he was determined to make his portrayal on DS9 more than one-dimensional and give the Ferengi depth. I'll let you decide if he succeeds. Now we get to the meat of it, Miles O'Brien. I always liked his character, but by watching your reactions I gained a new appreciation for his character, seeing him go from nameless background character to getting a name, then becoming transporter chief, getting a wife, moving on to DS9 and becoming a main character. And boy did they do a great sendoff from TNG, having Picard personally say goodbye was a great nod to him leaving one show for another. I also liked how as the Enterprise is leaving you hear the TNG theme playing but as it refocuses on the station it switches to DS9 theme, great touch. And lastly, I like for the first time that we have a Starfleet officer react hostilely to Picard because he was Locutus, something I'm surprised hasn't come up before in TNG.

GreenCauldron08

While not an amazing episode in isolation, its a far better pilot than the TNG one IMO. I can only imagine your thought to a Ferengi bartender being a regular character, but I think he'll become one of your favorites soon. Still gives me chills that they made their new Captain (Commander in this case) a person who's wife was killed by Picard, even if he was Locutus at the time. I'd give it a B if I am being fair, but still a great introduction.

cricketlenny

What is today is no different than what is before. Or what is to come. It is one's existence.

THE LORE!!!

April Fools, right?

Matthew Martin

I have seen the show multiple times and I have my wife on board to watch it again with me for her 1st time. Can’t wait to compare her reactions to you two

Major Daniel H

oh my god please fix those typos

Fedora The Explorar

Clarification: Right. I meant "pre Paramount-Plus. "

John

This *is* Paramount. Star Trek has been Paramount since Season 2 of TOS, when Paramount bought Desilu.

David Brown

never though if it like that. Interesting perspective

Timothy Nikiforovs

My head cannon is Trill is a 24th century word for joined species

Loot Narsbaar

Miles O'Brien. I always liked his character, but by watching your reactions I gained a new appreciation for his character, seeing him go from nameless background character to getting a name, then becoming transporter chief, getting a wife, moving on to DS9 and becoming a main character. And boy did they do a great sendoff from TNG, having Picard personally say goodbye was a great nod to him leaving one show for another. I also liked how as the Enterprise is leaving you hear the TNG theme playing but as it refocuses on the station it switches to DS9 theme, great touch. And lastly, I like for the first time that we have a Starfleet officer react hostilely to Picard because he was Locutus, something I'm surprised hasn't come up before in TNG.

Dark Kronis

Move over 10-forward, Quarks is here.

Jesse

I think Avery does fine at least until later. And Nana doesn't have a single overacted scene - That's just Kira and I love Kira for it.

#MaxwellDidNothingWrong

Worked out for the better, honestly.

TomEmilioDavies

I'm sure others have shared this sentiment, but DS9 doesn't really start that great, I mean overall, this pilot is honestly pretty good imo. But the early seasons aren't brilliant, although there some absolute gem episodes. Trust me the show will get going, and when it does get going it really gets going. Let it cook.

TomEmilioDavies

I have often said DS9 is the better TV show TNG was the better Star Trek. TNG has more exploration and new aliens and using those aliens (often of the week) to comment and discuss various pressing social issues. This combination of social commentary and optimism for an enlightened future to me is Star Trek. However DS9 has far more character focus which gives more character development time, the interpersonal relationships are more fleshed out. Combined with characters come from VERY diverse backgrounds which sets up more interesting conflict. Also the bad guys are for the most part not just for an episode or even a season, in the case of most of them they are series recurring and its not just "The Romulans" or "The Cardassians" it is specific people of those races with their own goals motivations and characterizations. These are all things we know make a very successful TV Show. Good characters, good interactions between characters, our favorite characters having a disagreement and solving it, and memorable villians. However I believe it is also the begining of the complete lack of optimism we have in TV nowadays. So it leaves me in a weird state of I definitely think DS9 is better TV and I enjoy it more, but by god is it the pebble that heralds the coming of a terrible trend in TV where everything has to be "realistic" and "realistic" is code for "depressing"

Deagor

I appreciate all the reasons why people argue DS9 is better than TNG. But I don't agree. Maybe it was the phase of life that I watched each show in. I needed the optimism of TNG. And to be honest, I don't remember all the DS9 episodes and I probably missed a few. So watching this with you guys will be comparatively "newer" viewing. Maybe I'll come away with a different view. As for this episode. It is a great episode.

Greg Quinn

And they have no idea what that shape is, until it is completed... 😉

The Ninth Doctor

I always assumed there was a neutral 3rd party handling the discs otherwise they'd be spoiled 1000 times over. The TNG menus are as spoilery as all hell

Loot Narsbaar

Here's the thing, all the actors improve greatly over the run of the show. Except for The Chief because he already has it down

Loot Narsbaar

it is a plot hole tho. Enterprise didn't really have time to go searching for survivors

Loot Narsbaar

away?

Loot Narsbaar

A series better than TNG

Reality Strikes

Deep Space Nine.... What is this?

THE LORE!!!

Wow , I thought he was amazing! He is more. Kirk like than Picard like, but he brings a distinct characterization. Might be the best “captain” yet. I thought his anger was perfect.

Crankygrandma

That about sums it up! Was that the one line pitch for the series?😄

Crankygrandma

I remember when I first watched this, I thought it was the best Trek pilot to date. It clearly had set up an ensemble cast, and given us a good look at each, and gave hints of the way some of them might relate. And Sisko being PTSD, from Wolf 539! He is a new type of trek commander (not captain- it’s a station, not a ship). He comes with trauma..I was quickly taken with the diverse collection of characters, but what really made this was the ending when Sisko was faced with “where he lived”. I think you will like the pilot for its promise of character driven stories. Oh, and it has the Chief. What more could you want?

Crankygrandma

Thinking about it. There are pretty much no stories that try to capture the everything of Star Trek like Emissary. That is why I consider it the best Pilot of all Star Trek.

Crewman #6

I don’t think prejudice is the correct word. While Picard was forced to do what he did, he still did it. It’s more nuanced since Picard was the Bord’s vice to the Federation.

Sainjl

I think Avery Brooks' acting is quite good until the script calls for him to get angry, at which point it does take a downward turn.

Shane Coombs

It's definitely gonna throw them for a loop.

Evan Guthrie

That line is so hard

Evan Guthrie

really curious to how you guys will like it! From TOS, TNG and this, I rank this the best pilot episode, but it is so dependent on you being a fan or at least know TNG to work as well. Sisco is so complex, Kira is so good! Odo is so unique a concept on the first watch. The chief went from transporting people to data’s job in ds9, Quark ( or Dr. Quack like Josh once called him) and what a great cameo by Picard ! And Gul Dukat? ( in one of the books they make him Gul Mcet’s cousin from TNG!) Chef’s kiss ALL AROUND for me!

Sixto

The Bajorans, upon learning of a new highway through space, immediately pick up shop and set up a gas station at the on-ramp. Quark should be proud.

Evan Guthrie

Seeing how Sisko is immediately prejudiced against Picard reminds me of Star Trek 6 and your reaction to Kirk’s attitude. But I don’t think you’ll have the same reaction to this episode because we get to see the traumatic event immediately before. Do you think ST6 would have benefitted from something similar?

Evan Guthrie

That was my thought as well. Even if they've managed to avoid all other references to DS9 on the internet, I have to imagine that the packaging to their DVD set has the Chief's picture on it somewhere!

Moonlander

I can't wait to see their faces watching the opening sequence. Like holy shit we're going there?

SetsunaYuki

At the time, it was the most expensive set of any tv show.

Richard Finch

Love DS9, but this episode has always raised questions for me. When the Enterprise arrives at Wolf 359 there's no life signs. Where did all these people from the destroyed ships go in escape pods?

Bret Kay

Someone else might have posted this already—this series was originally created for your favorite character Ro Laren, but Michelle Forbes refused to do a regular role on a weekly series, so they replaced her with Major Kira.

Aramis Calcutt

Ok. I’ll say it aloud. Despite improving somewhat in the later seasons I always thought Avery Brooks’s overall performance brought DS9 down. I unfortunately consistently find his acting to just be poor, but I do love the character. Nana has a lot of overacted scenes as well. Love the stories and supporting cast, but the two top leads……. Not so much. I think this premier demonstrates my opinions well. Really looking forward to this new journey though, cause I do love DS9.

Bantha Fodder

For me Emissary is somewhat of a high point for most of season 1. It's a good introduction to the characters *as they are now* but most importantly it sets up a lot of room for character growth and development, something that the series does extensively and very well over time - though it takes a bit to get there. It's worth noting that the character of Kira was originally intended to be Ro Laren, which is one of the reasons she was introduced to TNG, but ultimately they weren't able to go in that direction. She is still a great character, though, and one I ultimately wind up liking more than Ro. Overall this is a good beginning that in some ways feels a lot closer to what DS9 will eventually become than a lot of the rest of the first season.

Shane Coombs

Yes, that might be a possibility.

Marko

Armin Shimerman, the actor who plays Quark, has been playing Ferengi since they first appeared in TNG. He didn't like how they were portrayed in TNG so he was determined to redeem them in DS9. Judging by his portrayal of Quark in the pilot, do you think he has a chance at redeeming the Ferengi?

Nicholas Jennings

I've re-watched the pilot for DS9 twice already in anticipation for y'all's reaction. My prediction...? I... think you both are going to find it incredibly, incredibly dull. It's glacially-paced and awkward, and it's rather obvious from early-on that the pilot isn't attempting to get us to know ALL of the characters... yet. So be prepared for a slow burn. But, that being said, I do deeply and personally respect DS9's pilot. There's just too much within the depths of this new show's lore to properly encapsulate in 120 minutes. So, instead, they focus exclusively on Sisko... and I believe that was one Hell of a good choice. Avery Brooks gives it his all and I almost always choke up towards the end when his attempt to philosophically reach out to the Wormhole aliens bounces back and reveals to him the rut of despair he's been locked in for so long. It's a cleansing, healing feeling, and I appreciate how simultaneously wholesome yet dark the entire beginning of Sisko's journey is. And it truly is a *journey*. This is just the start of it, and I maintain that it's considerably more competent than TNG's pilot.

Shortskirtsandexplosions

Also, you don't send the ships in waves in against a borg cube. That seemed like a bonehead plan from the start.

Loot Narsbaar

CHIEF O'BRIEN IS NOW A SERIES REGULAR! Well deserved! Overall, I think this is a strong first episode that does a good job of establishing this new setting, new characters, and sets the stage for future character growth and story lines. Avery Brooks brings a unique performance as Commander Sisko. While it can sometimes be odd, it mostly works, and his performances can be very powerful. He always makes me emotional in the scenes where he's saying goodbye to his wife. Speaking of the actors, this may be the best Trek cast overall. Nana Visitor, Rene Auberjonois, Armin Shimerman, Marc Alaimo, and a couple I can't mention yet in particular always stood out the most to me, but others deserve praise as well. I thought their version 2.0 of the Trill look / makeup was a home run as well. This show takes some time to find itself, but the wait is 100% worth it!

Forbidden Donut

TNG is the Roddenberry Ideal DS9 is the refutation of that ideal. Where it fails in that refutation is as poignant as where it succeeds. And DS9 does fail now and then.

#MaxwellDidNothingWrong

Yeah, it's really hard finding head canon for why they didn't do that. Chalk it up to Federation over confidence and naivete maybe.

#MaxwellDidNothingWrong

People talked about Trek's first black series lead, but Qwark was DS9's biggest swing. Not sure what you'll think about him after only seeing one episode, but over the years he turned out to be a home run.

Charlie's Illiteracy

I'm betting they have both been 'spoiled' on the Chief being in the show, but held back discussing it out of fear the other one didn't yet know.

#MaxwellDidNothingWrong

We the viewers are like 'wormhole aliens' - we don't live linearly. We might exist in the present of s01e01, but we know everything that is to come, and contextualize everything before with things you couldn't then know. Alex and Josh are linear, and there is no way they'll see things the way we do. Which is why they are special. Looking forward to all the first takes!

#MaxwellDidNothingWrong

In my opinion, this pilot is better than Encounter at Farpoint. Much more meaningful story, and much better introduction to the characters. Avery Brooks nails Sisko almost right away, and gives a very moving performance.

tyranusfan

This show took over my top Trek show over TNG the relationships in this show are a lot more fleshed out than in the previous 2 shows (2.5 for the cartoon). A lot more sci-fi allegory than in the previous shows. I am actively looking forward to seeing how you guys adjust to the show and new dynamic of no ship (spoilers but you watched the first two episodes). Well boys buckle up the fun is just starting.

Jason Biggs

(I know they probably filmed that part well in advance and then had to stick it in the story somewhere, but I think the scene would be even better if he was wearing the other uniform let alone the distracting continuity)

Loot Narsbaar

Do you think O'Brien went back to his Enterprise quarters, changed out of his DS9 uniform, put on his gold one, said goodbye to Picard, and then went back to his quarters on the station and changed into his DS9 uniform again?

Loot Narsbaar

Nana Vistor herself had it changed

Loot Narsbaar

It's unfortunate because it can come across as Trek being too scared to have a black captain. I've read the showrunners wanted him to be a captain from the beginning.

Loot Narsbaar

i especially love the father son dynamic - and the deep friendship that develops between the lead character and the "old man" - and so much to love IMO in this pilot and the seasons to come - thanks Josh and Alex

jan

I hope you guys didn't watch the intro at first, as I think you'd be pissed if you saw Colm Meaney in the credits. It would be much better surprise if you saw him in the episode.

Marko

I'm guessing you guys were expecting some kind of reference to TNG in this show but were either of you expecting to see Picard show up THAT early??

Elizabeth N

Buckle up boys, it's a hell of a ride 😁

Ee'char

I also meant to add that Armin Shimerman as Quark is awesome. He played Letek, one of the first Ferengi we saw in “The Last Outpost” and also one in “Peak Performance”, so it’s great that we see him as Quark and to see the Ferengi finally portrayed seriously.

Ron Hubbard Jr

Just in time for my birthday(ish), nice! DS9 has one of, if not the strongest pilots in the entire franchise, which is all the more impressive when you know how broad the initial strokes were and how much shuffling went on behind the scenes to get everything together. The early stuff is so rich with potential that, towards the end of the run, I predict you'll suspect they intentionally planned for some things they have consistently sworn they never did. Also worth noting: Until very recently DS9 was the only show without a human majority among its primary cast (it starts at parity, and eventually shifts to an alien majority); if you include the secondary regularly recurring cast, it has a definite alien majority.

Avaria

Keiko is directly mentioned when Miles is talking to Sisko, and their marriage already happened in TNG so she's not a new character.

The Ninth Doctor

The best cold opens in all trek in my opinion and then having someone who doesn't like Picard was instant hook for me when this came out

Anthony Varra

I’m excited for this! And will try to re-watch the series with you. What are your thoughts on the station and Ops? What’s the most surprising part about the pilot/series?

Sainjl

I am so looking forward to how you guys react to the aftermath of the Battle of Wolf 359 element to the storyline. 😎

Paul D

"Seems reasonable. You have all the character references of a politician."

Steven Portillo

Is the first season of DS9 perfect? Nope. But the pilot sure as hell is! It's easily the best series opener of any Star Trek series, and does a perfect job of setting up the premise, characters, and challenges they will face. Buckle up, gents. You're in for a ride!

Paul O'Neal

“Community leader… hahahahahahahaha”!!!!

Reality Strikes

She is mentioned. Miles even says to Sisko: "When my wife Keiko saw our quarters, she started talking about visiting her mother in Kumamoto..." Plus they married in TNG, so her existence and status as Miles' wife is not a spoiler.

The Ninth Doctor

Starfleet, and Sisko himself for that matter, likely expected the station to be a backwater at the end of the frontier. An old wrecked Cardassian mining outpost, around a planet with no economy or resources left. And a CO who fundamentally didn't want to be there. Until they found a stable wormhole, the CO got therapy thanks to divine intervention, and The Chief was posted in. At which point, DS9 became the hottest property in town. 🤣

The Ninth Doctor

even Admiral Hansen's ship was just the drive section!

Loot Narsbaar

Tv is much more prestigious now... now a days for the budget and time it took to complete this episode you could really get a character actior that could nail this part. You need to miss Jennifer like you do K'Ehleyr

Loot Narsbaar

They prefer character over plot.

Column Meanie

This. Absolutely, 100% this. Knowing you're going into a fleet battle, and not offloading all non-essential personnel at the nearest planet, starbase or outpost on the way... is the height of stupidly.

The Ninth Doctor

He’s only a commander because they wrote the series pilot for a younger actor in mind. Once they cast Brooks the writers knew they should’ve changed him to a captain, but the producers argued that captains didn’t run space stations.

Column Meanie

Here's the usual sort of question for a premiere: What character do you most want to hear more of their backstory? Do you like the subtle changes to the Ferengi so far?

Ian Westcott

This is the best series pilot in all of Star trek, hands down.

Reality Strikes

I agree 100%, Jennifer was not great here. The only time we really see her, it's really just the wormhole aliens wearing her face in his memories, speaking through her, and every time they do that (with any character/actor), they use a very rote, early-Data mechanical acting style. They seem to try to convey that these creatures are basically... so ignorant of our ways of corporeal time that it comes off being child-like, and then they're basically adult actors pretending to be children. "What is.. time?"

Ian Westcott

Wondering what you guys are going to think of the sets. They're massive, they give the show its own unique look, and they incorporated a lot of lessons learned from shooting TNG. But... do they feel like Star Trek? And if they don't, is that gonna make things feel a little off until you get used to them?

bab

Y'all gonna love this for real. The scenes with the wormhole aliens always send shivers down my spine. I also loved seeing a darker side of the Star Trek universe. Seeing Bajor and DS9 in the state it is in and the Bajorans really shine here. I already know you're not gonna like Sisko's dead wife, but at least she's dead. Also... CHIEF!!!

Noah Fawkes

Absolutely right. I particularly love how differently Sisko handles the meetings with Picard at the beginning and end of the episode. In the first, he's so cold and angry. He resents being there and having to interact with Picard (who he clearly still blames for his actions as Locutus). In the second, he's measured and treats Picard more like a colleague. He has some emotional distance and that helps him to set a better tone for their interaction. God, Avery Brooks has such wonderful range!

Kristina Weber

I am so looking forward to your freak-out when you see Miles O'Brien is in the main crew. I've been catching a hint here and there that you've been a little disappointed with his recent lack of screen time (I think they used archival audio for him in "Relics"), and I'm actually kindof shocked that this hasn't been spoiled for you yet. I'm glad you're watching the DVDs/BluRays, because I don't think they spoil anything, unlike my online streaming which posted some SPOILER-HEAVY cast photos for a later season, and it posted that photo on the splash screen for the series as a whole.

Ian Westcott

I'm bummed he's a commander. It's been established before that Admirals command starbases. Seems like an unnecessary demotion. Fun fact: more money was spent on this episode than the cinematic masterpiece that is Star Trek VI

Loot Narsbaar

(I'm a dork with a keyboard it's my job to nitpick and be a wet blanket)

Loot Narsbaar

While I think this is a wonderful pilot and a great episode, It's undercut by the incredibly wooden performance of the actress playing Jennifer (much like with Jack Crusher). I don't feel Sisko's loss as much as I am supposed to because she's never really established as a vibrant character who you'd miss. Her performance is so underwhelming maybe they would have been better off leaving her a mystery and instead just showing her buried on the deck of the Satatoga. idk such is 90s tv

Loot Narsbaar

Is the 2nd person you mentioned in the pilot?

John M.

Now you have to, too. :)

John M.

"Sounds like a very dull place" - Chief O'Brien in regards to Farpoint Station

Loot Narsbaar

One thing I would have done, and this is Monday morning Quarterbacking to be sure, would be to offload the civilians and children before flying into a battle with a Borg Cube where a 100% causality rate was expected.

Loot Narsbaar

Amazing how many of the characters they jam into the pilot — and how many of the characterizations hold up. It’s hard not to talk about the whole series, but safe to say we get a taste here of DS9’s strengths: great characters and conversations, more believable family dynamics than most of Star Trek, a more subtle take on religion, great villains, and lasting repercussions. A.

John M.

Not as many as there could have been.

Nolan

I think they may be put off by less boldly going, but willing to trade that in for the continuity they so crave

Loot Narsbaar

https://www.reddit.com/r/Treknobabble/comments/16spfj8/early_jadzia_dax_makeup_tests_left_an_attempt_to/ They made the right choice to ditch & retcon the Trill makeup - Terry Farrell deserved nothing less 🔥

The Ninth Doctor

Whoa, I would say Brooks is anything but wooden. He's not on the level of Patrick Stewart, but he can hold the show down. I'd compare him more to Shatner, who is a perfectly fine actor, but can chew the scenery or make campy choices every now and then,

Loot Narsbaar

The theme of DS9 is testing Gene's ideals. They mean little when everyone is safe and comfortable. They only mean something if they are truly tested.

Loot Narsbaar

I wonder how many other Stafleet officers would be out there, holding a grudge against Picard for his role at Wolf 359

The Ninth Doctor

By Miles... Miles OBrien to be exact, who happens to have been in both 😉

The Ninth Doctor

They read these after watching. Post is fine.

John M.

This didn't spoil anything

BN13

This was a better start than "Farpoint".

Ken R

You'll probably wish you'd worn sunglasses for Part 2. =P

James Knight

For me, I always had a terrible time with Avery Brooks’s wooden acting. Or should I say…Avery. Brooks’s. Woo. Den. Act. Ing.

Raphael Gaytan

They wanted Jadzia to look like the trills of TNG, but after trying the ( not sure of the term ) prothese, they taught Terry was to good looking to wear some plastic, so they just add painting and damn, she looks hot 😜🖖

Dan Here

This is an episode I have been looking forward to hearing your thoughts on for quite a while. I know that when I first watched it, I didn't think too highly of it; We have a whole bunch of characters we don't know, in a very strange place, and our focus character isn't even a Captain, but a Commander, AND he is angry, seethes at our man Picard, as well as is thinking about quitting Starfleet altogether. However, on rewatch, and this being my 4th time revisiting the series, I can say with confidence that is one of my top series premieres of any TV show. I don't think I can really go into details as to why, but it is purely because I know where this series goes over it's next seven seasons. But on some notes I can say here, the first contact with the wormhole aliens, and Commander Sisko trying to explain not only the human condition, but the concept of TIME ITSELF is an exemplar of Star Trek to me, trying to show the goodness of mankind and the drive for exploration and learning (not too dissimilar to Q in Encounter at Farpoint) Also, Cheif O'Brien as a leading character!

Kristopher

If anyone asks what Star Trek is about, “Well there it sits, waiting!” Sisko’s explanation of linear time to the Prophets/Wormhole Aliens is one of the highlights of not just the first season but the entire show. The way the writers were able to perfectly express the point of the Federation and Starfleet working to not just explore the galaxy but their own lives, to not just seek the answers to their questions but to seek out new questions is a perfect distillation of Trek!

jclgaft

Let’s try not to get ahead of Josh & Alex by talking about liking or not liking pilot episodes of the other series.

Ron Hubbard Jr

Wow, where to even start with this… “Emissary” is a vastly better premiere than “Encounter at Farpoint”. Seeing O’Brien leave the Enterprise was tough, but awesome because he’s one of the main cast now. Actually seeing the battle at Wolf 359, Wow! Picard as Locutus again! Gul Dukat is freaking awesome (Marc Alaimo also played Gul Macet in “The Wounded” so he is truly the original Cardassian) Really happy they gave the Trill a makeover. Now we start wondering just how far those spots go down… 😏

Ron Hubbard Jr

Avery Brooks is pretty good in the pilot but he is up and down the rest of the season. There are some interesting acting choices and times where, quite frankly, I don’t believe him. He’s a good actor, I love Sisko but it does take a while for the character and the actor to find his feet. Really starts to settle in the second and third seasons though.

Jon1701

TNG will always be my favourite show, but DS9 is the better show

Jon1701

Love this comment. Sums up early DS9 perfectly. At least season 1 has its ups and downs. An argument could be made that the best and worst episodes the franchise are in this season. Obviously I wont go into any more details to avoid spoilers.

Ca$hWednesday

Much better than Encounter at Far Point.

Paul Sage

This premiere is easily in my top 20 favorite episodes in all Trek. Dealing with loss is exactly how it looks in the episode... you exist there, until you heal.

THE Fans

"As Starfleet officers, we are not always afforded the luxury of an ideal post." Thanks Picard, that's very nice of you to say as we sit here in your cushy boardroom of a luxury-liner starship. Though I love how he looks like Sisko slapped him by mentioning Wolf 359 - dude just got out of a literal torture chamber and gets hit with this.

Nolan

Welcome!

The Ninth Doctor

Welcome aboard!

The Ninth Doctor

The GOAT Chief is in the series!

Troy

I think Star Trek's history with religion is a bit problematic and the episodes like the one where everyone believes Picard is a god and hysteria starts and Picard has this bad speech about how bad and immoral it is to start religions. It all seemed like very angry and hostile preaching. An actual nuanced look into religion was needed.

Fedora The Explorar

Who are going to end up being your favorite characters besides the obvious O'Brien?

Badger

I joined the patreon just for this! This is my favorite Star Trek series! I'm a big fan of this pilot. It's silly, but I sincerely love Sisko having to explain to these non-linear aliens that baseball is not indicative of hostile/aggressive tendencies of humanity.

Groovybaboon

Hands down the best pilot episode of any of the Star Trek series. In this single 2 hour pilot we are introduced to characters that are all deeper and more rounded than any of the TNG characters. Avery Brooks’ performance in the last half of the episode is worthy of an Emmy. “Where’s the Chief?!” Answer: He’s been on DEEP SPACE NINE, BOYS! I’m also in awe of the production design by Herman Zimmerman who gives us a setting unlike anything we’ve seen before. Buckle up boys: you ain’t seen nothing yet. Off to the wormhole! S for “Sisko’s sassy bitch slap of Picard”

Column Meanie

First ever Patron Take! Kira’s hair is unforgivable. E tier for the hair, S tier for everything else!

Tom

Oh man, how can I make a short take for such a densely packed episode? This is, and IMO remains the best Trek pilot made. It succeeds because it focuses on Sisko while still setting up so much. "You exist here" is SUCH a powerful commentary on the nature of grief. And Alex, suprise mothaf#$%er, the Chief is a main character. We been trying to keep this quiet for so long. Also why he's not been in a lot of TNG S6. I'm sure there's some stuff here that'll initially have you wary, but overall, I think this'll be a highly enjoyable experience. Welcome to Bajor, boys.

Nolan

New to the Patreon but not the channel. Figured I'm in for the long haul so may as well get in while things are still heating up! This is IT. The absolute best opener for any Star Trek Series and one I STILL rewatch on occasion. I was on elementary school when this aired. You'll hear a lot of people stopped watching DS9 early on, I am among them. I rewatched it in the early 2000s and this is now my absolute favorite Star Trek Series, and not just because the chief is now part of the main cast.

Cobheran

Same - it was one hell of a life lesson for me watching as a 10 year old kid

The Ninth Doctor

The thing I really love about this pilot is that it sets up Sisco as a wholly unique "Captain." He's rough, not afraid to get his hands dirty and engage in a bit of blackmail, and he comes in with a chip on his shoulder against one of THE most beloved characters in all of sci-fi. And all of it works! They did SUCH a good job introducing him in a way that makes him stand out and makes him feel both interesting and relatable.

DthDisguise

So, it begins. I've started a DS9 rewatch in anticipation of your reactions, and it's honestly given me a new appreciation of the series. I love TNG, but this is MY star trek, and I'm looking forward to joining in for patron takes every episode. The chief is here! Who could have guessed that a tiny role in Encounter at Farpoint would lead Colm here? I'm just glad that they recognised his awesomeness and put it to good use. That goodbye scene with Picard is so good, and I'm extremely mad that they cut it out when they split this episode into 2 parts for reruns. The trill return with Jadzia Dax, except not really. So much was changed about them from their TNG appearance that aside from having a symbiont, they're basically a completely new species (and personally I think they should have just used a different name). They even have new makeup for the trill because apparently they thought Terry Farrell was too attractive for the original makeup. Originally the role of bajoran liaison was meant to be Ro Laren, but because the actress didn't want to be tied to a long contract, they had to shift gears and invent Major Kira Nerys. I really like Ro Laren, but I'm glad it turned out this way. Nana Visitor is incredible as Major Kira. Commander Sisko. First non-captain lead of a star trek show, and (to me) by far the most interesting, even just in this first episode. They really wanted this episode to communicate to the audience that this is not TNG, and I think Sisko did that pretty effectively. Avery Brooks is a... divisive actor. Some people think he overacts. But personally, I love his performance. This is really his episode and I love Sisko's journey. Armin Shimmerman, one of the original Ferengi actors from all the way back in the last outpost, returns, now as Quark. He felt that he "failed miserably" in the last outpost, which he called a "disaster" of an episode. He wanted to undo some of that with Quark and make the Ferengi more interesting and deep - not just a joke. he said - "I didn't put it behind me for years; it was like sword of Damocles hanging over my head. [...] It was my personal agenda to rectify the mistake I made; to take a one-dimensional character and make him a three-dimensional character." Armin's a massive trek fan, and people on set would apparently go to him to ask him lore questions. I'm glad he got his chance to redeem the ferengi, even though I don't think it was actually his fault. So much more I could talk about - Marc Alaimo's return, Odo, Picard's presence, the Wormhole and its Aliens, the station... but I've gone on long enough. This is, by a very long way, the best pilot of any star trek show, before or since. A bit rough around the edges, but gets it right where it matters. I give it an A (8/10).

awktopus

As The Rock would say... FINALLY!!... TA has come to DEEP SPACE NINE! I really do think you'll like this series. Like with TNG, it does take a couple seasons to find itself in some ways, but I've been rewatching the 1st two seasons recently and there are certainly a lot of gems in there. Plus they really nailed some of the characters right from the start, such as Odo & Quarks relationship. - You like Chief - CHECK - You like Cardassians - CHECK - You like CHARACTER - CHECK Some people feel DS9 doesn't hold to Gene's ideals. I get that. But another way to look at it, is that DS9 in fact tests how those ideals hold up against forces outside of the Federation. That's what's unique about the show. It's not just StarFleet officers, but they're mingled with characters who may not share the Federations ideals, and they have to live and work together. While I agree that TNG is the gold standard of Star Trek, however I think/hope you'll see how DS9 just has a more rich and deep world building as time goes on.

Russell Elledge

I think one of them know he’s in the show, but may not know he’s in the main cast.

Sainjl

It will be interesting to see what you guys think of Deep Space 9. I am a big Star Trek fan and have watched all of the Star Trek series when they were originally broadcast from the original series to Enterprise. But I could never get into Deep Space 9. Maybe I will like it more watching it with you. I have changed my mind on a number of episodes after re-watching with you guys.

Steve777

As well as the best... and worst aspects of religion and faith as a whole

The Ninth Doctor

This episode was pretty good! I remember loving the concept of DS9 when it first began, and I was excited about this series. It lost my interest very quickly thereafter back in the day (and a second time when I tried again a few years ago) but I'm all ready to watch with you guys with a fresh perspective. Here's to a new voyage.

PIG

Agreed, and the fact it's a Space station - they can't just "warp away" from their problems or a random story-of-the-week: they have to stand their ground and face/fix them.

The Ninth Doctor

New crew, new mission, new worlds to explore...

The Ninth Doctor

https://www.reddit.com/r/Treknobabble/comments/16spfj8/early_jadzia_dax_makeup_tests_left_an_attempt_to/

The Ninth Doctor

Same, or the other way around perhaps..?

The Ninth Doctor

Chief made it to the main cast!! Did either Alex or Josh already know this though..?

The Ninth Doctor

Miles as a main character, Keiko, Gul Dukat and all of those others to come... what a ride

The Ninth Doctor

That’s why I love DS9. We do see those principles challenged and tested. It doesn’t tell a picturesque view of religion or politics.

Sainjl

Edited: To say that I’m new and first Patreon take, since the guys just mentioned. I know we’re not all about letters anymore, but this is absolute S-Tier!! I understand why some folks would put it lower on a first viewing, but after watching the series and seeing the characters that I love back at the beginning; I can watch this a dozen times over and it’s always S-Tier. ❤️❤️

KingPin124

Agreed - poor defences and old non-Starfleet systems on a remote broken down Cardassian space station at the gateway to an unexplored part of the Galaxy... Definitely makes for good drama!

The Ninth Doctor

There is a screen test where they used the original Odan makeup for Dax, but I'm **so** glad they retconned Trill to use the Kriosian 'Perfect Mate' makeup instead... https://www.reddit.com/r/Treknobabble/comments/16spfj8/early_jadzia_dax_makeup_tests_left_an_attempt_to/

The Ninth Doctor

Religion is a very real topic in our world though, and Starfleet is still viewing the prophets from an outside perspective. I always viewed the Prophets as a Type 4 civilization on the Kardeshev scale. They are a race so alien and advanced compared to us, that less evolved species who encounter them worship them as gods, but that doesn't mean they ARE gods. We see the believers perspective as well, and the show leaves it up to us to decide who and what the prophets actually are. I think it does a good of of presenting religion without being religious.

BN13

That's why O'Brien wanted this assignment. He's the kind of guy that's always saying "I can fix her", but about ships/stations instead of women😂

Timothy Nikiforovs

Yeah, he was being pretty aggressive and adversarial. Maybe he didn't really mean it that way. Might have just meant it as a little commander/captain competition. For fun!!! Maybe not

Timothy Nikiforovs

My dad and 4 years older brother LOVED DS9 on it's original run. As a kid I didn't appreciate much about the show beyond the action. I liked the cast well enough, but TNG and later Voyager was my jam. It was only around 2011/2012 when I got the BSG box set to finish the show after dropping off in S3 of the original run. At the time it originally aired, BSG conflicted with the "delicate sensibilities" I developed growing up on Trek, but watching it as an adult, I had a whole new appreciation for it. And given RDM and a few others worked on both DS9 and BSG, I decided to rewatch DS9 through adult eyes as well. Been my favourite Trek ever since.

Timothy Nikiforovs

Forget everything you ever knew about the Trill from The Host. In that episode, they had to be a plot device. But now that DS9 has a Trill crew member, they get to fully re-write them and develop them as a species. But it even takes DS9 quite a while to fully develop what the Trill are. Jadzia is very much a work in progress right now.

BN13

It took the writers 3 years to have Picard show real emotions, Sisko nailed it on the first pilot. This was one hell of a start 🖖

Dan Here

Welcome to Deep Space Nine. While this episode is a little rough, it still has some great moments, Chief's farewell to the Enterprise and Picard, Sisko working through his grief being the big two. It does set the stage for this show being a very different beast to on a starship, in any era, and has a great ensemble cast.

Thomas Cole

Took me a while to get in to DS9. With TNG still running a new show was tricky for me. In the end I love this show prob as much as TNG for sure.

Lt Dan I scream

I love the bravery of pitting Sisko against Picard. This is a new show, a different show, and TNG fans aren’t necessarily going to like it. Such a bold statement of intent straight out of the gate.

Richard Stone

"Yes sir, we met in battle. I was on the Saratoga at Wolf 359" It was a bold move to make the "passing the torch" scene such a cold one. You understand where Sisko is coming from having lost Jennifer, but you also understand Picard didn't deserve having Locutus' crimes thrown in his face, especially after coming off of another traumatic experience with the Cardassians. There's just so much pain in that room, but thankfully in the end Sisko started the healing process and let go of the blame. What do you think of making the main character a family man, and also not being a captain?

Timothy Nikiforovs

I think the warp-capable runabouts give them the opportunity to explore the local systems as well as the other side of the wormhole. I like the balance.

Paul Rymer

This was definitely shown as a TV movie rather than 2 episodes originally. I think it’s a strong pilot, especially how it has a good handover from TNG, with the background to DS9 coming from seasons 4 to 6 of the prior series. However it’s quickly established as its own thing. Having said that I was really happy to see Miles and Keiko O’Brien move to the new show, to give some familiarity.

Paul Rymer

I'll be honest. It took me 4 tries of restarting the Pilot before I was able to get through it and watch the 2nd episode. I was only a TNG guy for a very long time and had no interest in watching DS9 (or Voyager) as it aired. My roommate loved DS9 and got all of the DVDs the second they were released. I borrowed them but could not get past the Pilot the first 3 times. Now, I love DS9. It's still not TNG, my first and true love, but It is an AMAZING show. Once it takes off, it does not stop, but it lays a lot of necessary foundation before the take off.

Kevin Is Sexy

Even though DS9 stands at odds with a lot of Roddenberry's ideas for Trek, I feel that THE EMISSARY pilot is something of an homage to Trek's pilot THE CAGE. -Both have a commanding officer who's questioning his career. -Both Commander's are held captive and tested. -They both have their perceptions of reality challenged. -Traumatic events in both Commander's pasts. ("You exist here" is trauma personified). -Aliens that put them through different memories to relive. -Teasing both commanders with a woman they can't have. -Both pilots serve as deep character studies and introduce elements of Star Trek’s philosophical exploration of free will, perception, and leadership under extraordinary circumstances.

Michael Nemo

Now that we have arrived, let me start out by saying that I DO like Deep Space Nine as a series. IMO, it is by no means even close to TOS or TNG as Star Trek series go. But it is my number three favorite. If Gene’s initial pitch to studios was, “Star Trek will be a Wagon Train to the Stars”, then Deep Space Nine would be that frontier town where people drop by. It even has a constable! And that’s great…it’s a different setting and the people don’t always get along. That said, my problem with this series (no spoilers) is that it strays too far from the mothership in concept. Here is an example that never sat well with me personally. Gene went out of his way to create a secular series with TOS and TNG. While God is mentioned on occasion, Gene frowned on including religion in his vision. You need not look further than episodes of TNG for proof of this. Making Sisko “The Emissary” to the Bajoran prophets and amping up Bajoran beliefs on this series introduced an element of magic and mysticism to Star Trek that I can only imagine would have made Gene roll over in his grave. Other elements will reveal themselves as the series progresses and I look forward to Josh and Alex’s takes on them. But with each one I found myself asking at the time, “What would Gene have thought about this?” P. S. Way to go, Chief!! A headliner at last!!

Raphael Gaytan

The pilot originally aired as one two-hour TV movie. I think this is the best premiere of the Berman Era of Star Trek. I love that the station is a shit-hole when we first see it. It reminds me a bit of Diego Garcia, one of the worst duty stations you could get in the US Navy in the 1990s. Remote. Not a lot of amenities. Great place to start! Looking forward to you apes delving into this one!

Darin Wagner

A much better pilot than Farpoint!! I hope you guys aren't put off that it's a space station and not a ship. Just think, now all the aliens come to them! And due to this, there's a wide cast of potential recurring non regular characters. If you see someone new and they're interesting, there's a decent chance they'll be back! And the "exploration" they do can be about themselves. It's my favorite Trek in the franchise, I really hope it grows on you quickly.

THE LORE!!!

Much like 'Encounter at Farpoint''s appearance of Bones - to acknowledge the legacy that came before, Sisko meets Picard for the 1st (2nd?) time in 'Emissary'. I'm eager to see you two do a thorough discussion of all the characters, but for now, I'll ask "What do you think of a Ferengi being one of the main characters"?

Nina

The only one that i would put below DS9 as far as pilot episodes go is maybe Picard, even then I remember liking that one a lot too. Discovery had a great pilot, SNW had an AWESOME one. Lower Decks was great. Prodigy also was great.

Elway Simpson

Let's see, Cardassians and Bajorans, check. Chief Miles Edward O'Brien in the title credits finally, check. An episode whose entire theme is basically grief and how to deal with it, check. It's like this episode was written exclusively and expressly for our Target Audience guys! Welcome to the Denorios Belt and Starbase Deep Space Nine!

The Game Show Reviewer

Loved this on release. Love it now. Best pilot of all Trek for me. There’s stuff that takes time to settle some characters work better than others (for now) but there’s so much packed in a well thought out human story about guilt, trauma and moving on, impressive world building, character conflict, nice score, a better depiction of the Ferengi and the Cardassians continuing to solidify themselves as a threat. Sisko’s reaction to Picard in context is fascinating I wonder how many other victims of Wolf 359 felt this way towards him. It’s great it’s touched upon.

Darren Seal

Here's a hilarious little clip (only a minute and half long -- you guys should react to it live if you can!) from Red Letter Media where Mike recounts his first reaction to the DS9 pilot when he was a kid (no spoilers beyond the DS9 pilot air date): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYxdqsndIF4 I think a LOT of TNG fans felt this way at first about DS9. I know I did! Took me coming back around in the later seasons before I realized how great the show was. Admittedly, I was also a kid when DS9 aired and a teen in its later seasons, so that probably helped me understand the show better as well. DS9 is less little kid friendly than TNG.

Lovok

I do want to say that while the first Sisko/Picard scene is hostile and it might come off as the show like gives a middle finger to TNG but I think the point is that Sisko is in the wrong here and after he deals with his trauma theres a second scene where theyre a lot less hostile and they shake hands and also that great scene between Picard and Chief so I don't think its about that at all

Fedora The Explorar

"So you choose to exist here... it is not linear". "No... its not linear." (Sisko breaks down, the Prophets nod, helping him heal). This episode has stayed with me for 30+ years. That if you run away from your pain, sooner or later it'll catch up with you, and in the end you have to stand your ground and face it. Expect similar growing pains as TNG at first, but DS9 has it all - drama, trauma, character and intrigue... setting up a new crew, a new mission, and new stories to explore. In the same world of TNG, but charting its own course while remaining true to the best ideals of Star Trek. Masterpiece. P.S. CHIEF GETS ONTO THE MAIN CAST!!

The Ninth Doctor

What are your thoughts on the newish depiction of the ferangi? It is obvious they are presented a little different here than the way they started with them.

Eric Wilson

She said she didnt want the commitment of being a main cast member in a show

Fedora The Explorar

Keiko doesnt appear in this episode so maybe edit it out so they wont read a future spoiler

Fedora The Explorar

I dont think any of the new era Trek pilots are that good either so yeah it still stands as the only good pilot of the entire series for me

Fedora The Explorar

Probably the best pilot episode in this era of Trek. Really solid start for the show

Elway Simpson

These pilot episodes really do a great job of setting up the new spin-off series, establishing the location and regional conflicts, the main characters and their attitudes toward the station and each other, and the connection to established lore in TNG.

Mel Primus

The idea of Sisko meeting nonlinear aliens and realizing that his life is not linear, that he's been existing in his trauma - what a brilliant science fiction premise. It's something I think about all the time, even all these years later.

Banes

So, here's one reason I dislike TNG's "The Host:" we have Jadzia Dax making the Trill now a major civilization in Trek and you can forget everything about the Trill that you learned before. Not only the makeup (they didn't want to spoil the looks of a beautiful actress so they ditched the original Host Trill makeup and just used Famke Jensen's spots from "The Perfect Mate"), but even the details of the culture are more interesting in this show. Anyhow, I love this episode. DS9 has, IMHO, the very best pilot show in the franchise. But the rest of season one is a slog at least for me. I'll see you guys in season two!

Alexander McKechnie

“Shields Up” “What Shields?” That right there perfectly encapsulates the big difference between working on the Enterprise D and working on DS9.

Matthew McKinnon-Gray

When I first saw it it was a tough watch. The new Commander hating Picard and being vicious to him was one of the many bold moves for this show. Later it became my favorite show in the franchise. Looking forward to this.

Banes

Welcome to Deep Space Nine, you will find, in time that a portion of the trek fandom this is where we exist. I’m so happy to take this journey with you guys.

Phil Ken Sebben

DS9 is such a tone shift from TOS and TNG. It needed to be completely different to stand on its own

Jeffrey

The show opening with the battle at Wolf 359 where we get to see the battle from the compatents POV is great. The episode just gets ever better as it gose on. Plus, Alex and Josh will get more O'Brian than they'll know what to do with.

Keith S

For some reason the pilot and a lot of the first season had a horrific transfer onto DVD. The first few episodes look terrible. Hope it’s not too jarring going from TNG in HD to DS9 in SD each week. The transfer is a lot better as the show progresses.

Jon1701

I have a sneaky suspicion Alex knew and didn’t want to spoil Josh but could be wrong

Jon1701

Well you guys wanted to see TNG guest star Marc Alaimo back. Well he’s a slightly different Cardassian but you definitely got your wish with Gul Dukat. Awesome character.

Mister Hope

Michael Pillar struggled initially writing the pilot episode, but after rewatching Encounter at Farpoint, decided to change the structure and introduce the characters slowly throughout the two hours. Emissary contains many of the themes that will play throughout the seven seasons and could be the strongest Star Trek pilot of them all.

Jon1701

We've been collectively biting our tongues for SO LONG they're bleeding to not spoil the station or The Chief... Our accomplished Joe Everyman is here! He's got the gear! Get used to it!

MrTickleTrunk

So how much of what you said you wanted to see from this show has already happened?

BN13

I was 10 when this aired, already a huge TNG fan, and I remember being so excited for a new Star Trek show. Looking forward to vicariously reliving that through you guys.

Steven Linden

I hope you two appreciate how hard it has been to not reveal that Chief O'Brien is a main cast member of DS9 once we saw you take a shine to him six seasons ago. Frankly, we all deserve a medal.

Regan

Some things to notice: for contrast to TNG, they made it a point that every single character does not want to be here, at least at first. Sisko wants to leave Star Fleet, Jake thinks the station is a dump, Quark wants to leave, Kira thinks the whole thing is a bad idea, and O'Brian has to deal with a station that's falling apart. Also, this show was first written as a Western in space. Specifically "The Rifleman" in space. Sisko is the widower Mayor raising his son on the frontier, Odo's the lawman, O'Brian's the blacksmith, Quark is the Saloon/brothel keeper, Kira represents the natives, and you have the priest and the frontier doctor. And the worm hole attracts a bunch of new folks to the town for various gains, which is essentially the California gold rush.

BN13

Happy to become a new patron as you guys hit my favorite show. I always liked this episode and regarded it as one of the only first episodes for a Star Trek show I liked besides TOS. It wasn't until I watched it last year though and the "You Exist Here" line really hit for me and I saw some of my own past that I was stuck in and was weighing me down. Now on a rewatch I can't help but tear up as I'm finally able to move on from some of the pain I've been dealing with in my past, and this episode certainly helped.

AdmiralMurphy

Sisko’s explanation of linear time to the Prophets/Wormhole Aliens is one of the highlights of not just the first season but the entire show. The way the writers were able to perfectly express the point of the Federation and Starfleet working to not just explore the galaxy but their own lives, to not just seek the answers to their questions but to seek out new questions is a perfect distillation of Trek! If anyone asks what Star Trek is about, “Well there it sits, waiting!”

jclgaft

OMG we are finally here. You are in for quite the ride. For starters welcome to the best Star Trek Premiere episode. I mean how can it not be when the opening of the episodes starts this story off at Wolf 359! Ok next, can we all take a moment to congratulate Miles O'Brien from leveling up from O'Brien the Grey to O'Brien the White! He is not only getting a huge promotion in the story but in the cast as well no longer a side character our boy is part of the Main cast bay bay! Something I can't wait to see your reaction to given how much you already love him! I LOVE how brave they were to put Sisko at odds with Picard given how beloved he is. Also not a Captain! A Commander. This episode really tries to tell the audience two big things. This is the indeed the Star Trek world you love but here we are going to show it to you from a slightly different angle, slightly different view point. Yes the Federation runs the space station but it ultimately falls under Bajoran laws and beliefs. How will that effect things? The Kai, The Prophets, I think you will absolutely LOVE Kira. Such a strong personality. I will love to see how your thoughts on Ferengi and other species evolve over the coarse of this show. Quark has ended up one of my all time favorite Star Trek characters. So many interesting characters to explore. Dax.. we get a fucking Trill on the crew! Our head of security Constable Odo how curious are you about him? That doesn't even get into what about everything on the other side of a stable wormhole?!

Sequiro

Compared to TNG, this pilot really shows what the production learned in six years. The hook is fantastic and the writing choices to differentiate Sisko from Picard were really solid. He's Picard's complete opposite; A family man living with his trauma who is far more of a blue collar guy in contrast to Picard's stoic British officer persona. Making him a Commander and Deep Space Nine a static starbase instead of a ship really make TNG/DS9 pair well together as they aired because their fundamental premises are so different. Sisko bartering with Quark, shoveling junk on the promenade and dressing down Picard are all character moments that show how suited he is to this frontier lifestyle. The Cardassian station and uniform variants really visually hit the point home too.

EnigmaticPenguin

The character of Kira was written to be Ro Laren but Michelle Forbes didn't want to do it for whatever reason. You can see a lot of similarities between the characters, especially early on.

Ca$hWednesday

IT’S THE CHIEF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

James H

Definitely the best Star Trek pilot episode. Similar to TNG, the first season is still trying to figure out what the show is going to become. The real strength of DS9 is it's characters. Even if the first season in general might not be the strongest plot wise, the character stuff is all fantastic. I think you'll like DS9 overall. A lot of the things you guys mentioned you'd like to see in your other video are addressed in this series.

Ca$hWednesday

Patience will be rewarded. I grew up with TOS. Enjoyed TNG when it came out. Was skeptical of DS9, but it has ended up being my favorite. The writing is a rich tapestry: There are lines dropped in Season 1 that become important in Season 7. The show builds and has layers. But the first couple of seasons are that foundation building, and it can be a bit of a slog. I’m so excited to watch your journey through this.

Solkar

Think of the whole first season as seeds being planted which will bear fruit in a couple of years.

brqby

Star Trek’s greatest pilot. I wish I could watch it again for the first time. Welcome to Trek at its best.

Jonathan Llyr

The Chief finally got his own show! Oh, and they started filming Dax with the original makeup from "The Host" but then decided that Terry Farrell was too beautiful to hide her face behind so much rubber.

Fritz

Hi, Alex & Josh, let us introduce to you Space Dad…… As for the Pilot, I love the tonal shift from an all bells and whistles galaxy class cruise ship with everything at hand to the idea of let’s start from scratch on this Cardassian station. Meanwhile what the heck’s on the other side of that wormhole? A whole new side to the Star Trek universe officially unlocked. Welcome to the Ride, hope you have fun

LonghillAndy

So here we are Deep Space Nine…

Gregory

The pilot will establish your first look at the DS9 universe. I was glad that you didn't know the show was set on a space station, and I'm interested to see how you feel about Sisko now, and how you feel about him in a couple seasons, and how you feel about him at the end of the show's run. It's not the most intriguing/shocking pilot, but it's definitely a good, efficiently told story that sets up the show well, and that means it's a solid B for me. Also, I don't know if you were spoiled that Miles O'Brien graduated from guest star to main character, but I hope you weren't, because I want to see you react to that in the credits. How long it lasts, we'll see. Finally, obviously, the Cardassians will have a large part to play in the show, which you were both saying you hoped to see. How large a part, that also remains to be seen. The idea was stolen from Babylon 5, no question, which I consider a superior show, but Deep Space Nine is still my favorite of the Pre-Paramount Star Trek shows. I will try to avoid mentioning too many times that the show was stolen, because while I'm annoyed about that, it's still a great show, and I enjoy both of them. So general disclaimer, that may slip in from time-to-time. But I'll try to keep it as minimal as possible.

John

I love TNG to death and I grew up with it...but even with that I firmly believe DS9 is the best. I'm assuming neither of you had "space station, not a ship" on your DS9 bingo card haha - can't wait for that Colm Meaney pop in the opening credits

Darin Starr

In my opinion Deep Space Nine is the best written out of TOS, TNG, DS9 and Voyager. It's not my favorite, it has some of my favorite characters, which I can't wait for you to meet, but absolutely best written IMHO. Enjoy the ride!

Holly Davis

Let's goo!

Paul

How surprised were you that this is taking place on a space station, not a ship? When Picard meets Sisko for the first time, you could cut the tension with a knife. Unreasonable? In a sense, yes... part of the pilot is about Sisko realizing his anger is misplaced and trying to move past it. Yet still, I get it. I think we all do. What truly haunting scenes we get with Sisko surviving the battle of Wolf 359.

Paul

The greatest opening episode of all Star Trek, we now have a bead on all the characters. Avery Brooks acting gets me every time. I have a very emotional relationship with DS9, it touched me beyond words. Enjoy, gentlemen!

Michael Metrick

While there is some shakey acting and some awkward scenes, its a VERY loud episode in setting a very clear tone for the series and the stuff with Sisko explaining humanity to the prophets and linear time and how our desire to re-explore the past and live in it with stuff like trauma, it is very compelling and immediately grabs the viewers attention and makes them want to watch the rest of the series. There are people who find Avery Brook's acting too obnoxious and he is kind of the Star Trek Nicolas Cage where some people love him some people hate him. But I think the intensity of his acting and how animated he is only makes his character more memorable. Also wondering how fast you've realised that Dax is supposed to be the species from The Host because it might not have immediately clicked with how they re-designed the makeup.

Fedora The Explorar

Greatest opening scene of any Star Trek series, in my opinion! Great way of making a connection with TNG, while still keeping it about the new series. Plus, how would you NOT have people resent or distrust Picard after that event?

Joe Concepts

Honestly it’s one of the best pilot episodes. Each character gets a moment to establish who they are and does a great job of getting you to buy into Sisko. Also the call back to Best of Both Worlds is a great way of connecting it to TNG!

Eric Bundy

Did you ever imagine that 3 simple words, "You exist here" could be such an impactful exploration of Trauma? Did that perspective hit you like a train, too? Emissary's hook may help explain why so many of us rated BobW higher in retrospect. We know there were issues with the episode, but now it's a turning point for Trek's history.

Ross Townsend

WE. ARE. HERE! I started watching DS9 for the first time in December 2024, and went through it in just a few months. For the pilot, admittedly, I simply thought it was okay. Upon a rewatch, it's great. It does a lot in 90 minutes. I think you guys will love the opening, the character of Sisko, the wormhole, O'BRIEN…all of it. I still think it loses itself maybe a bit in the middle, but all in all, a solid pilot. Hope y'all love it.

Ian Meyers

Welcome to Deep Space Nine gentlemen.

Christopher Dorn