Spock Amok (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, S1 E5) was recommended by Lauren Rivers she/her, who said: Two words. Enterprise Bingo. I seriously hope that the writer of this episode got a bonus for that. Casually mentioned in an earlier episode, now we finally find out about this little game played by the junior officers, fully demonstrated by Una and La'an, the ships resident 'fun killers'.

I love when Star Trek has fun with itself, and this episode does such a great job with it in every aspect. From giving Dr. M'Benga a hard time for his awesome hat to the awesome subplot with the Rongovians, this not only makes me laugh but gives every single member of the cast the chance to shine.

I also love this episode for giving us 'The Scorch', a hull panel on the outside of the ship signed by the crew. It's a great episode all around and seeing Pike finally figure out what the Rongovians are after is supremely satisfying.

While I love every episode of Strange New Worlds, this one just fills me with unbridled joy every time.

Spock Amok first aired on June 2, 2022, written by Henry Alonso Myers & Robin Wasserman, and directed by Rachel Leiterman

A personal visit causes a comedy of errors during Spock & Pike's crucial negotiations with an unusual alien species.

The Joy of Trek is hosted by Khaki & Kay, with editing & production by Chief Engineer Greg and music by Fox Amoore (Bandcamp | Bluesky)

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