the jealousy over Kes thing really hurt the character early in the series run. They took it way too far. Also, Neelix' extroverted personality could go overboard to the point of being creepy. People don't like some guy forcing himself ito your conversations or trying to "cheer you up" when you just want to be left alone. He was also annoying with the "Mr. Vulcan" stuff toward Tuvok. Still, the problem wasn't with Ethan Phillips, and when he was given good material "fair trade" and "mortal coil" he did well. The character got better in later seasons, and ironically was the only character to get a satisfying conclusion to his storyline.
Neelix was more of a broken character than break out unfortunately. One of his more interesting moments early on was when he was aghast at Janeway's attitude towards exploration, and it's an attitude I'd wished he'd held onto. Instead we ended up with the boorish overprotective storyline with Kes and Paris, and of course his overly jovial personality was grating. He was toned down somewhat in later years though, and throughout the show he had a few very good dramatic episodes, that seemed totally at odds with who he usually was the other 99% of the time. Such an odd character.
They needed to have an episode where he took Naomi trick'or'treating. And since every one has a replicator, it really is about the ritual.
7: This activity is illogical. Naomi: You will comply! (she's dressed as a Borg) B'Elanna: When I was in the first grade the other kids asked if I was dressed as a turtle. The next year I brought pain sticks to the parade and after that my mother wouldn't let me participate in this human tradition. Naomi, disappointed: I was sure you'd have some jelly worms.. Janeway: Oh come in Naomi, Halloween is it? I remember when I was a girl... blah blah blah.. and did you know that historically All Hallows Eve blah blah blah.. Naomi: Maybe I'll come back later, I've got a bit of a stomach ache. Tuvok: Vulcan children observe a similar ritual, that of Kohl-ee-puff. Naomi: Do the grown ups give them candy? Tuvok: No. Naomi: Do they dress up in costumes? Tuvok: No. Naomi: What is the Kohl-ee-puff? Tuvok: A week long fast in which the child meditates on their fears and metaphorically banishes them with the aid of ritual chants. Neelix: Well thank you Mr. Vulcan that was very enlightening, wasn't it Naomi? Paris: I've used up all my replicator rations but I've got enough candy corn to fill a pillow case, here you go! I hope you've got the apple dunking set up in the mess hall Neelix! Naomi, can't talk for grinning and chewing:
I'm glad you liked it. :: throws candy corn at guy :: Is it Halloween yet in the US? "Vat do you mean, zis iz not Voyager?" Happy Halloween Forum!