Your Personal Top 20 TNG Ep's List

[RAMA]

Chronological Order:

1. Encounter at Farpoint: Might as well know where it started.
2. Where No One...: Great ideas, beautiful FX...REAL exploration.
3. Datalore: Background for Data, kind of creepy.
4. 1101001: Holodeck episode extraordinaire!
5. The Measure of a Man: Asimov's best TV episode!
6. Q Who: The Borg, great direction, great premise, great writing.
7. The Survivors: One of my favorites. Neat concept....great execution.
8. Who Watches the Watchers: The best of ST's religious views
9. The Enemy: Next two are great Romulan eps. Enemy Mine
10. The Defector: Humanizes, but also makes the Romulans formidable practitioners of brinksmanship
11. Yesterdays Enterprise: One of the best time travel stories...and the Ambassador Class is the best starship ever.
12. Sins of the Father: Starts the great Klingon civil war saga
13. Tin Man: What STTMP could have been
14. Best of Both Worlds I: Eh well its all been said.
15. Best of Both Worlds II: You know
16. Family: The E family mends...another beautifully shot episode.
17. Reunion: The best ep of the Klingon saga, Shakespearean in scope.
18. The Wounded: A great "Starfleet-centric episode. Great character drama.
19. The Drumhead: Touchy subject handled well.
20. Darmok: Just sensational in every phase. A home run.
21. A Matter of Time: Fun time travel story with good ending.
22. Conundrum: Somewhat dark, character driven story. Great pacing.
23. Inner Light: Another perfect gem.
24. Relics: Scotty and Dyson sphere...SF heaven. Larry Niven is Jealous.
25. Tapestry: Great Picard episode.
26. The Chase: Loved it when it came out but in retrospect, it is a microcosm of what ST IS. It is without doubt an almost perfect episode with the exception of the planet set at the end.
27. Parallels: Love the speculation of what was mainly a thought experiment in science.
28. Pegasus: Maybe Riker's best episode.
29. Masks: Underrated masterpiece.
30. All Good Things: Slightly overrated but of course, it ended a great show on a high note.

Whew that was hard...lots of good ones were left out!!!!!

I would have made more comments but my wife needs to use the computer.

Edit: OK I finished the list, free from the wife's pressure.

Honorable mentions: The Big Goodbye, Arsenal of Freedom, Conspiracy, High Ground, Sarek, The Hunted, Violations, Deja Q, First Contact, and well many many more.

RAMA

 

[Too Much Fun]

Going in Chronological order, it really is harder to keep the list down to ten and much easier to end up closer to 20, but I tried to keep it short!

1. Datalore - In my opinion, the first episode of the series that shows its potential for greatness. Much better in quality than most of season 1 in the acting, special effects, and quality of writing. Lore was less scary in each subsequent appearance.

2. The Big Goodbye - A little dull in parts, but nicely establishes the holodeck and features a fun guest performance from Lawrence Tierney, who was always fun to watch, even if he pretty much always played the same role.

3. The Measure of a Man - One of the few season 2 episodes that I think is just as good as any of the great ones of later seasons. Brilliantly written and acted.

4. Time Squared - Like I said, very underrated, with riveting suspense and intriguing dual performances by Patrick Stewart.

5. Who Watches the Watchers? - First TNG episode that I think blended philosophy and action superbly.

6. Q Who? - Probably my favourite in terms of character interactions.

7. Yesterday's Enterprise - The point where I believe the show revealed its full potential for dramatic power with one of the most cinematic and enthralling TV episodes ever.

8. Cause and Effect - As much as I love "Time Squared", "Clues", and "Conundrum", I've got to consider this the mother of all 'puzzle' episodes. An amazing achievement telling a story that repeats the same events again and again without ever becoming tedious thanks to clever writing from Braga and thoughtful direction by Frakes.

9. The Best of Both Worlds - Even more epic than Yesterday's Enterprise and equally engaging dramatically.

10. Family - One of the first and best demonstrations of how moving and rich in emotional depth the show could be. And a really gutsy (and ultimately, wise and influential) move sticking almost an entire Star Trek episode outside on earth.

11. QPid - The most fun of all TNG episodes, even rivaling some of the most rousing original Star Trek episodes for how delightful its sense of humour and adventure are.

12. The Inner Light - The Star Trek episode with the most substance and emotional impact...always an event to watch, but unlike Yesterday's Enterprise and Best of Both Worlds, eventful for its spiritual appeal rather than thrill ride quality.

13. Attached - One of the sweetest and most heartbreaking character studies in Star Trek. Another episode that's heartwarmingly sensitive.

14. Lower Decks - Stunningly original, insightful, and touching episode that is truly unique. Consistently fun, surprising, and smart throughout, with a devastatingly poignant ending.

15. All Good Things... - Appropriately titled as it contains just about all my favourite elements of Star Trek...charming character interaction that plays to our knowledge of characters from previous episodes, wild and high concept, yet intelligent time travel, and exciting developments both action-wise and character-wise. An achievement of such magnitude that no movies spun off from the series could come close to matching its genius.

 

[od0_ital]

Season One (four episodes)
'The Battle'
I liked the look back at Picard's command, and this is how the Ferengi could be a menace without bein' "big bads."
'Datalore'
Sure, the "evil twin" thing is overdone, but Brent Spiner in the duel role is awesome.
'Heart of Glory'
A look at Klingons in this new century, and a glimpse into what made Worf tick.
'Conspiracy'
Love this episode!

Season Two (four episodes)
'Loud as a Whisper'
If nothin' else, for the Riva/Geordi introduction...
'The Measure of a Man'
Data has to prove he isn't property. Never really thought of him as a slave, either, 'til that Picard/Guinan conversation in Ten-Forward.
'The Emissary'
K'Ehlayr's just hella cool.
'Peak Performance'
Nice re-use of the Stargazer model, and it was fun to see Picard's pride in Riker's abilities.

Season Three (five episodes)
'The Hunted'
A nice look at how not to treat your war veterans.
'Deja Q'
Loved John de Lancie's portrayal of Q "trapped" as a human being!
'Yesterday's Enterprise'
Very cool to see Tasha Yar again, and I liked the alternate reality, even if the size of the Galaxy-class doesn't make much sense. Why build bigger ships in a war?
'The Offspring'
Data's daughter smoochin' on Riker - totally worth watchin'!
'Sarek'
Mark Lenard reprisin' his role from the original series - very touchin' to see his character again, for fans of the first Star Trek.

Season Four (seven episodes)
'Family'
A nice epilogue to 'The Best of Both Worlds', very cool to see the three different family dynamics of Picard, Worf and Wesley.
'Brothers'
One actor, one set, three distinctly different characters - awesome.
'The Wounded'
Great introduction to the Cardassians.
'First Contact'
A nice look at the Federation and Starfleet from a new perspective.
'The Drumhead'
McCarthyism in the 24th century, very well done by everyone involved.
'Half a Life'
Really enjoyed seein' David Ogden Stiers in Star Trek.

Season Five (four episodes)
'Darmok'
Well, I liked it. I even have the alien captain action figure!
'Ensign Ro'
I <3 Michelle Forbes in all things.
'Unification, Parts One & Two'
Sure, the ship depot subplot sucks all kinds of ass, but ya gotta love seein' Leonard Nimoy again!
'The Inner Light'
Picard's livin' a lifetime that he couldn't have as a starship captain, very compellin'.

Season Six (one episode)
'Second Chances'
Tom Riker was a nice look at how Will Riker used to be, and could have become if not for his time on the Enterprise. Plus, in a way, its the way Will still was, too.

Season Seven - Honorable Mentions
'Parallels', 'The Pegasus', 'Lower Decks', 'Journey's End' and 'Preemptive Strike'

 

[Similitude]

Did you not like All Good Things or something?

 

[od0_ital]

^

Everyone is includin' 'Encounter at Farpoint', 'Best of Both Worlds' and 'All Good Things...'

 

[Too Much Fun]

Oooh, look who's different! Good of you to mention "The Hunted". That episode really deserves to be remembered more. I haven't heard anyone else talk about it here and it's one of my top 5 favourites. I didn't put it on the latest list 'cause I don't consider it one of the most important ones, but to me it's definitely one of the most thoughtful and entertaining.

 

[od0_ital]

^

Just sayin', the pilot, finale and Borg two parter are always goin' to be in these lists, so I tried to avoid 'em.

 

[Greylock Crescent]

I love the concept of this thread ... about a year ago I posted on my site a list of TNG's "Essential Season" -- answering a similar question: If you had to reduce TNG into one season of episodes and one film, what would the list look like? Here's my list:

Part 1

#1 – 1.01 – Encounter At Farpoint: B

As the series pilot episode, Encounter At Farpoint is an automatic entry into the Essential Season. But it belongs here on a number of its own merits. For starters, it establishes a number of character and story arcs: the Riker – Troi romance; Data’s quest to become human; and the unforgettable Q, with his Trial of Humanity. Though it is an uneven episode, the performances are generally strong. And the themes of inner and outer exploration that will become the heart of the series, are also the heart of this episode.

#2 – 1.06 – Where No One Has Gone Before: B+

This episode establishes two important elements. First, there is the notable introduction of The Traveler — an enigmatic character who will reappear a couple of times in the series. His lessons about the boundaries of space, time and thought are perfectly suited to TNG. The second element is the beginning of Wesley Crusher’s journey. The Traveler tells Picard that Wesley is a prodigy in warp fields and propulsion, much the same as Mozart was with music. At the end of the episode, Wesley is made “acting Ensign” — and his journey is formally begun. I admit to being on the fence about including this episode. But in the final analysis, I think it informs the viewers about some fundamental values and concepts of TNG.

#3 – 1.13 – Datalore: A-

Datalore introduces us to the origins of Data and such memorable characters as the Crystalline Entity and Lore – Data’s nefarious brother. Both will be recurring “characters” in the series. But it is Lore which elevates this episode’s status. Invoking the common “dark shadow” archetype, Lore represents what Data could become if he chose the wrong path. Brent Spiner’s performance in both roles is convincing and compelling. Not even a particularly obnoxious “Wesley saves the day” ending can deter this episode from being part of this essential season.

#4 – 1.23 – Skin of Evil: C+

While Skin of Evil may not be in the realm of being exceptional, it is nonetheless a very important episode. The death of a main character always leaves an impact on a series. And TNG is no exception. Not only does Tasha Yar die, but her death provides more room for character growth and development for the rest of the crew. Also, considering that the memory of Tasha Yar will be revisited many times during the next seven seasons, Skin of Evil becomes all the more prominent.

#5 – 2.09 – The Measure of a Man: A+

The Measure of a Man is the first fully realized example that TNG had a power and gravitas all its own. Its central themes and moral conflicts are as profound as they are dramatic. With the fate of a main character hanging in the balance, not only does Picard give a signature performance, but the role of Data – as a person – is clearly defined. In spite of Data’s never ending search to become more human, this episode clearly establishes his identity, his freedoms and, yes, his humanity.

#6 – 2.16 – Q Who?: A

Q Who? not only provides us with another exceptional performance from the all powerful, infinitely memorable Q, but it also introduces us to one of the greatest villains in sci-fi history: The Borg. Dealing with themes of hubris, ignorance and dependence, Q teaches humanity (and Picard in particular) some humility by forcing a confrontation with the Borg. That the Federation is woefully unable to resist the power of the Borg is overshadowed by its complete inability to comprehend them as a species. The Enterprise tries every method possible – every method that might work on Klingons, Romulans, Ferengi, etc. But the Borg are so unique, so incomprehensible, that the experience, and the episode, become ominous. Without this episode, Best of Both Worlds would not have been possible.

#7 – 2.21 – Peak Performance: B+

About the only connection Peak Performance has to overall story arcs is its premise that the war games, which are central to the episode’s storyline, are in preparation for a possible Borg attack. What makes this episode essential, however, are a few other additions. For starters, this episode continues Riker’s ascendancy. Riker is able to recruit, motivate, innovate and lead a crew against seemingly impossible odds. It’s a testament to his abilities and strengths as character. Also, Data’s inability to accept his own failure in what amounts to a high tech chess game is another opportunity for his character’s growth. The plausibility issues with its resolution can be overlooked for an episode that informs about character and is, simply, a lot of fun to watch.

# 8 – 3.04 – Who Watches the Watchers?: A-

The Prime Directive is a familiar theme throughout TNG. As expected, there are as many episode failures as there are successes. Who Watches The Watchers? is an example of that success. In choosing an episode to represent the Prime Directive, I was between this one and First Contact. What convinces me that this is the better of the two is a simple truth: In Who Watches The Watchers? Picard not only tells people that they must be prepared to sacrifice their lives to uphold the principle – he actually puts himself in harm’s way.

#9 – 3.10 – The Defector: A

The Enemy and The Defector are both solid episodes that deal with the cold, calculating, and highly intelligent Romulan Empire – and the threat that the Empire poses to the Federation. But what makes both episodes so compelling is that they provide an honest, multi-faceted perspective on this powerful adversary. What separates The Defector from The Enemy is its focus on the sacrifices of one man – a Romulan – for the sake of peace. Jarok’s sacrifice, though ultimately misguided in its details, demonstrates the courage and conviction that are necessary to overcome conflict. And it doesn’t hurt that this episode is so well paced, written and performed.

#10 – 3.15 – Yesterday’s Enterprise: A

Deservingly, Yesterday’s Enterprise often finds itself sitting at No. 1 of various top ten lists of TNG episodes. There is the stark alternate reality that endless war creates – illustrated by jarring set and character changes. There is the solid cameo of Tasha Yar – a performance that far outstrips anything she accomplished in Season One. And her own ultimate sacrifice, for the mere possibility that war could be averted, is worth noting. Guinan’s performance is wonderful. And then there’s that memorable line from Picard: “Let’s make sure that history never forgets the name, ‘Enterprise.’”

#11 – 3.17 – Sins of the Father: A-

Worf’s character development becomes irrevocably intertwined with the fate of the Klingon Empire. And the merger of these two storylines provided TNG with a wealth of very strong, and almost always memorable, episodes. In Sins of the Father, Worf confronts his greatest rival – and the corruption of a world he holds very dear. That he chooses a personal sacrifice, for the sake of his world, speaks volumes about the character. The final sequence, as Worf accepts Discommendation from the High Council, and from his brother, is powerfully dramatic. And it sets in motion many of those fantastic story lines to come.

#12 – 3.26-4.01 – The Best of Both Worlds, Parts I & II: A+

This two-part episode is, simply, the pinnacle of TNG. Personal tastes aside, it is undeniable that Best of the Both Worlds left the biggest mark on not just the series, but on pop-culture as well. The Borg have returned. Their mission is as ruthless as it is relentless. Resistance is futile. Picard is lost. Riker achieves his full potential and literally saves the Federation from annihilation. The whole two-part episode could easily have been a movie. There may be a few minor quibbles here and there. But they are nothing compared to the stratospheric successes that the episode achieves. Indeed, The Best of Both Worlds is transformative for the characters and the series. No list of essential TNG episodes could possibly be complete with it.

#13 – 4.02 – Family: A+

A polar opposite of The Best of Both Worlds, Family is an epic struggle of the inner self. Dealing with the personal wreckage of the Borg invasion, Family confronts the consequences of attack, violation, humiliation, and sacrifice. Picard’s story is front and center, as well it should be, and is wrenchingly beautiful in its implications. The two minor stories, of Worf and Wesley, are equally well-crafted – even if they aren’t quite as profound. But it is the episode’s ending of optimism and dream that really makes it a celebration of humanity – a theme very near and dear to the heart of Gene Roddenberry.

 

[Greylock Crescent]

Part 2

#14 – 4.07 – Reunion: B+

The Klingon/Worf story arc really begins to pick up steam with Reunion. Combining elements from Sins of the Father with The Emissary, Worf’s personal story becomes sealed with the fate of the Klingon Empire. And Picard finds himself the arbiter of the Empire’s fate. After the assassination-by-poison of the High Council leader, Picard must choose, between Gowron and Duras, who will be the next ruler of the Klingon Empire. Ultimately, Picard’s choice is “simplified” by the actions of Worf, who kills one of the two rivals. It’s as much a character sketch as it is a political thriller. Add in that it sets up the Season 4 finale, and it’s a must see.

#15 – 4.12 – The Wounded: A-

The Cardassians make their debut in this episode about the consequences, and the casualties, of war. What makes The Wounded so strong is that it treats the Cardassians not just as enemies, but also as individuals — as people. And in another example of how good the episode is, the tensions between cultures finds its symbolic representation in Transporter Chief Miles O’Brien, who gets a prominent role — and carries the episode with a great deal of craft. Even the guest character of Captain Maxwell (Bob Gunton) puts in a compelling performance.

#16 – 4.26-5.01 – Redemption, Parts I & II: B+

The Redemption episodes try to maintain the season bridging momentum established by The Best of Both Worlds. And while this two-part episode isn’t as good as the epic Borg episodes (it isn’t quite as good as most people remember, either), it is still a strong addition to TNG. In many ways, it’s a more complex narrative, pulling together story and character arcs from across nearly all four previous seasons. The Klingon civil war is certainly a high point. But it is the shocking cameo of Sela (Denise Crosby) that most people remember. Because this episode is so memorable, because it is the culmination of a number of stories, because it is a lot of fun, it absolutely must be part of any essential collection.

#17 – 5.03 – Ensign Ro: A-

Following the introduction of the Cardassians in The Wounded, Ensign Ro introduces the Bajorans — a once proud civilization that has long suffered under the oppression of the Cardassian Empire. Also introduced is the character for which the episode is named: Ro Laren. As a minor, recurring character, Ro Laren is both memorable and very well-developed. As a Bajoran she had endured the Cardassian occupation. As a former Starfleet officer, she was sent to the stockade for insubordination. Now she has become a pawn in the power struggles between the Federation and the Cardassians. But after meeting Picard, her story becomes one of redemption. He gives her the chance, and she earns his trust. This is a strong character-driven episode that also provides some crucial backstory on the Bajorans and Cardassians.

#18 – 5.19 – The First Duty: A

Not only does this episode give us a glimpse a Starfleet Academy, but it also provides an impressive character exploration for Wesley Crusher. Wesley has long been a character who has received ridicule. But his character was, afterall, just a boy. In this episode, he takes his first steps toward adulthood. Those steps almost always involve a conflict with authority. Wesley’s rash decisions as part of a daredevil flight team are in a direct contradiction with authority. But after an impressive speech from Picard, Wesley makes his first truly adult decision – he rejects his peers and accepts responsibility for, and the consequences of, his actions.

#19 – 5.23 – I, Borg: A

How, after the epic Best of Both Worlds episodes, do you create another ‘Borg’ episode? The answer is to take the story in a completely different direction, and go for a personal, intimate episode. The result is “I, Borg” – an episode that takes a look at how one Borg interacts with the crew of the Enterprise. And it also confronts a tremendously profound moral question: how far can you go in war? As far as completely eliminating your enemy? If so, what does it say about yourself? Because of its deeply personal and philosophic nature, this is a must-see episode.

#20 – 5.25 – The Inner Light: A+

Hands down, this is the best, most well-crafted episode of the series. It is also a departure, offering an inner journey as profound and beautiful as any outward journey the Enterprise has taken. And it offers a glimpse at what we might do if we could live a completely differently life than the one we have now. This journey happens through Picard’s eyes as he is compelled to live the life of another man on an ancient, alien world. In many respects, it is a hero quest. And upon his return to the present, Picard is a wiser, more thoughtful person.

#21 – 6.10 – 6.11 – Chain of Command, Parts I & II: B-

The Cardassians reach the height of their nefarious nature in Chain of Command, a flawed, yet gripping two-part episode. In spite of its flaws, this two-parter is essential because of its continuation of the Cardassian story arc, as well as the memorable scenes in which Picard, as a prisoner, is tortured physically and psychologically. Most TNG fans will know exactly what you’re referring to when you say, “There are four lights!”

#22 – 6.15 – Tapestry: A

Arguably one of Q’s finest performances, Tapestry continues the trend of inward journeys – especially for Picard. In this episode, instead of looking at a life that was not his own, he looks at his own life that might have been – with Q as something of a Guardian Angel. Through this episode, Picard confronts himself, his own choices, and his own mortality. And the lesson that life is meant to be lived is worthy one.

#23 – 7.15 – Lower Decks: A-

This episode provides a unique look at life on board the Enterprise, as well as a continuation of several story arcs including the Bajorans, the Cardassians, and Ensign Sito, first seen in The First Duty. Told from the perspective of the Enterprise’s junior officers, the story of a Cardassian double agent unfolds. Sito, in spite of her checkered past, is asked to go on a highly dangerous mission to return the Cardassian agent to his home. The lessons of forgiveness, second chances, friendship and true character resonate throughout the episode.

#24 – 7.20 – Journey’s End: B+

Wesley Crusher’s story arc gets a poetic, if uneven, end. After learning from the Traveler that Wesley was special, we have seen him grow and mature to the point where, in The First Duty, he confronts the first threshold of his passage into adulthood. In Journey’s End, Wesley crosses that threshold (literally and figuratively) by renouncing the Academy and embarking on his own journey through the galaxy … with the Traveler as a guide.

#25 – 7.24 – Pre-emptive Strike: B+

The penultimate TNG episode, this one concludes Ensign Ro’s character arc, as well as continues the Bajoran and Cardassian arcs. In addition, it picks up on a story idea that began in Journey’s End. Because of the multi-layered story and characterizations, as well as the high production value, this episode is well worth watching.

#26 – 7.25 – All Good Things: B

The end of TNG. Though the films would continue the franchise, this is the fitting closure to the story that was begun in Encounter At Farpoint. Q’s “trial of humanity” is revisited to great effect, essentially turning the series into a compelling case for the promise and hope for humanity, in spite of its inherent flaws. The same could be said for the series and the episode itself – though flawed, both were filled with promise and hope.

ESSENTIAL MOVIE – First Contact: A

Of the four TNG films, this is the only one to be regularly mentioned in the same breath as the incomparable Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. This is not by accident. First Contact is a film that can transcend the franchise and even the genre, capturing audience members who might otherwise look past a “Trekkie” film. The story is the true sequel to The Best of Both Worlds, with the Borg once again returning, in force, to Sector 001 – the Terran system. Not only does the film feature a compelling villain and conflict, but its use of both humor and character are both exceptionally well-done. While it may not be quite as good as The Wrath of Khan, it is nonetheless one of the finest Trek films to date.

 

[Similitude]

^

Just sayin', the pilot, finale and Borg two parter are always goin' to be in these lists, so I tried to avoid 'em.

Dude WTF? The thread is YOUR PERSONAL Top 20. Why in the world would you leave out some of your favorites just because others have picked them.

 

[tomalak301]

Season 1

11001001
Conspiracy

Season 2

Contagion
Q Who?
Peek Performance
Measure of a Man

Season 3

The Survivors
Yesterday's Enterprise
The Best of Both Worlds I
Sins of the Father

Season 4

Family
Reunion
The Drumhead
The Wounded

Season 5

The Inner Light
Cause and Effect
Darmok
Unification (Two parter counting as one episode)

Season 6

Chain of Command
Tapestry
Frame of Mind
Relics

Season 7

The Pegasus
Pre-emptive Strike
All Good Things

 

[Too Much Fun]

S.W., I like your top 20 a lot. I think it's quite spot-on in both the choices as 'essential' episodes and the explanation for each choice. My only issues with it are personal preferences. For example, I don't like the Wesley and Traveler arc, so I skip those episodes (but thanks for posting that image from "Where No One Has Gone Before"...for years I've been wondering where that scene comes from and I've been baffled. Now I know it's because I never watch that episode!).

And I don't care if it's important because Tasha dies in it...I don't think people should ever be encouraged to watch that atrocious episode "Skin of Evil". I also don't much like Ro Laren or care about her arc so I'd skip her arc as well, although I did enjoy her interactions with Riker in "Conundrum" and Guinan in "Rascals".

 

[Greylock Crescent]

TMF, thanks for the compliments. And I definitely see your points about the Wesley/Ro arcs. I guess it boils down to what you think are the most representative arcs from the series. I tend to see Wesley as an integral part of the series (for better or worse). I suppose you could replace some of the Wesley episodes with a few more Data/Lore episodes, but see more of TNG's inherent optimism and naiveté in the Wesley's stories than in the Data/Lore stories which, while entertaining, aren't as symbolic of the series as a whole (IMO, of course).

I felt the Ro Laren arc was important for anyone who might want to continue on to DS9 -- the introduction of the Bajoran culture, and the Cardassian occupation of Bajor, happens through her.

As for "Skin of Evil" I wholeheartedly agree that, on its own, it's not a fantastic episode of TNG. But I felt that anyone being introduced to the series ought to see it -- to see the end of Tasha's character -- and be able to judge the episode for themselves. My rationale was that episodes like "Yesterday's Enterprise" and the "Redemption" episodes are made all the more prominent when you know exactly how pointless Tasha's death was in "Skin of Evil."

But that's the fun in coming up with lists like this in the first place, isn't it? Incidentally, if you were to take out the Wesley/Ro episodes, and "Skin of Evil" what would you replace them with?

 

[od0_ital]

^

Just sayin', the pilot, finale and Borg two parter are always goin' to be in these lists, so I tried to avoid 'em.

Dude WTF? The thread is YOUR PERSONAL Top 20. Why in the world would you leave out some of your favorites just because others have picked them.

Those episodes are everyone's favorites! Its a given that they're goin' to be on every list, so my list didn't include 'em.

Or, in other words, dude, WTF?!? Its MY PERSONAL Top 20 - why should YOU have a problem with it?

 

[Similitude]

I'm just saying, if someone asks me for my top 20 Trek episodes, they are getting my top 20. I'm not going to change my top 20 because Bob and John have good taste too.

 

[Too Much Fun]

I suppose you could replace some of the Wesley episodes with a few more Data/Lore episodes, but see more of TNG's inherent optimism and naiveté in the Wesley's stories than in the Data/Lore stories which, while entertaining, aren't as symbolic of the series as a whole (IMO, of course).

But that's the fun in coming up with lists like this in the first place, isn't it? Incidentally, if you were to take out the Wesley/Ro episodes, and "Skin of Evil" what would you replace them with?

Well I wouldn't consider the Lore episodes a better choice for essential viewing than the Wesley/Ro episodes. I thought Lore's episodes got surprisingly worse as the series progressed. He's probably the only character who was better in his season 1 appearance than any others. He was okay in "Brothers", but "Descent" was just terrible. Looking at your list, I think I might prefer some of the Picard love stories as a 'type' of episode over those Wesley/Ro episodes, because even though they're focused on one character, they all make significant positive contributions to opening up the characters and universe of the show.

For example, "Qpid" shows the cast in some of its most fun and endearing moments and proves that TNG can do comedy wonderfully, and "Lessons" and "Attached" have wonderfully touching and heartbreaking stories about the problems that come with Starfleet officers having feelings for each other and engaging in romantic relationships.

While I wasn't too keen on the Data/Lore episodes, I think some of the episodes that are about Data himself like "Data's Day" and "In Theory" also have some great insights about relationships in the Star Trek universe.

I also feel that some of TNG's greatest potential for imaginative storytelling and dramatic impact is evident in the 'puzzle' episodes like "Cause and Effect", "Clues", and "Conundrum". The holodeck episodes are often just preposterously wild, but I thought the ones about Moriarty ("Elementary, Dear Data" and "Ship in a Bottle") raised some interesting issues too.

 

[Greylock Crescent]

I agree with you about the decline in quality of the Data/Lore episodes. And I like your idea of including a few more Data-centric episodes like "The Offspring" and "Data's Day," which are, in many ways, an extension of "The Measure of a Man." Plus, the Moriarty episodes are a bit of fun while also exploring a bit of the standard TNG question of "What is life?"

I can also see why some might want to include the puzzle installments (even if they aren't what I would consider essential). About the only episode you mention that I outright disagree with would be "QPid" which I thought to be horrid.

 

[od0_ital]

For example, "Qpid" shows the cast in some of its most fun and endearing moments and proves that TNG can do comedy wonderfully, and "Lessons" and "Attached" have wonderfully touching and heartbreaking stories about the problems that come with Starfleet officers having feelings for each other and engaging in romantic relationships.

The biggest problem with 'QPid' is that it isn't funny, with one exception (Worf bangin' Geordi's guitar thing against a tree 'til it breaks, and even that is a rip off from Animal House, which was a lot funnier then).

Also, the inequality - Vash is the damsel in distress, Picard the rugged hero, and while the boys fight with swords and arrows, Crusher & Troi have to use potted plants.

'Lessons' is pretty good, loved the rolled up piano.

But 'Attached' was just fan wankin' for Picard/Crusher shippers.

 

[Too Much Fun]

6. Q Who? - Probably my favourite in terms of character interactions.

I meant Deja Q, here, the episode where Q loses his powers. It's hard to keep track of those Q episodes with their pun titles! But I do think Q Who is essential also and would tie it with "The Best of Both Worlds". I think the three make a good trilogy.

 

[Greylock Crescent]

"Deja Q" is a fun episode. And if your list makes a point of following Q's character, then it definitely is essential.