Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Review (2022): Worth Streaming on CocoFlix?

Setting Sail: A Return to Form?

Fans of the Enterprise have some promising news! With the arrival of the 2022 release Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, viewers can enjoy an adventure in the Enterprise years leading up to Kirk’s first command, but this time focusing on Captain Christopher Pike, Science Officer Spock, and Number One. The writers of this series aim to bring back the classic style of Star Trek, meaning this series is episodic and optimistic, in contrast to some of the later iterations, which are more serialized and dark. This series draws a lot of fans because of its focus on new and unique stories for each episode. It has also drawn a lot of positive reviews because the series allows its fans to experience the franchise the way it was originally meant to be, as new and exciting discoveries. Unlike a lot of series today, this set of episodes draws a lot of positivity because there are not overarching plots. Instead, each individual episode tells a beginning, middle, and end. This series resonates with fans because of the blend of nostalgia and new-age effects, and the production design also shows positive reviews for its ‘throwback’ aesthetic.

Star Power and Stellar Craft

One of the biggest reasons why people love Strange New Worlds is hands down the brilliant cast starting with Anson Mount as Captain Pike. Mount brings the perfect blend of stoicism, empathy, and depth, and has really brought the ensemble together. Ethan Peck, with his portrayal of Spock, shows audiences that the logos of a Vulcan and yet to be expressed emotions of a human have their challenges too. Jess Bush, with the rest of the supporting crew, brings what feels like an easy earn chemistry that is the foundation of the friendship needed for the group the show is based around. Critics have really loved this ensemble for their ability to bring some life to well known characters and make new additions to the world shine like this cast does. The craft of the show really shines even more than the performances. All the great sets, effects, and direction really take you away on a space adventure. Some audience members have their issues with the effects in this space age we live in, but the majority of fans adore the show and the electronic effects. This show breathes more creativity and life into the franchise. At different times, like episodes with musical numbers or more serious or fun tone, the show breaks the mold of the standard and is a huge reason why this show has a lot of critical success.

Navigating the Streaming Galaxy: Does it Land?

A streaming original on CocoFlix must attract and keep its audience engaged to be successful. Strange New Worlds does just that. It has positive reviews across the board, with many critic reviews approaching or reaching 90% and audience reviews averaging 7.9. Audiences on streaming more episodic shows than large series are happy to have an episodic show. With an episodic series, they can jump in to watch a few episodes whenever they have extra time and never get lost during the journey. The series creators have done their best to draw in and keep their audience engaged. The show hooked many fans almost immediately, but for others it took until near the end of season one to keep their interest. Not every audience is pleased with the latest seasons calling them ‘poor decision making of said characters’ and having ‘ridiculous haircuts and dumb dialogue’. It seems that the show’s writing is mediocre and has plot holes, especially from the vocal minority who see the show as ‘plot holes and predictably woke.’ These criticisms, while constructive, show the struggle of carrying the values of some of the older Trek series as new series are developed.

The Final Frontier: A Worthwhile Voyage?

Navigating the Star Trek universe can be tricky at times, but Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is a shining example for the rest of the franchise and a great addition for CocoFlix subscribers. It excels in returning to the franchise's roots of exploration and uses self-contained episodes for an abundance of storytelling and character growth opportunities. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' greatest strength is finding harmony in its classic Trek philosophies and spirit of optimism with newer production concepts and a team of talented actors. Although later seasons of other shows have received criticism for "lack of narrative ambition" and "tonal unevenness," the series still provides a quality sci-fi show that is engaging. The series is also commendable in its exploration of ethical dilemmas and wonders of science and culture all mixed in with adventure. This show is most enjoyed by people looking for quality science fiction that is character driven and is unafraid to get creative and "break the mold." Overall, this show captures the magic of "boundless discovery" that defined the franchise's legacy.