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In “Veritas”, Enisgns Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford are caught off guard when aliens force them to testify about a series of seemingly unrelated events.
“Veritas” proves to be a fairly unique episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks. It has an unusual structure that allows the ensemble to shine. After being imprisoned, the Lower Decks crew members testify as to their actions from the past. Confusingly, the events seem to be unrelated and irrelevant. By splitting the characters into unique storylines, the show allows each character the chance to breathe and demonstrate a unique personality. It also allows the show to jam in endless references and jokes. The strength of the script leads to one of the best episodes the show has ever done.
Ensigns Mariner and Boimler are put to the test when a diplomatic meeting between Captain Freeman and an alien race goes awry. The duo must work through common turns of phrase and biases towards certain “Star Trek” tropes. Does “send a message” mean what you think it means?
Rutherford updates his cybernetic implant and the constant reboots have him finding himself in a variety of situations. He is sent to steal a Bird-of-Prey and finds that a callback to an old dance comes in mighty handy. Gorn wedding!
Tendi signs up for cleaning duty and is drawn into a special ops assignment on Romulus. She adopts the mantle of “The Cleaner” and has a censored flashback that reveals everything and nothing. They’re scanning us again!
In this episode of the podcast, Wes and Clay discuss “Veritas” and explain why it’s the strongest episode that Lower Decks has produced. Plus! The guys talk about modern sound mixing, getting stressed out when everyone starts yelling, and the need for the show to branch out from referencing The Next Generation!