I love the idea that you have discussed on the show a couple times: that this whole first season with its huge themes and adventures could serve as merely the "pilot" to the rest of the series. At the end of the first half of the season, (I think it was Valerie?) proposed the idea that those first ten episodes were a kind of "see, we can do each of these types of episodes"—horror, Harry Mudd farce, time loop shenanigans (but I repeat myself), philosophical dilemma, prison escape—which I really loved.
I cancelled my CBS subscription after the finale (hopefully my $50 has been enough to fund the second season) but I have until March 2 before it cuts me off. I'm going to attempt to rewatch the whole season by then (difficult as I have twin 3-year-olds). Obviously the rewatchability of this season is off the charts with everything we've learned. And as a sub-quest I want to pay close attention any mention of the passage of time, to see if we can make a guess as to how much time actually passes between each of these scene cuts that often seem to disguise quite a bit of behind-the-scenes discussions and developments.
Please pardon my overuse of parenthetical diversions! (I actually deleted a couple of them.)
It's here! https://www.claytemplemedia.com/forum/star-trek/first-season-rewatch-notes
I *dare* you to rival my loquacity!
I am Loquacious of BORG
I'm happy to report I'm on schedule to finish my full re-watch before my CBS subscription runs out! Just got into the mirror universe and have four days left. After that, I'll post a post to rival BionicDave's loquacity!
In regards to noting the passage of time, I have a startling report:
First episode: stardate 1207.3
Mudd time loop: stardate 2136.8
Pahvo: stardate 1308.9
I have a feeling this is a subtle writers' nod to Mudd just making fun of the whole "captain's log" phenomenon.
I think the expected cancellations will be interpreted merely as a result of the lack of additional buzzworthy content on CBS All Access - i.e. it won't reflect on DIS, itself. Fifteen episodes is actually significantly longer than the average season of most other streaming/cable TV series. Now that it's all done, I will have spent, what... almost $18 to watch this season? (2 x $5.99 for the first half season + $5.99 for the second, as CBS gave me one month free.) Star Trek is special to me, so I think it was worth it; had it been "Fargo" or "Stranger Things 2," not so much.
I couldn't agree more, Dana. I'm hoping that I'll get to teach a course on the ethics of war next fall, and I intend to show some Trek in class.
I included a similar note with my cancellation. This can't be a good business model, can it? But I'm sure that CBS has seen a rash of cancellations, and perhaps will take that to mean that they should give us a longer season next time.
BTW, MY cancelation will be accompanied with a note saying longer seasons or additional series so there's only a month or so between episodes will keep me as a permanent subscriber
Loved your observations on the podcast... In particular war & the genocide issues.. We are currently in a perpetual state of war and trek is about the ONLY voice of reason talking to the people about better options... This show is a beacon we sorely need on so many levels in today's messed up world
I'm in the same situation with my cancellation. I was feeling rushed until you mentioned your twins, and now I will never complain about my free time again. But if you take notes on the passage of time, I'd love to see them -- especially if it involves string on a bulletin board!