Strange New Worlds Season 3 Episodes 1 & 2 Review: A Fun Season Opener

Paramount+ has kicked off Season 3 of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” with a bang, releasing the first two episodes, “Hegemony, Part II” and “Wedding Bell Blues.” These episodes showcase the series’ ability to strike a balance between intense action and light-hearted moments.

In “Hegemony, Part II,” we see the U.S.S. Enterprise facing a major Gorn threat in disputed territory. Captain Pike (Anson Mount) finds himself in a tough spot, trying to save his girlfriend, Capt. Batel (Melanie Scrofano), from a deadly Gorn infection. Meanwhile, the away team is on a mission to rescue kidnapped victims from becoming prey to the Gorn. This episode is action-packed and keeps you on the edge of your seat, thanks to the stellar performances by the cast.

Directed by Chris Fisher and co-written by Davy Perez and EP Henry Alonso Myers, “Hegemony, Part II” is a collaborative effort that shines, with standout performances from Anson Mount, Melissa Navia, Jess Bush, and Ethan Peck. The decision to flesh out the Gorn as antagonists adds depth to the story, making them more compelling than ever before.

The following episode, “Wedding Bell Blues,” directed by Jordan Canning and written by Kristen Beyer and David Reed, takes a lighter tone as it explores the complicated relationship between Chapel (Jess Bush) and Spock (Ethan Peck). The episode delves into Chapel’s career ambitions and its impact on her relationship with Spock, resulting in some socially awkward and amusing moments between the two characters.

Without giving away spoilers, “Wedding Bell Blues” is a delightful episode that presents a bottle-type story set primarily in minimal sets. The chemistry between the cast members, including guest stars Cillian O’Sullivan and Rhys Darby, adds to the narrative’s charm. Fans of the original “Star Trek” series and “The Next Generation” will appreciate the nostalgic elements woven into this episode.

“Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” continues to deliver engaging and entertaining storytelling with its Season 3 premiere. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the franchise or a newcomer, these episodes offer a satisfying blend of action, drama, and humor that will keep you coming back for more. Catch new episodes of “Strange New Worlds” streaming on Paramount+ every Thursday.