Lower Decks Season 5 Revisits a Classic with a Hilarious Twist
Star Trek fans, get ready to dive back into one of the franchise’s most whimsical episodes as “Star Trek: Lower Decks” delivers a sequel that pays homage to the original series. In the much-anticipated sixth episode of season 5, titled “Of Gods and Angels,” viewers are taken on a nostalgic ride—a nod to the belovedly cheesy episode, “Who Mourns For Adonais?”
A second-season gem, “Who Mourns For Adonais?” may not have reached the heights of its predecessor, “Amok Time,” but it certainly carved out its own quirky legacy. The premise is as outlandish as it is captivating, revealing Greek mythology’s gods as alien beings, with the spotlight on Apollo, portrayed by Michael Forest. Complete with extravagant costumes, including a shimmering gold toga for Apollo and a striking pink one for Lt. Carolyn Palamas, the episode is a delightful mix of humor and camp.
While this episode may not be the crown jewel of Star Trek lore, it has its fans, including the late Anton Yelchin, who claimed it as a personal favorite. The original may have been filled with moments that strayed from traditional “Star Trek” themes, but it successfully showcased the franchise’s uncanny ability to blend various storytelling styles.
In “Of Gods and Angels,” we see a clever continuation of that playful spirit, introducing Ensign Olly, the granddaughter of Zeus. This new character adds a fresh layer of chaos and conflict aboard the USS Cerritos. Olly’s electrical powers and penchant for mischief create a perfect storm of comic and dramatic tension, highlighting the ongoing struggle between legacy and self-identity.
This episode smartly intertwines classic “Star Trek” tropes—like impending conflict between species and bizarre alien encounters—into a storyline that feels both familiar and refreshingly innovative. Through Olly’s perspective, we encounter themes of family expectations and personal battles. While Olly may come off as a bit challenging, her journey adds depth to the narrative, offering a contemporary twist on a bygone era’s misadventures.
With sharp writing that refrains from excessive nostalgia, the episode includes an amusing acknowledgment of its roots; Olly’s golden laurels echo Apollo’s iconic look, and the visually striking opening credits featuring a gigantic green hand are a playful tribute to the original series’ imaginative storytelling.
“Lower Decks” continues to respect the established lore while injecting its own flair, showcasing characters who stand confidently on their own, regardless of their mythic heritage. New episodes of “Star Trek: Lower Decks” drop every Thursday on Paramount+, signaling that this animated series remains unafraid to reinvent the past while embracing the laughter that originally drew fans into the universe.
