Lower Decks Season 5 Brings Back One of the Goofiest Star Trek Episodes
The latest offering from “Star Trek: Lower Decks” takes us on a wild ride as it dives back into the charmingly absurd territory of a classic “Star Trek” episode. This past week’s episode, titled “Of Gods and Angels,” was a delightful reminder of just how far the USS Cerritos crew has traveled across the expansive universe of “Star Trek.” From the moment a giant green hand made its appearance in the opening credits, it was clear we were in for a unique adventure.
For those who might not recall, the episode it revisits is “Who Mourns For Adonais?”—a not-so-illustrious gem from the original “Star Trek” series. This episode aired early in the show’s run and is notable for its quirky take on Greek mythology, featuring the god Apollo in a scenario that is both amusing and silly. Apollo, portrayed by Michael Forest, is depicted as a somewhat endangered deity reliant on the worship of his followers, complete with vibrant 1960s costumes that are, let’s face it, a bit out there.
Though “Who Mourns For Adonais?” isn’t necessarily the pinnacle of “Star Trek” storytelling (and even has its fans, like the late Anton Yelchin who adored it), it occupies a unique niche among episodes that, due to their dated aesthetics and storytelling quirks, have become hilariously endearing over time. While “Star Trek” has explored the concept of deities in various forms throughout its history, the golden sandals and laurel crowns presented here are a true testament to the kitschy charm of early franchise lore.
In “Of Gods and Angels,” we see a clever merging of the whimsical essence of the original episode with the more science-oriented tone that characterizes later “Star Trek” narratives. This new chapter introduces us to Ensign Olly, the granddaughter of Zeus, played by Saba Homayoon. Olly is a newcomer aboard the Cerritos whose penchant for mischief makes for a lively character.
This episode skillfully weaves together familiar storylines—diplomatic tensions, unique alien races, and even a murder mystery—all spun into a fresh narrative framework. Ensign Olly, reminiscent of the chaotic spirit of Mariner, struggles with familial expectations and an ever-present sense of inadequacy due to her lineage. Despite her talents, Olly’s mistakes have led her from one ship to another, causing her to grapple with feelings of powerlessness.
True to form, “Lower Decks” presents Olly as a somewhat bratty figure, but it’s refreshing to witness a reimagining of an earlier storyline, offering a more nuanced characterization without getting too bogged down by its depth. The episode doesn’t overly rely on nostalgic references either. While Olly’s electric abilities and her laurel crown harken back to Apollo, she stands as a distinct character, wielding her unique blend of powers, albeit with questionable precision.
What sets “Lower Decks” apart is its fearless approach to expanding upon the original “Star Trek” lore, celebrating its absurdity while simultaneously building upon it. Fans can catch new episodes of “Star Trek: Lower Decks” streaming every Thursday on Paramount+.