2.16 — “Shadowplay”
Plot: Dax and Odo take a runabout to investigate a strange particle field on an uncharted planet and find a civilization plagued by the disappearances of 22 villagers, which Odo can’t help but investigate. Meanwhile on DS9, Jake starts an apprenticeship with O’Brien and Major Kira re-encounters Vedek Bareil.
Thoughts: Solid episode, moves well. Nothing brilliant to say here!
I like the A, B, and C plots, and appreciate all the references to ongoing continuity which get layered in. Bashir mentions taking surveillance lessons from Garak, Rurigan references the Dominion. I appreciate that Kira clarifies her attitude towards Quark (“I despise you”) and ties it to his collaboration with the Cardassians. And the scenes with Jake are totally sweet! We haven’t seen enough of him recently.
Kira and Bareil are now a thing, which I assume will pay off in future episodes.
The business with the village being a hologram is trippy and weird, but in a fun way. Any episode that focuses on Odo is probably going to be a winner. He’s very good with the little girl; she brings out his sentimental gushy side.
I think Jazdia Dax is charming in the opening scene, gossiping with Odo. “I’m sorry, but after seven lifetimes the impersonal questions aren’t much fun anymore.” Her character is coming more into focus, and the actor seems more confident portraying her.
What’s not to like? For an episode, that is, without earth-shaking happenings.
3.5 out of 5 stolen bone carvings.
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