2.17 — “Playing God”
Plot: A Cardassian vole infestation plagues the station. The varmints, approaching their mating season, are attracted by magnetic fields. Jadzia Dax takes on a Trill apprentice who needs seasoning, and causes her to reflect back on her own preparation for joining. A protouniverse threatens to destroy the sector, forcing Sisko to chose between risking deaths aboard the station and committing mass genocide.
Thoughts: Terry Farrell is finally coming into her own! Salty, irreverent rebel is a good look for Jadzia. We are finally seeing the depth of promise of this character. The actor seems much more comfortable in the dual role of the young woman and 600-year-old worm sharing the body. This is the Dax I expected to see, based on the character’s reputation. The weakest link in the cast (so far) becomes stronger. Sadly, I feel like the show isn’t making as good use as before of my favorite, Kira Nerys. I hope Dax’s waxing does not presage Kira’s waning.
This is the funniest episode we’ve seen in ages. The vole puppets! They express both creative daring and whimsy. Quark is as good as he’s ever been, despite having a relatively small role. Rule of Acquisition #122: Never have sex with the boss’s sister. Snort!
I like that the story about the protouniverse has weight, but they don’t overplay it. Sisko has to remember who he is to give the appropriate order to preserve new life; Jazdia Dax also has to remember herself, because her consciousness is discontinuous and she has to decide how to handle this unfamiliar situation (unfamiliar, at least, to her new merged consciousness).
The guest star Trill initiate makes a strong impression and has good chemistry with Quark and Dax. The main star continues to be the milieu of the station.
Good one.
4 of 5 Cardassian voles.
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