Strange New World

Episode Summary & Review

Summary

The Enterprise investigates an uninhabited Earthlike planet far more dangerous than expected. It proves irresistible to Trip, who persuades Archer to allow his survey team to camp overnight on the planet’s surface, unaware of a gathering storm. The strong winds kick up pollen released by flowers that induce hallucinations and paranoia, infecting the crew members visiting the planet. After relocating into nearby caves, Trip, Mayweather, T’Pol, and two other crew members become convinced they are being watched.

Our Take

A decent bottle episode that leans on one trick: paranoid crew members shouting at each other in a cave. The hallucination premise generates some real tension early on, and T’Pol’s skepticism makes for a fun dynamic with Trip, but the third act turns repetitive fast. Fine background viewing, nothing more.