A Comparative Analysis of Star Trek: Lower Decks and Star Trek: The Animated Series

When comparing Star Trek: Lower Decks and Star Trek: The Animated Series, it's important to consider the context and purpose of each series. Both have their unique features and appeal to different audiences, making it a purely subjective decision which one is better. This article aims to explore the differences between these two series, analyzing their production quality, entertainment value, and target markets.

Production Quality and Animation

Star Trek: The Animated Series (TAS) ran from 1973 to 1975, a period when animation production techniques were significantly different from today's standards. TAS is known for its distinctive 2D animation, sometimes with elements of rotoscoping, which created a smooth and fluid motion but could also appear jarring due to inconsistent quality. The series used a mix of original cast members and hollywood voice talents, resulting in a more standardized and somewhat cheaper production process. Despite these limitations, TAS remains a nostalgic treasure for many Star Trek fans.

In contrast, Star Trek: Lower Decks (LD) is a modern animated series that started in 2020. This series boasts superior animation quality, with vibrant and detailed visual elements that enhance the storytelling. The voice acting on LD is also praised for its authenticity and enthusiasm, bringing the characters to life in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.

Entertainment Value and Audience Targeting

TAS was primarily aimed at children and possibly teenagers, making it a Saturday morning cartoon for an era when the only television network available was broadcast three of the major networks. The series was designed to be simple and entertaining, often with a straightforward narrative structure. While TAS does have its charm, it can be challenging for adult viewers due to its limited scope and story complexity.

Star Trek: Lower Decks is explicitly targeted at adult and young adult Star Trek fans. This series appeals to a broader range of fans by incorporating more complex narratives, a wider range of characters, and an abundance of Easter eggs that delight long-time fans. The entertainment value of LD lies in its relatability, engaging humor, and the realistic portrayal of its characters, making it a more comprehensive and enjoyable viewing experience.

Writing and Production

While TAS aimed to expand on the stories of the original Star Trek series, it often had to simplify complex plotlines to fit a shorter runtime. This resulted in a series that, while enjoyable, lacked the depth and richness of the writing found in other Star Trek series, such as Enterprise or The Next Generation.

Lower Decks, on the other hand, excels in both writing and production. The scripts are clever, witty, and filled with references that cater to seasoned Star Trek fans. The series also benefits from being animated, allowing characters to perform actions and undergo transformations that would be impossible in live-action series. This unique feature enhances the storytelling and immerses the viewers in the Star Trek universe.

Cross-Over and Cultural Impact

To further illustrate the impact of Lower Decks, the series has successfully crossed over with other Star Trek productions. In one notable episode, two Lower Decks characters were accidentally sent to Strange New Worlds. This crossover not only intrigued fans but was also widely regarded as one of the best episodes of Strange New Worlds to date. This demonstrates the series' ability to engage and expand its audience in a meaningful way.

TAS, while also notable for its cross-over with live-action series, did not achieve the same level of cultural impact or engagement as Lower Decks.

Ultimately, the preference between Star Trek: Lower Decks and Star Trek: The Animated Series depends on personal taste and what one is looking for in a Star Trek series. Whether it's nostalgia, entertainment, or depth of storytelling, both series offer unique experiences that contribute to the rich legacy of Star Trek.