Did 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' End at the Right Time?

The Star Trek franchise, particularly the show "Star Trek: The Next Generation" (TNG), established a loyal fanbase and longevity that was rare for sci-fi series. However, the question remains: was TNG’s natural conclusion reached with the final episodes of the series, or were there lingering hopes for further adventures through movies?

Movie Appearances and Post-Series Crossovers

Post-series crossovers were not uncommon with TNG characters making appearances in movies. Perhaps the most notable was the appearance of Captain Jean-Luc Riker and Dr. Data in 'Star Trek: Enterprise'. However, some fans found these crossovers to be perplexing. The choice to bring back Riker and Troi in the movie to conclude with Enterprise felt out of place and missed the mark of TNG's core themes.

The Final Episode: 'All Good Things…'

Ultimately, the show concluded with "All Good Things…", an episode that served as a culmination of the character arcs and season-long story arcs. This episode was a departure from the usual structure of the series. It was a complex, non-linear narrative that played out in three timelines over a single 75-minute timeframe, making it an ambitious and experimental final piece.

Patterns in TV Show Run Times

As a seasoned TV and movie analyst, I have observed a pattern that often signifies the natural end of a series. Shows like TNG, in the pre-streaming era, were most financially productive through reruns and syndication. However, to be viable in these markets, a series needed to have seven strong seasons. This pattern is influenced by the nature of the genre and the way it can bring in new audiences with each episode.

Character Development and Show Patterns

Character development, which is more prominent in sci-fi series, tends to limit the sustainable run of a show. Shows like TNG are more akin to Morality Plays with loosely connected story arcs. By season three or four, the characters and the conflicts they face move into their prime. This is where the most insightful and engaging storylines often emerge.

The Challenges of Season 7

However, by season seven, the series typically faces challenges. The show had to establish the world, characters, and conflicts in the first two seasons. Season three to five usually sees the most growth in terms of character arcs and story arcs. However, by season seven, the characters have generally completed their growth, leading to a repetition of their earlier lessons. Arcs become repetitive, and stories are simply extended to fill space. By this time, the show runners can no longer hide the declining numbers or viewer apathy.

Actor and Career Considerations

Furthermore, actors, despite their love for a show, often seek new experiences every seven years. Continual portraying a single character for seven years can be mentally and creatively limiting. Additionally, actors and producers are influenced by industry trends, and the desire to take on new challenges can push for a series to conclude. This is also when actors and producers might have to consider their long-term career trajectories and not want to be seen as irreplaceable in one role for a prolonged period.

Concluding TNG and Future Crossovers

The conclusion to TNG with 'All Good Things…' was a deliberate choice to allow the series to gracefully end. The final season, and particularly the final episode, allowed the characters and plotlines to come full circle, providing closure for both the characters and the audience. The subsequent crossovers and movies were often seen as extensions of the universe rather than the original series.

In conclusion, the end of TNG was a natural progression given the pattern of long-running TV series, character development, and the creative and personal needs of the actors involved. While it's always tempting to continue a successful franchise, the perfect ending is often the best way to remember a show.