Why Patrick Stewart Chose to Make Star Trek: Picard Dark: A Comparative Analysis

The decision to portray Star Trek: Picard in a darker tone rather than following the optimistic path set by Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG) is a significant choice that resonates deeply with long-time fans and critics alike. Here, we explore the reasons behind Patrick Stewart's vision for Picard and the unique storytelling approach it necessitates.

The Darker Narrative of Star Trek: Picard

Building a Dark Foundation

Patrick Stewart wanted to establish Picard in a darker place initially. This approach was designed to build the character back up to his rightful place as a savior and leader. This darker foundation serves as a contrast to the more straightforward conflicts and solutions seen in TNG, where most issues were resolved within a single episode. In Picard, the show delves into more complex and long-lasting story arcs, reflecting a more mature and realistic take on conflict and redemption.

The show aims to illustrate the Federation's mistakes and bad choices, and ultimately, the efforts to seek redemption. This can be seen as an analog for American society, with the Federation facing similar challenges and choices regarding immigration, homelessness, and societal issues. Through these darker narratives, the show offers a nuanced exploration of human nature and societal flaws.

Consequences and Compromises

No Longer Consequence-Free

One of the key differences between TNG and Picard is the introduction of significant consequences for the characters and the Federation. Episodes in TNG, particularly in the first seasons, often had episode arcs that were largely consequence-free, with characters returning to their routines with minimal impact. In Picard, the storylines are more impactful and have lasting consequences, sometimes even leading to situations where the good guys don't always win.

For instance, in Star Trek: Picard, the refusal of Starfleet to help the Romulans after one star went nova is a stark contrast to the earlier alliance between the two factions. Furthermore, the conspiracy to stop the peace between the Federation and the Klingons in The Undiscovered Country demonstrates a more complex and morally ambiguous side of the Federation, emphasizing the need for the show to explore darker themes and consequences.

A Different Tone for Different Stories

Compared to Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG)

While TNG was a lighthearted and hopeful show with episodic story arcs, Star Trek: Picard takes a more personal and intimate approach, focusing on an aging Jean-Luc Picard's journey. This approach naturally leads to a darker and more mature tone. For instance, the episodes "Let This Be Your Last Battlefield" and "Q Who" still provided happy endings, but the impact of these storylines was more immediate and less easily forgotten, thanks to the episodic format and lack of complex, long-term arcs.

The Evolution of TV Content and Viewing Habits

Different Television Landscape

The shift in TV viewing habits and content has also played a crucial role in the evolution of these two series. TNG was a syndicated TV-show for broadcast TV in the 1980s, designed to be safe for all audiences. It featured no nudity, profanity, or complex adult themes. The episodic format allowed for easy time-shifting and binge-watching was not an option. In contrast, Star Trek: Picard caters to a more adult audience, with more realistic inclusions of nudity, profanity, and complex storylines that require more thought and investment from the viewers.

Today, television shows are more serialized, with a need to watch episodes in order and a subscription format that demands a deeper engagement. The decline of over-the-air TV and the rise of streaming platforms have further contributed to this shift, making binge-watching a common practice. This change in viewing habits has also made room for more adult themes and complex narratives that can explore darker and more mature themes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to portray Star Trek: Picard in a darker tone was not just a stylistic choice but a necessary one in response to the evolving television landscape and audience expectations. By embracing more complex and morally ambiguous themes, the show offers a richer and more mature take on the Star Trek universe, reflecting the challenges and realities of modern society.

Key Points Recap

tPatrick Stewart's vision for a darker exploration of character and themes in Picard tThe contrast between consequence-free episodes in TNG and the more complex, impactful arcs in Picard tThe evolution of TV content and viewing habits that influenced these series

Keyword Targeting

Keyword Phrases: Star Trek: Picard, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Patrick Stewart, Dark Theme, Consequence-Free Stories