“The Last Generation” is the tenth episode of the third season of the TV show “Star Trek: Picard”, it follows “Vox“, and it’s the third season finale. It’s available in various countries on the Paramount+ streaming platform and in many other countries on Amazon Prime Video.
Note. This article contains some spoilers about “The Last Generation”.
The young people have been assimilated and are attacking Earth. The Enterprise-D and its crew must attempt to save the Federation, starting with Jack Crusher (Ed Speleers), at the center of the invasion. The USS Titan finds itself in the midst of battle, also in a seemingly impossible situation.
The episode which was announced as the “Star Trek: Picard” series finale represents the conclusion of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and also the celebration of the show that turned Star Trek from a cult show with only a few movies as its “appendix” to a cultural phenomenon in all respects. The show also reprised characters such as 7 of 9 (Jeri Ryan) and introduced new characters such as Raffi Musiker (Michelle Hurd), who has somehow become part of a large family but this finale also represents the conclusion of the stories of characters who have made the saga’s history.
Once again, it can be said that the plot doesn’t present great surprises and indeed it’s predictable with some trite clichés. The exception came at some interesting moments, as for some characters, events have been a way to find, or find again, themselves. Old and new characters went through traumas of various kinds and the moments of introspection were useful to find new beginnings.
This all works because it touches the feelings of old fans by reconnecting with so many moments of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and at the same time offering ideas for a continuation of the story with various characters. In previous episodes, more and more elements from the old Enterprise-D adventures were brought back and it’s fitting that the series ends with quotes from Shakespeare, poker night, and the appearance of other characters from the saga’s history.
“Star Trek: Picard” is a show that had its ups and downs in trying to mix old and new and found its final peak going far beyond any fanservice centered around old characters and enemies. No official news was offered on possible new projects but the fresh start for 7 of 9 and Jack Crusher leave various possibilities open.
At this point, I think all fans assume that there will be some new show and it’s just about finding the story and the budget to produce it. Waiting for news, I think old fans can be satisfied with a season that can’t be considered a masterpiece plotwise but allowed old fans to find again characters who are like old friends.
