This season of Star Trek: Lower Decks has seen our young ensigns growing up. In fact, they are no longer ensigns, but lieutenants junior grade. As Mariner, Boimler, Rutherford, and Tendi progress in their careers and move up the ladder, they have less and less time to spend with one another. Just because they are focusing on their own lives doesn’t mean the group are going to grow apart.
“Caves” explores the gang’s new dynamic as they have their first mission together in a long while. It seems simple and uneventful enough examining a new species of moss, but in true Star Trek: Lower Decks fashion, the situation becomes extreme pretty quickly. The moss has a taste for flesh and is rapidly growing around them.
As they figure out a way from their dangerous position, each recounts a story that plays with the cave motif. This helps establish a few things about where the group stands. They all involve tales that no one else knew before. The stories depict a skill that every member learned and can apply to escaping. This not only shows how bright and talented our heroes are, but it allows them to rekindle their chemistry and work as a team.
However, the stories also reflect on how out of touch they are in each other’s lives. There is jealousy involved since they form relationships with people outside their circle, especially when its with the likes of conspiracy theorist, Steve Levy, or their rivals in Delta Shift. But there is also a feeling of hurt when they miss out on significant life milestones such as Rutherford giving birth.
Though the comedy is still present, it takes a back seat to let the emotional beats take center stage. The episode is about reaffirming and maintaining bonds despite life happening, which is highly relatable when you hit a certain age. Though you may feel like you’re drifting apart, close friendships can endure. The callback and twist ending are a pleasant and sentimental way to put a bow on everything…and to reinforce that Levy might not be as crazy as you think. (As creator Mike McMahan told AIPT during NYCC 2023, he almost ruined the happy moment by adding one line.)
“Caves” shows that Star Trek: Lower Decks can tone down the crazy when needed and execute a thoughtful and moving episode highlighting the true power of friendship.
New episodes of Star Trek: Lower Decks are released Thursdays on Paramount+.
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