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Warping into syndication in 1987, Star Trek: The Next
Generation successfully launched its seven-season "continuing mission" of
the starship Enterprise, and this classy DVD boxed set gathers the show's
inaugural season in crisp picture clarity and dazzling 5.1-channel sound. A
ratings leader with a sharp ensemble cast, this revamped Trek honored
series creator Gene Roddenberry's original Trek concept, nurtured by
returning veterans like producer Robert H. Justman and writers D.C. Fontana and
David Gerrold. Patrick Stewart was perfect as Enterprise Captain Jean-Luc Picard,
while Marina Sirtis struggled with a wretched hair bun and an ill-defined
character, eventually blessing Counselor Troi with delicate nuance. Denise
Crosby made a strong but underutilized impression as Security Chief Tasha Yar,
and left the series before season's end, allowing writers to develop Klingon
Lieutenant Worf (Michael Dorn) into a fan favorite. Brent Spiner transcended
Spock comparisons with his triumphant portrayal of the android Lieutenant
Commander Data; and while Jonathan Frakes was accepted as First Officer Will
Riker, fans ultimately rejected Wil Wheaton as ensign Wesley Crusher, the
teenaged son of the ship's doctor (Gates McFadden).
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