Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 5 Review: So Good You Won’t Want It To End
Key Takeaways:
- Star Trek: Lower Decks returns for its final season, packed with humor, character growth, and inventive storytelling.
- Mariner, Boimler, and the rest of the crew experience significant development, with standout moments in the first five episodes.
- The animation pushes boundaries, offering adventures and visuals that wouldn’t be possible in live-action formats.
It’s the beginning of the end for Star Trek: Lower Decks as its fifth and final season is about to premiere. Fans have eagerly awaited this moment, and based on the first five episodes available for review, it’s clear that the show is going out on top. With Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford continuing their chaotic adventures aboard the USS Cerritos, Season 5 promises action-packed character growth, laugh-out-loud moments, and the unique comedic flair that has made this animated series a beloved part of the Star Trek universe.
Lower Decks Season 5 Keeps the Momentum Going
Season 5 kicks off with the same high-energy pace that fans have come to love. While Tendi’s departure to Orion at the end of Season 4 is felt, the story dives right into a new mystery that sends the crew of the Cerritos on a fresh adventure. The new episodes take full advantage of the animation medium, allowing for inventive storylines and action sequences that would be difficult to achieve in live-action formats. From giant alien creatures to obscure alien cultures, Lower Decks continues to expand the boundaries of what’s possible within the Star Trek universe.
Although this is the final season, it doesn’t feel like the show is ready to bow out. The characters are more dynamic than ever, especially Mariner and Boimler, who continue to evolve beyond the personas we first met. The confidence they’ve gained, along with their deepening bonds, brings a richness to their arcs, making Season 5 all the more engaging.
Growth and Laughter: The Perfect Send-Off
One of the standout features of Lower Decks has always been its ability to mix comedy with meaningful character development, and Season 5 is no different. Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford are no longer the bumbling ensigns from the earlier seasons. They’ve grown into capable Starfleet officers, finding their place within the crew while staying true to their hilarious, and sometimes reckless, personalities.
- Mariner embraces her love for Starfleet, no longer rebelling but instead fully accepting her role and what she can contribute to the galaxy.
- Boimler finally finds the confidence he’s been searching for, letting go of his rigid expectations and allowing himself to shine in ways he never thought possible.
- Tendi takes a journey back to Orion, where she embraces her dual identity, bringing her skills and Starfleet experience back to her culture.
- Rutherford and T’lyn (who gets more screen time this season) have moments to shine, particularly in Tendi’s absence. However, they are pushed to the background a bit compared to the other main characters.
Using Animation to Its Full Potential
One of the reasons Star Trek: Lower Decks stands out within the Star Trek franchise is its bold use of animation to tell stories that would be impossible in a traditional live-action format. In Season 5, the animators and writers continue to push the envelope. Whether it’s a massive alien gobbling up everything in its path or intricate space battles, the animation provides a spectacle that enhances the storylines while remaining true to the heart of Star Trek.
The benefits of the animated format allow the show to take risks with comedic timing, character expressions, and world-building, all of which elevate the storytelling. Season 5 is full of clever, laugh-out-loud moments, coupled with poignant nods to classic Star Trek themes of exploration, teamwork, and hope for the future.
Saying Goodbye to the Cerritos Crew
As Lower Decks approaches its end, there’s a bittersweet feeling among fans and critics alike. The show has consistently delivered top-tier Star Trek content while maintaining its own distinct voice. The growth of Mariner, Boimler, and the rest of the crew has been a joy to watch, making it even harder to say goodbye. McMahan and his team have given these characters a fitting send-off, ensuring that the final season is packed with everything fans love about the series comedy, heart, and epic space adventures.
However, it’s not all perfect. Rutherford and T’lyn, while receiving great moments, sometimes fade into the background of the ensemble, which might leave some fans wishing for more focus on these characters. Still, the season is a triumph, showing that Lower Decks could have easily continued for several more seasons.
Final Thoughts
While it’s hard to say goodbye, Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 5 makes sure the series ends on a high note. It’s as funny and heartfelt as ever, and the character growth we’ve been waiting for feels fully realized. The blend of humor, adventure, and genuine Star Trek spirit makes this one of the most unique and enjoyable entries in the franchise. With the final episodes yet to be released, the show has the potential to be remembered as one of the most creative and uplifting Star Trek series to date.
If you’ve been following the adventures of the USS Cerritos, Season 5 will be everything you’ve hoped for and more. And if you’re new to Lower Decks, now is the perfect time to start just be prepared to laugh, feel, and fall in love with this quirky crew of underdogs.
FAQ:
Q: Is Season 5 really the final season of Star Trek: Lower Decks?
A: Yes, Season 5 is confirmed to be the final season of Star Trek: Lower Decks, wrapping up the storylines of the main characters.
Q: Will we see major character growth in Season 5?
A: Absolutely. Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford all experience significant growth throughout Season 5, making it a satisfying conclusion for their arcs.
Q: Does Season 5 still have the humor that Lower Decks is known for?
A: Yes! Season 5 continues to be hilarious, blending sharp wit with heartfelt moments, staying true to the comedic tone that fans love.
Q: Can I watch Star Trek: Lower Decks on streaming platforms?
A: Yes, you can stream all four seasons, and soon Season 5, on Paramount+.
Q: Will Rutherford and T’lyn have major roles in the final season?
A: While they do get moments to shine, Rutherford and T’lyn do fall into the background at times compared to Mariner, Boimler, and Tendi.
