There are lots of big debates in the sci-fi community but so few are as telling as the classic Star Trek debate: Kirk or Picard? Are you on the side of decisive action or measured diplomacy? For many, Jean-Luc Picard was the ideal captain, and now we will get more of his classy leadership in Star Trek: Picard.
From what we see and hear in this new trailer, it’s been 15 years since Picard stepped down from Star Fleet. In his new life, like I presume every cultured French person does, he opens a vineyard and spends his time tending to it. However, the voice over makes clear that Picard’s retirement is about to be cut short, perhaps metaphorically or literally by the dark clouds looming overhead.
We know the show itself is set 18 years after the events of the film Star Trek: Nemesis, which means that we have no clue what event was so horrible that Picard would drop out of the organization. There is also a leaked clip running around of Picard, looking older and more tired, approaching Star Fleet personnel and them asking who he is, which has a very “whomp whomp” comedic feel to it. Still, the overall sense we get is that of changing times and regret.
Sir Patrick Stewart is back to reprise his famous role, but there is also Santiago Cabrera as an unnamed pilot of Picard’s ship and a skilled thief, and Michelle Hurd as a former intelligence officer struggling with substance abuse. Other cast members who have yet to be given names or descriptions for their characters include Evan Evagora, Allison Pill, Isa Briones, and Harry Treadaway. It does sound like Picard will be getting back out into space at least, so that will be fun. Someone make sure to pack enough Earl Grey!
Star Trek: Picard will premiere on CBS All Access sometime in the near future.