My friends and I are embarking on a new journey to watch all 22 episodes of
Star Trek's animated series. We'll be posting on Wednesdays. All are welcome to join us for all or parts of our adventure.
Episode: "The Ambergris Element"
Series:
Star Trek: The Animated Series
Season 1, Episode 13
Original Air Date: December 1, 1973
In this week's story, our heroes visit the water world of Argo. Kirk and Spock are captured by the native Aquans and subjected to genetic mutation, becoming water-breathers. Ambergris refers to a substance derived from Earth's sperm whales, similar to one found in the Aquans' bloodstream. Writer/producer D.C. Fontana has frequently cited this episode as Exhibit A for a story that could never have been produced for the live action show.
My sage friend
Geo. often points out
Trek's allusions to the inter-generational conflicts of its era and "The Ambergris Element" is an excellent example. The older Aquans harbor deep-seeded prejudice against surface dwellers and would have been perfectly happy to let Kirk and Spock drown. Meanwhile, the younger generation strives for greater tolerance and understanding.
*****
Rila is a Junior Tribune on the Ruling Tribunal of the Aquans. She is our friends' most important advocate, speaking on their behalf publicly and aiding them secretly when they are left on the surface to die. She was voiced by Majel Barrett.
If you would care to join us for all or part of our travels, sign on to the list below. Please visit the other participants.
Next week: "The Slaver Weapon."
I was solidly struck by 3 lines in this script: "I can't command a ship from inside an aquarium."; "Ordainments are useless in times of turbulence."; "Senior aquans cannot adjust to becoming air-breathers." The last line, especially, pretty much nails the '60s for me --unfortunately, it's still being demonstrated in much of the world. Our progress as a species has always risen into more and more rarefied atmospheres --to the moon, and now old probes heading beyond Pluto into deep space. Excellent synopsis and episode. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteCultural change never comes cheap.
DeleteThat episode sounds interesting. In an asparagus kind of way.
ReplyDeleteIf you're looking for a veggie-friendly episode, I suggest "The Infinite Vulcan." Though that one's really more dandelion than asparagus.
DeleteI think the creature is fun to watch in this episode. This is one critter you do not want to tango with. At first I thought it was hungry, trying to split open the aquashuttle like that but no. The creature was part of a bigger plan which proved it was intelligent.
ReplyDeleteA formidable beast, for sure.
DeleteI wonder how they would taste with a little dill and lemon:) Ok bad of me but I couldn't help myself. Actually this does sound interesting
ReplyDelete... Birgit, I think you and my wife would get along famously. She has a similar joke about Admiral Ackbar from Star Wars.
DeleteI enjoy your posts about these episodes. You do pique my interest. Forced genetic mutation doesn't sound like fun.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Medeia!
DeleteThis was a silly but fun episode (review tomorrow) but the live Twitter watch was fun! You'll have to join us next week!
ReplyDeleteI love the live Twitter idea. Wednesdays tend to be tricky for me but I'll do my best. If you'll send me the details ahead of time, I'll happily advertise it, even if I can't make the time myself.
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