10 Most Rewatchable Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Episodes
8. "Little Green Men"
Sure, some fans resented Deep Space Nine's efforts to transform the Ferengi from failed Next Generation villains into a misogynistic, profit-hungry species that provided comic relief and stinging commentary on the Federation. However, the fourth season staple "Little Green Men" remains among the show's funniest offerings. "Little Green Men" boasts tremendous crossover appeal and still ranks among the easiest episodes for pulling in viewers with a limited understanding of the Star Trek franchise.
When a shuttle accident sends Quark, Rom, and Nog back to mid-20th century Earth, they awake to find themselves on an American military base where their captors suspect them of being Martians. This charming homage to 1950s B-movies plays with the 1947 Roswell incident but mainly serves as a vehicle for Quark to tee off on humanity's backwards values and violent history.
Although disgusted by their beliefs and practices, Quark sees tremendous opportunity in the prospect of selling future technology to the humans of this time period. Ever the entrepreneur, Quark plans on building an immense personal fortune. It's a glass half full situation, if you really think about it.
His hopes are dashed when it's revealed Constable Odo snuck aboard the shuttle to foil Quark's smuggling operation. Odo discreetly repairs the shuttle and reminds the Ferengi they must work to preserve the timeline. What a buzzkill.
With the help of an army nurse and her boyfriend, the group manage to escape the base and return to the 24th century by channeling the energy released by an atomic bomb test. Although Quark finds himself in a holding cell back on the station to await smuggling charges, at least his nephew arrives safely at Starfleet Academy. So much for Quark's empire.
"Little Green Men" highlighted Deep Space Nine's comedic chops while underscoring the show's ability to question the legitimacy of humanity's so-called progression from violent past to leaders of the Federation. The episode's lighthearted tone and witty dialogue make this a story worth revisiting. For a much-needed break from the darker fare of the Dominion War, it's hard to top "Little Green Men".