10 Times Star Trek Stole From Itself

This episode sees the re-use of a well-worn theme in Star Trek. Dawn features Tucker trapped on a planet with Zho'kaan, an Arkonian with whom he is unable to communicate. It bears a strong resemblance in the plot to Darmok, as well as both The Enemy and Gravity in theme as well.

Re-using themes like this is no crime. Dawn suffers a little from the fact that it brings very little new to the idea. Zho'kaan is a poor substitute for Captain Dathan, even though the mutual understanding that the two characters come to have for each other ends on a slightly happier note, with both surviving.

After their rescue, they are able to make use of the universal translator, which dilutes the message. Darmok's strength lies in Picard coming to understand the complex language of the Tamarian people, forcing himself into fluency while both men face mortal peril. Here, while Tucker is able to help the Zho'kaan see that he means no harm, there is little in the way of mutual understanding.

This episode is fairly middle of the road, though Connor Trinneer delivers a solid performance.