Star Trek: Discovery Episode 3.8 Review: Ups And Downs From The Sanctuary

6. Detmer's Arc (UP)

Star Trek Discovery Detmer
CBS

Kayla Detmer finally tackles her demons head on in this episode, something that is both cathartic and was a long time coming. Star Trek: Discovery has thankfully taken the choice to show the effects of the trauma the crew have faced, even if Detmer is being used as the figurehead for this. While it may not have been handled to this point with particular nuance, there is a fist pumping moment here as she takes manual controls back.

Her flight, with Ryn, aboard Book's ship is superb. Not only is the imagery in this scene wonderful, but her use of the joysticks to have full control is both fun and functional. There is perhaps a moment or two where things are a little too on the nose, but it is a small critique.

It is wonderful to see her truly relax in the mess hall by the episode's close. Anyone would be forgiven for struggling to truly warm to her this season, but of course that seems deliberate. This moment of relaxation at the end, feeling so upbeat and enjoyable, helps to pay this journey off.

Bravo.

Contributor
Contributor

Seán is the host and head writer/presenter for TrekCulture, as well as a writer/presenter on WhoCulture and WhatCulture Horror. He has authored two novels, dozens of short stories, and hundreds of articles for WhatCulture. He holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing from University College Dublin. As part of his work with TrekCulture, Seán has been invited to participate in collaborations with Roddenberry Entertainment, as well as contributing to several Star Trek community projects. An avid fan of Star Trek, Doctor Who, and the horror genre at large, Seán's expertise has helped develop these channels to the successes they are today. As host of the Ups & Downs series on TrekCulture, Seán has become internationally recognised for his positive yet critically informed approach to reviewing every episode of modern Star Trek, ensuring he is one of the go-to voices in the Trek community. Favourite Quote to describe himself: "I'm serious about what I do, just not always about the way that I do it"