Section 31 Squanders Iconic Alien Comebacks from Classic Star Trek

Warning: Major Spoilers Ahead for Star Trek: Section 31

The upcoming film Star Trek: Section 31 offers fans a unique lens through which to explore various elements of the Star Trek franchise, particularly its storied history and lesser-known details. Central to this exploration is the enigmatic organization known as Section 31, which has been a part of Starfleet’s lore since its introduction in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. This clandestine agency operates in the shadows, taking necessary actions to safeguard the Federation’s interests while often deviating from conventional Starfleet ethics. This premise suggests that Section 31 could venture into realms that previous installments might have shied away from, heightening anticipation for its narrative possibilities.

An integral aspect of this narrative potential lies in the diverse range of alien species featured alongside Agent Philippa Georgiou, portrayed by Michelle Yeoh. Over the last six decades, the Star Trek universe has introduced a plethora of alien species, with Star Trek: The Next Generation‘s Lieutenant Commander Data mentioning encounters with 1, 754 non-human species throughout his career. Initial trailers for Section 31 promised a rich tapestry of classic Star Trek aliens, setting high expectations that, unfortunately, were not met. The return of iconic alien characters ultimately felt underutilized and disappointing.

The Chameloid’s Return: A Missed Opportunity

Cool in Theory, Lacking in Execution

Sam Richardson Chameloid in Star Trek Section 31

The narrative kicks off with a faction of agents retrieving Georgiou from her established life. Her keen perception allows her to see through their ruse, immediately asserting her formidable presence. Among these agents is Agent Quasi, played by Sam Richardson, who is revealed to be a Chameloid—an alien species renowned for their ability to alter their appearance. While Chameloids typically manifest as a collection of amorphous tubules during transformation, they primarily mimic other species for practical purposes.

The only notable Chameloid from the franchise’s earlier films is Martia, introduced in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country in 1991. Martia was not just a criminal; she wielded her shape-shifting abilities strategically, nearly leading Captain Kirk into peril. Thus, when Quasi’s capabilities are showcased only once in Section 31, it feels like a significant letdown for audiences who hoped for a deeper exploration of a Chameloid’s potential.

The film’s initial concept suggested a plot where Quasi would eliminate Georgiou and impersonate her. However, once Georgiou decides to team up with Section 31, this plot thread falters. Quasi’s only instance of shape-shifting on-screen is in a fleeting moment where he morphs into a starfish-like entity to aid a comrade. In the end, his identity as a Chameloid adds little to the narrative, as he could have easily been replaced by any other adaptable species without impacting the storyline.

The Underwhelming Fate of Star Trek’s Newest Deltan

A Character with Potential, Yet Profoundly Underutilized

Equally disappointing is the character of Melle, portrayed by Humberly Gonzales. As a Deltan, Melle possesses the extraordinary ability to evoke attraction in others—an asset that could have proven invaluable in the morally ambiguous operations of Section 31. Her skills could have easily facilitated high-stakes negotiations or infiltrations for the agency’s pursuit of the formidable Godsend superweapon.

Unfortunately, Melle’s potential is squandered, as she meets her demise within the first half-hour of the film. By the time her character is eliminated, viewers have witnessed her utilize her unique abilities just once. Her interaction with Quasi is rendered moot because he is not affected by her charm, and she fails to leverage her seductive skills when Georgiou chooses to join the mission. Melle briefly distracts an assailant at Georgiou’s bar but is quickly dispatched by a phaser, leaving her character arc incomplete and her demise underwhelming.

Melle’s death lacks emotional weight, as it is treated with swift indifference by the remaining team members, who swiftly move on without mourning her loss. By the end of Section 31, she is largely forgotten, raising the question of why the creators chose to include her in the first place if her abilities were dismissed so carelessly.

If Star Trek: Section 31 shows such little interest in fully realizing its iconic alien species, it casts doubt on the rationale behind their inclusion in the storyline.

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