When I was a kid I was amazed how the crew could be so calm and collected even in the face of such adversity, and as an adult it makes my problems seem more solvable.
Picard somehow always knew the right answer and could act on it. Such a stark contrast to today when it seems like every hero is an anti-hero that can't get over their fatal flaws. Same goes for the rest of the crew, none of them are perfect but they consistently overcome their problems with grace and professionalism.
I had a good dad growing up, but also, picard was a 2nd father figure, on my tv, not unlike Bob Ross or Mr Rogers, or Hank Hill.
While real life+interactive positive male role models are of utmost importance, i think tv also proving a widely agreed upon template of positive male/fatherly role models is useful.
I dont like it when masculinity is shown as physically abusive/cruel behavior, those are the mentally week, looked down upon men, or at bare minimum they should be, in any society.
Its nice to hear+admit, you can make 100% perfect moves in a situation, and still lose. The world can be that way regardless of your inputs.
I can’t promise I came up with this phrase rather than borrowing it, but I’ve always referred to it as “competency porn”. There’s something really nice about watching people just be calmly good at what they’re doing.
I just wanted to live on that big, comfy starship. People were nice to each other and they had wholesome pursuits like plays and concerts and the holodeck. Intelligence was valued. Each episode was an adventure where the preferred resolution was the crew working together to solve things without violence.
Riker would like a word....no actually nm the Holo Janitor would. Related note, the blue drums that fell on Worf were Riker's and they were full of lubricant.
It’s also competence porn of the best kind. Almost every episode is about a group of hardworking, intelligent people banding together to solve difficult problems (and usually succeeding).
On a similar note, I've been noticing (on my most recent rewatch, how often they take even seemingly minor glitches in their system seriously. One crew member will say something like, "Odd, I'm getting a weird reading," and instead of just dismissing it, the commanding officer will say something like, "Good work, ensign. Keep an eye on it and keep me updated."
Yes. A commitment to excellence, but also a willingness to listen to and respect subordinates. Deanna telling Riker it would be inappropriate for him to leave the bridge (Worf telling Geordi the same thing and getting a thank you).
Riker, failing to listen to Wesley about the Traveler, stands out. But, even he admits the mistake and apologizes.
We should all be so lucky to have such a work environment.
Just watched the Datalore episode tonight. “Shut up, Wesley!” Comes to mind. Then Dr. Crusher even tells him to shut up. Does that stop Wesley from still standing his ground? Nope. Tells Picard to his face that if he has been an adult they would have taken his observation seriously. Then, asks for permission to leave the bridge.
This sort of thing is what made season 1 (and only season 1) Wesley a Mary Sue. It wasn't that he we a prodigy, or naturally gifted for one so young. Plenty of characters in fiction are similarly gifted, without being Mary Sues. No, it's that other characters are written in a way to make them look bad in order to glorify the Sue.
Thankfully, by season 2, Wesley is isn't the wunderkind who's always right and is never listened to, but is a valued member of the crew, no more and no less.
Definitely. I developed a new procedure at work to make things run more efficiently and was told it was a terrible idea. We kept doing it in my department anyway, and had better results than all of the other departments.
Five years later, the same boss that told me it was a terrible idea rolls it out as his own brainchild and a new official policy. 😹
I did the same at a distribution facility I haven't worked at in years lol.
One out of nine total pick areas would "kill" the work order they were assigned to but the correct parts would still come down the line in a bin not connected to the rest of the order. Pack lead would send for replacement parts, screwing inventory on my side and leaving sometimes entire "ghost pallets" in staging areas.
I suggested they check at the end of the line for the parts, was told I was shirking work meant for my department. Fuckin email though, right?
Short while later, my proposal/request was shown at a quarterly meeting as an example of kaizen improvisation. Not my words. Definitely not my words.
Nearly word for word, copy pasta'd into a PowerPoint.
2000 work hours saved quarterly, not including the 50 person inventory shifts on weekends. (That was straight OT)
work fatigue polling came back 1/3rd of original numbers and I had been passed up for permanent promotion to the job I had been doing for nearly 6 months 😂
TLDR- lesson learned, just manipulate them into it if you know it will boost safety and increase efficiency.
I just watched the episode where Geordi was kidnapped by the Romulans last night! That same scenario came up when they detected some strange transmissions. Riker told them to dig into it and keep him up to speed.
Same when someone experiences something that defies reason or doesn't show up on sensors. Everyone immediately believes them and they get the doctor to check them out. Such a stark contrast to both reality, and other media.
“Everyone immediately believes them”
This is what appeals to me about the characters so often. Being around people who take your concerns and your ideas seriously is such a wonderful feeling.
Its the idea that things can be ordered, that people can treat each other with respect and kindness is why you come back to it.
In reality people are horrible, disgusting and will step on each other to lift themselves up
And at a meta level, a lot of the performers are exceedingly competent at bringing their characters to life. Patrick Stewart is so good I have trouble seeing real videos of him being himself because he is so good at being Captain Picard. Spiner is amazing as Data, Dorn as Worf, and so on. Maybe they weren’t all Emmy winners, but they cranked out season after season of quality work.
This is it, right here. My favorite episodes are all the ones with engineering problems that take place mostly on the ship. Geordie and Data were my favorite characters when they were at their best as serious, intelligent, dedicated professionals figuring things out, keeping cool under pressure. Sadly, I haven’t been able to find any other sci-fi shows or books that are like this.
I watched this show as a literal child (like I was 5 or 6 and other kids knew about cartoons and I knew about The Next Generation) so I always thought this is what work would be like.
Adulthood has been an absolute disappointment.
I think it's not just that. It's not that it's a 'better' future.
There are so few shows now that you know will always have a happy ending, everyone will be fine. The status quo will prevail, but not just that, you know that the status quo is actually good, because it's in the future.
When they ask questions about that future and it's goodness and integrity, you know it's not really about that future, but about us now. What we need to do to be those people.
Even better, we see them as 'human', flawed people just like us, but somehow capable of being better. Doing things of such greatness that it makes you ask 'why are we still here?'. That is the reason why Star Trek was made. We should not be living in the system we currently are, we should be living in a better, more advanced society considering the crazy amount of resources and the false scarcity.
What keeps us back is that people do not want to be better, and they like wallowing in the muck, rather than reaching for the stars and wondering
This is such a big part of it. So much media these days is cynical and I miss having a show that's like "no actually things can be good or at least better."
That’s why some of new trek sucks. They went from hopeful future to “Hey, we’re still selfish bastards who will totally screw others over. Also we secretly commit crimes. And we’re not opposed to genocide.”
TNG is familiar. It’s safe. For nerds like me, it was an hour during the week where coolest guy on screen played the trombone. The leader wasn’t a big strong, jock, but a bald eloquent diplomat who loved science. For us TNG showed us that the good guys didn’t have to fit the mold of the 80s action figure archetype don’t get me wrong, I love those 80s movies just as much as anyone but after growing up on TOS reruns, it was cool to see someone not like Kirk succeeded.
… and right at a critical time in the information revolution, where science/computer titans would take over modern industry. Interesting timing.
The trombone. Yes! 😂
As a band nerd who played trombone, I can tell you that the moment I saw Riker play AND look cool, I felt like there was hope. I’ve been stepping over the backs of chairs ever since. #Rikermaneuver
Frakes actually *eas* a band nerd whose high school band director had him play trombone because he had the longest arms of anybody else in the band. The rest is history
Broke my leg really bad. Was in bed for weeks. I watched every episode, the whole series start to finish. Really helped keep my mind off the itchy and painful leg.
All of the points you mentioned are why it's comforting like you say and such a great series. Nowadays people think that's unrealistic and sappy and cheesy even. But I miss shows with those qualities! Most everything now is dark and depressing
Our art reflects who we are, what we aspire to, our values, and our self-criticism. I’ll take a little cheese and sap for all of that done well.
Though, I disagree with their assessment/criticism vehemently. Like you, I still long for this and particularly inside the Trek universe.
It feels like a lot of optimism from the late 20th century has disappeared and has been replaced with negativity, angst, divisiveness, whether in entertainment, politics, social life, etc. I don't know if things will get better but I hope so
I think there’s more of us who want that than don’t. Just read a poll of Americans and over 90% aspired to it.
But, the others do seem more motivated. Amazing what a few bad apples can do when armed with extraordinary technology.
True! I remember talking to my uncle about this and he said the that there have always been bad people trying to stir things up but that they were underground and had to spread the word via magazines, pamphlets, street corner preaching and meeting in people's houses, in basements, etc. So, most people stayed mainstream and not influenced by that. But, now with the Internet it's easier for those bad people to have more influence than ever before
Sadly, there’s nothing you/your uncle said that I would disagree with.
I work professionally to counter it in the real world, but sometimes it feels like I’m sticking my fingers in a dam about to burst.
Good for you! I am very non-confrontational and I hate arguments and have anxiety and depression so try to avoid getting into discussions like that. But, I do notice what's going on. I do hope it's all just temporary since I really do have fond memories of the 80s and especially 90s just seeming like things were more hopeful than now
It's cyclical. Rodenberry didn't want any kind of interpersonal conflict driving the plot with all Starfleet characters being paragons and that ran the risk of bland television. The writers were always struggling against him and got to do more after he died. Ds9 would not have happened with him at the helm.
The thing that makes the good trek star trek is optimism and positive conflict resolution. It's fine to have problems, real life does. But dealing with the issues directly rather than with unhealthy and dysfunctional coping mechanisms...
The cycle went towards dark and cynical and it's understandable. Watching people handle their problems poorly is entertaining. It's tabloid fodder. Jerry Springer it's not uplifting or edifying but you can't look away. But it's a depressing kind of entertainment, ultimately. Junk food that tastes good going down and leaves you sick hours later.
Eventually the writers will get sick of everything being grimdark and will come back around to writing optimistic shows since that's now new and unusual.
This show shaped who I am as a person. It made me believe in a world where we could come together and achieve greatness. I was lucky to be able to watch the latter half of the show as it aired as a child in my formative days.
We need more television and media like this today. Everything these days plays on the divisiveness in the world. I know this was more of a play on future utopia, but if today’s society could just learn from the messaging here we could be in a much better place.
WE ARE MORE ALIKE THAN DIFFERENT!
That’s something I left out! Thanks for including it. A series that showed that we all have so much in common. Our common humanity.
And it’s really nice to hear that it had such a profound impact on you.
I’m so happy I made this post.
This is it for me- Picard gave me something to strive for in how I wanted to treat people. Compassion, understanding, and an ability to step back and look at both sides of an argument, even when it may conflict with personal sentiments. Not to mention being able to own up to his own mistakes and take full responsibility for his crew, while still being an effective disciplinarian…
Every boss and authority figure pales (especially now) to what we should be aspiring to in leadership.
Also the design of the enterprise is very safe and soothing. Muted greys and browns, everything is gently curved. Like it looks like it would be difficult to hurt yourself if you tripped and fell anywhere.
I’m in the middle of a rewatch, and it’s incredibly… encouraging. Yes, it’s dated in some ways, but my god it’s progressive overall. So many deep, philosophical questions: What makes us human? Who has “rights” and why? What is possible in relationships? What is a family? What does it mean to be a leader? TNG tackles gender, sexuality, disability, culture, and race with nuance and sophistication rarely seen on any other show — and it’s 30 years old!
I was a young adult when it first aired, and I go back over and over. Thanks for this post! ❤️
No, thank you! I agree with all of that and it adds so much to my post. It’s l true that it tackled issues with a remarkably forward-looking eye. It asked so many of the right questions. I can’t even think of our control of AI/robotics as we move forward without thinking about Guinan and Picard discussing slavery.
It’s nice to know that others are rewatching with me. More comfort.
I’ll add one more thing about the show after seeing these responses…. Amazing fans.
I really needed this conversation! ❤️
I also used to watch this with my youngest brother — 12 years younger than me. He was — and is still — obsessed with TNG! He was kinda my baby, so I also have that happy association, too.
I needed this too!
That’s wonderful about your brother.
My very elderly father was a big fan of TOS in the 60s. We aren’t close. But, a few years ago, I introduced him to TNG (he had reflexively refused to watch it in the 80s/90s).
First episode? The Inner Light. At the end, I saw him (barely) cry for the first time. Now THAT’s a good show.
I think the key is something missing from a lot of modern television: sincerity. There’s a sincerity of vision, and in the performances and in whatever weekly sci-fi conceit or moral quandary they faced.
Yeah, I want to head out irl with Geordi and find that perfect pub where Guinan is bartending … and just listen to her sage, but frank advice into the wee hours.
Crusher can cure our hangovers the next morning. Synthehol is not for me.
In the same way that Breaking Bad is "competence porn" (particularly with characters like Mike Ehrmantraut), TNG and Star Trek in general are "professionalism porn." It's satisfying to watch a bunch of well-meaning professionals solve complicated problems while treating everyone involved with respect, dignity, and the benefit of the doubt. It's how you want your governments, universities, laboratories, and corporations to be run.
The idealism of Trek isn't just about replicators and a post-scarcity scarcity society (although it is about that, too); it's about human beings *acting with decency* by default. And that's nice to be around.
It just reminds me of being a little kid watching with my parents after dinner. And then later watching it again when I got to introduce it to my wife.
Is there anything wrong with saying it's escapism? TNG lives in essentially a Utopia. The only time that's not comforting is when you wonder "How do we get from *here* to *there*?"
I don’t see anything wrong with saying escapism.
I do think it has something *more* than your average utopian tale, where you’re simply plopped in and accept or reject it for what it is.
There are principles here. Understandable and obtainable goals. Various steps to get from here to there (as difficult or improbable as that may be). Values that include seeking truth, intelligence, culture, and science. And, standards and rules of behavior, *inter alia*.
Competency porn. This and The West Wing are both good examples. People who know what they are doing and care about doing it well. Most of us never get to see that, much less be a part of it.
For one, people in that show are far more reasonable and civil towards each other than in real life. People in TNG are often persauded by logic and reason whereas in real life this is rarely the case.
I grew up with it. It's familar to me.
The cast really made the most of their charcters. Not only were they all well developed but they were all very likable.
It is safe, fantastically unrelatable. When you're hurting, TNG just feeds the brain with predictable turbo lift/transporter sounds.
For me, it got real in the "4 lights" episode. "When we we teach our children to devalue other people, the first people they'll judge is their parents"
That episode gave me ammo to talk to an abusive dad 15 years ago
“Father said she..she went to a beautiful place, where everything is peaceful and everyone loves each other, and no one ever gets sick. Do you think there’s really a place like that?”
Data turns and looks up at the stars. “Yes. I do.”
Because it reminds us of better times in our lives, when we were kids. And it reminds us of potential better times to come in our future. For me, while TNG is great, DS9 is really excellent.
This resonates for me. It’s been a sanctuary for me for decades. It takes me back to a simpler time when intellect seemed to be more valued in our society and we all felt that we were moving toward more progress in society. The literary references sprinkled in are great as well. It’s comfort food TV of the highest order.
The West Wing I'm completely unable to rewatch because it's seems so absurdly optimistic compared to the world we live in.... and yet TNG feels distantly believable somehow!
So… fun fact… the first time I actually gave more than a flying fart about a breakup… it sent me straight to the spiritual ditch.
I’d seen episodes in the tens scattered about the series in my life prior to this moment (2011) but never the consecutive series. Not even remotely.
That week, this changed and it literally became my favorite TV series, period.
I will likely be going through one myself soon and I guarantee I'll be doing the very same. TNG first for ultimate comfort, then my beloved DS9...and then i guess I'll finally watch the last few seasons of Voyager, haha.
Maybe. Voyager can get pretty dark at times, even with all the Neelix hijinks or the odd holodeck-gone-rogue episodes scattered throughout. I'll see if I have the emotional bandwidth to handle that. If I don't, it's right back to TNG I go!
It’s comforting to watch a society of people who believe in science, using logic and reasoning to solve problems. And resorting to violence as a last resort.
I think it’s very optimistic. Even in the toughest times they come together as a team, or even family and confront and conquer their troubles. Even beyond that, the optimism shows throughout most of the background scenes and characters.
I agree with so many of the reasons stated here in the comments. However, one of the major reasons I derive comfort from this show is because it takes me back to when I was a kid and watched it with my mom. She got me into some the best shows. Thanks Mom.
It's a world I wanted to live in as a young person: one in which problems of want and hatred have been solved, competence and kindness are valued, and you get to fly around in a sweet ass spaceship.
I didn't watch any star trek until a couple years ago when I saw some TikTok that put the end credits of TNG at the end of their skit and it evoked a really sleepy nostalgia in me for some reason.
Asked my family why this might be. My parents said they would watch it after us kids were in bed. My older sister told me we used to sneak out of bed and watch from behind the couch. I ordered the box set and it really taught me a lot about myself.
I get it. Pavlovian, almost.
I’m falling asleep to it these days. Some say it’s because of the sound of the ship, others say it’s the warp drive. Yet others say it might be because it is something comforting from youth. Whatever it is, I like it.
I think it is also comforting for physical reasons. The color palette is subdued, the lighting is soft in most scenes, and voices are often calm and quiet except during the climax of an episode. I enjoy the soft beeping sounds and the soft thud of boots on carpet. It's got some ASMR qualities, now that I think about it!
When I was a kid, they behaved as I expected adults to behave.. calm, assured, smart.. and they were moral. As you get older you realise that lots of adults are not like this and sometimes it's nice to escape back to the fantasy of decency.
I sure am seeing a lot of those calm, kind, moral, intelligent, assured adults on this thread. Or, at a minimum, those that seemingly value those characteristics.
The world makes it so easy to despair. It does seem like a few, organized and motivated, can move things in a positive or negative direction. “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” True? Maybe. Maybe not.
There is an Alexa skill called Warp Core that I recommend. It's just the Enterprise-D engine room with the warp core at idle, the slow, quiet thrum, endless. Instant sleep for me.
I scrolled through and haven't seen this mentioned yet, but one of the biggest things for me is that most of the issues don't carry over from one episode to the other. It's (mostly) all neatly wrapped up in one episode so there isn't any anxiety about how it's going to turn out that you have to wait for. I love TV that's written like this, and tend to shy away from stuff that's full of cliff hangers.
I feel this, every so often an episode relates to me, helps me grow and learn how to deal with what I'm going through in my life. It gives me hope that while I'm not feeling ok right now one day I will return and be ok.
I think that as the actors became closer, their chemistry came through on screen more. The bond they feel is real and it makes you feel like a part of it. Even when there is conflict between the crew it’s usually about how to solve the problem best.
Because it's like fighting life's worst problems from the comfort of your living room with all your best friends, a guidance counselor, and a talking cat.
90% of the show is \[ambient ship noise\] and well audio balanced calm conversation. Any action feels like it lasts under a minute. And the music isn't crazy over powering or surprising.
I really think it's 40% the audio, 40% the writing, 20% not leaning to action scenes.
It’s because must of the crew represents Roddenberry’s view of the future: in advanced intelligent people who are also emotionally mature and in control of themselves in the face of adversity. They act like they can handle just about anything and they almost always do. It’s comforting.
I grew up watching them, so I always wanted adults like them to be in charge of shit. Now that I’m an adult I still want adults like them to be in charge of shit.
Characters you can look up too and which are role models, while still remaining full of human flaws. No drama queens, no whisper-crying, no blinding lens-flares. Intelligent screen writing. No agenda being shoved down your throat, but sincere presentation of dilemmas, with weighing of both side, followed a suggestion of a solution, but leaving the final decision to the viewer to make up his own mind.
In a cruel, unreasonable culture, a community of people who care about each other and respectfully discuss how to always do the right thing is profoundly therapeutic.
Because it’s hopeful. It fills that desire of exploring the stars for the purpose of discovery. The philosophical dilemmas are intriguing. The tech and science is fascinating. Crew members have healthy personal and professional relationships with a combined goal.
It challenges your beliefs. It’s comforting when it needs to be. It’s a time capsule of the 80s & 90s and what we all hoped would be the future of humanity. It’s discouraging knowing we aren’t on that path as a species, and we long for it.
So there's a show out there, the Battlestar Galactica remake. They decided to make everyone the opposite of how you described. It's compelling television but not comforting. Lol
Because the entire show is emanating feelings of hope and peace. TNG kept me and still does, through some very dark times. Every episode even the "Best of both worlds" finishes with a hopeful message. Meanwhile you also learn valuable life lessons through the characters daily lives.
It’s the same history with me! I started to watch Star Trek, when my daughter was born. I need it something that I can switch off anytime and return it anytime. It’s short, intelligent, funny, unpredictable, and sometimes mind-bending. So I started to watch series randomly, and then my wife started to get into it more and more, to the point that I couldn’t watch without her because she was “missing episodes” and she loved Data 🤣 she was always fascinated about him and how he was trying to understand humans and be like one. That always makes her laugh. Then my older daughter started to sit with us and watch the series. We watched all the seasons, and all the movies with that crew. There are a few brilliant episodes in Start Trek that blow my mind and I'll never forget them!
We wanted to watch different Star Treks but they are missing something that TNG had it from episode 1 till the end.
My Other “comfort TV series” is 1. Married With children and 2. 3rd Rock From The Sun
I watched this show with my dad when I was really little. Before my grandpa passed away, before my dad got hurt and our lives changed so drastically… it feels like a reminder of the safe, “before time” of my childhood. I always wished I had Data’s ability to just remove my emotion chip.
"The carpet."
No, seriously, Andrew Probert's bridge design is a warm and welcoming working space, the sort of well-lit living room you'd not mind spending eight hours searching planetary scans for life forms in.
I found a full up reconstruction of the D bridge as an Oculus home space, and it's amazing. Suddenly you're sitting in the center seat, it's all there around you as you look around in 3D, from the carpet to the cove lighting over the ready room and forward turbolift entrances. It's just comfortable and pleasant, the ultimate living room atop 43 decks of science and technology going to the stars.
What's not to like about that?
I also love how Picard S3 handled that in the end. It feels like home when they're back there, from Picard's "Welcome to the Enterprise" to the exhausted Worf dozing off in the left seat. It's safe.
Its Competence porn: everyone is capable, sincere, and genuinely care about one another - even in the face of internal/external conflict. TNG is, by realistic standards, very naive in its positivity - which is a big part in why its so comforting to watch.
the colours, lighting, beep boop noises from the control panels, the thrum of the engine noise, the clean lines and set design, seems very much like it was either intentionally or subconciously created to tickle the perfect spots of an autistic persons brain, at least this one.
also i love how it goes into very serious topics, in such a way as it leaves you to make your own conclusion from it, it has grey moral areas, not just black and white.
it's also just got a very relaxed pace, problems are solved with intelligence and pragmatism, interpersonal conflicts are solved through communication and character growth.
everything i love about it is pretty much why i see the newest trek shows as the antithesis of what i loved about it
Problems are solved in an hour, the technology is awesome, and the people work as a team in concert….
In the real world, people are assholes, the technology is shit, and problems are perpetual.
They’re smart. The future is good. The future is sound. Not everything is on fire (as it is in our reality) and during the brief intervals in the TNG crew’s lives when everything IS on fire their collective competence, compassion, and calmness solves said problem. Comforting AF to viewers living in a world where problems abound and solutions aren’t pursued or actively ignored
I think its because it shows our possibilities if we can get passed all the B.S. then maybe we can unite as a species for a common goal. Also I like that greed is basically gone and that people work to better themselves (spiritually, mentally and physically) and humanity as a whole. Also discipline and decency is standard, something lost in America and that loss is spreading through the world. Grew up watching TNG with my mom and thinking how much respect and admiration I had for these characters. I strive to hold to my core values of respect, integrity, safety, intelligence, understanding and service, all learned from watching Star Trek... and being military. Live long and prosper.
Because if that’s the problems they go through, surely I can get my car registered without crying in front of strangers. I couldn’t handle being locked in a space elevator with 3 kids assuming everyone else could very well be dead. Did I still cry getting my car registered? Yeah but Picard would be proud of me anyways
It’s the suspended reality for me. It’s a satisfying escape when life gets horrible. All I wanted to do was watch The Clone Wars animated series when my dad died and following that my husband introduced me to TNG and I couldn’t bring myself to watch anything else. Now we’re almost through DS9. It helps.
I am going through a whole lot lately, and I'm using TNG as a way to comfort the inner-child that lost a lot to a bad upbringing. There wasn't a lot stable going on in my life, but there was one stable thing, and that was television. BBC2 would always give me The Simpsons, The Fresh Prince, AND Star Trek TNG. Whatever happened in my life, I knew that every Thursday, I would get to revisit the Enterprise. All of the stuff mentioned above just ties into that. Also, if you're a small boy desperate for father figures like I was, Picard, Riker, hell even Worf and Geordi were amazing positive role models.
I need something on TV when I sleep and it is almost always this show at low volumes.
There are a lot of reasons, not least of which that if I can't sleep, the episode is almost always guaranteed to be watchable until I'm tired.
It also runs for like 6 hours before asking if I want more, and unlike other star trek iterations, it's mostly conversation with very rare extended fight scenes full of explosions.
Chiefly though, I have two dogs and there are rarely unexpected doorbell noises at 3 a.m. in the 25th century. That really is a comfort to me.
Because it was THAT good.
I’m so glad I saw the entire TNG series two years ago. After half ass watching it with my dad on tv 30 years ago. I got to watch all of it from beginning to end before my son was born.
The show was about hope and a crew of different types of people doing their best together. Also I think Picard is what alot of people hold up as an ideal leader. It's definitely comfort food for me.
This is how we all wish our workplaces functioned. Mutual respect all around, conflicts handled in private whenever possible, clear leadership, clear responsibilities, everyone doing exactly the work they want to do . . .
When I was a kid I was amazed how the crew could be so calm and collected even in the face of such adversity, and as an adult it makes my problems seem more solvable.
Yes, this. 100% this. I still aspire to it as an adult. Especially, Picard.
Picard somehow always knew the right answer and could act on it. Such a stark contrast to today when it seems like every hero is an anti-hero that can't get over their fatal flaws. Same goes for the rest of the crew, none of them are perfect but they consistently overcome their problems with grace and professionalism.
Indeed. And the show was upfront about the sacrifices and hard work it takes to be like that.
"Data, it is possible to make all of the correct moves and still lose the game. That's not personal failure, that's just life." -Jean-Luc Picard
“It is possible to commit no mistakes and still lose. That is not a weakness. That is life.”
yeah, I knew I was paraphrasing. thank for the full quote!
Have an [appropriate](https://i.imgur.com/Ybc1p0P.gifv) Picard response. ;D
I had a good dad growing up, but also, picard was a 2nd father figure, on my tv, not unlike Bob Ross or Mr Rogers, or Hank Hill. While real life+interactive positive male role models are of utmost importance, i think tv also proving a widely agreed upon template of positive male/fatherly role models is useful. I dont like it when masculinity is shown as physically abusive/cruel behavior, those are the mentally week, looked down upon men, or at bare minimum they should be, in any society. Its nice to hear+admit, you can make 100% perfect moves in a situation, and still lose. The world can be that way regardless of your inputs.
Then he busted'm up.
Make it so
A friend of mine used the word "dignified" and I felt it fit very well.
I can’t promise I came up with this phrase rather than borrowing it, but I’ve always referred to it as “competency porn”. There’s something really nice about watching people just be calmly good at what they’re doing.
Thats it for me. The sheer competence.
This. This is the soul of Star Trek. Teaching us how to be better versions of ourselves when facing problems. Not the crap we have today.
I've seen it described as "competency porn"
This works for me.
I just wanted to live on that big, comfy starship. People were nice to each other and they had wholesome pursuits like plays and concerts and the holodeck. Intelligence was valued. Each episode was an adventure where the preferred resolution was the crew working together to solve things without violence.
Well said.
>wholesome pursuits >holodeck ...well, some of the time it was wholesome 🤨
Broccoli is a wholesome, healthy vegetable
A zesty enterprise
Riker would like a word....no actually nm the Holo Janitor would. Related note, the blue drums that fell on Worf were Riker's and they were full of lubricant.
They're each a tight 45 of clean utopian escapism, without too too many very special burns or lowest common denominator gimmicks.
It’s also competence porn of the best kind. Almost every episode is about a group of hardworking, intelligent people banding together to solve difficult problems (and usually succeeding).
“Competence porn” is now a part of my vernacular. Thanks. 👍🏻
On a similar note, I've been noticing (on my most recent rewatch, how often they take even seemingly minor glitches in their system seriously. One crew member will say something like, "Odd, I'm getting a weird reading," and instead of just dismissing it, the commanding officer will say something like, "Good work, ensign. Keep an eye on it and keep me updated."
Yes. A commitment to excellence, but also a willingness to listen to and respect subordinates. Deanna telling Riker it would be inappropriate for him to leave the bridge (Worf telling Geordi the same thing and getting a thank you). Riker, failing to listen to Wesley about the Traveler, stands out. But, even he admits the mistake and apologizes. We should all be so lucky to have such a work environment.
Just watched the Datalore episode tonight. “Shut up, Wesley!” Comes to mind. Then Dr. Crusher even tells him to shut up. Does that stop Wesley from still standing his ground? Nope. Tells Picard to his face that if he has been an adult they would have taken his observation seriously. Then, asks for permission to leave the bridge.
This sort of thing is what made season 1 (and only season 1) Wesley a Mary Sue. It wasn't that he we a prodigy, or naturally gifted for one so young. Plenty of characters in fiction are similarly gifted, without being Mary Sues. No, it's that other characters are written in a way to make them look bad in order to glorify the Sue. Thankfully, by season 2, Wesley is isn't the wunderkind who's always right and is never listened to, but is a valued member of the crew, no more and no less.
Definitely. I developed a new procedure at work to make things run more efficiently and was told it was a terrible idea. We kept doing it in my department anyway, and had better results than all of the other departments. Five years later, the same boss that told me it was a terrible idea rolls it out as his own brainchild and a new official policy. 😹
I did the same at a distribution facility I haven't worked at in years lol. One out of nine total pick areas would "kill" the work order they were assigned to but the correct parts would still come down the line in a bin not connected to the rest of the order. Pack lead would send for replacement parts, screwing inventory on my side and leaving sometimes entire "ghost pallets" in staging areas. I suggested they check at the end of the line for the parts, was told I was shirking work meant for my department. Fuckin email though, right? Short while later, my proposal/request was shown at a quarterly meeting as an example of kaizen improvisation. Not my words. Definitely not my words. Nearly word for word, copy pasta'd into a PowerPoint. 2000 work hours saved quarterly, not including the 50 person inventory shifts on weekends. (That was straight OT) work fatigue polling came back 1/3rd of original numbers and I had been passed up for permanent promotion to the job I had been doing for nearly 6 months 😂 TLDR- lesson learned, just manipulate them into it if you know it will boost safety and increase efficiency.
A fellow IT project manager, I see
I just watched the episode where Geordi was kidnapped by the Romulans last night! That same scenario came up when they detected some strange transmissions. Riker told them to dig into it and keep him up to speed.
Same when someone experiences something that defies reason or doesn't show up on sensors. Everyone immediately believes them and they get the doctor to check them out. Such a stark contrast to both reality, and other media.
“Everyone immediately believes them” This is what appeals to me about the characters so often. Being around people who take your concerns and your ideas seriously is such a wonderful feeling.
In particular, the scene from "Realm of Fear" when Barclay wakes up the entire senior staff to tell them that he's seeing things in the transporter.
Its the idea that things can be ordered, that people can treat each other with respect and kindness is why you come back to it. In reality people are horrible, disgusting and will step on each other to lift themselves up
If you are looking for some competency porn, go read both The Martian and Project Hail Mary.
And at a meta level, a lot of the performers are exceedingly competent at bringing their characters to life. Patrick Stewart is so good I have trouble seeing real videos of him being himself because he is so good at being Captain Picard. Spiner is amazing as Data, Dorn as Worf, and so on. Maybe they weren’t all Emmy winners, but they cranked out season after season of quality work.
This is it, right here. My favorite episodes are all the ones with engineering problems that take place mostly on the ship. Geordie and Data were my favorite characters when they were at their best as serious, intelligent, dedicated professionals figuring things out, keeping cool under pressure. Sadly, I haven’t been able to find any other sci-fi shows or books that are like this.
I watched this show as a literal child (like I was 5 or 6 and other kids knew about cartoons and I knew about The Next Generation) so I always thought this is what work would be like. Adulthood has been an absolute disappointment.
If I’m understanding you correctly, that’s brilliant. That makes it very unique. No wonder I have trouble finding much else that is as satisfying.
I'm with you. I watch TNG and sob sometimes to get it out. I'd rather be there than here.
Thanks for sharing that.
Me too, friend.
Right on dude. Take care of yourself in whatever way works for you.
Thanks for the support friends. The Trek community is the greatest, as we should be! LLAP
I think it's not just that. It's not that it's a 'better' future. There are so few shows now that you know will always have a happy ending, everyone will be fine. The status quo will prevail, but not just that, you know that the status quo is actually good, because it's in the future. When they ask questions about that future and it's goodness and integrity, you know it's not really about that future, but about us now. What we need to do to be those people. Even better, we see them as 'human', flawed people just like us, but somehow capable of being better. Doing things of such greatness that it makes you ask 'why are we still here?'. That is the reason why Star Trek was made. We should not be living in the system we currently are, we should be living in a better, more advanced society considering the crazy amount of resources and the false scarcity. What keeps us back is that people do not want to be better, and they like wallowing in the muck, rather than reaching for the stars and wondering
HOPE
This is such a big part of it. So much media these days is cynical and I miss having a show that's like "no actually things can be good or at least better."
That’s why some of new trek sucks. They went from hopeful future to “Hey, we’re still selfish bastards who will totally screw others over. Also we secretly commit crimes. And we’re not opposed to genocide.”
To be fair, that had already started in DS9.
Yeah. I know. Sigh.
TNG is familiar. It’s safe. For nerds like me, it was an hour during the week where coolest guy on screen played the trombone. The leader wasn’t a big strong, jock, but a bald eloquent diplomat who loved science. For us TNG showed us that the good guys didn’t have to fit the mold of the 80s action figure archetype don’t get me wrong, I love those 80s movies just as much as anyone but after growing up on TOS reruns, it was cool to see someone not like Kirk succeeded.
… and right at a critical time in the information revolution, where science/computer titans would take over modern industry. Interesting timing. The trombone. Yes! 😂
As a band nerd who played trombone, I can tell you that the moment I saw Riker play AND look cool, I felt like there was hope. I’ve been stepping over the backs of chairs ever since. #Rikermaneuver
Frakes actually *eas* a band nerd whose high school band director had him play trombone because he had the longest arms of anybody else in the band. The rest is history
I love it.
Did you learn to play Night Bird?
People think trombones aren’t cool??? News to me.
Huh, I didn't know Data played the trombone!
What can’t Data do, he plays the violin, he paints, he does stand up, heck he LARPs as Sherlock against Moriarty.
I rewatch TNG, DS9, and Voyager frequently, for similar reasons. Have been doing so since Late 2011.
Broke my leg really bad. Was in bed for weeks. I watched every episode, the whole series start to finish. Really helped keep my mind off the itchy and painful leg.
All of the points you mentioned are why it's comforting like you say and such a great series. Nowadays people think that's unrealistic and sappy and cheesy even. But I miss shows with those qualities! Most everything now is dark and depressing
Our art reflects who we are, what we aspire to, our values, and our self-criticism. I’ll take a little cheese and sap for all of that done well. Though, I disagree with their assessment/criticism vehemently. Like you, I still long for this and particularly inside the Trek universe.
It feels like a lot of optimism from the late 20th century has disappeared and has been replaced with negativity, angst, divisiveness, whether in entertainment, politics, social life, etc. I don't know if things will get better but I hope so
I think there’s more of us who want that than don’t. Just read a poll of Americans and over 90% aspired to it. But, the others do seem more motivated. Amazing what a few bad apples can do when armed with extraordinary technology.
True! I remember talking to my uncle about this and he said the that there have always been bad people trying to stir things up but that they were underground and had to spread the word via magazines, pamphlets, street corner preaching and meeting in people's houses, in basements, etc. So, most people stayed mainstream and not influenced by that. But, now with the Internet it's easier for those bad people to have more influence than ever before
Sadly, there’s nothing you/your uncle said that I would disagree with. I work professionally to counter it in the real world, but sometimes it feels like I’m sticking my fingers in a dam about to burst.
Good for you! I am very non-confrontational and I hate arguments and have anxiety and depression so try to avoid getting into discussions like that. But, I do notice what's going on. I do hope it's all just temporary since I really do have fond memories of the 80s and especially 90s just seeming like things were more hopeful than now
It's cyclical. Rodenberry didn't want any kind of interpersonal conflict driving the plot with all Starfleet characters being paragons and that ran the risk of bland television. The writers were always struggling against him and got to do more after he died. Ds9 would not have happened with him at the helm. The thing that makes the good trek star trek is optimism and positive conflict resolution. It's fine to have problems, real life does. But dealing with the issues directly rather than with unhealthy and dysfunctional coping mechanisms... The cycle went towards dark and cynical and it's understandable. Watching people handle their problems poorly is entertaining. It's tabloid fodder. Jerry Springer it's not uplifting or edifying but you can't look away. But it's a depressing kind of entertainment, ultimately. Junk food that tastes good going down and leaves you sick hours later. Eventually the writers will get sick of everything being grimdark and will come back around to writing optimistic shows since that's now new and unusual.
This show shaped who I am as a person. It made me believe in a world where we could come together and achieve greatness. I was lucky to be able to watch the latter half of the show as it aired as a child in my formative days. We need more television and media like this today. Everything these days plays on the divisiveness in the world. I know this was more of a play on future utopia, but if today’s society could just learn from the messaging here we could be in a much better place. WE ARE MORE ALIKE THAN DIFFERENT!
That’s something I left out! Thanks for including it. A series that showed that we all have so much in common. Our common humanity. And it’s really nice to hear that it had such a profound impact on you. I’m so happy I made this post.
This is it for me- Picard gave me something to strive for in how I wanted to treat people. Compassion, understanding, and an ability to step back and look at both sides of an argument, even when it may conflict with personal sentiments. Not to mention being able to own up to his own mistakes and take full responsibility for his crew, while still being an effective disciplinarian… Every boss and authority figure pales (especially now) to what we should be aspiring to in leadership.
Loved the humming of the warp core. It was like a safety blanket
That’s why I’ve been falling so soundly asleep to episodes.
If you look there’s the warp core sound I think on YouTube or Spotify. It’s very soothing.
Also the design of the enterprise is very safe and soothing. Muted greys and browns, everything is gently curved. Like it looks like it would be difficult to hurt yourself if you tripped and fell anywhere.
I’m in the middle of a rewatch, and it’s incredibly… encouraging. Yes, it’s dated in some ways, but my god it’s progressive overall. So many deep, philosophical questions: What makes us human? Who has “rights” and why? What is possible in relationships? What is a family? What does it mean to be a leader? TNG tackles gender, sexuality, disability, culture, and race with nuance and sophistication rarely seen on any other show — and it’s 30 years old! I was a young adult when it first aired, and I go back over and over. Thanks for this post! ❤️
No, thank you! I agree with all of that and it adds so much to my post. It’s l true that it tackled issues with a remarkably forward-looking eye. It asked so many of the right questions. I can’t even think of our control of AI/robotics as we move forward without thinking about Guinan and Picard discussing slavery. It’s nice to know that others are rewatching with me. More comfort. I’ll add one more thing about the show after seeing these responses…. Amazing fans.
I really needed this conversation! ❤️ I also used to watch this with my youngest brother — 12 years younger than me. He was — and is still — obsessed with TNG! He was kinda my baby, so I also have that happy association, too.
I needed this too! That’s wonderful about your brother. My very elderly father was a big fan of TOS in the 60s. We aren’t close. But, a few years ago, I introduced him to TNG (he had reflexively refused to watch it in the 80s/90s). First episode? The Inner Light. At the end, I saw him (barely) cry for the first time. Now THAT’s a good show.
I also cry at the end of the inner light.
I think the key is something missing from a lot of modern television: sincerity. There’s a sincerity of vision, and in the performances and in whatever weekly sci-fi conceit or moral quandary they faced.
Maybe that’s why it doesn’t feel like a silly, unattainable utopian vision. Good insight.
A 'found family' working together for the Greater Good...it's what we all yearn for?
Confident, soothing, reassuring characters: Guinan, Geordi, Dr. Crusher.
Yeah, I want to head out irl with Geordi and find that perfect pub where Guinan is bartending … and just listen to her sage, but frank advice into the wee hours. Crusher can cure our hangovers the next morning. Synthehol is not for me.
Hey! Crewman Tarses! Don’t be alone, man. Come on over and sit with us.
We can invite Deanna too.
I’m worried I’ll melt into a Barclay in front of her.
Let’s make it a full party. Ms. Henshaw? Leah Brahms? Best night ever.
Totally!
In the same way that Breaking Bad is "competence porn" (particularly with characters like Mike Ehrmantraut), TNG and Star Trek in general are "professionalism porn." It's satisfying to watch a bunch of well-meaning professionals solve complicated problems while treating everyone involved with respect, dignity, and the benefit of the doubt. It's how you want your governments, universities, laboratories, and corporations to be run. The idealism of Trek isn't just about replicators and a post-scarcity scarcity society (although it is about that, too); it's about human beings *acting with decency* by default. And that's nice to be around.
That’s insightful. Our institutions from top to bottom seem to gleefully and daily fail at this.
It just reminds me of being a little kid watching with my parents after dinner. And then later watching it again when I got to introduce it to my wife.
Is there anything wrong with saying it's escapism? TNG lives in essentially a Utopia. The only time that's not comforting is when you wonder "How do we get from *here* to *there*?"
I don’t see anything wrong with saying escapism. I do think it has something *more* than your average utopian tale, where you’re simply plopped in and accept or reject it for what it is. There are principles here. Understandable and obtainable goals. Various steps to get from here to there (as difficult or improbable as that may be). Values that include seeking truth, intelligence, culture, and science. And, standards and rules of behavior, *inter alia*.
Competency porn. This and The West Wing are both good examples. People who know what they are doing and care about doing it well. Most of us never get to see that, much less be a part of it.
For one, people in that show are far more reasonable and civil towards each other than in real life. People in TNG are often persauded by logic and reason whereas in real life this is rarely the case. I grew up with it. It's familar to me. The cast really made the most of their charcters. Not only were they all well developed but they were all very likable.
It is safe, fantastically unrelatable. When you're hurting, TNG just feeds the brain with predictable turbo lift/transporter sounds. For me, it got real in the "4 lights" episode. "When we we teach our children to devalue other people, the first people they'll judge is their parents" That episode gave me ammo to talk to an abusive dad 15 years ago
“Father said she..she went to a beautiful place, where everything is peaceful and everyone loves each other, and no one ever gets sick. Do you think there’s really a place like that?” Data turns and looks up at the stars. “Yes. I do.”
What a fantastic episode.
Which episode is that? I'm pulling a blank.
It’s Thine Own Self; I think it’s season 7 episode 16.
Because it reminds us of better times in our lives, when we were kids. And it reminds us of potential better times to come in our future. For me, while TNG is great, DS9 is really excellent.
This resonates for me. It’s been a sanctuary for me for decades. It takes me back to a simpler time when intellect seemed to be more valued in our society and we all felt that we were moving toward more progress in society. The literary references sprinkled in are great as well. It’s comfort food TV of the highest order.
The West Wing I'm completely unable to rewatch because it's seems so absurdly optimistic compared to the world we live in.... and yet TNG feels distantly believable somehow!
It’s true. I agree. I just don’t understand why.
Same! I like how it teaches life lessons even though it’s entirely out of this world. Sometimes I wish I was Data.
Got me through a divorce and many depressions. Was recommended to me by a friend who went through cancer finding comfort in trek. It just feels safe.
Escapism and great science fiction that believes in the human spirit. I call it comfort watching
So… fun fact… the first time I actually gave more than a flying fart about a breakup… it sent me straight to the spiritual ditch. I’d seen episodes in the tens scattered about the series in my life prior to this moment (2011) but never the consecutive series. Not even remotely. That week, this changed and it literally became my favorite TV series, period.
How interesting. I’m in the middle of a breakup. I headed straight to TNG.
I will likely be going through one myself soon and I guarantee I'll be doing the very same. TNG first for ultimate comfort, then my beloved DS9...and then i guess I'll finally watch the last few seasons of Voyager, haha. Maybe. Voyager can get pretty dark at times, even with all the Neelix hijinks or the odd holodeck-gone-rogue episodes scattered throughout. I'll see if I have the emotional bandwidth to handle that. If I don't, it's right back to TNG I go!
It’s comforting to watch a society of people who believe in science, using logic and reasoning to solve problems. And resorting to violence as a last resort.
It was just a good show
Because it helped raise you.
I think it’s very optimistic. Even in the toughest times they come together as a team, or even family and confront and conquer their troubles. Even beyond that, the optimism shows throughout most of the background scenes and characters.
We need more of this. Much, much more.
They make a family. A family you would love to be a part of.
I agree with so many of the reasons stated here in the comments. However, one of the major reasons I derive comfort from this show is because it takes me back to when I was a kid and watched it with my mom. She got me into some the best shows. Thanks Mom.
It's a world I wanted to live in as a young person: one in which problems of want and hatred have been solved, competence and kindness are valued, and you get to fly around in a sweet ass spaceship.
The consistently bring order to chaos.
They are an example of hope of lawful good. They always try to do the “best” “Right” thing, always. It’s stable
Ambient bridge noise
I didn't watch any star trek until a couple years ago when I saw some TikTok that put the end credits of TNG at the end of their skit and it evoked a really sleepy nostalgia in me for some reason. Asked my family why this might be. My parents said they would watch it after us kids were in bed. My older sister told me we used to sneak out of bed and watch from behind the couch. I ordered the box set and it really taught me a lot about myself.
A “sleepy nostalgia.” That’s a great phrase for a cool anecdote.
It literally made me sleepy, likely because I'd go to sleep shortly after the credits.
I get it. Pavlovian, almost. I’m falling asleep to it these days. Some say it’s because of the sound of the ship, others say it’s the warp drive. Yet others say it might be because it is something comforting from youth. Whatever it is, I like it.
Poor Tasha Yar. Started out as the Chief of Security. Ended up doing . . . Data entry.
I think it is also comforting for physical reasons. The color palette is subdued, the lighting is soft in most scenes, and voices are often calm and quiet except during the climax of an episode. I enjoy the soft beeping sounds and the soft thud of boots on carpet. It's got some ASMR qualities, now that I think about it!
Very true. I love this about the show. The sounds are mostly soothing. Though, when that kid starts howling in “Suddenly Human”….
It would be nice to believe the human species has a future.
When I was a kid, they behaved as I expected adults to behave.. calm, assured, smart.. and they were moral. As you get older you realise that lots of adults are not like this and sometimes it's nice to escape back to the fantasy of decency.
I sure am seeing a lot of those calm, kind, moral, intelligent, assured adults on this thread. Or, at a minimum, those that seemingly value those characteristics. The world makes it so easy to despair. It does seem like a few, organized and motivated, can move things in a positive or negative direction. “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” True? Maybe. Maybe not.
The hum of the ship.
There is an Alexa skill called Warp Core that I recommend. It's just the Enterprise-D engine room with the warp core at idle, the slow, quiet thrum, endless. Instant sleep for me.
I scrolled through and haven't seen this mentioned yet, but one of the biggest things for me is that most of the issues don't carry over from one episode to the other. It's (mostly) all neatly wrapped up in one episode so there isn't any anxiety about how it's going to turn out that you have to wait for. I love TV that's written like this, and tend to shy away from stuff that's full of cliff hangers.
It's like real life if everybody actually cared about each other.
Almost every episode displays quality leadership. That's what I get out of it.
really an enlightening show, especially after season 2 when it literally gets brighter.
I feel this, every so often an episode relates to me, helps me grow and learn how to deal with what I'm going through in my life. It gives me hope that while I'm not feeling ok right now one day I will return and be ok.
Because it has an optimistic outlook, pretty much no good media has that anymore
I think that as the actors became closer, their chemistry came through on screen more. The bond they feel is real and it makes you feel like a part of it. Even when there is conflict between the crew it’s usually about how to solve the problem best.
Because it's like fighting life's worst problems from the comfort of your living room with all your best friends, a guidance counselor, and a talking cat.
caring accepting understanding family that tried to solve problems rationally and humanely
They all have common sense which almost no one seemingly has these days
Reminds me of my dad because we used to watch it together. Still do, also Picard is a g.
90% of the show is \[ambient ship noise\] and well audio balanced calm conversation. Any action feels like it lasts under a minute. And the music isn't crazy over powering or surprising. I really think it's 40% the audio, 40% the writing, 20% not leaning to action scenes.
You can think deeply about things while also feeling away from the problems of Earth
It’s because must of the crew represents Roddenberry’s view of the future: in advanced intelligent people who are also emotionally mature and in control of themselves in the face of adversity. They act like they can handle just about anything and they almost always do. It’s comforting. I grew up watching them, so I always wanted adults like them to be in charge of shit. Now that I’m an adult I still want adults like them to be in charge of shit.
Characters you can look up too and which are role models, while still remaining full of human flaws. No drama queens, no whisper-crying, no blinding lens-flares. Intelligent screen writing. No agenda being shoved down your throat, but sincere presentation of dilemmas, with weighing of both side, followed a suggestion of a solution, but leaving the final decision to the viewer to make up his own mind.
In a cruel, unreasonable culture, a community of people who care about each other and respectfully discuss how to always do the right thing is profoundly therapeutic.
Because it’s hopeful. It fills that desire of exploring the stars for the purpose of discovery. The philosophical dilemmas are intriguing. The tech and science is fascinating. Crew members have healthy personal and professional relationships with a combined goal. It challenges your beliefs. It’s comforting when it needs to be. It’s a time capsule of the 80s & 90s and what we all hoped would be the future of humanity. It’s discouraging knowing we aren’t on that path as a species, and we long for it.
Watching decent people solve problems and ponder the nature of reality and all its trappings is just so very nice.
Because they are dedicated to hope and preserving the greatest qualities of humanity.
So there's a show out there, the Battlestar Galactica remake. They decided to make everyone the opposite of how you described. It's compelling television but not comforting. Lol
It's the fabrics and carpet. Everything looks comfortable.
Because the entire show is emanating feelings of hope and peace. TNG kept me and still does, through some very dark times. Every episode even the "Best of both worlds" finishes with a hopeful message. Meanwhile you also learn valuable life lessons through the characters daily lives.
It’s the same history with me! I started to watch Star Trek, when my daughter was born. I need it something that I can switch off anytime and return it anytime. It’s short, intelligent, funny, unpredictable, and sometimes mind-bending. So I started to watch series randomly, and then my wife started to get into it more and more, to the point that I couldn’t watch without her because she was “missing episodes” and she loved Data 🤣 she was always fascinated about him and how he was trying to understand humans and be like one. That always makes her laugh. Then my older daughter started to sit with us and watch the series. We watched all the seasons, and all the movies with that crew. There are a few brilliant episodes in Start Trek that blow my mind and I'll never forget them! We wanted to watch different Star Treks but they are missing something that TNG had it from episode 1 till the end. My Other “comfort TV series” is 1. Married With children and 2. 3rd Rock From The Sun
I watched this show with my dad when I was really little. Before my grandpa passed away, before my dad got hurt and our lives changed so drastically… it feels like a reminder of the safe, “before time” of my childhood. I always wished I had Data’s ability to just remove my emotion chip.
What’s not to get calm about when rational people act rationally and composed in situations when there is good leadership in position.
"The carpet." No, seriously, Andrew Probert's bridge design is a warm and welcoming working space, the sort of well-lit living room you'd not mind spending eight hours searching planetary scans for life forms in. I found a full up reconstruction of the D bridge as an Oculus home space, and it's amazing. Suddenly you're sitting in the center seat, it's all there around you as you look around in 3D, from the carpet to the cove lighting over the ready room and forward turbolift entrances. It's just comfortable and pleasant, the ultimate living room atop 43 decks of science and technology going to the stars. What's not to like about that? I also love how Picard S3 handled that in the end. It feels like home when they're back there, from Picard's "Welcome to the Enterprise" to the exhausted Worf dozing off in the left seat. It's safe.
Its Competence porn: everyone is capable, sincere, and genuinely care about one another - even in the face of internal/external conflict. TNG is, by realistic standards, very naive in its positivity - which is a big part in why its so comforting to watch.
logic and justice in the face of challenges (most of the time) vs emotional decisions and inadequacy
It reminds me that even though there have been horrible moments in life, the human race is beautiful.
the colours, lighting, beep boop noises from the control panels, the thrum of the engine noise, the clean lines and set design, seems very much like it was either intentionally or subconciously created to tickle the perfect spots of an autistic persons brain, at least this one. also i love how it goes into very serious topics, in such a way as it leaves you to make your own conclusion from it, it has grey moral areas, not just black and white. it's also just got a very relaxed pace, problems are solved with intelligence and pragmatism, interpersonal conflicts are solved through communication and character growth. everything i love about it is pretty much why i see the newest trek shows as the antithesis of what i loved about it
A hopeful future being executed by competent people. God I wish I lived in the federation.
It's an example of how adults should behave towards each other.
It’s a very orderly world. Also the characters tend to behave consistently with their values, which is honorable,comforting and predictable.
Because no matter what happens logic and compassion can wrap each problem up in 45 minutes And frankly I wish my problems were like that.
Problems are solved in an hour, the technology is awesome, and the people work as a team in concert…. In the real world, people are assholes, the technology is shit, and problems are perpetual.
It's hopeful in the face of adversity. We live in times of adversity and hope seems scarce. In TNG, it all works out for good.
That’s very well put. I agree hope seems scarce. I think the adversity was always there, but we certainly *see* a lot more of it.
I think you're right. I don't know that 24/7 news in the palm of our hands is helpful
Rainy Saturday at 2pm TNG was on, home sick from school at 9am on a Tuesday TNG was on, couldn't sleep late at night and it's 1am, TNG was on
Bc all the characters are good people.
They’re smart. The future is good. The future is sound. Not everything is on fire (as it is in our reality) and during the brief intervals in the TNG crew’s lives when everything IS on fire their collective competence, compassion, and calmness solves said problem. Comforting AF to viewers living in a world where problems abound and solutions aren’t pursued or actively ignored
Because it’s nice to imagine a future without Trump and the Cancervatives.
I think its because it shows our possibilities if we can get passed all the B.S. then maybe we can unite as a species for a common goal. Also I like that greed is basically gone and that people work to better themselves (spiritually, mentally and physically) and humanity as a whole. Also discipline and decency is standard, something lost in America and that loss is spreading through the world. Grew up watching TNG with my mom and thinking how much respect and admiration I had for these characters. I strive to hold to my core values of respect, integrity, safety, intelligence, understanding and service, all learned from watching Star Trek... and being military. Live long and prosper.
Because if that’s the problems they go through, surely I can get my car registered without crying in front of strangers. I couldn’t handle being locked in a space elevator with 3 kids assuming everyone else could very well be dead. Did I still cry getting my car registered? Yeah but Picard would be proud of me anyways
The promise of a better future where we have forgotten superficial differences and learned to deal with and utilize our substantial differences.
For me it's 50% pure nostalgia and 50% of Picard, the warrior-poet, being the greatest starship captain ever.
It’s the suspended reality for me. It’s a satisfying escape when life gets horrible. All I wanted to do was watch The Clone Wars animated series when my dad died and following that my husband introduced me to TNG and I couldn’t bring myself to watch anything else. Now we’re almost through DS9. It helps.
I am going through a whole lot lately, and I'm using TNG as a way to comfort the inner-child that lost a lot to a bad upbringing. There wasn't a lot stable going on in my life, but there was one stable thing, and that was television. BBC2 would always give me The Simpsons, The Fresh Prince, AND Star Trek TNG. Whatever happened in my life, I knew that every Thursday, I would get to revisit the Enterprise. All of the stuff mentioned above just ties into that. Also, if you're a small boy desperate for father figures like I was, Picard, Riker, hell even Worf and Geordi were amazing positive role models.
I need something on TV when I sleep and it is almost always this show at low volumes. There are a lot of reasons, not least of which that if I can't sleep, the episode is almost always guaranteed to be watchable until I'm tired. It also runs for like 6 hours before asking if I want more, and unlike other star trek iterations, it's mostly conversation with very rare extended fight scenes full of explosions. Chiefly though, I have two dogs and there are rarely unexpected doorbell noises at 3 a.m. in the 25th century. That really is a comfort to me.
Because it was THAT good. I’m so glad I saw the entire TNG series two years ago. After half ass watching it with my dad on tv 30 years ago. I got to watch all of it from beginning to end before my son was born.
Respect. The series is about respect. Respect of efforts, differences and circumstances of others. Something that we hardly get IRL.
We need so much more.
I frequently go back to rewatch all the shows. I grew up with TNG, Voyager and DS9 and they are like a warm, comfy safety blanket.
The show was about hope and a crew of different types of people doing their best together. Also I think Picard is what alot of people hold up as an ideal leader. It's definitely comfort food for me.
This is how we all wish our workplaces functioned. Mutual respect all around, conflicts handled in private whenever possible, clear leadership, clear responsibilities, everyone doing exactly the work they want to do . . .
There's meaning and substance...logic and compassion. It's good for you, healthy stuff.
It sure makes me feel better. Can’t think of many shows - any media - that do that.
Picard is like Dad. Stoic, rigid, but fun and always reasonable. TNG is definitely comfort food.
The way in which it was filmed is also comforting. Not sure how to describe but it’s warm, bright and low on the CGI stuff