One of the reasons the original crew is so beloved is because of their comedic timing, and no more is that present that in "I, Mudd." Harry Mudd, one of the few TOS characters who makes a repeat visit, makes his second and final appearance of the show as the 20th century exaggerated chauvinist that represents a lot of what modern American males were like in the 1960's and is the precursor to our loveable big eared Ferengi. This episode is a fun and enjoyable ride that offers up a ton of humor and never takes itself too seriously.
While on the surface this one appears as a sexist male fantasy commonplace in the era, it actually weaves its own path telling us that this fantasy is a pipedream that can never truly exist and humans are compelled by more than just their hormonal drives and impulses. Even Harry Mudd who exemplifies these virtues has problems living in this society where his every need and fantasy is provided for him, but this episode is not truly about dreams. It is about having fun and the way it is handled is superb. Sometimes original series episodes can be difficult to watch, but this one will have you laughing several times throughout and the ending, while possibly upsetting some feminist groups, is the perfect climax to an episode that never takes itself too seriously. So, whether it is Spock's illogical logic or Scotty's whistle phaser demise, there is something in this one that keeps you hooked and enjoying every minute of it.
While on the surface this one appears as a sexist male fantasy commonplace in the era, it actually weaves its own path telling us that this fantasy is a pipedream that can never truly exist and humans are compelled by more than just their hormonal drives and impulses. Even Harry Mudd who exemplifies these virtues has problems living in this society where his every need and fantasy is provided for him, but this episode is not truly about dreams. It is about having fun and the way it is handled is superb. Sometimes original series episodes can be difficult to watch, but this one will have you laughing several times throughout and the ending, while possibly upsetting some feminist groups, is the perfect climax to an episode that never takes itself too seriously. So, whether it is Spock's illogical logic or Scotty's whistle phaser demise, there is something in this one that keeps you hooked and enjoying every minute of it.