“Star Trek: Discovery” has premiered on CBS and as we wait for the rating numbers, the critics have spoken.
Variety’s Maureen Ryan noted the show’s attempts to update the classic optimism of the Trek formula while striking a balance between the gritty modern drama. She also praised Sonequa Martin-Green’s performance and the way the show makes the show care for her lead character.
In fact, most reviewers have universally praised Martin-Green and the show’s production value. Entertainment Weekly’s Darren Franich referred to Martin-Green as a ‘commanding presence,’ while Hollywood Reporter praised her for displaying ‘intelligence, command, and sheer presence.’ Esquire also cited praised the ‘stunning production value.’ Among the supporting cast, Hollywood Reporter cited Jason Issacs as a good foil for Martin-Green, noting he is ‘incapable of giving an uninteresting performance.’
Criticisms have been leveled at the supporting cast and certain plot details however, along with the show’s ability to launch CBS’s All Access platform. For Hollywood Reporter’s praise, they also noted the first two episodes sell a show that doesn’t feel like the third episode or like a proper series, making Martin-Green’s performance likely ‘not enough’ to sell the series to a wide audience. Vulture praised much of the show, but noted that some of the logic of the plot were like ‘swiss cheese.’ And outside of the lead cast, complaints have been leveled by Esquire over the ‘stiff dialogue and acting’ from the supporting cast.
We will soon learn if this will effect the ratings.