"Journey to Babel"

The Enterprise is conveying a group of diplomats to a special conference on the planet Babel. Among the diplomats is Vulcan’s ambassador to the Federation, Sarek, and his human wife, Amanda. Kirk and McCoy are shocked when they learn that not only are Sarek and Amanda Spock’s parents, but that Spock and Sarek have long been at odds over Spock’s wish to join Starfleet. Spock acts even more unemotional than usual with his father and mother on board, while the Tellarite delegate is murdered by someone Spock concludes must have been a Vulcan, due to the method of killing. Sarek is the chief suspect, as he had argued with the Tellarite ambassador moments before his death. It's soon apparent that something is amiss with the conference about Corridan's admission to the Federation, as the Enterprise is attacked by a powerful and mysterious foe. Sarek reveals that he has a heart condition that will kill him. Spock is the only donor, but refuses to relinquish command since Kirk was attacked and stabbed by one of the Andorian delegates on board. Kirk returns to command despite his injuries, and McCoy races to perform the operation that will save Sarek while the Enterprise is battered by the mysterious ship's assault. Sarek is saved just as Kirk's quick thinking and tactical brilliance lead to the defeat of the enemy vessel. The vessel self-destructs and Kirk's would be assassin commits suicide to protect the mission. Spock deducts that the assassin and the ship were both of Orion origin, as the Orions would have had much to gain from keeping Corridan out of the Federation. Spock and Sarek are reconciled and the episode ends on a light note as McCoy gets the last word, ordering his captain and first officer to stay put in their beds.

Story

"Journey to Babel" is one of the greatest Star Trek episodes ever. It features action, comedy, intrigue, drama, and a constant flow of suspense. This a classic episode and one that adds to the mythology of the show by fleshing out the Trek universe and beloved Spock.

Action

Action's the name of the game in "Journey to Babel." We've got Kirk's fight with the pseudo-Andorian, which is one of the few fights that ends for Kirk in a stalemate, to the battering the Enterprise takes from the Orion ship, we've got an action-packed extravaganza here. There's also the powder-keg of tension as McCoy operates on Sarek and Spock while the Enterprise is under attack. This episode delivers a large order of action for those of us who hunger for it.

Performances

The standout performances here are from Mark Lenard as Sarek, Jane Wyatt as Amanda, and Leonard Nimoy as Spock. We also see great work from Shatner and Kelley, who bring a lot to their roles despite the fact that they take a back seat to the other action of the episosde.

Trektastic Moments

Perhaps the biggest Trektastic Moment is the introduction of Sarek and Amanda. Spock's parents would return to the series years later in "The Search for Spock" and "The Voyage Home," respectively. There's also the first appearances of the Tellarites and the Andorians, who we later learn are two of the founding races of the UFP. There's also the wonderful ending to the episode, where McCoy proudly states: "Well, what do you know? I finally got the last word!"

Overall

One of the finest hours of Trek in its forty year history. Highest possible recommendation.

The episode's title card.


The first appearance of Spock's parents, Sarek and Amanda.


Little gold midget dudes. They're of no significance, I just had to show 'em, 'cause they're little gold midget dudes. And they're making what look like potent little drinks. Crazy little gold midget dudes!


Tellarites and Andorians, oh my! The first appearance of two important Trek races.


Finally, McCoy gets the last word!