Star Trek: Alternate Realities - Collective (5 Disc)

The latest Trekkers equivalent of a mix-tape presents episodes from all 5 series, this time each with an "Altered" theme. The actors get to the chance to really let rip and play off each characters' darker side; either as an evil twin, or in circumstances where their life has taken a wrong turn. The most famous of these undoubtedly is a "goatee" bearded Mr. Spock, a real highlight of original series episode 'Mirror Mirror'. Typically Star Trek is a positive vision of the future, with a multitude of alien races living together - like a futuristic United Nations. The Mirror Universe is the pole opposite of this, more like a corrupt Roman Empire conquering its way across the galaxy. It's into this setting; a transporter accident strands Kirk, McCoy, Scotty and Uhura.

'Crossover', 'Through the Looking Glass' and 'Shattered Mirror' are great choices taken from Deep Space Nine. Set in the same location but a century later, we discover a conquered Terran Empire and come face to face… more »

The latest Trekkers equivalent of a mix-tape presents episodes from all 5 series, this time each with an "Altered" theme. The actors get to the chance to really let rip and play off each characters' darker side; either as an evil twin, or in circumstances where their life has taken a wrong turn. The most famous of these undoubtedly is a "goatee" bearded Mr. Spock, a real highlight of original series episode 'Mirror Mirror'. Typically Star Trek is a positive vision of the future, with a multitude of alien races living together - like a futuristic United Nations. The Mirror Universe is the pole opposite of this, more like a corrupt Roman Empire conquering its way across the galaxy. It's into this setting; a transporter accident strands Kirk, McCoy, Scotty and Uhura.

'Crossover', 'Through the Looking Glass' and 'Shattered Mirror' are great choices taken from Deep Space Nine. Set in the same location but a century later, we discover a conquered Terran Empire and come face to face with alternate versions of Sisko, Kira and the inhabitants of space station - Terok Nor. Slightly disappointing however that this isn't the complete saga. But rest assured the best ones are present and it works pretty well as a trilogy. For the record (a dull, Kira episode) Resurrection and (a Ferengi) Emperor's New Cloak didn't make the set.

A real highlight is 'In a Mirror Darkly', a two-parter from prequel series - Enterprise (much maligned, unfairly in my view). Full of knowing references, as well as a subversive take on the movie First Contact, this is a great swashbuckling romp. Scott Bakula, better known for Quantum Leap, pulls off a memorable performance... as a downtrodden Archer who finally snaps and mutinies his way to the top. Into this mix, we discover a ship from the original series has fallen through time. Archer & his backstabbing crew have to fight Tholians and Gorn to order to plunder its familiar looking technology.

Remaining episodes cover themes such as Parallel Universes, bizarre doubles of Trek characters and situations where their lives take a wrong turn.

Additional to these episodes, six featurettes delve into the making of each episode.

Disappointing that this Region 2 edition has missed off the audio commentaries from the US release. They didn't appear to be anywhere on my copy. So I didn't get to hear the writers discussing key episodes. Frustrating that the inner sleeves mention these added attractions.

All in all, equal in quality to the last release in this series - Captain's Log. There are a couple of clunkers, notably not-so classic Trek such as 'The Alternate Factor' and 'Turnabout Intruder'. Interestingly how all 4 original series episodes included are the remastered versions, with new CGI replacing the 60's model shots. If you're curious to see if updated FX result in a decent alternative, and assuming the other episodes appeal, then getting this set might be worth your while.