In which we get a two-parter where the second part is a bit of a letdown, and when you think about it, isn't that the most TNG thing of all?

( In a way, I am not that different from anyone else. I can now look forward to death. )

In which everyone finally starts putting the puzzle together.

( The time of our return is coming. Our numbers will darken the sky of every world. You cannot escape your doom. )

In which I could really go for a pizza right about now.

( Do you remember what I taught you, Imzadi? Can you still sense my thoughts? )

Another really strong episode as we cross the half-way point and the plot starts to really move forward.

( You're nothing. But not to me. )

In which we celebrate the half-way point by having women kill their loved ones.

( My ocular implant must be malfunctioning. )

On the plus side, this week's episode referenced Spot, had an old-school Bird of Prey, and Romulan Warrior Nuns. On the negative, this was our first episode without Laris and Zhaban, so I have to mark it down for that...

( You have my blade )

In which we slowly begin to get underway.

( She may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts. I've made some special modifications myself... )

A bit of a step down from last week, but still excellent. I am a little worried that with all the pieces being put into play that the show will struggle to come up with a satisfying resolution for everything; that has, after all, been Discovery's constant weak spot.

( Romulans. So predictably treacherous... )

Well, that was very impressive. I don't like to get my hopes up, but if they can maintain that level of quality, this will be more than worthy as a continuation of Picard's story and the TNG universe.

( How long has it been? Since we were all together on the Enterprise? )

Because I don't want to come across as completely negative, here's a quick list of things I actually liked in Rise of Skywalker. And if some of these come across as a bit like backhanded compliments... well, that's the nature of the beast.

( There's still good in him... )