The iconic space station-centered series “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” provided a different setting compared to its predecessors, situated not on a vessel but on a station that orbited the planet Bajor, a world that has recently emerged from the clutches of the oppressive Cardassian occupation. Dublining as a repurposed Cardassian station formally known as Terok Nor, Deep Space Nine served as the backdrop for many thrilling narratives.
In the chilling season 5 installment titled “Empok Nor,” the DS9 crew faces a particularly harrowing ordeal as they require spare parts which are unavailable through typical Starfleet channels. Enter Chief Miles O’Brien (Colm Meaney), who spearheads an expedition to salvage from the desolate sister station Empok Nor, enlisting the aid of Garak (Andrew Robinson), a Cardassian ally with enough savvy to deactivate the station’s numerous security measures. However, among the hazards are dormant Cardassian warriors.
Playing out akin to a classic horror film, “Empok Nor” thrusts its characters into the shadows of the facility’s narrow passages and dim ambiance (a logical consequence of the station’s power outage), methodically stalking and eliminating crew members in a fashion reminiscent of famed movie psychopaths such as Michael Myers or Jason Voorhees. The episodic trope of expendable Redshirts gains a new dimension of terror in this narrative, intertwining with familiar genre conventions.
The portrayal of Garak in “Empok Nor,” however, can be seen as the episode’s shortcoming. The narrative unusually positions him as an antagonist, attributing this turn to a substance designed to intensify their inherent xenophobia — effectively, a drug that instigates heightened racial intolerance. Garak’s antagonism is linked to previous interactions between O’Brien and the Cardassians, specifically referencing O’Brien’s combat experiences from “The Wounded,” an earlier “The Next Generation” episode. Despite this, O’Brien must strip away his peacetime persona and confront Garak in battle, echoing their peoples’ historical enmity. Regrettably, the episode doesn’t quite capitalize on Garak’s charismatic and enigmatic character as one might expect.
FAQs About Star Trek’s Horror Episodes
Which Star Trek series features the episode “Empok Nor”?
The episode “Empok Nor” is featured in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” specifically in the fifth season.
What is the central plot technique used in the episode “Empok Nor”?
The episode leverages a horror motif, similar to a slasher film, creating tension and fear as characters navigate through the dimly lit and confined spaces of the abandoned station while being hunted.
Who leads the salvage mission in “Empok Nor”?
Chief Miles O’Brien, portrayed by Colm Meaney, leads the mission to salvage parts from Empok Nor.
Does the episode “Empok Nor” fit the typical Star Trek theme?
While Star Trek is known for its science fiction and exploration themes, “Empok Nor” demonstrates the series’ ability to delve into horror, expanding the scope of environments and scenarios within the Star Trek universe.
Is Garak usually portrayed as a villain in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine”?
Garak is generally characterized as a complex figure with ambiguous morals, rather than a straightforward villain. His role in “Empok Nor” as an antagonist is a divergence from his usual portrayal.