XPost: rec.arts.startrek.misc, rec.arts.startrek.fandom, rec.arts.tv
XPost: can.arts.sf

AI reviews of Charlie X

ChatGPt

### **Critical Review of *Star Trek: Charlie X***

Written by D.C. Fontana and directed by Lawrence Dobkin, *Charlie X* aired on September 15, 1966, as the second episode of *Star Trek: The Original Series.* It explores themes of adolescence, emotional maturity, power, and humanity's moral boundaries. The episode centers around Charles "Charlie" Evans, a teenager raised in isolation by powerful alien beings, who struggles to fit in aboard the USS Enterprise while wielding god-like powers.

---

### **Plot Overview**

The Enterprise picks up Charlie Evans from the cargo vessel Antares. He is the sole survivor of a crash on the isolated planet Thasus, where he was raised by the mysterious Thasians. Despite appearing socially awkward but harmless at first, Charlie soon reveals terrifying telekinetic powers, using them impulsively whenever he feels threatened or rejected.

As Charlie's emotional instability escalates, the crew struggles to contain
him while grappling with the moral dilemma of how to deal with a dangerous yet misunderstood teenager. The episode culminates in the intervention of the Thasians, who reclaim Charlie, acknowledging his inability
to live among humans.

---

### **Strengths**

1. **Psychological and Ethical Depth:**
*Charlie X* delves into the moral complexities of power and responsibility.
Charlie's plight — a lonely adolescent with overwhelming abilities -
reflects the dangers of unchecked emotions and the difficulties
of growing up.