2.39 : Mirror, Mirror.

[Dave]

Another classic episode which went on to result in four DS9 sequels: "Crossover", "Through the Looking Glass", "Shattered Mirror", and "The Emperors New Cloak". Nominated for a Hugo Award.

A Transporter malfunction (well they hadn't overused this plot device yet) results in Kirk, McCoy, Scotty and Uhura being taken to a parallel universe. On the ISS Enterprise, the bearded Spock is a warrior in the Galactic Empire of the parallel-Federation which rules by terror. "Agonisers" are used to discipline crew, and the "Tantalus Field" removes the captains enemies. The capable, exuberant, and likable Sulu of our universe, becomes a furtive, lustful figure in the Imperial one. The captain gets his own courtesan, Lieutenant Marlena Moreau.

The Imperial Mr Spock helps our people return, because he wants his old captain back, but is persuaded that logically he cannot serve an Empire that will eventually fall.

 

[Extollager]

This is one of the better-written episodes, it seems to me; it doesn't sag in the middle, & has some interesting characterization and thematic development. One pays little attention to the inadequate special effects (the flipping back and forth of Enterprises when the magnetic storm mixup occurs, the secret weapon in Kirk's quarters).

 

[logan_run]

I owned the dc comics in the 80s based on that episode one of tos best episodes.