57 Years Later: Why Star Trek’s Best Original Series Episode Remains Underappreciated

Star Trek: The Original Series is renowned for its iconic episodes that have inspired numerous references and discussions, yet one gem has not received the recognition it deserves. The talented cast of the Original Series brought to life many foundational narratives that continue to resonate through the franchise’s expansive history, shaping the modern spinoffs. While certain episodes are widely acknowledged for their significant impact on Star Trek’s evolution, others, like this one, have unfairly faded from the limelight despite their brilliance.

This classic series has set the stage for every subsequent Star Trek installment. The success of the original series, led by William Shatner, was crucial in paving the way for shows like Star Trek: The Next Generation and beyond. The innovative storytelling of the 1960s laid the groundwork for key tropes and narrative structures that persist in today’s Star Trek universe. Yet, the accolades for perhaps the finest episode are often overlooked.

Why “The Devil In The Dark”Is Considered the Best Episode of Star Trek: The Original Series

The Horta Presents a Unique Challenge for the Crew of the USS Enterprise

Episode 25 from season 1, “The Devil in the Dark,” stands out as a masterclass in storytelling within the Star Trek universe. By diverging from the standard formula typical of the series, it elevates the viewing experience. With minimal scenes taking place on the USS Enterprise, the plot centers around the crew’s harrowing mission to confront the Horta, marked by an increasing tension heightened by its unseen actions. Ultimately, the narrative twist reveals no clear villain—only conflicting perspectives and communication barriers.

This episode artfully transitions from a typical sci-fi adventure into the realm of psychological thriller, showcasing the alien Horta’s unsettling appearance, which continues to elicit a sense of discomfort even among contemporary audiences. Its unpredictable rhythm makes “The Devil in the Dark”a must-watch, captivating viewers until the very last scene.

“The Devil In The Dark”Is Not Among Star Trek’s Most Celebrated Episodes Today

The Horta’s Story Is Often Overshadowed by Grander Star Trek Adventures

With a lengthy first season, followed by two additional seasons, it’s inevitable that not every episode of Star Trek: The Original Series can remain embedded in public consciousness. Despite the series’ plethora of outstanding episodes, “The Devil in the Dark”has not enjoyed the same level of visibility. There’s no denying that the competition is intense among the many compelling stories, which makes its relative obscurity less surprising—especially as it prioritizes narrative depth over frenetic action.

Top 10 Star Trek: The Original Series Episodes on IMDb
Title	Season	Episode	IMDb Score
“The City on the Edge of Forever”	1	28	9.2/10
“Mirror, Mirror”	2	4	9.0/10
“Balance of Terror”	1	14	8.8/10
“The Trouble with Tribbles”	2	15	8.8/10
“Space Seed”	1	22	8.7/10
“The Doomsday Machine”	2	6	8.7/10
“Mad Time”	2	1	8.6/10
“Journey to Babel”	2	10	8.5/10
“The Enterprise Incident”	3	2	8.4/10
“The Devil in the Dark”	1	25	8.3/10

Notably, while “The Devil in the Dark”ranks among IMDb’s top 10 episodes of Star Trek: The Original Series, with a score of 8.3/10, it remains surprisingly underrated when considering its quality and narrative depth. Each episode in the higher ranks has undeniably paved a significant path in the franchise’s legacy, which makes the underappreciation of this episode all the more striking.

“The Devil In The Dark”Continues to Influence Modern Star Trek

Star Trek Continues to Champion Themes From “The Devil in the Dark”

While episodes like “Mirror, Mirror”have garnered more fame within the Star Trek universe, “The Devil in the Dark”has subtly shaped the franchise in significant ways. Its themes and memorable moments have rippled through the series, influencing storytelling techniques in subsequent iterations and contributing to the saga’s rich narrative fabric. The complexities of morality presented in this episode have undoubtedly contributed to the evolution of the philosophical debates central to all Star Trek narratives.

Moreover, the initial misunderstanding of the Horta as simply a monstrous creature, later revealed as a grieving mother, exemplifies a narrative arc that has become a common trope within Star Trek. This theme resonates in various spinoffs where characters face moral dilemmas and character development, echoing the dynamic between Captain Kirk and his crew members.

The rift in understanding between Kirk (played by William Shatner) and Spock (portrayed by Leonard Nimoy) foreshadows future character interactions across the franchise. The ongoing complexities of relationships among Starfleet officers increasingly draw on such dramatic tensions, including those portrayed in series like Star Trek: Discovery.

Without the contributions of Star Trek: The Original Series, exemplified by episodes like “The Devil in the Dark,”the expansive Star Trek universe would lack much of its depth and richness.

Source: IMDb

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