Unrealized potential

Matt’s Take on Episode 9: “Move Along Home”

Quark saves this episode for me. I like the karma of Quark entering the hot seat after cheating his visitors and his total meltdown when he has to choose which of his pieces to sacrifice. The idea that the whole thing was always a game and that nobody was in danger does make me chuckle. It undercuts the drama, sure, but it’s really amusing to think that the Wadi just neglected to make this clear at any point. 

I also enjoy the fact that, true to form, Quark seems to be thinking twice about whether to let Sisko and friends take the safe path or the dangerous, lucrative path.

The idea of Sisko and company going through challenges and proving their wit and cunning isn’t a bad one on paper, it just isn’t very well realized here. The challenges are relatively simple and don’t really pack much of a punch. 

One notable thing from the episode is that the game of Dabo really starts to play a central role in Quark’s bar and the audience gets some sense of the game’s popularity. I can’t imagine Quark’s without it!

Ultimately, the episode has some potential that isn’t realized. It could have been worse!

Return to Episode 9 Guide

Return to Jim’s Take: “Less than essential, but still fun”

Return to Rhonda’s Take: “Might be fluff, but it isn’t burnt toast”

Return to Ray’s Take: “Widely panned episode provides nuanced perspective of crew”