The Enemy Within (S01E04)
Airdate: October 6th 1966
Written by: Richard Matheson
Directed by: Leo Penn
Running Time: 43 minutes
One of the least appreciated ingredients contributing to the initial success of Star Trek is the quality of acting displayed by its cast. Today’s “trekkies” often take for granted the stardom of actors like William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy, but during the early days of the franchise, audiences were not yet enamoured with these performers. They needed to be wooed by their talent, and one episode that exemplifies this is The Enemy Within. This episode not only showcases Shatner’s remarkable range but also sets a high standard for character portrayal in science fiction television.
The plot of The Enemy Within is set in the retroactively designated year of 2266 and revolves around the unintended consequences of a survey mission on planet Alpha 177. A geological technician named Fisher, portrayed by Edward Madden, inadvertently brings back a yellow ore that contaminates the transporter. This malfunction results in Captain Kirk being split into two distinct individuals who are identical in appearance but polar opposites in character: the composed and rational “Good” Kirk and the erratic and malevolent Negative Kirk. The latter begins to misuse his authority, culminating in a disturbing attempt to sexually assault Yeoman Janice Rand. Fortunately, Spock and McCoy deduce the nature of the problem and work towards stopping Negative Kirk; however, Positive Kirk believes he requires his darker counterpart to function effectively as captain. The resolution involves using the transporter again in hopes of merging the two Kirks back into one entity. Meanwhile, Scotty faces technical challenges while the away team, including Sulu, risks freezing to death on Alpha 177.
The Enemy Within is notable as the first episode to feature a duplicate of Captain Kirk, a theme that recurs throughout Star Trek. This premise provides William Shatner with an excellent opportunity to demonstrate his acting prowess by portraying both sides of Kirk's personality. He navigates this dual role with finesse; Negative Kirk allows Shatner to indulge in some theatricality—characteristics that many fans find delightful. Director Leo Penn employs clever techniques such as varied camera angles and strategic lighting to help viewers easily distinguish between the two Kirks. The use of simple special effects, including split screens, is executed with impressive skill, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing it.
The script, written by Richard Matheson—a celebrated author of speculative fiction—draws inspiration from Robert Louis Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Matheson explores profound themes regarding the duality of human nature, suggesting that both positive and negative aspects are integral to one's identity. This exploration highlights a fundamental truth: every individual possesses a darker side that must coexist with their more virtuous traits.
However, this intriguing concept is somewhat undermined by an unnecessarily melodramatic subplot involving Sulu and his crew being stranded on a frozen planet. While this subplot adds tension, it detracts from the main narrative's focus on Kirk's internal struggle. It also creates a plot hole due to the apparent absence of Enterprise’s shuttles that could have been used for rescue as an alternative. The shuttle issue likely arose from canon not being properly established this early in the series.
Additionally, the presence of a canine animal on Alpha 177, which plays a role in the plot, feels somewhat dated, serving as a reminder of the episode's 1960s production era. The animal's "cuteness" factor may strike modern viewers as overly sentimental and nostalgic.
Another element that may strike modern viewers as outdated—especially those with politically correct sensibilities—is Spock’s insensitive remark directed at Rand following her traumatic encounter with Negative Kirk. While Spock’s intent may have been to lighten a tense moment, his comment comes across as dismissive in light of Rand's experience.
Despite these criticisms, The Enemy Within remains a compelling episode that encapsulates what made Star Trek special during its original run.
RATING: 7/10 (+++)
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I've seen this episode a number of times, most recently in late 2022. It's definitely an example of William Shatner's versatility as an actor. Throughout the run of the classic series his acting was terrific, just what the situation demanded. It was during the movie era when he had become a caricature of himself on the way to pop culture popularity.
Compared to the sequel series starting with Star Trek: The Next Generation right through the streaming series of today, Star Trek is virtually Shakespearean in its sparse use of stage sets and its character interactions.
Regarding Spock's treatment of Yeoman Rand when she reported her encounter with Other Captain Kirk, we have to keep in mind that it was only Episode 4 of Season 1. Spock's character was still being crafted or finalized. It was later in the series we discover that he is half-Vulcan and half-Human, and that made it possible to write nuanced Spock stories going forward. At the time of S01E04, though, we just knew him merely as an alien who was cold toward his shipmates, even if he had empathy toward them.