First thing to really impress me about ST:TOS

Let me be clear: I do like TOS in the context of the 60's, but I still prefer more recent Star Trek, except in this.

First glimpse of the Romulans and they really are VERY Roman. And that is something I want to see in a space context, because I'm used to warlike races that are more vicious or fierce or war-obsessed than noble. Most of the evil empires I've seen are German-based, some America-based, a few Japan-based. And of course, Egypt based.

I could use a change.

Also I like Romans.

Of course, it doesn't hurt that the commander reminds me vaguely of Laurence Olivier in Spartacus. Crassus was a MARVELOUS opponent.

I LIKE this episode. A lot.

"All debris into the disposal tubes. The body of the centurion, too. ...Forgive me, my old friend. But I must use all my experience now, to get home."

Oh god, it was to simulate the breakup of the ship! I love this episode! The physics is good, and the strategy is top-notch!

I do find it hilarious that they whisper when they shut down their engines and run silent, as if it could make a difference in space. But the human mind is like that, behaving stealthy even when it makes no difference.

Oh my god, the nuclear warhead! It made all the electronics go out, like an EMP! Like it's supposed to! The director could have gone for fires and things but they did an EMP instead!

Oh and how they milk the Vulcan-Romulan relationship in the Romulan captain's last words: "I regret that we meet in this way. You and I are of a kind. In a different reality, we could be friends."

Ohh, the ending made me cry. There is no comfort in not even being a widow.