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Star Trek: Discovery The Final Season TV Review

star trek discovery final season review

PLOT: The fifth and final season will find Captain Burnham and the crew of the U.S.S. Discovery uncovering a mystery that will send them on an epic adventure across the galaxy to find an ancient power whose very existence has been deliberately hidden for centuries. But there are others on the hunt as well…dangerous foes who are desperate to claim the prize for themselves and will stop at nothing to get it.

REVIEW: Seven years after it relaunched the Star Trek brand, Discovery is coming to an end. In 2017, the first season of the series premiered on what was then known as CBS All Access with the first serialized narrative in the franchise’s six-decade history. While the first season took some time to warm up, the second introduced Anson Mount’s Christopher Pike and the eventual cast of the Enterprise-centric spin-off Strange New Worlds. Season three thrust Michael Burnham and her crew to the 32nd century while the fourth found solid footing in an era never before explored by any Trek series. Now, the fifth and final season of Star Trek: Discovery launches with another adventure to rescue the galaxy but with a more standalone, episodic approach. It is yet another reinvention for a series that sometimes struggled to know what type of tale it wanted to be. But, after almost a decade with these characters, it is a fitting send-off for the crew that rebooted Star Trek for a new generation.

While the fourth season had a looser vibe with the crew of Discovery settling into their new era, the fifth season picks up not long after with a similar plot premise to prior seasons of the series. Captain Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) receives a “red directive” order from Doctor Kovich (David Cronenberg) which places her crew on a mission of the highest priority. Tasked with finding an item that holds the fate of the galaxy in its grasp, Burnham and the crew run up against criminals Moll (Eve Harlow) and L’ak (Elias Toufexis). As they chase each other across the cosmos, Discovery and the thieving duo trade back and forth as they hunt for clues scattered across the reaches of space. All of these hints and puzzles eventually lead to an ancient technology that could destroy all sentient life and directly connects to a season six episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. It is a fascinating callback, and a relatively obscure one, which will please long-time Trek fans while deepening the connection between this series and the vast interconnected mythos of the entire franchise.

With their mission underway, there are splits amongst those aboard Discovery as their tenure as a cohesive crew begins to come to an end. In the four episodes made available for this review (the season comprises ten total episodes), there is an air of finality to the proceedings. While not initially announced as the final season when it entered production, many characters make choices that will decide their future paths. Saru (Doug Jones) is contemplating leaving for a romantic relationship that began the prior season. Tilly (Mary Wiseman) has an offer to teach new cadets and Stamets (Anthony Rapp) faces the end of his spore drive technology and what it means for his legacy as a scientist. There are also new additions to the cast, notably Callum Keith Rennie as Captain Rayner. Rennie, a long-time character actor, is a gruff foil for Burnham who echoes the personality and demeanor of Jason Isaacs’ first-season character Gabriel Lorca. Rennie and Burnham become reluctant allies as they team up this season. Rennie’s presence as Rayner allows for some mild shake-up of the crew dynamic and instills the message again of how close this crew has gotten over their time working together.

Star Trek Discovery

Star Trek: Discovery relied on a heavily serialized story over the first four seasons, something that all three seasons of Picard emulated. Strange New Worlds took on a more standalone, episodic story structure which allowed the episodes to be viewable as individual hours as well as connected by an over-arching narrative. The final season of Discovery still has a main narrative that flows through the episodes, but the plots are much more contained and allow for each chapter to work as a story with a beginning, middle, and end while also contributing towards the closure coming at the end. Since this season did not start as the final entry, the early episodes feel like business as usual. Moll and L’ak are far from the menacing villains of prior seasons which does take away from some of the stakes in the story. Same for the contained episodes which do not feel as immediate as earlier seasons of the series. As much as I have enjoyed Discovery as a change of pace from other Star Trek entries, it continues to feel a bit repetitive in the notes it keeps hitting.

The final season brings back showrunners Alex Kurtzman and Michelle Paradise. While Kurtzman previously said there were multiple seasons of potential stories for Discovery, this final run comes as the era of streaming seems to be contracting. That may be because Kurtzman has no credits on any episodes this season while Paradise wrote the premiere and co-wrote the series finale with Kyle Jarrow. Veteran directors Lee Rose and Jonathan Frakes return from prior seasons while Olatunde Osunsanmi opens and closes the season as helmer. The special effects continue to be of the highest caliber and the familiarity of Discovery’s ship tends to play against its freshness. This season feels like a continuation of what has come before it rather than a reinvention. That is not to say that it is remotely bad, but it feels underwhelming as far as final seasons go. As just the fifth season of Star Trek: Discovery, these first four episodes have the energy and momentum of a show that knows itself and is coasting along. Had there been an announcement that the subsequent season would be the last, I may feel differently about this year of Star Trek: Discovery. My opinion may also change once I see how this narrative will wrap up.

Star Trek: Discovery is a series that struggled to know what it wanted to be over five seasons. From Bryan Fuller to Alex Kurtzman, the 23rd century to the 32nd, this series has been a mix of themes, tones, ideas, and storytelling approaches that worked more often than it did not. With Sonequa Martin-Green as a fascinating lead character and an ensemble cast as interesting as any ship in all of Star Trek, Discovery has earned its place in Gene Roddenberry’s ever-expanding franchise. There is nothing wrong with this season but it could have been so much more had Paramount given the series the chance to develop a final season naturally rather than tacking on an ending to an already in-flight run of episodes. Star Trek: Discovery ends with a season that is fun to watch but lacks the immediacy that a final season deserves. I will reserve final judgment until I have seen the second half of the season but I can say the first half is a fun partial refresh of a series that still seems to be unsure of what it wants to be.

Star Trek: Discovery premieres its final season with two episodes on April 4th on Paramount+.

Star Trek Discovery

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The post Star Trek: Discovery The Final Season TV Review appeared first on JoBlo.

By: Alex Maidy
Title: Star Trek: Discovery The Final Season TV Review
Sourced From: www.joblo.com/star-trek-discovery-the-final-season-tv-review/
Published Date: Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:15:25 +0000

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I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool

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A side-by-side image of a person grinding a dog's nail using the Dremel grinder and the grinder laid on a wood surface.The Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit includes everything you need to grind a dog's nails.

Jackie Brown; Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Trimming your dog's nails is an essential part of routine pet care, but it can be intimidating for many dog owners. If you're worried you'll accidentally hurt your dog while cutting their nails, you can always take them to the vet or groomer to get the job done. Using a dog nail grinder at home is also an excellent alternative that can save you plenty of time and money.

As a former veterinary assistant who has trimmed thousands of dogs' nails, I know that not all nail grinders are the same. Some are designed for use by professional groomers who are comfortable and familiar with using them safely. However, most people benefit from extra safety features, and that's why I love the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit. The Dremel nail grinder is not only effective and user-friendly, but it also has a guard that protects you and your dog from the spinning parts.

How it works

Nail grinders are a great option for most dogs, including those with very thick nails. They're particularly useful for dogs with black nails that don't have a visible quick, which is the vein inside of each nail. Plus, dogs that are anxious about having their nails trimmed with regular clippers may be more willing to accept a nail grinder.

The Dremel PawControl Kit includes everything you need to gently and easily grind down your dog's nails, including an optional guard attachment along with a variety of sanding bands and discs. The guard provides a barrier between the spinning parts of the tool so nothing can get caught up in them.

I personally preferred using the sanding disc, which the manufacturer recommends for beginner users. You insert your dog's nail through the opening in the clear guard attachment, which is designed to ensure you are grinding the nail at the ideal 45-degree angle.

Our review of the Dremel dog nail grinder

I first used the Dremel PawControl when I was testing grinders for our guide to the best dog nail clippers. I tried four different nail-grinding tools on two dogs with different-sized nails.

The Dremel PawControl stands out for several reasons. It's lightweight, gentle, and quiet, and offers four speed settings so you can select the one that's most comfortable for you and your dog. Designed for pet owners, it's easy to use and comes with various grinding attachments for flexibility. Plus, the guard attachment offers added peace of mind so you can focus on the task at hand.

A close-up image of the safety guard on the Dremel dog nail grinder.The removable nail guard attachment is recommended for new users.

Jackie Brown/Business Insider

Dremel is renowned for its high-quality rotary tools for tasks like cutting, sanding, and engraving. The PawControl should last many years and can even be used for tasks beyond nail grinding. While the grinding heads will need occasional replacement, the included ones should last for several years of use with your dog. It's also powered by a USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery, allowing you to use it anywhere without the hassle of a cord getting in your way while you work.

Nail grinders have a definite learning curve, but this one comes with an easy-to-follow Quick Start Guide that walks you through the entire process. It explains which attachments and grinding speeds are best for beginners and offers tips for getting your dog comfortable with the tool.

The Dremel PawControl Quick Start Guide has text and diagrams showing how to introduce a dog to the nail grinder.If you're new to nail grinding, the Quick Start Guide provides clear directions and helpful illustrations.

Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Cons to consider

The guard attachment enhances safety, but its single opening for inserting your dog's nail can limit maneuverability. However, you can always remove the guard attachment if you feel confident in your skills. Since this grinder is cordless, you'll need to remember to charge it before use.

The bottom line

If you're looking for a pet nail grinder, the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit is an excellent choice, especially if you're new to using these tools. It's effective, gentle, quiet, lightweight, and cordless, and thanks to the guard attachments, its safety is unparalleled.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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By: [email protected] (Jackie Brown)
Title: I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/dremel-dog-nail-grinder-review
Published Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:22:20 +0000

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An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list

There is a yellow background and three small white figurines in business suits, with a large handheld magnifying glass centered on the middle figure.Chris Williams, ex-Microsoft VP of HR, wrote that being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like DOGE's "five bullet points" requested email.

sakchai vongsasiripat/Getty Images

  • Chris Williams is an ex-VP of HR at Microsoft and has over 40 years of executive experience.
  • Williams said being visible can help workers avoid DOGE-like emails requesting accomplishments.
  • He shared how to track accomplishments, get recognized, and know when to help out at work.

The "five things you did last week" email that DOGE sent to all federal workers has raised an important question for employees everywhere. How do you stay on your boss's radar in a positive way?

Simply put, if your boss already knew what you were up to, they wouldn't need to send an email like that. As the former VP of HR for Microsoft with 40 years of business leadership experience, I've seen a lot of people who know how to stay visible.

Being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like the "five bullet points" request and makes performance reviews easier for both you and your boss. It helps you avoid being labeled an underperformer when cuts are considered and it can help you be more top of mind when opportunities arise — it's a great way to "manage up."

Here are three ways to help you stay visible to your boss and reduce your chances of being laid off.

You should always track your accomplishments at work

It doesn't matter if your boss sends an intrusive status report request like "send five bullet points from last week" or a simple "Hey, what's up?" inquiry; you should always be ready to talk about what you've been up to.

That's why you should track your accomplishments. There are many ways to do this. Some people keep a "brag book," a simple document where they list the significant things they've done. Others use a notes application or even a complex database.

For years I kept a simple four-column spreadsheet

My spreadsheet had columns labeled: Date, Item, Significance, and Notes. Every day, or at worst, every week, I'd add a couple of rows to the sheet. I'd insert the date and a phrase for the item — just enough to remind me what it was.

In the significance column, I'd put a number to represent how important the item felt at the time, with "5" being the highest. In notes, I'd add a comment or even a link to the project or document.

Then whenever I wanted, I could sort by significance and date and get the most important things from the last month, week, or year. When bosses requested a progress report, I was always ready to respond: "I'm glad you asked."

The best way to ensure this happens is to make it a habit. Spend two minutes updating your list at the end of every day. This also helps at performance review time, where you'll inevitably need to report on your accomplishments for the year.

Don't be shy to take credit where due

Another important way to stay visible is to ensure you take credit when you deserve it. Too many people get shy or humble at work and let others grab the limelight.

Work is not a place for excessive humility. The forever humble, the "I'm just doing my job" kind of people are often overlooked. They're just doing their jobs, after all. If you want to be seen, you have to be visible. Don't be afraid to take credit for your accomplishments.

Ways to make sure you get credit for your work

Insist your name appears on that proposal or presentation. Don't be afraid to put your name under the title of that document. Don't be shy about answering "That was me" when someone asks about a great idea.

Also, don't let others steal your work without objection — even if you lose a battle for representation. For example, when your boss takes the credit, putting them on notice helps for the next time. If you simply let people take credit for your work, they'll never stop.

Raise your hand and help out

A final way to stay visible is to not shrink into a corner when the boss needs help. When the call comes for volunteers, raise your hand.

One of the best ways to stay on your boss's good side is to help them get their job done. The best way to do that is to do things they don't want or have time to do. Just being able to say, "Don't worry, I'll handle that," means a lot.

But it's often hard to know what they need help with. You don't do their job, so it's a challenge to understand where you can jump in. When they explicitly ask, that's where you can most certainly be useful.

Know when to volunteer and when to sit back

You don't have to raise your hand all the time. You don't have to answer your boss's every whim. You shouldn't stretch yourself beyond your limits just to be in their good graces.

But you should also not be the one who never volunteers. Your boss will notice that you never pitch in or lend a hand to your peers. That's how you stay on your boss's radar in the worst possible way.

Essentially, if you track your performance, take credit where due, and learn when to help out, you'll never be blindsided by the "five things you did last week" request because both you and your boss will already know. These are three great ways to increase visibility at work.

Chris Williams is a former VP of HR at Microsoft. He's an executive-level advisor and consultant with over 40 years of experience leading and building teams.

Read the original article on Business Insider

——————————————-
By: [email protected] (Chris Williams )
Title: An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/how-to-stay-on-boss-radar-off-layoff-list-2025-3
Published Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:07:01 +0000

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AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

The notion of “AI Regulation is Dead” is misleading; instead, AI governance is gaining momentum with more structured and stringent guidelines emerging worldwide. For marketers to thrive in this evolving landscape, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. This article explores how marketers can navigate new regulations and employ AI responsibly to maintain trust and competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

– AI regulation is rapidly evolving with comprehensive frameworks like the EU’s AI Act.
– Marketers must focus on transparent and ethical use of AI in campaigns.
– Adapting to regulatory changes is critical for maintaining customer trust and compliance.

The Rise of AI Governance

AI governance is swiftly advancing, with frameworks such as the EU’s AI Act setting the stage for stringent regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, safeguarding user privacy and data security. Marketers must remain vigilant and proactive in understanding these regulations, aligning their AI-driven strategies accordingly. As regulators worldwide continue to focus on AI implications, following these laws will be pivotal to navigating the global digital economy.

The Importance of Transparency in AI Campaigns

Transparency is becoming a cornerstone of AI regulation. Marketers are expected to clearly disclose data sources and algorithmic decision-making processes in their AI-driven campaigns. By being transparent, marketers can not only comply with regulations but also build trust with consumers. This includes providing customers with clarity on how their data is used and offering them control over their personal information. Such practices are not just regulatory requirements but also key to fostering long-term customer relationships.

Ethical AI: Investing in Responsible Practices

Investing in ethical AI practices is more crucial than ever. Marketers should engage in industry-wide discussions to set standards for responsible AI use. This involves creating AI systems that are fair, unbiased, and respectful of user privacy. Ethical AI practices can enhance brand reputation while preventing potential legal issues. By prioritizing ethics, marketers can contribute to sustainable and responsible AI advancements, benefiting both their businesses and the broader society.

Leveraging AI Responsibly for Enhanced Customer Experiences

AI, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance customer experiences. It offers personalized, efficient, and innovative solutions that meet consumer needs while respecting their privacy. Marketers should leverage AI tools that align with ethical standards, safeguarding personal data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. By doing so, AI can help marketers deliver superior customer service without compromising trust and legal integrity.

Recap

As AI regulation continues to evolve, marketers must adapt by embracing transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. These steps are essential for maintaining trust and competitiveness in a digital marketplace increasingly governed by AI laws. What specific strategies will you implement to ensure transparency in your AI campaigns and align with emerging regulations?

——————————————-
By: Phil Alvarez
Title: AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know
Sourced From: www.advertisemint.com/ai-regulation-isnt-over-its-evolving/
Published Date: Sun, 23 Feb 2025 16:37:39 +0000

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