7 best episodes from the original Star Trek series

3. “Mirror, Mirror” (Season 2, Episode 4)

“Mirror, Mirror” puts you in a world where everything you know is flipped upside down – which is exactly what Captain Kirk and his crew experience when they’re accidentally transported to a parallel universe.

In this alternate reality, the Federation is replaced by the ruthless Terran Empire, and our familiar heroes find themselves face-to-face with their own creepy doppelgangers. It’s like looking into a twisted mirror, where Spock sports a really weird yet perfectly fitting goatee symbolizing his dark counterpart, and the usually disciplined Enterprise is a vessel of chaos. This episode is full of intrigue and suspense, as Kirk and his team must navigate this aggressive world, trying to find their way back home without blowing their cover.

“Mirror, Mirror” stands out because it masterfully combines the thrill of a “what if?” scenario with deep moral questions. It’s a wild ride seeing our noble characters dealing with their aggressive counterparts, providing a stark contrast and a look at the nature of identity and morality.

The episode brilliantly showcases how environment and circumstance can shape a person’s character. Its lasting impact is evident, as the concept of the “Mirror Universe” became a recurring theme in various Star Trek series, captivating audiences with its exploration of an alternate reality where familiar faces take on completely different roles.