What We Left Behind: Looking Back at Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

What We Left Behind: Looking Back at Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is a captivating documentary-style film that celebrates the legacy of the Star Trek franchise's third TV series, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (DS9). The film brings to life a vivid exploration of a program that has long been considered a dark horse of the franchise. Directed by Ira Steven Behr and David Zappone, the film stars TV series alumni Avery Brooks and Terry Farrell, along with the rest of the main cast and crew members, all sharing their experiences and the lasting impact of the series on contemporary science fiction narratives.

The documentary is largely structured around the series' showrunner, Behr, as he reunites the show’s original writers for a hypothetical 'eighth season' writers' room. As the writers start brainstorming plot threads and character arcs, viewers are taken on an exciting voyage of what might have been had DS9 continued. It cleverly echoes the creativity and intricate storytelling that characterized DS9, famed for breaking new grounds and boldly venturing where Star Trek had not gone before.

Stellar performances by Avery Brooks, who played Commander Benjamin Sisko, and Terry Farrell, who portrayed Lieutenant Commander Jadzia Dax, bring their charisma and recollections to the film. We delve into the personal and professional journeys of this ensemble cast, reiterating why they are some of the most complex and compelling characters in the Star Trek universe.

The film offers intriguing behind-the-scenes peeks into the production process, ranging from touching tales of camaraderie to less rosy descriptions of creative conflicts. Yet throughout it all, the creators' love for the Star Trek universe shines through. This includes intimate interviews that explore the rich tapestry of diversity and social commentary that was a hallmark of DS9, helping it stay relevant and influential up to this day.

What We Left Behind: Looking Back at Star Trek: Deep Space Nine also digs deep into the series' more controversial elements, such as its serialized storytelling, a departure from the episodic nature of its predecessors. It’s an honest exploration of how this creative decision impacted the show, and set it apart from its contemporaries.

Aside from the insightful interviews and discussions, the film stands out for its unique presentation. It contrasts the cast's reflections with remastered HD footage from the original series, painting a vibrant and engaging picture of DS9's world. The film also employs animated sequences to visually represent potential story developments, adding an extra layer of dynamism and charm to this trip down memory lane.

Also noteworthy is the role fans play in the documentary. Its creation was crowd-funded by ardent devotees of DS9 across the world, underlining the deep affection held for this series. Furthermore, the film features numerous fan contributions, making it not just a tribute by the creators, but also a heartfelt homage from its dedicated fanbase.

In its essence, What We Left Behind: Looking Back at Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is far more than a simple retrospective. It’s an exploration of the series' profound impact, its enduring legacy, and its significance in today's cultural discourse. It reassures fans that, while the series may have ended on the television screen, the conversations it ignited continue to flourish.

The film does not shy away from addressing the challenges, criticisms, and the sometimes turbulent journey of DS9. Yet, it celebrates its victories with the same degree of honesty, providing a balanced and compelling reflection of a beloved piece of Star Trek history. For diehard fans, it’s a nostalgic journey filled with familiar faces and stories. For newcomers, it serves as a thoughtful introduction to a Star Trek series that defied boundaries and exceeded expectations.