Of that equation, though, the deep emotion is missing from Season 3 of “Strange New Worlds,” as is the mirror — even despite a character literally saying in one episode that sci-fi can make us look more closely at our own world.

On the basis of the first five episodes, Strange New Worlds' third season may turn out to be its best yet. More evolution than revolution, this reliably charming Star Trek spinoff celebrates its past while looking to the future.

Strange New Worlds Season 3 stumbles as bold ideas take a backseat to lukewarm episodes that lack character development. Read our review.