Ep 4. The Escape Artist

The fourth episode of the first season of Star Trek: Short Treks, titled "The Escape Artist," follows the adventures of Harry Mudd, a conman and rogue smuggler known to fans of the Original Series and Discovery. Played with gleeful villainy by Rainn Wilson, Mudd proves to be just as entertaining in his solo outing as he was in his previous appearances.

The episode opens with Mudd, who is on the run from authorities, being captured and brought aboard a Federation starship. Once there, he spins a tale of being falsely accused and pleads for the crew's help in proving his innocence. However, it quickly becomes clear that Mudd's motives are anything but pure, as he manages to escape his cell and make his way to the ship's computer core.

What follows is a clever heist story, as Mudd uses his wits and charm (not to mention a few well-placed insults) to outsmart the ship's crew and steal a valuable piece of technology. Along the way, we learn more about Mudd's colorful backstory, including his ex-wives, his propensity for getting into trouble, and his deep-seated desire for revenge against anyone who has ever wronged him.

Despite the episode's shorter runtime, "The Escape Artist" manages to pack in plenty of action, humor, and character development. Wilson's performance as Mudd is a highlight, as he effortlessly slips back into the role and reminds us why he's one of Star Trek's most memorable villains. The episode also features some clever nods to established Trek lore, including a cameo from a familiar species and a reference to a beloved ship from The Original Series.

Overall, "The Escape Artist" is a fun and engaging episode that proves that even the show's minor characters can hold their own in a solo adventure. Whether you're a long-time fan of Star Trek or just looking for a sci-fi caper to pass the time, there's plenty to enjoy here.