Since almost its very inception, Star Trek has had a negative attitude towards those who out-rank the almighty captain. Typically portrayed as blandly forgettable exposition machines (when they're not acting as duplicitous villains), Starfleet admirals rarely ever receive the quality of creative attention and care that goes into writing the show's countless compelling heroes, bad guys, civilians and aliens. But why? This week hosts Cam Smith and Tyler Orton shine a spotlight on the franchise's least compelling figures in order to understand their storytelling limitations, and determine whether their shoddy treatment exposes a serious crack in Roddenberry's futuristic utopia. Along the way, the duo also tackle rare stand-outs like the formidable Alynna Nechayev, Into Darkness turncoat Alexander Marcus and The Pegasus's scheming Erik Pressman, as well as decide which series captains most make sense climbing up to the next rung on the career ladder. Right-click to download. Read more »