This was one strange episode that made little sense. Um, why would contact between a single matter object (in this case, the 'evil' Lazarus from the positive universe) with a single antimatter object (in this case, the 'good' Lazarus from the parallel, negative universe) result in the destruction of two universes (or even one)? Wouldn't it just result in the destruction of the two objects? Much nonsense in this episode, like talks about a "negative magnetic corridor" and an "alternative space warp." Inexplicable scenes of combat between the two Lazari are interspersed throughout the episode.
But despite all of these problems, I still find the ending to be remarkably affecting. The "good" Lazarus makes the ultimate sacrifice-- and I do mean ultimate! He is willing to be trapped in mortal combat with his double for all eternity, as a "small price to pay" for two universes. Sheesh, I seriously doubt that most people would not consider that to be "too high a price to pay"-- I think most people would figure, the heck with it, just let the universes be destroyed rather than to suffer like that! Kirk seems deeply impressed by the sacrifice (as well he should be).
Great ending dialogue between Kirk and Spock-- "There is of course, no escape for them, sir... There is of course, no escape... The universe is safe, Captain. ... For you and me. But what of Lazarus? What of Lazarus?" For the hauntingly memorable ending, alone, I consider this a cool episode, but the rest of it is, well, silly nonsense.
But despite all of these problems, I still find the ending to be remarkably affecting. The "good" Lazarus makes the ultimate sacrifice-- and I do mean ultimate! He is willing to be trapped in mortal combat with his double for all eternity, as a "small price to pay" for two universes. Sheesh, I seriously doubt that most people would not consider that to be "too high a price to pay"-- I think most people would figure, the heck with it, just let the universes be destroyed rather than to suffer like that! Kirk seems deeply impressed by the sacrifice (as well he should be).
Great ending dialogue between Kirk and Spock-- "There is of course, no escape for them, sir... There is of course, no escape... The universe is safe, Captain. ... For you and me. But what of Lazarus? What of Lazarus?" For the hauntingly memorable ending, alone, I consider this a cool episode, but the rest of it is, well, silly nonsense.