Watch this episode for Tony Todd's performance. Yes, it's a great story but, wow, he would've been an excellent regular. For me, a devoted trekee, Todd's portrayal is in line with Ronny Cox as captain: full throttle.
Tony Todd gets it.
One of my favorite episodes.
17 Reviews
The right stuff as a Klingon
bkoganbing3 April 2018
In this TNG story a Klingon officer Tony Todd takes Commander Riker's place as
Executive Officer on the Enterprise as part of a Klingon/Human exchange program. He's as rough as a Klingon could be on the rest of the crew, but he's
going out of his way to test Lieutenant Worf.
The reason becomes clear, Todd is Michael Dorn's long lost brother and the memory of dad is being challenged as dad is being called a traitor in a twenty year old action with the Romulans. As the eldest son Worf has to answer the challenge at the Klingon High Council. As his second Worf chooses Captain Picard.
This is an episode for Michael Dorn to shine and he does. As for the issue of treason, it's decided for the good of the empire that a Liberty Valance type ending is given this episode. But the story would have ramifications for the rest of the run of TNG.
The reason becomes clear, Todd is Michael Dorn's long lost brother and the memory of dad is being challenged as dad is being called a traitor in a twenty year old action with the Romulans. As the eldest son Worf has to answer the challenge at the Klingon High Council. As his second Worf chooses Captain Picard.
This is an episode for Michael Dorn to shine and he does. As for the issue of treason, it's decided for the good of the empire that a Liberty Valance type ending is given this episode. But the story would have ramifications for the rest of the run of TNG.
Kurn's killing it.
thevacinstaller18 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Well, another review bestowing the virtues of Tony Todd as Kurn. Tony Todd is one of those guest stars who absolutely crushes every scene and piece of dialogue he is given. All of the main actors in this episode are in fine form as well but Todd steals the show.
I have always maintained that Worf is a Klingon romantic. He's basically a Klingon who has read Klingon novels that portray the Klingon's as a truly honorable and courageous people. The reality we experience is a compromised society controlled and bended to the will of those with political power.
Nice to see Picard going the extra mile for Worf. I can't honestly remember the two of them bonding before this? I believe Worf has some bro-times with Riker though. Well, anyhow. This is what a good captain does for a loyal crew member.
This is the first part of our Worf political drama TNG mini series. This is a good start.
Oh.... Why in the name of Sisko did trek never cast Tony Todd as a permanent crew member in another series? This guy just has the right stuff, he's like a 6ft4 version of Jeffery Combs in the talent department.
I have always maintained that Worf is a Klingon romantic. He's basically a Klingon who has read Klingon novels that portray the Klingon's as a truly honorable and courageous people. The reality we experience is a compromised society controlled and bended to the will of those with political power.
Nice to see Picard going the extra mile for Worf. I can't honestly remember the two of them bonding before this? I believe Worf has some bro-times with Riker though. Well, anyhow. This is what a good captain does for a loyal crew member.
This is the first part of our Worf political drama TNG mini series. This is a good start.
Oh.... Why in the name of Sisko did trek never cast Tony Todd as a permanent crew member in another series? This guy just has the right stuff, he's like a 6ft4 version of Jeffery Combs in the talent department.
Trivia
drew-deighan25 May 2007
The initial screenplay did not contain the character Kurn, who was added later as a compromise. The original script had the Enterprise being lured to an ambush by three Klingon ships loyal to Duras. The idea for the script came from the fact that Star Trek archivist, Richard Arnold, was a descendant of Benedict Arnold. Richard Arnold had told me that while Benedict Arnold became a general in the British Army, his sons were never allow to join for the simple reason that their father was a known traitor and it was feared they would be also. "Sins..." was the first script to take place (in part) on the Klingon's home-world, Klinga. It is also the only episode of any of the various Star Trek series to win an Emmy and was one of Ron D. ("Battlestar Galactica") Moore's first staff assignments for ST:TNG. At the time, I thought he did a great job. In hindsight, I probably couldn't have hoped for anyone better to do the re-write.
Commander Kurn
gritfrombray-12 March 2007
Warning: Spoilers
It was in this shows Third Season that it really drew my attention. The first two were good, but character development really began to happen in this one. Worf was always a good character, but was a little too in the background for most episodes. This one gave him some real meat to chew.A Klingon is assigned on the officer exchange program and is later revealed to be Worf's younger brother. He reveals his reason for being there and Worf listens in earnest as Kurn reveals their father has been accused of treason and the show really picks up there. Picard stands by Worf and accompanies him to the Klingon Empire to defend his family name in one of the most interesting Klingon oriented shows of the entire series. A fascinating insight into how the Klingon judicial system works too. Picard's decision to stand by Worf and how the crew banded together was very reminiscent of Star Trek III the Search For Spock in the way the crew stuck together. Casting for this was brilliant also. Tony Todd was wonderful as Kurn and Charles Cooper, Patrick Masset and Thelma Lee were all excellent in their respective roles. This story was later continued through the Fourth Season and into Season Five
The Klingon Empire and its beloved sense of honor....
planktonrules16 November 2014
Warning: Spoilers
'I never kill anyone at the supper table...'--Commander Kurn
When the episode begins, there is another exchange between the Klingon and Federation. In this case, the Klingon, Kurn, is now acting commander. Kurn is very strict and disliked by the crew but things are worst for Worf, as Kurn is extremely nice to him--an obvious insult to a Klingon! Eventually, Worf has had enough and he's ready to rip Kurn's head off--at which point you learn that Kurn was testing him to see if he was indeed a Klingon in spirit. This is because Kurn is actually Worf's brother--and the pair have a huge task ahead of them. It seems that their father was recently blamed for the attack, long ago, on Kitimer and it's up to the family honor for the pair to go before the Klingon High Council and restore his honor...or die trying.
I really enjoyed this episode because it gave wonderful insights into just how dishonorable and dysfunctional the Klingons could be. Their inflated sense of honor is actually just a ruse and Worf's love of everything Klingon is certainly put to the test. Additionally, it was very nice to see Picard act at Worf's second--a very touching scene. Overall, while this plot unfolds very slowly over several episodes, it is exceptional and among the better stories in season three.
When the episode begins, there is another exchange between the Klingon and Federation. In this case, the Klingon, Kurn, is now acting commander. Kurn is very strict and disliked by the crew but things are worst for Worf, as Kurn is extremely nice to him--an obvious insult to a Klingon! Eventually, Worf has had enough and he's ready to rip Kurn's head off--at which point you learn that Kurn was testing him to see if he was indeed a Klingon in spirit. This is because Kurn is actually Worf's brother--and the pair have a huge task ahead of them. It seems that their father was recently blamed for the attack, long ago, on Kitimer and it's up to the family honor for the pair to go before the Klingon High Council and restore his honor...or die trying.
I really enjoyed this episode because it gave wonderful insights into just how dishonorable and dysfunctional the Klingons could be. Their inflated sense of honor is actually just a ruse and Worf's love of everything Klingon is certainly put to the test. Additionally, it was very nice to see Picard act at Worf's second--a very touching scene. Overall, while this plot unfolds very slowly over several episodes, it is exceptional and among the better stories in season three.
Most honor bound stng
danielshumway16 January 2019
If you really believe in the honor of the Klingon Empire at its hard and if you really trust and care about the Star Trek next Generation Enterprise Captain Picard you will realize this episode is one of the most touching moving amazing episodes ever!
The cha'DIch will be silent
snoozejonc22 June 2021
Enterprise takes a Klingon first officer on board as part of the exchange program, but it has major implications for Worf.
This is a highly enjoyable episode that further develops the Klingon culture through the character of Worf.
The plot is very interestingly structured as it starts of by presenting a 'Captain Queeg' type situation before it flies off in an unexpected direction and kicks off a big series arc.
Central to this is Worf, who leads the episode with his most compelling screen time of the show so far and participates in scenes that give insight into the Klingon culture. His characterisation along with the writing of all the Klingon characters and society contains some highly imaginative detail.
Captain Picard has a strong episode and not only portrays great devotion and loyalty to his crew member but gives an important contribution to a main plot line.
The visuals are excellent with a number of great scenes on Qo'Nos that have well designed sets, nice cinematography with atmospheric lighting.
All performances are excellent with Michael Dorn, Tony Todd and the Klingon cast all on great form. Patrick Stewart is also superb as ever.
This is an 8.5/10 for me but I round upwards.
This is a highly enjoyable episode that further develops the Klingon culture through the character of Worf.
The plot is very interestingly structured as it starts of by presenting a 'Captain Queeg' type situation before it flies off in an unexpected direction and kicks off a big series arc.
Central to this is Worf, who leads the episode with his most compelling screen time of the show so far and participates in scenes that give insight into the Klingon culture. His characterisation along with the writing of all the Klingon characters and society contains some highly imaginative detail.
Captain Picard has a strong episode and not only portrays great devotion and loyalty to his crew member but gives an important contribution to a main plot line.
The visuals are excellent with a number of great scenes on Qo'Nos that have well designed sets, nice cinematography with atmospheric lighting.
All performances are excellent with Michael Dorn, Tony Todd and the Klingon cast all on great form. Patrick Stewart is also superb as ever.
This is an 8.5/10 for me but I round upwards.
Worf Gets the Cold Shoulder
Samuel-Shovel16 October 2019
Warning: Spoilers
In "Sins of the Father" the Enterprise takes part in another officer exchange program. This time it's a Klingon coming aboard as acting first officer. There's a big culture clash between the Star Fleet crew and this new arrival. Surprisingly the most animosity is between this new Klingon Kurn and Worf. But it is soon revealed to Worf and the audience that this has all been a test and Kurn is Worf's little brother. Their father has been recently disgraced by the Klingon high council and blamed for the slaughter that killed Worf's parents. The two Klingons dad is now labeled as a traitor. Worf must go to Qo'noS and clear his father's name at any cost.
This has been the best Worf-centric episode we've received thus far. He's a Klingon with a bit of an optimistic view on Klingon culture (as he's mostly viewed it from afar) and this episode changes that a bit. He realizes that honor only matters when it's convenient. Here his brother and him are up against the upper class who are able to dictate the narrative of past history.
Even so, Worf sacrifices himself for the Empire. With his excommunication, Worf is no longer welcome here. The final scene of all the Klingons ceremonially turning their back on our favorite security officer is absolutely brutual and one of the most powerful scenes in the show's history.
This has been the best Worf-centric episode we've received thus far. He's a Klingon with a bit of an optimistic view on Klingon culture (as he's mostly viewed it from afar) and this episode changes that a bit. He realizes that honor only matters when it's convenient. Here his brother and him are up against the upper class who are able to dictate the narrative of past history.
Even so, Worf sacrifices himself for the Empire. With his excommunication, Worf is no longer welcome here. The final scene of all the Klingons ceremonially turning their back on our favorite security officer is absolutely brutual and one of the most powerful scenes in the show's history.
How Did the Klingons Evolve?
Hitchcoc17 August 2014
Warning: Spoilers
In a previous episode, Riker joined a Klingon vessel as second in command, granted all the privileges he would receive on the Enterprise. Now a Klingon officer comes on board the Enterprise and demands that the crew fall into line in the ways of the Klingons. Things get a little tense, but he is fair. Then one day Worf goes to see him in his ready room and finds out that this man is really his brother and he is there to report a really significant bit of information to Worf. Worf's father, who died in a battle against the Romulans, is seen as a traitor on Klingon. It has been decided by the supreme council that he gave the Romulans information that led to the deaths of thousands of Klingons. As is usually the case with this race, Worf must go to the planet and challenge the accusation. If he can't prove it, he will pay with his life. The episode is about a series of events that took place in the dark past and a very real result that leaves some unanswered questions.
"The family you served needs you again."
classicsoncall24 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I have mixed feelings about this episode. I thought it was a very compelling story, brilliantly written until the very end, and that's where it blew up. Because by offering High Council leader K'mpec a 'discommendation', Lieutenant Worf (Michael Dorn) accepted blame and censure for his appearance to clear his father's and his family's name. Based on everything I've come to know and understand about Klingon tradition, why would he have done that? He might have had to face death otherwise, but as a Klingon, he was prepared for that eventuality when he accepted his brother Kurn's (Tony Todd) request to challenge the High Council. The end result was as if Worf returned to the Enterprise as K'mpec suggested he do in order to avoid the Council from hearing the truth about the Romulan attack on the Khitomer outpost. If anything, the episode demonstrated that the Klingons were not above deception and corruption within their inner circle high command. In this case, their loyalty was misplaced by protecting the family of the actual traitor, Ja'rod, father of council member Duras (Patrick Massett). Apparently, as other reviewers have mentioned, this story continues in some aspect in future episodes, which I have no knowledge of since I'm just now watching this series in order. Late to the party, but at least I've finally arrived.
Review 2022
iamirwar24 August 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Without doubt, one of the better episodes of season 3 and one which begins the story arc involving Worf and his family honour which will be revisited at a later date and become the reference point for the future development of Worf's character throughout TNG and DS9. We also get our first sight of the Klingon home world, Qo'nos and a visit to the Great Hall. We meet Worf's brother Kurn and also learn that even the assassins on the Klingon home world carry their own ceremonial daggers. It's their calling-card.
A Senior trekker writes......................
celineduchain11 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
New uniforms, new credit sequence and Doctor Crusher returned to us but was Season 3 of The Next Generation really as good as we remember? Some of that enthusiasm may have have been generated by relief that the series had not been cancelled but the 1990's also heralded an era of considerably more stability behind the scenes. Senior Trekker will continue to score every episode with a 5.
This episode sets the tone for all important Klingon instalments to come. A simple story, powerfully told, it relies on some outstanding performances from guest actors and in particular from Patrick Stewart and Michael Dorn as they go up against a corrupt High Council that has tried to dishonour Worf's family name.
Re-watching it after a long interval in which so much has been added to our understanding of the Klingon political system and home world, it is surprising to see how simple the sets and costumes are, yet how powerfully they still serve the narrative. Millions may have been spent more recently on the Discovery-era Klingons but they cannot approach the dignity of Worf's discommendation scene.
It is true that this episode does give us another hitherto unknown family member but it's Tony Todd, for heaven's sake. The man was born to play Worf's brother Kurn but the same might be said for all of the further appearances he makes in Star Trek over the years. Older actors Charles Cooper and Thelma Lee, who might both be forgiven for declining the pre-dawn make-up calls, also shine as K'mpek and Kahlest.
This episode sets the tone for all important Klingon instalments to come. A simple story, powerfully told, it relies on some outstanding performances from guest actors and in particular from Patrick Stewart and Michael Dorn as they go up against a corrupt High Council that has tried to dishonour Worf's family name.
Re-watching it after a long interval in which so much has been added to our understanding of the Klingon political system and home world, it is surprising to see how simple the sets and costumes are, yet how powerfully they still serve the narrative. Millions may have been spent more recently on the Discovery-era Klingons but they cannot approach the dignity of Worf's discommendation scene.
It is true that this episode does give us another hitherto unknown family member but it's Tony Todd, for heaven's sake. The man was born to play Worf's brother Kurn but the same might be said for all of the further appearances he makes in Star Trek over the years. Older actors Charles Cooper and Thelma Lee, who might both be forgiven for declining the pre-dawn make-up calls, also shine as K'mpek and Kahlest.
More of Worf's past.
russem3118 April 2006
Warning: Spoilers
ST:TNG:65 - "Sins Of The Father" (Stardate: 43685.2) - this is the 17th episode of the 3rd season of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
This is primarily a Worf episode, as a Klingon Officer named Kurn (played by Tony Todd) comes aboard the Enterprise in the Officer Exchange Program in other to return the favor of taking on Riker in the second season episode "A Matter Of Honor".
It turns out Kurn has a trick up his sleeve, for he's more similar to Worf than just being a Klingon - and these similarities will lead both he and Worf along with the Enterprise to enter the Klingon Empire itself!
Trivia note: This episode begins the Enterprise involvement in Klingon political affairs later in the series (and continuing into Deep Space Nine) and introduces the Duras family. Also, the Age of Ascension is mentioned again (by Kurn).
This is primarily a Worf episode, as a Klingon Officer named Kurn (played by Tony Todd) comes aboard the Enterprise in the Officer Exchange Program in other to return the favor of taking on Riker in the second season episode "A Matter Of Honor".
It turns out Kurn has a trick up his sleeve, for he's more similar to Worf than just being a Klingon - and these similarities will lead both he and Worf along with the Enterprise to enter the Klingon Empire itself!
Trivia note: This episode begins the Enterprise involvement in Klingon political affairs later in the series (and continuing into Deep Space Nine) and introduces the Duras family. Also, the Age of Ascension is mentioned again (by Kurn).
His heart is Klingon
Mr-Fusion9 November 2016
'Sins of the Father' has the distinction of being the single most overused title for a TV episode in history. Second maybe to "Pilot", but it feels like every single TV show has an episode with this name; a total cliché. Add to that my lack of favor with Worf, and this episode didn't have me overexcited. But I absolutely underestimated it because it's another high point for this season.
We learn so much here, whether it's Klingon law or Worf's heritage. Not only does he discover a sibling, but the integrity of his very bloodline rests at the mercy of a kangaroo court. In the end, good prevails, but at a high cost. And even though it's Worf's story, it's Patrick Stewart who owns this. His intensity is perfect, and Picard's moments with Worf really underlines the bond between a captain and his crewman.
It's great drama.
8/10
We learn so much here, whether it's Klingon law or Worf's heritage. Not only does he discover a sibling, but the integrity of his very bloodline rests at the mercy of a kangaroo court. In the end, good prevails, but at a high cost. And even though it's Worf's story, it's Patrick Stewart who owns this. His intensity is perfect, and Picard's moments with Worf really underlines the bond between a captain and his crewman.
It's great drama.
8/10
Klingon Honor delayed!
tcwaterford10 March 2022
I Genuinely like this episode, Though I admit to finding the outcome Very hard to swallow.
Perhaps there is even a lesson in this for us normal humans.
In my life I have witnessed Brother against Sister and Brother against Brother, for such minor items as money, Parental favor or simply jealousy!.
I know of one family split apart, made enemy of Sisters and Brothers for no other reason than GREED!.
The long since greatly feared Klingon Empire is shown in this episode to hold on high, above all else, Family.
A Lesson for one and ALL!.
Exceptional script writing, the best episode of the whole lot, along side outstanding Acting!.
OK, in 2022 it is somewhat outdated, but this Gem of quality Actors, great script writing and equally excellent camera work, Direction and Production.
Comes together bringing what many claim is the most emotional episode of all.
In my opinion it was not emotional, nor do I think emotion was it's over arching intent. Instead, I believe it's purpose was to show all beings as caring, honorable and showing the Klingons, much like the Vikings from human history as, yes a warrior nation, A Great Warrior Nation capable of many things, battle, cruelty, dominaence and of being greatly feared!, BUT also Klingons, much like Vikings were builders, protectors, Husbands, Wives, Children, loving, caring and of great honor!.
The lesson therefore, as Picard might say Is: One should Not Judge, Lest you be judges Yourself! .
Exceptionally great episode!, which highlighted the Strength and Honor of the Klingon Empire, OR perhaps more important it showed that of the Klingon people.
I still have issues with the ending, but then again, I doubt it could have been better!.
My respects to Picard and crew😎
Perhaps there is even a lesson in this for us normal humans.
In my life I have witnessed Brother against Sister and Brother against Brother, for such minor items as money, Parental favor or simply jealousy!.
I know of one family split apart, made enemy of Sisters and Brothers for no other reason than GREED!.
The long since greatly feared Klingon Empire is shown in this episode to hold on high, above all else, Family.
A Lesson for one and ALL!.
Exceptional script writing, the best episode of the whole lot, along side outstanding Acting!.
OK, in 2022 it is somewhat outdated, but this Gem of quality Actors, great script writing and equally excellent camera work, Direction and Production.
Comes together bringing what many claim is the most emotional episode of all.
In my opinion it was not emotional, nor do I think emotion was it's over arching intent. Instead, I believe it's purpose was to show all beings as caring, honorable and showing the Klingons, much like the Vikings from human history as, yes a warrior nation, A Great Warrior Nation capable of many things, battle, cruelty, dominaence and of being greatly feared!, BUT also Klingons, much like Vikings were builders, protectors, Husbands, Wives, Children, loving, caring and of great honor!.
The lesson therefore, as Picard might say Is: One should Not Judge, Lest you be judges Yourself! .
Exceptionally great episode!, which highlighted the Strength and Honor of the Klingon Empire, OR perhaps more important it showed that of the Klingon people.
I still have issues with the ending, but then again, I doubt it could have been better!.
My respects to Picard and crew😎
No suggestion box aboard Klingon ships.
amusinghandle3 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Wait a second, you are trying to convince me that Mogh gave the Romulan's tactical information yet stayed on Kitomer and died? What's up with that?
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We have another affirmation that the secret sauce to great star trek is a great guest star performance ---- Tony Todd steals the show with his performance throughout this episode.
I enjoyed the structure of this episode ---- Kurn could have just showed up on the Enterprise and told Worf about the situation but the writers developed the idea of Kurn testing his older Brother and provided us with some quality laughs throughout.
Looks like the klingons are a classic example of not practicing what they preach. Safety is more important then truth, honor is degenerated to become a political bargaining chip.
I enjoy some juicy political drama, so I am always up for some murky Klingon episodes.
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We have another affirmation that the secret sauce to great star trek is a great guest star performance ---- Tony Todd steals the show with his performance throughout this episode.
I enjoyed the structure of this episode ---- Kurn could have just showed up on the Enterprise and told Worf about the situation but the writers developed the idea of Kurn testing his older Brother and provided us with some quality laughs throughout.
Looks like the klingons are a classic example of not practicing what they preach. Safety is more important then truth, honor is degenerated to become a political bargaining chip.
I enjoy some juicy political drama, so I am always up for some murky Klingon episodes.
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