Changes: The Perfect Mate (episode)

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Picard serves as host for a peace treaty between two warring planets, but he may be unable to resist the reconciliation "gift" -- a beautiful empathic metamorph who is to be presented by one leader as the other's wife.

Summary

"Captain's log, Stardate 45761.3. In an effort to bring an end to their centuries long war, Krios and Valt Minor have agreed to a ceremony of reconciliation to be held aboard the Enterprise at a point midway between their two systems."

The Enterprise is en route to mediate a peace treaty between the Valtese and the Kriosians. While welcoming Ambassador Briam, the Enterprise receives a distress call from a Ferengi shuttle about to explode. The Enterprise arrives to their rescue and manages to beam aboard the two Ferengi before their shuttle explodes. While sneaking around the ship curiously, one of the Ferengi discovers a strange, glowing cocoon in one of the cargo bays. He attempts to scan it while standing on a few stacked barrels, but slips and kicks a barrel into one of the suspension beams, making it overcompensate and slice open the cocoon. The cocoon slowly falls to the ground and melts before the eyes of Captain Picard, Ambassador Briam, Commander Riker and Worf, revealing a beautiful woman.

Her name is Kamala, and she is an empathic metamorph, a woman genetically predisposed to suit the desires of any man she is with. She has the ability to sense what a potential mate wants, what he needs, what gives him the greatest pleasure and then to become that for him until she reaches the final stage of bonding, where she must imprint upon herself the requirements of one man, to serve as his perfect partner in life. From birth she has been reared for this event and is thus being presented as a gift to Alrik of Valt, to seal the peace agreement between Krios and Valt Minor. By the symbolic act of wedding this perfect mate to the leader of Valt Minor – Chancellor Alrik – Ambassador Briam hopes to end the longstanding conflict that has been plaguing both their worlds for centuries.

However, Kamala causes quite a stir around the ship for wherever she goes she stirs feelings of affection, adoration, and even downright lust in the hearts of male crew members and visitors. This is due to her being in finiis'ral: the final stage of her sexual maturity, where her body produces an unusually high number of pheromones which are very provocative to members of the opposite sex. Because this is the final stage of her sexual maturation, she must also bond with whoever she wishes to be the most like for the rest of her life in a very short time.

"Captain's log, Stardate 45766.1. We have reached the designated coordinates for the conference and await the arrival of Chancellor Alrik."

Although she turns the heads of many men, including that of Riker, she herself develops a very particular interest in Picard. As Dr. Crusher informs the Captain that Kamala is being confined to her quarters like a prisoner, Picard pays her a visit. During that visit, he already is affected by the things she does with men and asks her to stop doing whatever she is doing. However, Kamala states that this was her nature and that her wishes and her needs are fulfilled by what she gives to others. She tells Picard that he knows her better than he realizes for she is independent, forceful, brilliant and adventurous – exactly as he would have her be. A very uneasy Picard makes his way quickly out of her quarters and in an effort to protect both himself and Kamala from the effects that she has on men, he assigns her Data as chaperon.

In the meanwhile, the Ferengi make their reasons for being on the Enterprise known; they want to buy Kamala from Briam. They offer up to 20,000 Ludugial gold coins. Briam is understandably offended, and promises to tell Picard, but the impulsive Ferengi attack Briam and he falls, striking his head on a glass table and falling into a coma.

"Captain's log, supplemental. The Ferengi have been dispatched via shuttle to Starbase 117. What charges will be brought against them depends on whether or not Ambassador Briam recovers."

The ambassador is in no shape to continue with the peace negotiations, so the responsibility falls with Picard who – while having diplomatic experience – is not quite familiar with all the ceremonial requirements of the treaty and requires the assistance of Kamala who knows about the rituals and ceremony of her people. The more Picard surrounds himself with Kamala, the more he talks with her and the more he gets to know her, the more he sees himself drawn to her, while at the same time recognizing the impossibility of such a union. He even tries to convince Kamala that he is actually pretty dull, falling asleep with a book in his hand every night. However, Kamala does not give in, for she knows that some part of Picard wants her to continue pursuing him. She finds it rather ironic that on the eve of this ceremony, which she has spent her entire life preparing for, she should meet a man like him.

Finally, chancellor Alrik arrives on the Enterprise and quickly establishes himself as not particularly interested in either Kamala or a mate, only in trade agreements. However, he is willing to accept Kamala as it furthers his aforementioned ambitions. Picard himself is apprehensive as to what Kamala will become when she is joined with Alrik, but since she is unavailable, he doesn't entertain that thought much further. However, the night before the ceremony, during a visit to Kamala's quarters, Picard's resistance fails.

Shortly before her wedding ceremony, Kamala confesses to Picard that she will never truly love Alrik, for she has bonded with Picard. Who she is today, she will be forever. However, she will still be able to please Alrik and continue the facade in order to keep the peace. After having bonded with Picard, she also has learned the meaning of duty. She only hopes Alrik likes Shakespeare.

The wedding is a simplistic, yet elegant affair; Alrik meets Kamala in the holodeck reproduction of the Temple of Akadar, she repeats the ceremonial line which defines her existence, "I am for you, Alrik of Valt," and they kiss. If Alrik is moved by Kamala's beauty, he does not show it.

When Briam is recovered and preparing to leave the ship, he reveals to Picard why he was chosen to escort Kamala on this peace mission: as a very old man of over 200 years, the pheromones don't affect him as much; however, he'd be lying if he said they didn't affect him at all. Briam is astonished that Picard, who worked with her for days, side by side, could possibly resist her. Picard merely responds by wishing the ambassador a safe trip home. The ambassador seems to realize what happened between Kamala and Picard, but he quickly understands Picard's sacrifice and leaves. Picard stands in the transporter room long after the ambassador transports off, and the two ships depart, going their own, separate ways.

Memorable Quotes

"Mr. Worf, assign the Ferengi to quarters. Not too close to mine."

- Riker

"This has been very educational, but I make it a policy never to open another man's gift."

- Riker to Kamala

"I am for you, Alrik of Vault."

- Kamala, mistaking Picard for the chancellor

"Riker to bridge, if you need me I'll be on Holodeck 4."

- Riker, after nearly falling for Kamala's charms.

"Grrrrrrrrrr"

- Kamala and Worf

"Kamala, you are one day away from an arranged mating. Why would you want me to visit you in your quarters?"
"I said a visit. I didn't ask you to make love to me."

- Picard and Kamala

"Nothing, Nothing lies beneath. I'm really quite dull. I fall asleep each night with an old book in my hands."
"When a metamorph finds you interesting, do not take it lightly."
"Oh, I'm not taking it lightly, I'm just trying... to be as dull as possible."

- Picard and Kamala

"Do you find me unattractive?"
"I find you unavailable."

- Kamala and Picard

"Now that I know that you are listening to my voice, I find that I can't think of anything to say."

- Picard to Kamala

"A starship captain must encounter all sorts of lifeforms. Am I one of the most unique you've ever met? Please say yes."
"Yes."
"What a nice thing to say."

- Kamala and Picard

"Haven't I done my best to discourage this?"
"Maybe that's the perfect way to attract a metamorph."

- Picard and Kamala

"Penny..."
"What?"
"...for your thoughts. Penny for your thoughts."
"Do you have one?"
"I'm sure the replicator will have one on file."

- Beverly Crusher and Picard

"Beverly, may I take off the uniform for a moment?"
"Captain!"

- Picard and Crusher

"Perhaps I just needed a shoulder."
"Well, it's there for you, Jean-Luc. It always has been."

- Picard after telling Crusher how distressed he is in giving away Kamala forever to Alrik

"I will never truly love him."
"You've not even met him."
"It no longer matters. I wish I could convey to you what it's like to be a metamorph; to feel the inner strength of someone; to realize that being with him is opening your mind and heart to endless new possibilities; to hear yourself say "I like myself when I'm with him"."
"Kamala.."
"For a metamorph, there's no greater pleasure, and no greater wish, than to bond with that kind of mate at the end of the finis'raal as I have bonded with you."
"With me?"
"Who I am today, I will be forever."

- Kamala to Picard

"Would you ask me to stay? And ask two armies to keep fighting? Having bonded with you, I've learned the meaning of duty. He'll never know. I'm still empathic, I will be able to please him.
I only hope he likes Shakespeare!"

- Kamala explains that she will nevertheless do her duty

"Mr. Ambassador, have a safe trip home."

- Picard when Briam expresses surprise that Picard could resist Kamala after working closely with her

Background information

Story and production

"The Perfect Mate" was filmed between Friday 14 February 1992 and Thursday 25 February 1992 on Paramount Stage 8, 9, and 16.
An alternate ending proposed by Michael Piller during production showed Picard intervening during the ceremony to stop the wedding, only to reveal that his abrupt intervention was only in his imagination, as the ceremony continued. Although Patrick Stewart liked the idea, Piller was overruled by Rick Berman. (Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages) This scene is included as an extra on the TNG Season 5 Blu-ray.
On Monday 24 February 1992 the sets were visited by people from Premium Advanced Sales and on 25 February 1992 the cast and crew celebrated "Surfer Pants Day", where the wearer of the most unique pair of baggy surfer pants was awarded with a prize. ("The Perfect Mate" call sheet)
The production meeting for this episode took place on Tuesday 11 February 1992 at 3:00 p.m. ("Cost of Living" call sheet)
First UK airdate: 10 May 1995

Sets and props

According to composer Jay Chattaway, the Kriosian musical instrument was represented by a Balinese Gamelan instrument. The producers brought in Balinese musicians to provide the piece of music heard in the episode. ("Memorable Missions Year Five" ("The Perfect Mate"), TNG Season 5 DVD special feature)

Cast

Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi) does not appear in this episode.
Patrick Stewart and Famke Janssen would later work together again in the X-Men films, playing Professor Charles Xavier and Jean Grey, respectively.
Famke Janssen was supposed to play the science officer of Deep Space Nine, Jadzia Dax. When Janssen turned the role down, actress Terry Farrell took her place. When initial make-up tests with the original Trill make-up from "The Host" didn't look convincing, the make-up crew remembered Kamala's spots and decided to use them on the Trill as seen on Deep Space 9. Hence Kriosians' makeup very much resembles DS9 Trill makeup with the characteristic spots. (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Companion)
Max Grodénchik later appeared on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as the recurring character Rom, another Ferengi, apparently using similar prosthetic teeth with the prominently visible crooked tooth.
Michael Snyder later appeared in TNG: "Rascals" as another Ferengi, Morta.

Continuity

The premise of this episode has resemblances to TOS: "Elaan of Troyius". In both episodes the Enterprise transports a female with unique properties (see: Elasian tears) for an arranged marriage for diplomatic purposes, she becomes attached to the Captain but eventually they part ways.

Reception

A mission report for this episode by John Sayers was published in The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine Vol. 21, pp. 27-29.

Video and DVD releases

Original UK VHS release (two-episode tapes, CIC Video): Volume 61, 15 March 1993.
UK re-release (three-episode tapes, Paramount Home Entertainment): Volume 5.7, 2 December 2002.
As part of the TNG Season 5 DVD collection.

Links and references

Starring

Patrick Stewart as Capt. Jean-Luc Picard
Jonathan Frakes as Cmdr. William Riker

Also starring

LeVar Burton as Lt. Cmdr. Geordi La Forge
Michael Dorn as Lt. Worf
Gates McFadden as Dr. Beverly Crusher
Brent Spiner as Lt. Commander Data

Guest stars

Co-stars

Previous episode:
"Cost of Living"

Star Trek: The Next Generation
Season 5

Next episode:
"Imaginary Friend"

@@ Line 38: / Line 38: @@
 The ''Enterprise'' is ''en route'' to mediate a peace treaty between the [[Valtese]] and the [[Kriosian]]s.  While welcoming Ambassador [[Briam]], the ''Enterprise'' receives a [[distress call]] from a [[Ferengi]] shuttle about to explode.  The Enterprise arrives to their rescue and manages to [[beam]] aboard the two Ferengi before their shuttle explodes. While sneaking around the ship curiously, one of the Ferengi discovers a strange, glowing cocoon in one of the [[cargo bay]]s. He attempts to [[scan]] it while standing on a few stacked barrels, but slips and kicks a barrel into one of the suspension beams, making it overcompensate and slice open the cocoon. The cocoon slowly falls to the ground and melts before the eyes of [[Jean-Luc Picard|Captain Picard]], Ambassador Briam, [[William T. Riker| Commander Riker]] and [[Worf]], revealing a beautiful woman.
-Her name is [[Kamala]], and she is an [[empathic metamorph]], a woman genetically-predisposed to suit the desires of any man she is with. She has the ability to sense what a potential mate wants, what he needs, what gives him the greatest pleasure and then to become that for him until she reaches the final stage of bonding, where she must imprint upon herself the requirements of one man, to serve as his perfect partner in life.  From birth she has been reared for this event and is thus being presented as a gift to [[Alrik | Alrik of Valt]], to seal the peace agreement between [[Krios]] and [[Valt Minor]]. By the symbolic act of wedding this perfect mate to the leader of Valt Minor &ndash; [[Chancellor]] Alrik &ndash; Ambassador Briam hopes to end the longstanding conflict that has been plaguing both their worlds for centuries.
+Her name is [[Kamala]], and she is an [[empathic metamorph]], a woman genetically predisposed to suit the desires of any man she is with. She has the ability to sense what a potential mate wants, what he needs, what gives him the greatest pleasure and then to become that for him until she reaches the final stage of bonding, where she must imprint upon herself the requirements of one man, to serve as his perfect partner in life.  From birth she has been reared for this event and is thus being presented as a gift to [[Alrik | Alrik of Valt]], to seal the peace agreement between [[Krios]] and [[Valt Minor]]. By the symbolic act of wedding this perfect mate to the leader of Valt Minor &ndash; [[Chancellor]] Alrik &ndash; Ambassador Briam hopes to end the longstanding conflict that has been plaguing both their worlds for centuries.
 However, Kamala causes quite a stir around the ship for wherever she goes she stirs feelings of affection, adoration, and even downright lust in the hearts of male crew members and visitors. This is due to her being in ''[[finiis'ral]]'': the final stage of her sexual maturity, where her body produces an unusually high number of pheromones which are very provocative to members of the opposite sex. Because this is the final stage of her sexual maturation, she must also bond with whoever she wishes to be the most like for the rest of her life in a very short time.
+:"''[[Captain's log]], [[Stardate]] 45766.1. We have reached the designated coordinates for the conference and await the arrival of [[Chancellor]] [[Alrik]]."''
-Although she turns the heads of many men, including that of [[William T. Riker| Riker]], she herself develops a very particular interest in Picard. As Dr. [[Beverly Crusher | Crusher]] informs the Captain that Kamala is being confined to her quarters like a prisoner, Picard pays her a visit. During that visit, he already is affected by the things she does with men and asks her to stop doing whatever she is doing. However, Kamala states that this was her nature and that her wishes and her needs are fulfilled by what she gives to others. She tells Picard that he knows her better than he realizes for she is independent, forceful, brilliant and adventurous &ndash; exactly as he would have her be. A very uneasy Picard makes his way quickly out of her quarters and in an effort to protect both himself and Kamala from the effects that she has on men, he assigns her [[Data]] as chaperon.
+Although she turns the heads of many men, including that of [[William T. Riker| Riker]], she herself develops a very particular interest in Picard. As [[Doctor|Dr.]] [[Beverly Crusher | Crusher]] informs the Captain that Kamala is being confined to her quarters like a prisoner, Picard pays her a visit. During that visit, he already is affected by the things she does with men and asks her to stop doing whatever she is doing. However, Kamala states that this was her nature and that her wishes and her needs are fulfilled by what she gives to others. She tells Picard that he knows her better than he realizes for she is independent, forceful, brilliant and adventurous &ndash; exactly as he would have her be. A very uneasy Picard makes his way quickly out of her quarters and in an effort to protect both himself and Kamala from the effects that she has on men, he assigns her [[Data]] as chaperon.
 In the meanwhile, the Ferengi make their reasons for being on the ''Enterprise'' known; they want to buy Kamala from Briam. They offer up to 20,000 [[Ludugial gold]] coins. Briam is understandably offended, and promises to tell Picard, but the impulsive Ferengi attack Briam and he falls, striking his head on a glass table and falling into a coma.
+:"''[[Captain's log]], supplemental. The [[Ferengi]] have been dispatched via shuttle to [[Starbase 117]]. What charges will be brought against them depends on whether or not [[Ambassador]] [[Briam]] recovers."''
 The ambassador is in no shape to continue with the peace negotiations, so the responsibility falls with Picard who &ndash; while having diplomatic experience &ndash; is not quite familiar with all the ceremonial requirements of the treaty and requires the assistance of Kamala who knows about the rituals and ceremony of her people. The more Picard surrounds himself with Kamala, the more he talks with her and the more he gets to know her, the more he sees himself drawn to her, while at the same time recognizing the impossibility of such a union. He even tries to convince Kamala that he is actually pretty dull, falling asleep with a book in his hand every night. However, Kamala does not give in, for she knows that some part of Picard wants her to continue pursuing him. She finds it rather ironic that on the eve of this ceremony, which she has spent her entire life preparing for, she should meet a man like him.
@@ Line 54: / Line 58: @@
 The [[wedding]] is a simplistic, yet elegant affair; Alrik meets Kamala in the holodeck reproduction of the [[Temple of Akadar]], she repeats the ceremonial line which defines her existence, ''"I am for you, Alrik of Valt,"'' and they kiss. If Alrik is moved by Kamala's beauty, he does not show it.
-When Briam is recovered and preparing to leave the [[starship|ship]], he reveals to Picard why he was chosen to escort Kamala on this peace mission: as a very old man of over 200 years, the [[pheromone]]s don't affect him as much; however, he'd be lying if he said they didn't affect him at all. Briam is astonished that Picard, who worked with her for days, side by side, could possibly resist her. Picard merely responds by wishing the ambassador a safe trip home. He is standing in the transporter room long after the ambassador transports off and the two ships depart, going their own, separate ways.
+When Briam is recovered and preparing to leave the [[starship|ship]], he reveals to Picard why he was chosen to escort Kamala on this peace mission: as a very old man of over 200 years, the [[pheromone]]s don't affect him as much; however, he'd be lying if he said they didn't affect him at all. Briam is astonished that Picard, who worked with her for days, side by side, could possibly resist her. Picard merely responds by wishing the ambassador a safe trip home. The ambassador seems to realize what happened between Kamala and Picard, but he quickly understands Picard's sacrifice and leaves. Picard stands in the transporter room long after the ambassador transports off, and the two ships depart, going their own, separate ways.
 ==Memorable Quotes==
@@ Line 61: / Line 65: @@
-"''This has been very educational, but I make it a policy to never open another man's gift.''"
+"''This has been very educational, but I make it a policy never to open another man's gift.''"
-:  - '''Riker''' to '''Kamala'''
+:  - '''Riker''' to Kamala
-"''Do you find me unattractive?''"<br />
+"''I am for you, Alrik of Vault.''"
+: - '''Kamala''', mistaking Picard for the chancellor
-"''I find you unavailable.''"
-: - '''Kamala''' and '''Picard'''
 "''Riker to bridge, if you need me I'll be on Holodeck 4.''"
 : - '''Riker''', after nearly falling for Kamala's charms.
+"''Grrrrrrrrrr''"
+: - '''Kamala''' and '''Worf'''
@@ Line 82: / Line 89: @@
 "''When a metamorph finds you interesting, do not take it lightly.''"<br />
 "''Oh, I'm not taking it lightly, I'm just trying... to be as dull as possible.''"
+: - '''Picard''' and '''Kamala'''
+"''Do you find me unattractive?''"<br />
+"''I find you unavailable.''"
 : - '''Kamala''' and '''Picard'''
 "''Now that I know that you are listening to my voice, I find that I can't think of anything to say.''"<br />
-: - '''Picard''' to '''Kamala'''
+: - '''Picard''' to Kamala
@@ Line 93: / Line 105: @@
 "''What a nice thing to say.''"<br />
 : - '''Kamala''' and '''Picard'''
+"''Haven't I done my best to discourage this?''"<br />
+"''Maybe that's the perfect way to attract a metamorph.''"<br />
+: - '''Picard''' and '''Kamala'''
+"''Penny...''"<br />
+"''What?''"<br />
+"''...for your thoughts.  Penny for your thoughts.''"<br />
+"''Do you have one?''"<br />
+"''I'm sure the replicator will have one on file.''"
+: - '''Beverly Crusher''' and '''Picard'''
+"''Beverly, may I take off the uniform for a moment?''"<br />
+"''Captain!''"<br />
+: - '''Picard''' and '''Crusher'''
+"''Perhaps I just needed a shoulder.''"<br />
+"''Well, it's there for you, Jean-Luc. It always has been.''"
+: - '''Picard''' after telling '''Crusher''' how distressed he is in giving away Kamala forever to Alrik
@@ Line 107: / Line 142: @@
 "''Would you ask me to stay?  And ask two armies to keep fighting? Having bonded with you, I've learned the meaning of duty.  He'll never know.  I'm still empathic, I will be able to please him.<br />
 ''I only hope he likes Shakespeare!''"
-: - '''Kamala''' explains that she will nevertheless do her duty.
+: - '''Kamala''' explains that she will nevertheless do her duty
+"''Mr. Ambassador, have a safe trip home.''"
+: - '''Picard''' when Briam expresses surprise that Picard could resist Kamala after working closely with her
+== Background information ==
-"''Penny...''"<br />
+=== Story and production ===
-"''What?''"<br />
+* "The Perfect Mate" was filmed between Friday {{d|14|February|1992}} and Thursday {{d|25|February|1992}} on [[Paramount Stage 8]], [[Paramount Stage 9|9]], and [[Paramount Stage 16|16]].
-"''...for your thoughts.  Penny for your thoughts.''"<br />
+* An alternate ending proposed by [[Michael Piller]] during production showed Picard intervening during the ceremony to stop the wedding, only to reveal that his abrupt intervention was only in his imagination, as the ceremony continued. Although Patrick Stewart liked the idea, Piller was overruled by [[Rick Berman]]. (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'')  This scene is included as an extra on the [[TNG Season 5 Blu-ray]].
-"''Do you have one?''"<br />
+* On Monday {{d|24|February|1992}} the sets were visited by people from Premium Advanced Sales and on {{d|25|February|1992}} the cast and crew celebrated "Surfer Pants Day", where the wearer of the most unique pair of baggy surfer pants was awarded with a prize. ("The Perfect Mate" call sheet)
-"''I'm sure the replicator will have one on file.''"
+* The production meeting for this episode took place on Tuesday {{d|11|February|1992}} at 3:00 p.m. ("Cost of Living" call sheet)
-: - '''Beverly Crusher''' and '''Picard'''
+* First UK airdate: 10 May 1995
+=== Sets and props ===
+* According to composer [[Jay Chattaway]], the [[Kriosian musical instrument]] was represented by  a {{w|Balinese people|Balinese}} {{w|Gamelan}} instrument. The producers brought in Balinese musicians to provide the piece of music heard in the episode. ("Memorable Missions Year Five" ("The Perfect Mate"), [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] special feature)
+=== Cast ===
-"''Haven't I done my best to discourage this?''"<br />
+* [[Marina Sirtis]] ([[Deanna Troi]]) [[Main character non-appearances#Star Trek: The Next Generation|does not appear]] in this episode.
-"''Maybe that's the perfect way to attract a metamorph.''"<br />
+* [[Patrick Stewart]] and [[Famke Janssen]] would later work together again in the ''X-Men'' films, playing Professor Charles Xavier and Jean Grey, respectively.
-: - '''Picard''' and '''Kamala'''
+* Famke Janssen was supposed to play the science officer of ''Deep Space Nine'', Jadzia Dax. When Janssen turned the role down, actress [[Terry Farrell]] took her place. When initial make-up tests with the original Trill make-up from {{e|The Host}} didn't look convincing, the make-up crew remembered Kamala's spots and decided to use them on the Trill as seen on Deep Space 9. Hence Kriosians' makeup very much resembles DS9 Trill makeup with the characteristic spots. (''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Companion]]'')
+* [[Max Grodénchik]] later appeared on ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' as the recurring character [[Rom]], another [[Ferengi]], apparently using similar prosthetic teeth with the prominently visible crooked tooth.
+* [[Michael Snyder]] later appeared in {{TNG|Rascals}} as another Ferengi, [[Morta]].
+===Continuity===
-== Background information ==
+*The premise of this episode has resemblances to {{TOS|Elaan of Troyius}}. In both episodes the ''Enterprise'' transports a female with unique properties (see: [[Elasian tears]]) for an [[arranged marriage]] for [[diplomacy|diplomatic]] purposes, she becomes attached to the Captain but eventually they part ways.
-*[[Marina Sirtis]] ([[Deanna Troi]]) [[Main character non-appearances#Star Trek: The Next Generation|does not appear]] in this episode.
+=== Reception ===
-*[[Patrick Stewart]] and [[Famke Janssen]] would later work together again in the ''X-Men'' films, playing Professor Charles Xavier and Jean Grey, respectively.  During the discussion in the cargo bay immediately following Kamala's emergence, she refers to herself as a "mutant".  This is coincidental with the future ''X-Men'' films which feature mutants.
+* A mission report for this episode by John Sayers was published in ''[[The Official Star Trek: The Next Generation Magazine]]'' Vol. 21, pp. 27-29.
-*[[Picard]]'s interest in music, shown in this episode, would be developed further in {{e|The Inner Light}} and {{e|Lessons}}.
-*An alternate ending proposed by [[Michael Piller]] during production showed Picard intervening during the ceremony to stop the wedding, only to reveal that his abrupt intervention was only in his imagination, as the ceremony continued. Although Patrick Stewart liked the idea, Piller was overruled by [[Rick Berman]]. (''[[Captains' Logs: The Unauthorized Complete Trek Voyages]]'')
-*Famke Janssen was supposed to play the science officer of ''Deep Space Nine'', Jadzia Dax. When Janssen turned the role down, actress [[Terry Farrell]] took her place. When initial make-up tests with the original Trill make-up from {{e|The Host}} didn't look convincing, the make-up crew remembered Kamala's spots and decided to use them on the Trill as seen on Deep Space 9. Hence Kriosians' makeup very much resembles DS9 Trill makeup with the characteristic spots. (''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Companion]]'')
-*[[Max Grodénchik]] later appeared on ''[[Star Trek: Deep Space Nine]]'' as the recurring character [[Rom]], another [[Ferengi]], apparently using similar prosthetic teeth with the prominently visible crooked tooth.
-*[[Michael Snyder]] later appeared in {{TNG|Rascals}} as another Ferengi, [[Morta]].
-* The episode was filmed between {{d|14|February|1992}} and {{d|25|February|1992}} for seven days on [[Paramount Stage 8]], [[Paramount Stage 9|9]], and [[Paramount Stage 16|16]]. On {{d|24|February|1992}} the sets were visited by people from Premium Advanced Sales and on {{d|25|February|1992}} the cast and crew celebrated "Surfer Pants Day", where the wearer of the most unique pair of baggy surfer pants was awarded a prize.
-* According to composer [[Jay Chattaway]], the [[Kriosian musical instrument]] was represented by  a {{w|Balinese people|Balinese}} {{w|Gamelan}} instrument. The producers brought in Balinese musicians to provide the piece of music heard in the episode. (''Memorable Missions'', [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] special features)
-* First UK airdate: 10 May 1995
 === Video and DVD releases ===
-*Original UK VHS release (two-episode tapes, [[CIC Video]]): Volume 61, <!--catalogue number x, -->{{d|15|March|1993}}.
+* Original UK VHS release (two-episode tapes, [[CIC Video]]): Volume 61, <!--catalogue number x, -->{{d|15|March|1993}}.
-*UK re-release (three-episode tapes, [[Paramount Home Entertainment]]): Volume 5.7, {{d|2|December|2002}}.
+* UK re-release (three-episode tapes, [[Paramount Home Entertainment]]): Volume 5.7, {{d|2|December|2002}}.
-*As part of the [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] collection.
+* As part of the [[TNG Season 5 DVD]] collection.
 == Links and references ==
 === Starring ===
-* [[Patrick Stewart]] as [[Captain]] [[Jean-Luc Picard]]
+* [[Patrick Stewart]] as [[Captain|Capt.]] [[Jean-Luc Picard]]
-* [[Jonathan Frakes]] as [[Commander]] [[William T. Riker]]
+* [[Jonathan Frakes]] as [[Commander|Cmdr.]] [[William T. Riker|William Riker]]
-=== Also Starring ===
+=== Also starring ===
-* [[LeVar Burton]] as [[Lieutenant Commander]] [[Geordi La Forge]]
+* [[LeVar Burton]] as [[Lieutenant Commander|Lt. Cmdr.]] [[Geordi La Forge]]
-* [[Michael Dorn]] as [[Lieutenant]] [[Worf]]
+* [[Michael Dorn]] as [[Lieutenant|Lt.]] [[Worf]]
-* [[Gates McFadden]] as [[Doctor]] [[Beverly Crusher]]
+* [[Gates McFadden]] as [[Doctor|Dr.]] [[Beverly Crusher]]
-* [[Brent Spiner]] as [[Lieutenant Commander]] [[Data]]
+* [[Brent Spiner]] as [[Lieutenant Commander|Lt. Commander]] [[Data]]
 === Guest stars ===
@@ Line 158: / Line 195: @@
 === Co-stars ===
-* [[David Paul Needles]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Aliens with yellow skin and facial ridges|Miner #1]]
+* [[David Paul Needles]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|Miner #1]]
-* [[Roger Rignack]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Aliens with grey skin and barbels|Miner #2]]
+* [[Roger Rignack]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|Miner #2]]
-* [[Charles Gunning]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Aliens with brown skin and facial ridges and large cheekbones|Miner #3]]
+* [[Charles Gunning]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|Miner #3]]
 * [[April Grace]] as [[Maggie Hubbell|Transporter Officer]]
 * [[Majel Barrett]] as [[Computer Voice]]
-=== Uncredited Co-stars ===
+=== Uncredited co-stars ===
+* [[K.C. Amos]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Male operations division officer (2368)|operations division officer]]
+* [[Rachen Assapiomonwait]] as [[Nelson (Starfleet)|Nelson]]
 * [[Joe Bauman]] as [[Garvey]]
-* [[Steven Bosnyak]] as a [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Security ensign (2369)|security ensign]]
+* [[Steven Bosnyak]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Security ensign (2369)|operations division ensign]]
 * [[Michael Braveheart]] as [[Martinez]]
 * [[Cameron]] as [[Kellogg]]
+* [[Denise Deuschle]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Bridge science division officer (2367-2368)|science division officer]]
-* [[T. Cruz]] as [[Lopez (Ensign)|Lopez]]
-* [[Grace Harrell]] as an [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Female operations officer|operations division officer]]
+* [[Gunnel Eriksson]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Female science division officer (2368-2371)|science division officer]]
-* [[Mark Lentry]] as a [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Candlelight lieutenant|science division lieutenant]]
+* [[Gregory (actor)|Gregory]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|alien miner]]
-* [[John Tampoya]] as an [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Operations/ Command Ensign|operations division officer]]
+* [[Grace Harrell]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) operations division personnel#Female operations officer|operations division officer]]
-* [[Christina Wegler Miles]] as a [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Flight controller (2368)|command division ensign]]
+* [[Kai (actress)|Kai]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Female medical officer (2367)|science division officer]]
+* [[Mark Lentry]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Candlelight lieutenant|science division lieutenant]]
+* [[Lynch (actor)|Lynch]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|alien miner]]
+* [[Debbie Marsh]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Female bridge command officer (2366)|command division ensign]]
+* [[Greg Poole]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Male command division officer|command division officer]]
+* [[Jackson Sleet]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|alien miner]]
+* [[John Tampoya]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) personnel#Operations/ Command Ensign|operations division ensign]]
+* [[Théyard]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) sciences division personnel#Away team science officer|science division officer]]
+* [[Christina Wegler Miles]] as [[Unnamed USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) command division personnel#Flight controller (2368)|command division ensign]]
+* [[Wilson (actor)|Wilson]] as [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miners|alien miner]]
 * [[Unknown performers]] as
+** [[Ten Forward personnel#Ten Forward waiter (2368)|Ten Forward waiter]]
-** [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miner #4|Miner #4]]
+** [[Ten Forward personnel#Ten Forward staff (2368)|Ten Forward waiter]]
-** [[Unnamed humanoids (24th century)#Miner #5|Miner #5]]
 === Stunt doubles ===
@@ Line 183: / Line 231: @@
 === Stand-ins ===
-* [[David Keith Anderson]] - [[Stand-in]] for [[LeVar Burton]]
+* [[David Keith Anderson]] - [[stand-in]] for [[LeVar Burton]]
-* [[Cameron]] - Stand-in for [[Gates McFadden]]
+* [[Cameron]] - stand-in for [[Gates McFadden]]
-* [[Keith Gearhart]] - Stand-in for [[Roger Rignack]]
+* [[Keith Gearhart]] - stand-in for [[Roger Rignack]]
-* [[John]] - Stand-in for [[Max Grodénchik]]
+* [[John]] - stand-in for [[Michael Snyder]]
-* [[Tim McCormack]] - Stand-in for [[Tim O'Connor]] and [[Brent Spiner]]
+* [[Tim McCormack]] - stand-in for [[Tim O'Connor]] and [[Brent Spiner]]
-* [[Lorine Mendell]] - Stand-in for [[Famke Janssen]] and [[Gates McFadden]]
+* [[Lorine Mendell]] - stand-in for [[Famke Janssen]] and [[Gates McFadden]]
-* [[Randy Pflug]] - Stand-in for [[Charles Gunning]]
+* [[Randy Pflug]] - stand-in for [[Charles Gunning]]
-* [[Keith Rayve]] - Stand-in for [[David Paul Needles]]
+* [[Keith Rayve]] - stand-in for [[David Paul Needles]]
-* [[Joyce Robinson]] - Stand-in for [[April Grace]]
+* [[Joyce Robinson]] - stand-in for [[April Grace]]
-* [[Richard Sarstedt]] - Stand-in for [[Jonathan Frakes]]
+* [[Richard Sarstedt]] - stand-in for [[Jonathan Frakes]]
-* [[Thor]] - Stand-in for [[Michael Snyder]]
+* [[Thor]] - stand-in for [[Max Grodénchik]]
-* [[Dennis Tracy]] - Stand-in for [[Patrick Stewart]]
+* [[Dennis Tracy]] - stand-in for [[Patrick Stewart]]
-* [[James Washington]] - Stand-in for [[Michael Dorn]]
+* [[James Washington]] - stand-in for [[Michael Dorn]]
-* [[Unknown actor]] - Stand-in for [[Mickey Cottrell]]
-===References===
+=== References ===
-[[2168]]; [[Aldorian ale]]; [[Ambassador]]; [[arboretum]]; [[archeology]]; [[arms merchant]]; [[arranged marriage]]; [[art]]; [[barbershop]]; [[breakfast]]; [[Chancellor]]; [[chaperon]]; [[com panel]]; [[craniosacral display]]; [[croissant]]; [[dolphin]]; [[Earl Grey tea]]; [[empath]]; [[empathic metamorph]]; [[Federation Constitution]]; [[Ferengi]]; [[Ferengi shuttle]]; [[Ferengi Trade Mission]]; ''[[Finiis'ral]]''; [[Garuth]]; [[Harod IV]]; [[history]]; [[holograph]]; [[Jericho]]; [[Klingon]]; [[Krios]]; [[Krios 1]]; [[Krios Prime]]; [[Kriosian]]; [[Kriosian ship]]; [[Ludugial gold]]; [[logic]]; [[Paloris colony]]; [[penny]]; [[pheromone]]; [[piano]]; [[Prime Directive]]; [[prostitution]]; [[replicator]]; [[servant]]; [[sex]]; [[sexual allure]]; [[William Shakespeare|Shakespeare, William]]; [[Shakespeare's sonnets]]; [[slave trader]]; [[Starbase 117]]; [[stasis]]; [[Targhee moonbeast]]; [[Temple of Akadar]]; ''[[Torze-qua]]''; [[turbolift]]; [[tutor]]; [[Valt]]; [[Valt Minor]]; [[Valt system]]; [[Valtese]]; [[Valtese horn]]; [[Valtese ship]]; [[Ventanan]]; [[Ventanan thimble]]; [[Ventanan woven art]]; [[Vulcan]]
+[[2168]]; [[Aldorian ale]]; [[Ambassador]]; [[arboretum]]; [[archeology]]; [[arms merchant]]; [[arranged marriage]]; [[art]]; [[barbershop]]; [[breakfast]]; [[Chancellor]]; [[chaperon]]; [[companel]]; [[craniosacral display]]; [[croissant]]; [[dolphin]]; [[Earl Grey tea]]; [[empath]]; [[empathic metamorph]]; [[Federation]]; [[Federation Constitution]]; [[Ferengi]]; [[Ferengi shuttle]]; [[Ferengi Trade Mission]]; ''[[Finiis'ral]]''; [[Garuth]]; [[Harod IV]]; [[history]]; [[holograph]]; [[Jericho]]; [[Klingon]]; [[Krios]]; [[Krios 1]]; [[Krios Prime]]; [[Kriosian]]; [[Kriosian ship]]; [[Ludugial gold]]; [[logic]]; [[miner]]; [[Paloris colony]]; [[penny]]; [[pheromone]]; [[piano]]; [[Yvette Picard|Picard, Yvette]]; [[Prime Directive]]; [[prostitution]]; [[replicator]]; [[servant]]; [[sex]]; [[sexual allure]]; [[William Shakespeare|Shakespeare, William]]; [[Shakespeare's sonnets]]; [[slave trader]]; [[Starbase 117]]; [[stasis]]; [[Targhee moonbeast]]; [[Temple of Akadar]]; ''[[Torze-qua]]''; [[turbolift]]; [[tutor]]; [[Valt]]; [[Valt Minor]]; [[Valt system]]; [[Valtese]]; [[Valtese horn]]; [[Valtese ship]]; [[Ventanan]]; [[Ventanan thimble]]; [[Ventanan woven art]]; [[Vulcan]]
+===External link===
+*{{Wikipedia|The Perfect Mate}}
 {{TNG nav|season=5|last={{e|Cost of Living}}|next={{e|Imaginary Friend}}}}
+[[Category:TNG episodes|Perfect Mate, The]]
 [[de:Eine hoffnungslose Romanze]]
 [[es:The Perfect Mate]]
-[[fr:The Perfect Mate]]
+[[fr:The Perfect Mate (épisode)]]
 [[it:La donna perfetta (episodio)]]
 [[ja:TNG:究極のパートナー]]
 [[nl:The Perfect Mate]]
 [[pl:The Perfect Mate]]
-[[Category:TNG episodes|Perfect Mate, The]]