Movies - TV
The Dark Research That Went Into Picard’s Star Trek: TNG Torture Scene
By DANIELLE RYAN
Known for his meticulous approach to acting, Patrick Stewart elevated his role in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” by engaging in some dark research.
In the second part of the two-part episode “Chain of Command,” Captain Picard is captured by the Cardassians and subjected to torture by Gul Madred (David Warner).
Gul Madred subjects him to torture through isolation, forced nudity, starvation, and intense physical pain. The ordeal ends with Madred forcing Picard to engage in a sadistic game.
In preparation, Stewart watched tapes featuring statements from torture survivors and conducted a interview with a torturer who shared his experiences inflicting harm on others.
Inspired, Stewart insisted on being completely nude during the torture scene with Picard, aiming to fully honor the real-world experiences of those who endured similar torture.
“Chain of Command” is now recognized as one of the finest and most intense episodes in the entire “Star Trek” franchise, and it’s largely due to Stewart's dedicated research.