Star Trek: Discovery’s Character Dynamics Make It Unique Within The Franchise

gamerant.com:

Ever since the Original Series, stories in the Star Trek franchise have been motivated by curiosity, exploration, and uncovering more about the universe. Unique sci-fi concepts draw viewers in, but of course, these stories wouldn't be engaging without interesting characters. There are fan favorites across every iteration of the franchise, and watching characters from different backgrounds — and different planets — interact is one of the joys of Star Trek. From Kirk and Spock's unlikely friendship to the slow-burn love story between Riker and Troy, these relationships make even the most alien characters relatable. However, Discovery approaches these relationships differently than most shows.

Plenty of Starfleet crews have close ties with one another. Characters on Voyager, TNG, and Enterprise often find themselves in close friendships or even romances. Such bonds are unsurprising when people spend so much time working and living in close quarters. Discovery, however, feels a bit different. Its main characters form a close-knit group that is less like the friendships that develop through working together, and more like the dynamic of a found family.

Star Trek: How This Deep Space 9 Episode Changed The Franchise Forever

Michael's closest friends among the crew of Discovery are Tilly and Saru. With the former, she has an especially sisterly relationship. The two share quarters even at times when Michael far outranks Tilly, something that is pointed out in Season 2 as being quite irregular. They share quarters purely because they enjoy each other's company. Like sisters, they confide in each other, make each other laugh, and give each other advice on their love lives.

Saru, meanwhile, is a kind of confidante for Michael in a way