Data creates another android to be his daughter.
Despite some issues and contrivances in how this episode is written, it is very well made and compelling to watch.
The plot very effectively focuses on various aspects of humanity. Lal is in the earliest phase of her assimilation to a human society and Data is experiencing parenthood for the first time. All the scenes dealing with the two characters struggling and experiencing human behaviour and emotions are very well done.
This is a great step in the overall character arc of Data, as parenthood is one of the biggest challenges faced in life. It not only shows some of the everyday situations all parents can identify with, but also some of the worst fears imaginable and portrays them all with great heart.
Lal is a great idea for guest character and her observations on life and behaviours are presented in a way that invokes both humour and sympathy.
Unfortunately there is an aspect of the plot involving its antagonist that takes the story in an unnecessary direction. Personally I found the concept of Data's daughter to be quite captivating without the need to force a conflict into episode. When you hear how little rationale there is behind Admiral Haftel's position, it feels like it has been included for little other than additional drama. The problems are further compounded as it forces Captain Picard into a position of having to argue the rights of sentient beings again, which takes up screen time with dialogue that covers the same ground as second series episode 'The Measure of a Man'.
Personally I think this could have been one of the greatest episodes of all time if it focussed solely on the very real dramas of Lal and Data trying to fit into life and what becomes of her.
I enjoyed the visuals, particularly some of the sight gags and special effects used in the technical design of Lal.
Brent Spiner and Hallie Todd are superb in their roles. They managed to realistically portray androids and at the same time evoke emotion. Patrick Stewart is brilliant as ever. Caryn Johnson gives that perfect sense of wisdom to Guinan. Nicolas Coster does remarkably well with a fairly contrived character.