When J.J. Abrams (creator of Lost) announced that he’d be taking up the reigns of the famed Star Trek franchise with a reboot showcasing the original characters, there was a universal mix from future audiences made up of about 50% excitement and 50% trepidation. If you were in the worried category, let me put your fears to rest. Star Trek is amazing.
I should start with this- the 2009 Star Trek film does not demand in any way that you know anything about the previous films or the universe in general. That being said, if you are familiar with the characters, their quirks and a little bit about their history (specifically plot points and dialogue from the second movie, Wrath of Khan), this experience is going to be all the more gratifying and fun.
Star Trek takes a look at how the famed heroes Captain James T. Kirk, Spock and the rest of the U.S.S. Enterprise bridge crew came to be the people we know of today. This film explores their early days at Starfleet Academy and how their friendships grew and developed, allowing them to work together as an incredible team as they navigated outer space and engaged in adventures.
This is both a reboot and a reimagining. What is fantastic about Abrams’ Star Trek is that it somehow finds a way to capture every essence of the old show, yet still finds a way to be fresh, new and updated. There are canonical differences, but they are small, and explained. Every moment feels like Trek, through and through, yet with notable (and very well crafted) updates.
I do hate clichés, but to put it simply, this movie is some of the most fun I’ve had in a theater in a while. From the opening sequence to ending credits, watching Star Trek is just fantastic ride. It’s got it all here: beautiful scenery, amazing action, hilarious dialogue, an incredible score and outstanding performances.
Speaking of performances, I was the first to cry out that no one could ever play the iconic Captain Kirk and make it convincing. I’ve completely changed my position on that. Chris Pine doesn’t turn in a Shatner impersonation what-so-ever, but he IS Kirk. I still don’t know how he pulled it off, but it is an incredible display to watch, full of bravado, confidence, intelligence and wit. Pine’s not alone either. What makes Star Trek work is that all of its characters have such personality and depth to them, and every actor in this movie is top notch. I think Zachary Quinto had the hardest job trying to develop a new, young Spock, but he does excellent job displaying the character’s flaws and calmness. Special note must also go to Karl Urban playing Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy, who is nearly channeling DeForest Kelley.
Sure, Star Trek isn’t perfect, but its faults are allowed to slide past due to the strength of everything around it. There are some highly unlikely coincidences and a gag that doesn’t completely work, but with the speedy pace of the film, you’re not going to even have time to think about them.
This is the kind of movie you’re going to want to see on the big screen, with an energetic crowd. This is the kind of movie during which people will cheer, whisper “wow” under their breath and applaud at the credits. This is what moviemaking should be about- pure fun. Star Trek comes with my highest recommendation for all audiences.
Final Grade A+
EM Review
By Christopher Troilo
Originally Posted 5.07.2009
I've been VERY skeptical of the upcoming film. JJ Abrams often feels like a gimicky hack. Thanks for the great review. You've inspired enough confidence in me to go out and give this film a try… even if it does not have a scene set at a long where interstellar diplomacy is discussed in excruciating detail.
I believe often times Abrams' films feel like just long, expensive TV episodes. That's definitely not the case here- Star Trek has been given back its "epic" feel which it desperately needed. You won't be disappointed! 🙂
I agree, a great film, fun through and through and terrific connections to the old Star Trek as well. We saw it opening day in Lithuania of all places.
After seeing this film, I'm still impressed by the sheer ballsiness and utter brilliance of this film's interaction with Trek canon. The gambit pays off in a way that is equally (and supremely) satisfying to both life-long Trek-fans and the uninitiated. Those looking for flaws in the film will find them, but those kind of people aren't any fun anyway. I can't recommend "Star Trek" more highly.
I definitely have to agree with this entire review. I was skeptical myself at first, but this film blew me away.
I am so excited to see this tonight. Going to see it here in NYC. The cast looks amazing and though I'm not a big Trek fan, I am sure I can catch on quick with this one. I also saw this amazing interview online where the guys really just seem to get along so well, plus they look really hot, lol. Enjoy the Trek eye candy!
http://tinyurl.com/startrekint
Also check out this gallery too of the entire cast, past and present and more!! So good….
http://tinyurl.com/startrekpictures
I'm one of those people that is skeptical, but after the universal rave reviews, I'm truly looking forward to seeing it.