J.J. Abrams Energizes Star Trek
Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Leonard Nimoy, Eric Bana Star
Jun 17, 2009
Mostly unknown actors are a big key to 2009's new Star Trek. Sure, the tight action, eye-catching lens flares and nostalgia all work together as well, but it's a strong cast that makes it easy to see the old characters revived. After a delayed release amidst much hype and talk, it's actually surprising to see such a good film. An ever-growing box office of over $200 million and the notion that so many non-Trek-lovers have gone to see it in droves says it all.
Unknown Actors Key to Buying the Reboot
The new Trek does have two old names attached--Leonard Nimoy has a starring role, but also Majel Barrett (the wife of the late Gene Roddenberry) returns as the voice of the Enterprise computer. She has always done the computer's voice, but she completed her work on this film two weeks before her death. Otherwise, every face is new, and though Zachary Quinto (Spock) is famous also for his role on Heroes, it's a very different character--not to mention the ears.
Seven years have passed since the last release of a Star Trek film. It seems that more than enough time and a bundle of fresh faces are the perfect new beginning. It might seem tricky to revisit old characters without creating flaws in plots or timelines, but luckily there are plot devices for that sort of thing. The focus here was clearly on getting the nuances of each character--and each actor does a tremendous job capturing that character's essence, without a weak link in the bunch.
Plot Creates a Convenient Loophole
The plot of the new Trek has been somewhat criticized, but it's also clever. Without giving too much away, there is a means by which to excuse any incongruous information. It might feel like a cheap trick, but it's a fun movie all around--fudging a little with the means is a little nit-picky. The story and dialogue are still well-written and there's no doubt that the intended package is a summer action blockbuster. Fun is the bottom line and it delivers.
Too Shiny, Not Enough Philosophical Plot
There is the hope that now new actors have been established, another installment might have a more philosophical or deeper plot, like most of the older Treks attempted. Establishing new faces in old shoes is a daunting task, and the flashy fun of this Trek made for a great canvas. Some complain the film is too slick and flashy, but it's to be expected from producer/director Abrams. in the long run, it's a small price to pay and a weak complaint.
At the end of the day, this film transcends the old labels. It seems everyone is in agreement as to how much fun it is. Trekkie or no, this is one great action film. So A+ for uniting an otherwise fairly divided group of people with a worthy summer movie everyone really can enjoy.
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