Star Trek Movie Review - JJ Abrams Relaunches a Classic
A Look At the Newest Film in the Trekker Universe Starring Chris Pine
May 13, 2009
From the jarring, emotionally charged opening sequence, Star Trek 2009 is most assuredly a new breed of animal in this celebrated series of films. Though not as far separate from the Star Trek mythology that went before as some would lead to believe, there is still a slickness of style, an updating of the sacred legend of Star Trek lore.
The New Crew of the USS Enterprise
For long time fans of Star Trek, much of the controversy centers around those new keepers of the old flame, the crew of the Starship Enterprise, particularly Captain James Tiberius Kirk and his old pal Mr. Spock. Both Chris Pine (Kirk) and Zachary Quinto (Spock) do well by their predecessors, acquitting themselves nicely in the roles of their namesakes.
They have a nice chemistry between them, one that actually calls to mind the originals on more than one occasion throughout the film. Kirk is suitably cocky and confident, and Spock is thematically committed to the logical and retaining his superior intelligence and unmatched skills of deduction.
Speaking of Spock, Leonard Nimoy's appearance in the film is most welcome, tying both new and old worlds together in one fell swoop. Nimoy bears the torch of the original series well, affably playing a futuristic alternate universe version of himself (Spock Prime). It works very well.
The rest of the cast are quite good, particularly Karl Urban as 'Bones' McCoy, whose character is as manic and passionate as ever, and SImon Pegg as the wide eyed Mr. Scott (There needs to be much more of the likable and funny Mr. Pegg in the sequel).
Directing Star Trek
JJ Abrams, director of the film, shows a deft touch with both dialogue heavy and the frequent action scenes alike. Abrams creates palpable tension, fast paced action, and the easy laughs that pervade through the movie.
Throughout, Abrams shows also that he 'gets' it, which should come as a huge relief to the millions of pre-existing Star Trek fans.
Will Non-Trekkers Like It?
The new Star Trek movie is a supercharged action film with a sci-fi base. Casual fans of the series, as well as those novices going in who don't even know the difference between Sulu and Uhura, should find a lot to like. It's a marriage of suspense, great characterization, humor, and a solid plot with a lot of furiously paced action that is likely to please audiences who just like a good action flick. Quite simply, this is one of the better action films of the decade thus far.
Still, this movie is at it's best when focusing on Kirk and Spock, and they ably carry the film with fine performances. J.J. Abrams has set forth a bold direction for this proud series, and the good cast carry it through. The first voyage of the newest series is a welcome addition to the overall mythology. Gene Roddenberry would be proud.
