A New Generation of Trekkie Fans

“Star Trek” the film is an immensely enjoyable nostalgic space journey down celestial lane. The franchise celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2006 and by the looks of this film; the tale could go on as long as the scripts continue to be as invigorating as this one. Make no mistake, this film is for ‘everyone’ and not just die hard Trekkie fans. Yes, it’s a new generation aboard the Starship Enterprise with each of the old characters’ personas boldly in place. J.J. Abrams is the director at the helm who introduces us to the beginnings of the series with an extraordinarily fresh outlook.

The new cast consists of: Chris Pine as James T. Kirk, Zachary Quinto as Spock, Leonard Nimoy as Spock Prime, Eric Bana as Nero, Bruce Greenwood as Capt. Christopher Pike, Karl Urban as Dr. Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy, Zoe Saldana as Nyots Uhura, Simon Pegg as Scotty, John Cho as Hikaru Sulu, Anton Yelchin as Pavel Chekov, Ben Cross as Sarek and Winona Ryder as Amanda Grayson.

The opening of this ‘prequel’ film is a thrilling 12 minute sequence that provides the back story regarding young Kirk and Spock. Kirk’s mother (Jennifer Morrison) discusses her baby’s new name with the father as they decide on, James Tiberius Kirk. Fast forward to a 14 year old James driving a red convertible sports car recklessly down a country road in Iowa at an alarming speed. He’s barely tall enough to see out of the front window.  We also see Spock’s parents on the planet Vulcan and witness the death of his earthling mother. All of these scenes are before the title page. Then warp speed into the familiar Star Trek music and you’re off for a 2 hour adventure that is sure to please.

The script, directing and well developed characters are the winners in this one. An enormous amount of comedic banter between the characters is evident which gives the story a likable tone; similar to last year’s summer blockbuster “Ironman.”  Screenplay credit goes to writers Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman who both have collaborated on other projects together; namely “Transformers”.

Once the new cast is introduced and assembled aboard the Starship Enterprise, the voyage begins with a laughable scene in which ‘Bones’ plays doctor to Kirk and is constantly giving him doses of medicine through a gadget similar to a taser gun. Kirk has a cocky and ‘cool as a cucumber’ attitude. He’s brilliant in this role and provides a perfect contrast to Spock.

Spock’s character is endearing as well. He’s confused as his mother is an Earthling and his father is a Vulcan. Throughout the film he is forced to choice one side or the other. In the end, his feelings win out over logic and it makes for a memorable scene. I especially enjoyed Quinto in this role as he and Pine have great chemistry. No doubt we’ll be seeing more of these talented newcomers.

John Cho, who played Harold in the film “Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle,” does a nice job resurrecting the role of Sulu. His timing is spot on and he’s enjoyable to watch as well.

The ‘scene stealer’ is the reappearance of Leonard Nimoy himself as the older Spock! What a treat and welcomed sight. His part is no cameo, he’s on screen for a good portion near the end of the film and his line to young Kirk in regards to young Spock, “This is a friendship that will define you both,” is really too awesome for words.

My favorite Star Trek quote, “Beam me up Scotty,” appears in the film several times and brings back so many memories of the TV series in which I grew up. Yes, this one’s a winner with minimal violence and simply good ole acting, direction and amazing special effects.

Sarah Adamson © 2009