This year marks the 50th anniversary since Star Trek first came on the air. It’s amazing that a TV show that only lasted three seasons became this world wide phenomenon and is now releasing film #13.
The crew of the Enterprise is three years into their five year mission to explore space (a nod to the original show). While on a rescue mission in a strange nebula, the crew comes across their most formidable foe yet, a new alien species who’s leader is named Krall (Idris Elba).
Everyone is separated after the first battle. Mr. Spock and Dr. McCoy (Zachary Quinto and Karl Urban) are together. This leads to some classic throwback Spock/McCoy moments, which has not yet really been seen in the new series of movies. Captain Kirk and Chekov (Chris Pine and Anton Yelchin) are another team. Scotty (Simon Pegg) is alone, but soon meets up with a new ally, Jaylah (Sofia Boutella), while the rest of the crew is held prisoner. Krall is putting together a new weapon that can threaten the entire Federation.
J.J. Abrams is the one who revitalized the Star Trek universe when it appeared to be finally dead. Justin Lin, who turned the Fast and Furious franchise into what it is today, takes over the directing and has amped up the franchise to the next level. This outing is not only the best of the new movies, a argument could be made that this is the best Star Trek movie yet, even surpassing Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.
The film gives a loving tribute to the late Leonard Nimoy, but also acknowledges the untimely death of Anton Yelchin. Like all good Trek movies, all the characters have their moment to shine, and Yelchin certainly does here. Abrams has already announced that his part will not be recast in the next movie and he will be missed.
There’s been plenty of disappointing sequels this year and not too many summer movies to talk about, but this is what a summer blockbuster is supposed to be. It’s got action, humor, characters we like and a good story to tell. A fitting entry to help celebrate 50 years of Trek. To gain the full experience, check it out in IMAX 3D.