To say that I’m a Star Trek fan, is a pretty big understatement. I’ve seen every episode of every Star Trek series at least twice, and have seen all the movies so many times I’ve lost track. I own Star Trek novels, Technical Manuals, toys, video games, and have even attended 2 Star Trek conventions. So, when I heard that Paramount was “rebooting” the franchise I was very concerned.
I just returned home from seeing the movie tonight, and to my surprise, I quite enjoyed it. The makers of this movie have somehow, inexplicably managed to make a movie that “ordinary” people will enjoy, without alienating existing Star Trek fans. Was Star Trek canon altered? Yes. Was it altered so much that I couldn’t enjoy the movie? No. Sure, the previously established Star Trek timeline and backstory has changed a little, and some of the crews’ relationships have been “tweaked” but in the end, knowing what damage Paramount could have done to the franchise, I’m happy with this movie.
The reason I’m still a little reserved in regard to my praise the film, is because until now, all the movies were based on a TV series, which is what Star Trek is, and should be at its core; an episodic television show that uses the envelope of Sci-Fi to discuss social topics and even provide some social commentary. Obviously, a Star Trek movie can’t really address social issues like a TV series can, (although Star Trek IV and VI did a pretty good job) so in that sense I can’t really say I’m 100% pleased with the direction that the franchise is going. However, disagreeing with the direction of the franchise doesn’t mean that I can’t enjoy an action packed Star Trek movie with great production value, acting, and respect for the source material.
In my opinion, this new movie is the best reboot of the franchise a hardcore Star Trek fan like me could hope for. While I didn’t want a re-imagining of my precious Star Trek done in the first place, once I accepted that it was inevitable (it can’t stay the same forever, it IS 42 years old after all) I was able to go see this movie and have a really good time.
So, fellow Trekkers, go in with an open mind, don’t nit-pick the movie to death, and I think you’ll really enjoy it. I’d much rather have a different Star Trek than no Star Trek at all. Maybe, just maybe, this rework of Star Trek was needed in order for the franchise to continue to ‘live long and prosper.’