So much action, humor, and genuine adventure permeates J.J. Abrams’ Star Trek that those unfamiliar with the ground-breaking television series will undoubtedly find entertainment in the sheer excitement of the renowned space travelers’ re-envisioned maiden voyage. For those well versed in the annals of Star Trek lore, every inspired casting choice, catch phrase, and brilliantly re-imagined staple of the original universe will likely bring accolades of approval and nostalgic revelry. And for those on middle ground, even the troublesome time-shattering paradoxes at the heart of the story’s conflict can’t diminish the enjoyment derived from witnessing such a worthy – and much needed – serious rejuvenation of an integral part of science fiction’s canon.

James T. Kirk’s brash, rebellious, and authority-opposed nature has always guided him into formidable predicaments. However, his extreme intelligence and aversion to defeat has found him enrolled in the Federation Starfleet– a path his father also chose long ago. When a distress signal is sent out by the planet Vulcan, Kirk finds his way onto the USS Enterprise to join fellow graduates McCoy (Karl Urban), Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Sulu (John Cho), and Chekov (Anton Yelchin), as well as the stone-faced and logic-driven Spock (Zachary Quinto), to engage in a colossal mission to save Earth – and the universe – from a maniacal renegade warlord (Eric Bana).

2009 seems to be the summer of prequels, starting with X-Men Origins: Wolverine, followed by Star Trek then Angels & Demons. What’s most inspired about Trek is its amazing cast – they’ve somehow managed to get actors who look surprisingly like their older counterparts and have a familiar chemistry that makes them believable as younger versions of the famous starship crew. Like all of the reinventions of popular franchises flooding cinemas in the last few years, Star Trek tops its predecessors with stunning special effects, riveting adventure, legendary catch phrases, an intense plot that remains generally serious even with a satisfying blend of humor, and origins scenes that provoke generous applaud from longtime fans. So it hardly matters if the ice monsters of Delta Vega reek of Star Wars (both The Empire Strikes Back and The Phantom Menace).

The plot itself is a mixture of complex alternate realities, supernovas, black holes, red matter and science-fiction jargon, but the pacing is keen. With intimidating starship designs, unmatched space battle CG, stirring music, and the classic crew inheriting their positions to create a perfectly balanced camaraderie, Star Trek goes to great lengths to appeal to both diehard Trekkies and the curious but uneducated. Many previous films catered too much to familiar audiences, making this updated, contemporary, shiny new Trek movie a great place to jump aboard and become a fan.

   

   

   

- The Massie Twins

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