by Adam Edwards, 26/05/2013
One of the most anticipated sequels for many years and it did not disappoint. A fantastic cast was already in place and with the brilliant JJ Abrams adding the talents of Benedict Cumberbatch and Alice Eve, it was the movie event of the year.
However, whilst a massive sci-fi fan such as myself was 100% satisfied by the film, I feel the obsessive Trekkies out there will not be happy. Whilst it was a stunning action film with humour and science thrown in, it just did not feel like Star Trek.
On the other hand, it is clear that Abrams, Lindelof, et al. are taking Star Trek in a new direction so any problems with the film or the lack of canon with the original series can be blamed on Eric Bana and the Romulans of the first film.
Best Bits: Acting quality and the writing. Cumberbatch.
Worst Bits: Plot holes, Can the Enterprise really survive under water?
Rating: 8.5/10
For fans of: Star Trek XI, Star Wars prequels, Sci Fi Action.
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By Daniel Bradley, Trekkie representative. 05/07/2013
This one has had to do a lot of work to match the general success of the first reboot. The hardest job, perhaps, was to satisfy die hard fans of the franchise that has come before. There is a formula to Star Trek. You must build into the crew a family spirit at its core - we must care about this family. Then there must be comedy, visual, situational and black alike, but not too much. Then there must be a solid Science Fiction vein throughout, perhaps a mystery, a quest populated by narrow escapes and a perceived insurmountable threat beaten by brains and teamwork. There must also be alien tottie of any gender.
It is for the above reasons that I love Star Trek and would, if pushed, confess to watching every episode every made. The story writing, with rare exception, has consistently been of a high calibre. It was my bread and butter growing up. So when we said goodbye to the Next Generation (and Commander Data in Nemesis!), it was a sad day for many. That Star Trek still exists in one form or another is a blessing - so is this film worth seeing for a Trekkie with hang ups?
Difficult to say. I loved it, but a reboot still feels like it's coming at the cost of so many years of what came before… The special effects are outstanding, and all done in house which is even more incredible. The storyline was predictable for anyone who knows anything about Kirk's backstory - but that aside, the nods to Wrath are so wonderful that most sins are forgiven. So what if the timeline is irreparably changed forever - we got to see Spock talk about the old adventures…!
I know I watched a good movie, kids. I came out in awe of it… But it's like rebooting Lost with Mark Ruffalo as Hurley… and the Hatch opened early by pygmies… and Desmond's actually a bad guy now because of sleep deficiency and an accidental trigger finger… It all comes done to a simple question for a Trek fan. 'Do you want to believe, again?'
Best Bits: Benedict kicking ass, Spock kicking ass, Kirk having his ass kicked, the rapport with Scottie and the good Doctor.
Worst Bits: You don't have to try and make us happy by dipping in and out of established cannon. Do it unexpectedly, just make great science fiction. Also: Fucking tribbles. :)
Rating. 7.5/10
For Fans of Star Trek & JJ's films.