My 2009 Star Trek Review
May. 7th, 2012 02:37 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
melodysparksFor 5 years I dabbled in writing consumer reviews to earn a little extra money with surveys and reviews of products and services. A few of my epic posts on here have come from those reviews and pages. This year the filming of the new Star Trek film is taking place and I for one am looking forward to when it is released.
This post is basically my review of the previous film from 2009 by J J Abrams. Now I will admit there is some significant detail about the movie and spoilers in it so I have kept it behind the cut.
Someone told me the other day that “People who like Star Trek are nerds!” The ensuing conversation brought up words like geek, weird, odd and resulting in my colleagues announcing that I am on another planet; with a black hole for a brain. It really gets on my goat when a handful of tactless people make those daft sorts of comments.
A Facebook contact cheered me up saying “It’s true...but being a nerd, geek or weird is something to be proud of! Who would want to be a dim, colourless, corporate drone?” I agree therefore I will stand up proudly and say, “I AM A NERD AND… I LIKE STAR TREK” I, like millions of other people. Don’t get me wrong, I am not one of those fans who swat up on the techno-babble or know specific dimensions and details, I don’t dress up as my favourite character. I have never been to a convention although I did go to a wedding once where the bride walked down the aisle to the Next Generation theme tune, the wedding party wore communication badges instead of buttonholes and flowers and the groom’s uncle was the spitting image of Patrick Stewart.
The movies of the 80’s were Star Trek for me yet Mum, my cinema going companion didn’t have any interest in any of it. I liked how Star Trek crews take me on their adventures for a couple of hour’s entertainment and fun. You can laugh and cry, be happy or sad and still fly along on the edge of your seat like on the biggest fastest roller coaster.
Many people will never forgive me for saying this but, Star Trek was growing a little tired, or maybe it was the Next Generation crew I was growing bored with? Ok so I did not see a great deal of the Original series, alright, so I was born a few days before the last episode of the first season was aired...sue me! I have made up for that since.
THE FIRST 43 YEARS
Star Trek is an iconic and phenomenal 43-year-old institution, created by Gene Roddenberry to become one of the biggest science fiction franchises in history. Born during the decade that saw the race to the moon, it was an inspiration to thousands with its cultural influences with moral and social issues. With a charismatic cast that drew you along on their adventures it made you feel you were one of the away team.
Star Trek took off running in re-runs/repeats over the dark and depressing decade of the 70’s. Gaining an extraordinary cult following and inspiring men like Martin Cooper who invented the mobile phone before emerging into the 80’s when NASA presented the world with the reusable space shuttle who’s original prototype orbiter due to a letter writing campaign from Trek fans was christened Enterprise.
Through the 80’s it grew giving us five movies and a new TV series with The Next Generation. Picking up speed and climbing in popularity as it moved into the 90’s with another 4 movies and two additional TV series: Deep Space Nine and Voyager. And finally into the 21st century with another movie and another TV series: Enterprise. This time the franchise went way back in the Star Trek history to the founding of the Federation. Then in 2005 it all came to a stop. Or did it?
AND SO IT BEGINS
It was time for change, Star Trek needed rejuvenation. What can be said that has not been said before? What can be done that has not been done before? No doubt, the writers and producers of Star Trek; The future Begins asked the very same questions. With the pedigree of J.J.Abrams the man behind sensations such as Alias, Lost, Cloverfield and Mission Impossible III matched perfectly with the complimenting partnership of writers Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, how could they fail to have a winner with a movie created to interest a more general audience rather than just “Trekkers and nerds”?
More importantly their smarts were used, rather than going forward into the future following on from the previous movies a bold move was made; instead they went back in time…quite literally within the Star Trek universe and transformed it while still staying faithful to the original premise of Roddenberry. Back they went through time, back to the favourite characters of the original series to a period fans could only speculate at, back to the academy. This idea I found intriguing but not as fascinating as what the movie eventually revealed: Spock's and Kirk’s childhoods and their subsequent enrolments into the Starfleet Academy? WOW.
All we know that has gone before is now a closed book from the moment the movie blasts onto the screen. The way to describe the transformation is perhaps comparing it to a car. It is not an old jalopy with a tune up and service with a fresh coat of paint, oh no. This is a brand new model, fast, smooth, thrilling but retaining the best of the original classic elements married together with new features making a whole new vehicle. As the prologue moves forward then the story unfolds, things are not what they seem; it brings an excitement to this Star Trek universe.
************************************************************************************************
THE PROLOGUE
The star date is 2233; the USS Kelvin discovers an anomaly in space, like a turbulent maelstrom, a black hole. The Captain, Robar, and crew watch as out of the black hole emerges a leviathan. The immense structure is the Romulan Mining Vessel Narada as it later is revealed, it dwarfs the Kelvin. This vessel is not of this time but from the future. It opens fire on the Kelvin disabling it. The Romulans make communication and demand that the Captain flies over to the Narada alone to negotiate a cease-fire. Agreeing, Robau issues orders, to his first lieutenant leaving the bridge in the hands of Lieutenant Kirk. George Kirk.
When sensors alert George to the sudden murder of his Captain, he begins evacuation of the ship which includes his heavily pregnant wife Winona, who goes into labour. The navigation controls are damaged so George initiates the self distruct and sets a collision course into the Narada
In the fleeing shuttles, his wife gives birth, while on board ship George knows he is about to die. In those final and achingly tragic moments of his life, George and Winona name their son Jim after Winona’s dad. Therefore, in the midst of battle James Tiberius Kirk was born. Moments later the Kelvin crashes into the leviathan however, this is not as it should have been. With the arrival of the Narada the timeline has now changed and the future yet to be written.
SYSNOPSIS
Ten years later on Vulcan, three boys confront and taunt a young boy. These bullies call his father a traitor and his mother a whore. Spock snaps and attacks one of the boys beating him. Later confronted by his father he is told, with logic Vulcan’s’ control their emotions more than humans do. He asks why his father married his mother and the reply since it was logical to do so. Jumping forward a few more years, Spock (Zachary Quinto) stands before the High Council. Outstanding with his studies the council announce he has been accepted into the Vulcan Science Academy but wonder why he has applied to Star Fleet Academy. To this Spock replies “It was logical to cultivate multiple options” but they demand he accept his entry to the Science Academy despite his "disadvantage" of a human mother. Spock declines and bids a sardonic farewell with “Live long and prosper”.
Year 2255, at an Iowa roadside bar, Uhura, (Zoë Saldana) young female cadet orders drinks. A drunken Jim Kirk (Chris Pine) offers to buy it. Flirting with her although she shows no encouragement, Kirk is unsuccessfully with his charm and another cadet soon intervenes. A brawl ensues. Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood) walks into the bar and breaks up the fight with a loud whistle.
Pike sits down and talks with Kirk. Pike attempts to talk some sense into him firmly believing that he can do more with his life than "be the only genius-level repeat offender in the Midwest." He suggests Jim Kirk should join Starfleet. Pike states that Kirk could attain the rank of captain within four years. Jim laughs at this. Captain Pike leaves with a parting shot, “Your father was captain of a Starship for twelve minutes. He saved 800 lives, including your mothers and yours. I dare you to do better”. Clearly the cogs in Jim’s mind begin to work.
After a long soul searching night Jim arrives at the shipyard and upon meeting Pike announces “I’ll do it in three”, it being achieving the rank of Captain. Settling on board he hears a commotion where a crotchety Dr Leonard McCoy (Karl Urban) is loudly complaining that “I don't need a doctor, damnit, I am a doctor!” and that he was happy where he was already sat (in the loo). Forced into the seat next to Jim he greeted him with an “I might throw up on you.” before launching in to an account as to how the body reacts to a hull breach.
Three years later, Kirk prepares to take the fabled Kobayashi Maru test, for the third time, however knowing that the test is a no win scenario, and he doesn’t like to lose, he has reprogrammed the parameters of the test. Bad Idea! A full academy assembly is called and Jim finds himself on trial for “cheating” during the test. His accuser… Spock. Suddenly, a planetary distress message from Vulcan postpones the trial and temporarily, Kirk is suspended. In red alert mode, all the graduating cadets are assigned to ships. The cadets have to grow up fast and mature quicker than originally expected but for Kirk, under suspension he is to be left behind pending the outcome of his “trial” However Bones McCoy has other ideas and smuggles him aboard Enterprise. Into battle they fly.
This will be a cruel right of passage. Will they complete this brutal mission? Do they have what it takes to meld into a team to stay alive?
************************************************************************************************
The Cast
Oh my goodness what do I say about the cast? Wow wee, let me just fan my face for a few moments. Hot properties each and every one and that is not just talent wise either. With a young, talented cast of personalities whom may appear to be relatively unknown, they each are far from being novices, rather the opposite. Make a list of some of our favourite movies plus a few others and TV shows and tick them off one by one and hey presto.
The cast is young, gifted and sexy. These young actors appeal to the audience but more importantly, they do not imitate or mimic the Original Series crew rather uncannily concentrate the core characteristics of the individual roles sweeping you into a seamless transition from old to new. At the beginning, these distinctive characters are single components of the eventual company whom have yet to unite. For the characters, it is a learning experience, a rite of passage ultimately ending in maturity. Nevertheless, I digress…Mum and I sat down and discussed our thoughts and opinions, our likes and dislikes of the new cast and this is what we concluded.
* * * * * *
JAMES TIBERIUS KIRK portrayed by Chris Pine. Who? I hear some of you ask, well, I had to think for a few moments I was not sure (that black hole in my head acting up again. I really do need a holiday) and then I sheepishly Googled him. To anyone who has seen movies like the romantic comedies Just My Luck and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement and the movie Smoking aces would know whom I was talking about.
When we first meet Kirk, he is rebellious, cynical and lacking direction and discipline although he is not afraid to jump right into a bar fight. His life is aimless and drifting; he’s wasting his talents, he’s angry and doubts himself and his future. When Pike talks with him, Kirk is sarcastic and scornful covering up his doubt with bravado but Pike’s words sink in and bring to life the possibilities. Mr Pine performs beautifully this hot-headed, smart aleck, ladies man and incorrigible flirt with a charming face and cheeky grin, much more charming than the former characterisation.
Kirk excels at Starfleet, like a sugar rush to a child, his brazen self confidence switches into overdrive being clever, quick and astute, but still a little arrogant and disruptive. He is unruly, but not disloyal, and still very much a Casanova. However his over self-confidence gets the better of him when he cheats on the Kobayashi Maru test and his subsequent trial grounds him both in his wayward behaviour and career when the Vulcan emergency arises and he finally grows up. Although still passionate and motivated and ready to jump wholeheartedly into a situation where someone or something is in jeopardy, his impetuous nature is more reined in, more focused.
Mum says Mr Pine adds a spark of life to character, active and filled with energy, imbibing the portrayal with dynamism. Shatner, she said was too wooden and set in his ways. His version of the character was established; deadpan and she never really liked him. I would agree with her Mr Pine has more vigour and intensity in his characterisation as well as a generous amount of humour, enthusiasm and more oomph AND, as mum say, better looking. He most certainly does not imitate Shatner. I like Mr Pine’s portrayal of James Kirk much, much more.
* * * * * *
SPOCK (ELDER) portrayed by Leonard Nimoy. What can I say about Mr Nimoy? Very little apart from being one of my favourites especially in Star Trek IV: a genius at work. Mr Nimoy has been a part of Star Trek for over 40 years not just as Spock but a director of two movies, recreates his role as Spock, but as an older, enigmatic and wiser man. He is anguished, and carrying a heavy burden of guilt for the destruction of the Romulan home world, he was helpless to prevent. My impression of this older Spock was his emotions are not so restrained and his sorrow very evident and filled with regret.
It was delightful to see this noble actor step once more into Spock’s shoes and to pass the baton on to his successor Mr Quinto.
* * * * * *
SPOCK Portrayed by Zachary Quinto. I did not recognise this extremely talented actor when I saw the first posters for the movie and I should have, considering his role as villainous Sylar in Heroes. It was the hair, eyebrows and the ears! Mr Quinto is also known for his as a computer expert Adam in the third series of 24.
The academically gifted half Vulcan half Human, Spock, is perhaps the most complex character of the movie. He is unique as he has both traits of his parents’ ancestry running through him. Spock is steadfast and sensible, logical and Vulcan, but there are cracks there and occasionally a glimpse of his human side can be seen. As many fans know, Vulcans, are considered to be emotionless, this a misapprehension as they are emotional but choose to suppress their feelings through logic and a strict self control because, if not checked their anger can become extremely violent as is displayed during a couple of scenes in the movie.
When we first meet Mr Quinto as Spock he is called upon to stand before the somewhat stuffy and blatantly prejudiced Vulcan High Council. Their attitude and underlying discrimination I believe is the impetus behind his shrewd yet perhaps slightly impulsive decline of the “honour” to enter the Science Academy and his decision to join Star Fleet. Although Mr Quinto’s expression is somewhat undemonstrative, mum and I agreed that there did seem to be a glint in his eye as he bid the Council perhaps a defiant farewell with what we think was an underlying “go forth and multiply” insult to those dogmatic men. I wanted to shout “yes” and “Good for you Spock”. I knew I was going to like this Spock.
Mum said the first thing she noticed about Mr Quinto was his striking resemblance to the younger Mr Nimoy but more attractive and his voice while still measured and even, is a deeper and softer tone. (Fanning my face again, did someone turn up the thermostat?) Mr Quinto adds a certain attractiveness to the role he actually makes Spock sexy and I for one applaud this after all endearing aliens are not restricted to ugly little squat things with big eyes, extending necks and funny long middle fingers.
We thought that his emotions were closer to the surface and although still extremely professional, aloof and typically Vulcan there was some human moments. No longer being flawed as he was seen to be on Vulcan, Spock now lives, works and mixes with numerous races and his character can become himself. Although still respecting his roots his unemotional bearing seems to mellow and his emotions come closer to the surface: this, we agreed makes the character more fascinating. From the point later in the film when he has a sort of Vulcan “heart to heart” with his father, I think he comes out of it more comfortable with his human side.
Mr Quinto’s portrayal is perhaps the best out of the entire cast so that the character that at first seems so rigid and aloof if somewhat cold grows on you so that by the end of the movie you really like him. Our opinion was that this young man stood out and by putting everything into the character has now made it his own.
* * * * * *
LEONARD "BONES" MCCOY portrayed by Karl Urban. Mr Urban, OK, where do I start here? I did not recognise him without long hair and a beard from his role as Eomer of Rohan from the second and third of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy nor did I identify him with the ashen faced Necromonger, Commander Vaako from the Chronicles of Riddick, and I have all three of those movies in my collection!
I was surprised by how much Mr Urban captured the spirit of Bones’ character flawlessly. If I did not know better I would swear that he and the late Deforest Kelly were related, his portrayal is superb right down to the drawling southern accent and gruff manner and the numerous animated expressions that cross his face as he speaks. Not only that, he skilfully injects humour into his character with the fabled witticisms, clever remarks and the memorable outbursts like that made the character famous like “I’m a Doctor not a Physicist,” or “Are you out of your Vulcan Mind?” and the same brusque manner and intonations. I chuckled away during the scenes where Bones smuggled Jim on board the Enterprise by injecting him with a serum to bring about symptoms of an illness which Kirk is allergic to and everything Bones tries to resolve the problem only seems to make it worse: epitome of a comedic duo
The cantankerous Doctor Leonard “Bones” McCoy has aerophobia not to mention a hatred of having the matter of his body rearranged by transporter. He befriends Kirk en-route to the Academy. Up on introducing himself he inform as to how his recent divorce left him with nothing but his bones from where I am sure Kirk christens him “Bones” rather than because he is a doctor. Although touchy, testy and somewhat prickly he is staunch defender, advocate and guardian to all onboard. In this movie however, although Bones is a good friend to Kirk he has yet to cement a friendship with Spock.
* * * * * *
CHRISTOPHER PIKE portrayed by the other Canadian actor to command the bridge of the Enterprise; Bruce Greenwood. OK where do I start here? Mr Greenwood has a varied resume to his credit including performing the roles of the American President twice, in 13 Days (as J F Kennedy, one of his best roles I’ve seen him play) and National Treasure Book of Secrets. He has been a NASA astronaut in The Core, a UCLA professor in Eight Below, the head the U.S Robotics in I: Robot and a humble fireman in Firehouse Dog. (Incidentally, I watched this movie on my last flight when on vacation to Canada and unbeknown to me at the time he was born in my friend’s hometown where I was visiting. Fantastic fountain they have there BTW!)
Pike is the first Captain of the newly commissioned USS Enterprise. We first meet him when he enters an Iowa shipyard bar and saves Kirk from perhaps one of the biggest bar brawl poundings of his young life. He sits down with the rebellious young man and talks with him, speaks of his dead father and tries to persuade Jim to join Starfleet daring him to do better than his father.
I would liken Pike to that of Richard Bolitho in the Alexander Kent Napoleonic era British Naval novels, I perceive the character from Bruce Greenwoods portrayal to be that of an even-handed, honourable but demanding Captain, A consummate officer and commander whose crew hold him in high regard and are fiercely loyal. In other words, he is a perfect role model template for the young Kirk.
* * * * * *
PAVEL ANDREIEVICH CHEKOV portrayed by Anton Yelchin. Young Mr Yelchin, well, I had to rummage in that empty, dark void in my head to remember where I had seen this young gentleman before remembering him in his role as 14 year old Byrd Huffstodt in the Huff TV series. His numerous other roles I will hold reluctantly my hand up and say I have not seen except for his portrayal of the young Kyle Reese in Terminator Salvation.
Mr Yelchin gives a good performance of the exceedingly young 17 year old Tactical Ensign, Chekov, mathematical genius and whiz-kid whom he gives not only abounding energy and enthusiasm but also the possession of an enviable ability to manipulate the transporter controls like an expert X-box or Nintendo gamesman that even Mum was impressed. One of the aspects of the original character retained was Chekov’s mispronunciations of words containing the letter V. A little light comic relief here, and behind scenes a writer with a sense of humour who has provided dialogue containing words like Vulcan (Wulcan)and evacuation (ewacuation) as well as a cadet authorisation code nine-five-victor-victor-two (wictor wictor). Mr Yelchin’s authentically perfects Chekhov’s Russian accent.
* * * * * *
MONTGOMERY “SCOTTY” SCOTT portrayed by actor/writer/comedian Simon Pegg. Mr Pegg is known for being co-creator/writer/star of the comedy Spaced and the Rom Zom Com, zany antics filled movie Shaun of the Dead and my very own favourite as PC Nick Angel in Hot Fuzz. Also during his career appeared in How to Lose Friends and Alienate People, Run Fat Boy Run and Mission Impossible III. Mr Pegg is one of the few actors to have appeared in both Star Trek and the long running British TV Sci-fi franchise Dr Who. (Another being Deep Roy who plays Scotty’s side kick Keenser who goes one better being the only actor to have appeared in the three of the four greatest Sci-Fi franchises in history, Star Trek, Dr Who AND Star Wars. I will let you Google him yourself to confirm it).
Mr Pegg perfected his Scottish brogue according to one movie magazine with his Glaswegian wife and I could well believe that too. He plays him like a typical Scot I would say (no offence intended in any way I like Scots). At first when you meet Mr Scott you discover him exiled on an ice planet because he had an argument with his instructor regarding a transporter experiment using Admiral Archer’s prize beagle (Aww, poor Porthos). My mum and I agreed that Scotty is defiant, bold, cheeky, impudent and a little rebellious. He is hungry, having existed on protein nibbles for months and waiting for Starfleet to deliver him some proper food and his ire from his Celtic heritage certainly shows especially with the outthrust of his chin and chiding demands. But like the Chief Engineer he is, he loves his machines and proud to show off his abilities as a “Miracle Worker” he will eventually become especially when he beams three people from two different locations on to one transporter pad simultaneously.
* * * * * *
HIKARU SULU portrayed John Cho. Mr Cho is known for his roles in teen comedies, American Pie and the popular Harold and Kumar movies, and his recurring role as Kenny in the hit series Ugly Betty.
As replacement Helmsman Mr Cho splendidly fills the shoes of the character by adding some subtle humour as well as enthusiasm to the character. Sulu is a pilot through and through, expert at the helm controls and eager to fly. Mr Cho elegantly pulls of the moment of the embarrassing incident when his character makes a rookie mistake by forgetting to disengage the external inertial dampener (Break I believe), and thus holding back the Enterprise from jumping to hyperspace which later proved to be extremely fortunate for the ship and crew. Sulu gets the chance to display his expertise with a sword especially one that retracts back into its handle and I am not talking about a light sabre either.
* * * * * *
NYOTA UHURA portrayed by actress Zoë Saldana, known for the roles of a Trekkie/Trekker immigration officer in The Terminal, Anamarie in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Theresa in Guess Who?
When I first saw Ms Saldana I thought, wow how does she get her eyelashes so long? This attractive and talented actress, outstandingly characterize the skilful communications officer. Not only is Uhura strong willed, attractive but intelligent to. She is not a woman to suffer fools or fall for the charms of someone like Kirk. Initially Uhura was assigned to the Farragut when she had expressed her desire to serve on the Enterprise. This assignment was an attempt by Mr Spock to avoid accusations of favouritism, but she demands he assign her to the Enterprise. Miss Saldana superbly expresses her depth of character, her empathy and compassion to a fellow crewman to whom Uhura is romantically involved with is filled with tenderness and understanding. (I will not spoil it for you and let you discover for yourself to whom I refer)
* * * * * *
CAPTAIN NERO portrayed by Eric Bana. Known for his roles in a varied assortment of movies, Mr Bana is most notable are his roles as an elite Delta Force soldier in Black Hawk Down, the Greek prince, Hector in Troy, the title role in Hulk, a Mossad agent in Munich and King Henry VIII in Other Boleyn Girl.
Mr Bana superbly depicts the menacingly brutal if somewhat insane Nero a Romulan miner, and captain of the mining vessel Narada. He is a nasty piece of work, volatile, driven and out for retribution. Although silent for the first part of the movie, the tattooed face and pointed ears only add to his wrathful performance his eyes and expression say it all. Nero is irrational and unreasonable. I don’t know how Mr Bana achieves it but menace is not a word that does it justice. Nero is driven virtually insane by his sorrow. I would suppose his hatred for Spock is equal to that of Khan for Kirk in Star Trek II. Originating from the late 24th century, Nero seeks vengeance against those he felt were responsible namely Spock and the Federation of the destruction of all he holds dear ultimately resulting in his being transported to the 23rd century and creating an alternate reality.
************************************************************************************************
USS ENTERPRISE NCC1701.
One of the most important members of the cast if you can think of it that way is the Enterprise herself. The rejuvenation of the Enterprise is astounding. A redesign and one for the better I would say. Retaining the original shape there does seem to be subtle changes however, the hull is sleek yet elegant more streamlined with a subtle sheen that comes only from a newly built machine. The nacelles are bigger and longer and the sweeping wings where they join the hull are more substantial giving it an overall shape, which looks more like a space going vehicle than a toy model.
The interior is a revelation; it actually looks like what you would expect a spaceship to look like inside, bulkheads, pipes, tubes, catwalks, conduits, workstations and hundreds of people: a sheer hive of activity and bustle like a small city. The bridge while retaining a similar lay out is bright, light, and ultramodern, with multi-touch interfaces, and touch screens, multiple workstations and those glasslike strategy boards filled with images and text giving it more of a feel of a command centre rather than a stylised office.
In the engine room you see engines, generators, compressors, pumps with valves, with electronics, pneumatics, hydraulics, not a somewhat elaborate, swirling tube of gas but an area where you can get dirty and covered with grease it looks more like a big boiler room of a factory. Even the warp core is in multiple parts rather than one piece. I for one think this is what an engine room should look like.
We first see the Enterprise at night being built in the gantries of the Iowa shipyard after Jims Kirks bar fight when he is soul searching and deciding on his future. I like to think that it is this point at which his crush for the Enterprise starts eventually to develop into his love of the ship. After all the Enterprise is the love of Kirk’s life. Next we see her docked at the space station lit up in all her glory, but the point in the movie that made me go “wow” was when Enterprise rises up out of the gaseous atmosphere around Titan with Saturn in the background. I would not mind that image on my computer desktop.
We do view scenes Earth based with sweeping vistas and panoramas especially of pertaining to Iowa. There is one scene that appealed to my eye when Jim Kirk is riding his motor cycle along a road through a farming landscape with row after row of produce growing in the foreground and low lying mist in the background. The vista of the Starfleet Academy in San Francisco Bay with the bridge in the background is one of splendour although I do not know if this is an amalgamation of locations but it certainly does make for a beautiful sight. Vulcan’s scenery is stark and arid desert landscape filled with mountainous valleys and canyons, gorges, and mesas, although barren and desolate the area still holds a beauty. Whoever scouted these locations has a master’s eye.
This movie is not one solely filled with CGI and special effects although they do play a part of it but not engulfing it. These effects are exceptionally high-quality and added together with the marvellous direction of J J Abrams, form a drama rich with activity, action and thrills. The transporter effects are in particular an alteration that I feel was to some extent required. Instead of the usual shimmer of multicoloured lights it is a swirl of lights and substance like a whirlwind of atoms breaking apart and ready to fly off. The drilling platform used at one point with its lethal shaft of energy is so intense that you could almost feel the power behind it. All in all the effects are more believable and a feast to the eye and the imagination.
The stirring orchestral music predominant with brass and percussion gave me goose bumps and still does. Written by Michael Giacchino composer of music to Ratatouille, Mission: Impossible III and The Incredibles, it really conveys the drama of each scene and the emotions of the characters, menacing, moody and in my opinion unlike James Horner and Jerry Goldsmith’s musical content from previous movies and I am a James Horner fan. His choice of eerie choral pieces was just right and swept you along with the pace of the story. It was nice to hear how Mr Giacchino incorporated the Alexander Courage original theme into the end credits giving a salute to the original series that kicked it all off.
AFTERWORD
One of the points mum and I agree on is how with the original series, the characters were already a mature and established crew, with their roles created and recognised, whereas with this movie we see the beginning. We see the history and the events that formed and developed the characters, who they were, where they came from and how they came together to become the unique crew and leaving the characters future open for new and exciting adventures. We see a crew that gets injured, scraped, bloodied and bruised while still going about their work even if it is with a few scabs bruises and bandages. This is a movie, moviegoers will love, it is fairly light on the violence but does have its share of blasts and bangs and packed with spectacular action sequences. It is grittier and realistic and all in all one of the finest and more satisfying adventures to come along in a long time.
The story doesn’t try suspending belief or thinking the audience is not so bright. Ok so yes this is a story that has time travel and a villain whose intent is destruction but more importantly it is about the people. Without a doubt beyond compare, the finest Star Trek movie.
I was eagerly awaiting this movie but I was hesitant of how Mum would consider it but it won her over although she is not rushing out to grab a copy any of the previous movies. She told me that with this cast and production crew any sequels will be well worth a watch and she will be first in the queue when the next instalment is released.
Throughout the first viewing I sat with my mouth open and eyes wide open. I was so totally blown away with this shiny new rollercoaster of a movie that as soon as we left the cinema I said “I want to see that again” and I have, four times now. I wonder if I can fit another showing in before the run finishes at the local Cineworld? If not, I know what to put on my Christmas list.
Thank you for your attention
Should you like to read any of my other reviews you can find them on Ciao under melodysparks
This post is basically my review of the previous film from 2009 by J J Abrams. Now I will admit there is some significant detail about the movie and spoilers in it so I have kept it behind the cut.
Someone told me the other day that “People who like Star Trek are nerds!” The ensuing conversation brought up words like geek, weird, odd and resulting in my colleagues announcing that I am on another planet; with a black hole for a brain. It really gets on my goat when a handful of tactless people make those daft sorts of comments.
A Facebook contact cheered me up saying “It’s true...but being a nerd, geek or weird is something to be proud of! Who would want to be a dim, colourless, corporate drone?” I agree therefore I will stand up proudly and say, “I AM A NERD AND… I LIKE STAR TREK” I, like millions of other people. Don’t get me wrong, I am not one of those fans who swat up on the techno-babble or know specific dimensions and details, I don’t dress up as my favourite character. I have never been to a convention although I did go to a wedding once where the bride walked down the aisle to the Next Generation theme tune, the wedding party wore communication badges instead of buttonholes and flowers and the groom’s uncle was the spitting image of Patrick Stewart.
The movies of the 80’s were Star Trek for me yet Mum, my cinema going companion didn’t have any interest in any of it. I liked how Star Trek crews take me on their adventures for a couple of hour’s entertainment and fun. You can laugh and cry, be happy or sad and still fly along on the edge of your seat like on the biggest fastest roller coaster.
Many people will never forgive me for saying this but, Star Trek was growing a little tired, or maybe it was the Next Generation crew I was growing bored with? Ok so I did not see a great deal of the Original series, alright, so I was born a few days before the last episode of the first season was aired...sue me! I have made up for that since.
THE FIRST 43 YEARS
Star Trek is an iconic and phenomenal 43-year-old institution, created by Gene Roddenberry to become one of the biggest science fiction franchises in history. Born during the decade that saw the race to the moon, it was an inspiration to thousands with its cultural influences with moral and social issues. With a charismatic cast that drew you along on their adventures it made you feel you were one of the away team.
Star Trek took off running in re-runs/repeats over the dark and depressing decade of the 70’s. Gaining an extraordinary cult following and inspiring men like Martin Cooper who invented the mobile phone before emerging into the 80’s when NASA presented the world with the reusable space shuttle who’s original prototype orbiter due to a letter writing campaign from Trek fans was christened Enterprise.
Through the 80’s it grew giving us five movies and a new TV series with The Next Generation. Picking up speed and climbing in popularity as it moved into the 90’s with another 4 movies and two additional TV series: Deep Space Nine and Voyager. And finally into the 21st century with another movie and another TV series: Enterprise. This time the franchise went way back in the Star Trek history to the founding of the Federation. Then in 2005 it all came to a stop. Or did it?
AND SO IT BEGINS
It was time for change, Star Trek needed rejuvenation. What can be said that has not been said before? What can be done that has not been done before? No doubt, the writers and producers of Star Trek; The future Begins asked the very same questions. With the pedigree of J.J.Abrams the man behind sensations such as Alias, Lost, Cloverfield and Mission Impossible III matched perfectly with the complimenting partnership of writers Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, how could they fail to have a winner with a movie created to interest a more general audience rather than just “Trekkers and nerds”?
More importantly their smarts were used, rather than going forward into the future following on from the previous movies a bold move was made; instead they went back in time…quite literally within the Star Trek universe and transformed it while still staying faithful to the original premise of Roddenberry. Back they went through time, back to the favourite characters of the original series to a period fans could only speculate at, back to the academy. This idea I found intriguing but not as fascinating as what the movie eventually revealed: Spock's and Kirk’s childhoods and their subsequent enrolments into the Starfleet Academy? WOW.
All we know that has gone before is now a closed book from the moment the movie blasts onto the screen. The way to describe the transformation is perhaps comparing it to a car. It is not an old jalopy with a tune up and service with a fresh coat of paint, oh no. This is a brand new model, fast, smooth, thrilling but retaining the best of the original classic elements married together with new features making a whole new vehicle. As the prologue moves forward then the story unfolds, things are not what they seem; it brings an excitement to this Star Trek universe.
************************************************************************************************
THE PROLOGUE
The star date is 2233; the USS Kelvin discovers an anomaly in space, like a turbulent maelstrom, a black hole. The Captain, Robar, and crew watch as out of the black hole emerges a leviathan. The immense structure is the Romulan Mining Vessel Narada as it later is revealed, it dwarfs the Kelvin. This vessel is not of this time but from the future. It opens fire on the Kelvin disabling it. The Romulans make communication and demand that the Captain flies over to the Narada alone to negotiate a cease-fire. Agreeing, Robau issues orders, to his first lieutenant leaving the bridge in the hands of Lieutenant Kirk. George Kirk.
When sensors alert George to the sudden murder of his Captain, he begins evacuation of the ship which includes his heavily pregnant wife Winona, who goes into labour. The navigation controls are damaged so George initiates the self distruct and sets a collision course into the Narada
In the fleeing shuttles, his wife gives birth, while on board ship George knows he is about to die. In those final and achingly tragic moments of his life, George and Winona name their son Jim after Winona’s dad. Therefore, in the midst of battle James Tiberius Kirk was born. Moments later the Kelvin crashes into the leviathan however, this is not as it should have been. With the arrival of the Narada the timeline has now changed and the future yet to be written.
SYSNOPSIS
Ten years later on Vulcan, three boys confront and taunt a young boy. These bullies call his father a traitor and his mother a whore. Spock snaps and attacks one of the boys beating him. Later confronted by his father he is told, with logic Vulcan’s’ control their emotions more than humans do. He asks why his father married his mother and the reply since it was logical to do so. Jumping forward a few more years, Spock (Zachary Quinto) stands before the High Council. Outstanding with his studies the council announce he has been accepted into the Vulcan Science Academy but wonder why he has applied to Star Fleet Academy. To this Spock replies “It was logical to cultivate multiple options” but they demand he accept his entry to the Science Academy despite his "disadvantage" of a human mother. Spock declines and bids a sardonic farewell with “Live long and prosper”.
Year 2255, at an Iowa roadside bar, Uhura, (Zoë Saldana) young female cadet orders drinks. A drunken Jim Kirk (Chris Pine) offers to buy it. Flirting with her although she shows no encouragement, Kirk is unsuccessfully with his charm and another cadet soon intervenes. A brawl ensues. Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood) walks into the bar and breaks up the fight with a loud whistle.
Pike sits down and talks with Kirk. Pike attempts to talk some sense into him firmly believing that he can do more with his life than "be the only genius-level repeat offender in the Midwest." He suggests Jim Kirk should join Starfleet. Pike states that Kirk could attain the rank of captain within four years. Jim laughs at this. Captain Pike leaves with a parting shot, “Your father was captain of a Starship for twelve minutes. He saved 800 lives, including your mothers and yours. I dare you to do better”. Clearly the cogs in Jim’s mind begin to work.
After a long soul searching night Jim arrives at the shipyard and upon meeting Pike announces “I’ll do it in three”, it being achieving the rank of Captain. Settling on board he hears a commotion where a crotchety Dr Leonard McCoy (Karl Urban) is loudly complaining that “I don't need a doctor, damnit, I am a doctor!” and that he was happy where he was already sat (in the loo). Forced into the seat next to Jim he greeted him with an “I might throw up on you.” before launching in to an account as to how the body reacts to a hull breach.
Three years later, Kirk prepares to take the fabled Kobayashi Maru test, for the third time, however knowing that the test is a no win scenario, and he doesn’t like to lose, he has reprogrammed the parameters of the test. Bad Idea! A full academy assembly is called and Jim finds himself on trial for “cheating” during the test. His accuser… Spock. Suddenly, a planetary distress message from Vulcan postpones the trial and temporarily, Kirk is suspended. In red alert mode, all the graduating cadets are assigned to ships. The cadets have to grow up fast and mature quicker than originally expected but for Kirk, under suspension he is to be left behind pending the outcome of his “trial” However Bones McCoy has other ideas and smuggles him aboard Enterprise. Into battle they fly.
This will be a cruel right of passage. Will they complete this brutal mission? Do they have what it takes to meld into a team to stay alive?
************************************************************************************************
The Cast
Oh my goodness what do I say about the cast? Wow wee, let me just fan my face for a few moments. Hot properties each and every one and that is not just talent wise either. With a young, talented cast of personalities whom may appear to be relatively unknown, they each are far from being novices, rather the opposite. Make a list of some of our favourite movies plus a few others and TV shows and tick them off one by one and hey presto.
The cast is young, gifted and sexy. These young actors appeal to the audience but more importantly, they do not imitate or mimic the Original Series crew rather uncannily concentrate the core characteristics of the individual roles sweeping you into a seamless transition from old to new. At the beginning, these distinctive characters are single components of the eventual company whom have yet to unite. For the characters, it is a learning experience, a rite of passage ultimately ending in maturity. Nevertheless, I digress…Mum and I sat down and discussed our thoughts and opinions, our likes and dislikes of the new cast and this is what we concluded.
* * * * * *
JAMES TIBERIUS KIRK portrayed by Chris Pine. Who? I hear some of you ask, well, I had to think for a few moments I was not sure (that black hole in my head acting up again. I really do need a holiday) and then I sheepishly Googled him. To anyone who has seen movies like the romantic comedies Just My Luck and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement and the movie Smoking aces would know whom I was talking about.
When we first meet Kirk, he is rebellious, cynical and lacking direction and discipline although he is not afraid to jump right into a bar fight. His life is aimless and drifting; he’s wasting his talents, he’s angry and doubts himself and his future. When Pike talks with him, Kirk is sarcastic and scornful covering up his doubt with bravado but Pike’s words sink in and bring to life the possibilities. Mr Pine performs beautifully this hot-headed, smart aleck, ladies man and incorrigible flirt with a charming face and cheeky grin, much more charming than the former characterisation.
Kirk excels at Starfleet, like a sugar rush to a child, his brazen self confidence switches into overdrive being clever, quick and astute, but still a little arrogant and disruptive. He is unruly, but not disloyal, and still very much a Casanova. However his over self-confidence gets the better of him when he cheats on the Kobayashi Maru test and his subsequent trial grounds him both in his wayward behaviour and career when the Vulcan emergency arises and he finally grows up. Although still passionate and motivated and ready to jump wholeheartedly into a situation where someone or something is in jeopardy, his impetuous nature is more reined in, more focused.
Mum says Mr Pine adds a spark of life to character, active and filled with energy, imbibing the portrayal with dynamism. Shatner, she said was too wooden and set in his ways. His version of the character was established; deadpan and she never really liked him. I would agree with her Mr Pine has more vigour and intensity in his characterisation as well as a generous amount of humour, enthusiasm and more oomph AND, as mum say, better looking. He most certainly does not imitate Shatner. I like Mr Pine’s portrayal of James Kirk much, much more.
* * * * * *
SPOCK (ELDER) portrayed by Leonard Nimoy. What can I say about Mr Nimoy? Very little apart from being one of my favourites especially in Star Trek IV: a genius at work. Mr Nimoy has been a part of Star Trek for over 40 years not just as Spock but a director of two movies, recreates his role as Spock, but as an older, enigmatic and wiser man. He is anguished, and carrying a heavy burden of guilt for the destruction of the Romulan home world, he was helpless to prevent. My impression of this older Spock was his emotions are not so restrained and his sorrow very evident and filled with regret.
It was delightful to see this noble actor step once more into Spock’s shoes and to pass the baton on to his successor Mr Quinto.
* * * * * *
SPOCK Portrayed by Zachary Quinto. I did not recognise this extremely talented actor when I saw the first posters for the movie and I should have, considering his role as villainous Sylar in Heroes. It was the hair, eyebrows and the ears! Mr Quinto is also known for his as a computer expert Adam in the third series of 24.
The academically gifted half Vulcan half Human, Spock, is perhaps the most complex character of the movie. He is unique as he has both traits of his parents’ ancestry running through him. Spock is steadfast and sensible, logical and Vulcan, but there are cracks there and occasionally a glimpse of his human side can be seen. As many fans know, Vulcans, are considered to be emotionless, this a misapprehension as they are emotional but choose to suppress their feelings through logic and a strict self control because, if not checked their anger can become extremely violent as is displayed during a couple of scenes in the movie.
When we first meet Mr Quinto as Spock he is called upon to stand before the somewhat stuffy and blatantly prejudiced Vulcan High Council. Their attitude and underlying discrimination I believe is the impetus behind his shrewd yet perhaps slightly impulsive decline of the “honour” to enter the Science Academy and his decision to join Star Fleet. Although Mr Quinto’s expression is somewhat undemonstrative, mum and I agreed that there did seem to be a glint in his eye as he bid the Council perhaps a defiant farewell with what we think was an underlying “go forth and multiply” insult to those dogmatic men. I wanted to shout “yes” and “Good for you Spock”. I knew I was going to like this Spock.
Mum said the first thing she noticed about Mr Quinto was his striking resemblance to the younger Mr Nimoy but more attractive and his voice while still measured and even, is a deeper and softer tone. (Fanning my face again, did someone turn up the thermostat?) Mr Quinto adds a certain attractiveness to the role he actually makes Spock sexy and I for one applaud this after all endearing aliens are not restricted to ugly little squat things with big eyes, extending necks and funny long middle fingers.
We thought that his emotions were closer to the surface and although still extremely professional, aloof and typically Vulcan there was some human moments. No longer being flawed as he was seen to be on Vulcan, Spock now lives, works and mixes with numerous races and his character can become himself. Although still respecting his roots his unemotional bearing seems to mellow and his emotions come closer to the surface: this, we agreed makes the character more fascinating. From the point later in the film when he has a sort of Vulcan “heart to heart” with his father, I think he comes out of it more comfortable with his human side.
Mr Quinto’s portrayal is perhaps the best out of the entire cast so that the character that at first seems so rigid and aloof if somewhat cold grows on you so that by the end of the movie you really like him. Our opinion was that this young man stood out and by putting everything into the character has now made it his own.
* * * * * *
LEONARD "BONES" MCCOY portrayed by Karl Urban. Mr Urban, OK, where do I start here? I did not recognise him without long hair and a beard from his role as Eomer of Rohan from the second and third of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy nor did I identify him with the ashen faced Necromonger, Commander Vaako from the Chronicles of Riddick, and I have all three of those movies in my collection!
I was surprised by how much Mr Urban captured the spirit of Bones’ character flawlessly. If I did not know better I would swear that he and the late Deforest Kelly were related, his portrayal is superb right down to the drawling southern accent and gruff manner and the numerous animated expressions that cross his face as he speaks. Not only that, he skilfully injects humour into his character with the fabled witticisms, clever remarks and the memorable outbursts like that made the character famous like “I’m a Doctor not a Physicist,” or “Are you out of your Vulcan Mind?” and the same brusque manner and intonations. I chuckled away during the scenes where Bones smuggled Jim on board the Enterprise by injecting him with a serum to bring about symptoms of an illness which Kirk is allergic to and everything Bones tries to resolve the problem only seems to make it worse: epitome of a comedic duo
The cantankerous Doctor Leonard “Bones” McCoy has aerophobia not to mention a hatred of having the matter of his body rearranged by transporter. He befriends Kirk en-route to the Academy. Up on introducing himself he inform as to how his recent divorce left him with nothing but his bones from where I am sure Kirk christens him “Bones” rather than because he is a doctor. Although touchy, testy and somewhat prickly he is staunch defender, advocate and guardian to all onboard. In this movie however, although Bones is a good friend to Kirk he has yet to cement a friendship with Spock.
* * * * * *
CHRISTOPHER PIKE portrayed by the other Canadian actor to command the bridge of the Enterprise; Bruce Greenwood. OK where do I start here? Mr Greenwood has a varied resume to his credit including performing the roles of the American President twice, in 13 Days (as J F Kennedy, one of his best roles I’ve seen him play) and National Treasure Book of Secrets. He has been a NASA astronaut in The Core, a UCLA professor in Eight Below, the head the U.S Robotics in I: Robot and a humble fireman in Firehouse Dog. (Incidentally, I watched this movie on my last flight when on vacation to Canada and unbeknown to me at the time he was born in my friend’s hometown where I was visiting. Fantastic fountain they have there BTW!)
Pike is the first Captain of the newly commissioned USS Enterprise. We first meet him when he enters an Iowa shipyard bar and saves Kirk from perhaps one of the biggest bar brawl poundings of his young life. He sits down with the rebellious young man and talks with him, speaks of his dead father and tries to persuade Jim to join Starfleet daring him to do better than his father.
I would liken Pike to that of Richard Bolitho in the Alexander Kent Napoleonic era British Naval novels, I perceive the character from Bruce Greenwoods portrayal to be that of an even-handed, honourable but demanding Captain, A consummate officer and commander whose crew hold him in high regard and are fiercely loyal. In other words, he is a perfect role model template for the young Kirk.
* * * * * *
PAVEL ANDREIEVICH CHEKOV portrayed by Anton Yelchin. Young Mr Yelchin, well, I had to rummage in that empty, dark void in my head to remember where I had seen this young gentleman before remembering him in his role as 14 year old Byrd Huffstodt in the Huff TV series. His numerous other roles I will hold reluctantly my hand up and say I have not seen except for his portrayal of the young Kyle Reese in Terminator Salvation.
Mr Yelchin gives a good performance of the exceedingly young 17 year old Tactical Ensign, Chekov, mathematical genius and whiz-kid whom he gives not only abounding energy and enthusiasm but also the possession of an enviable ability to manipulate the transporter controls like an expert X-box or Nintendo gamesman that even Mum was impressed. One of the aspects of the original character retained was Chekov’s mispronunciations of words containing the letter V. A little light comic relief here, and behind scenes a writer with a sense of humour who has provided dialogue containing words like Vulcan (Wulcan)and evacuation (ewacuation) as well as a cadet authorisation code nine-five-victor-victor-two (wictor wictor). Mr Yelchin’s authentically perfects Chekhov’s Russian accent.
* * * * * *
MONTGOMERY “SCOTTY” SCOTT portrayed by actor/writer/comedian Simon Pegg. Mr Pegg is known for being co-creator/writer/star of the comedy Spaced and the Rom Zom Com, zany antics filled movie Shaun of the Dead and my very own favourite as PC Nick Angel in Hot Fuzz. Also during his career appeared in How to Lose Friends and Alienate People, Run Fat Boy Run and Mission Impossible III. Mr Pegg is one of the few actors to have appeared in both Star Trek and the long running British TV Sci-fi franchise Dr Who. (Another being Deep Roy who plays Scotty’s side kick Keenser who goes one better being the only actor to have appeared in the three of the four greatest Sci-Fi franchises in history, Star Trek, Dr Who AND Star Wars. I will let you Google him yourself to confirm it).
Mr Pegg perfected his Scottish brogue according to one movie magazine with his Glaswegian wife and I could well believe that too. He plays him like a typical Scot I would say (no offence intended in any way I like Scots). At first when you meet Mr Scott you discover him exiled on an ice planet because he had an argument with his instructor regarding a transporter experiment using Admiral Archer’s prize beagle (Aww, poor Porthos). My mum and I agreed that Scotty is defiant, bold, cheeky, impudent and a little rebellious. He is hungry, having existed on protein nibbles for months and waiting for Starfleet to deliver him some proper food and his ire from his Celtic heritage certainly shows especially with the outthrust of his chin and chiding demands. But like the Chief Engineer he is, he loves his machines and proud to show off his abilities as a “Miracle Worker” he will eventually become especially when he beams three people from two different locations on to one transporter pad simultaneously.
* * * * * *
HIKARU SULU portrayed John Cho. Mr Cho is known for his roles in teen comedies, American Pie and the popular Harold and Kumar movies, and his recurring role as Kenny in the hit series Ugly Betty.
As replacement Helmsman Mr Cho splendidly fills the shoes of the character by adding some subtle humour as well as enthusiasm to the character. Sulu is a pilot through and through, expert at the helm controls and eager to fly. Mr Cho elegantly pulls of the moment of the embarrassing incident when his character makes a rookie mistake by forgetting to disengage the external inertial dampener (Break I believe), and thus holding back the Enterprise from jumping to hyperspace which later proved to be extremely fortunate for the ship and crew. Sulu gets the chance to display his expertise with a sword especially one that retracts back into its handle and I am not talking about a light sabre either.
* * * * * *
NYOTA UHURA portrayed by actress Zoë Saldana, known for the roles of a Trekkie/Trekker immigration officer in The Terminal, Anamarie in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Theresa in Guess Who?
When I first saw Ms Saldana I thought, wow how does she get her eyelashes so long? This attractive and talented actress, outstandingly characterize the skilful communications officer. Not only is Uhura strong willed, attractive but intelligent to. She is not a woman to suffer fools or fall for the charms of someone like Kirk. Initially Uhura was assigned to the Farragut when she had expressed her desire to serve on the Enterprise. This assignment was an attempt by Mr Spock to avoid accusations of favouritism, but she demands he assign her to the Enterprise. Miss Saldana superbly expresses her depth of character, her empathy and compassion to a fellow crewman to whom Uhura is romantically involved with is filled with tenderness and understanding. (I will not spoil it for you and let you discover for yourself to whom I refer)
* * * * * *
CAPTAIN NERO portrayed by Eric Bana. Known for his roles in a varied assortment of movies, Mr Bana is most notable are his roles as an elite Delta Force soldier in Black Hawk Down, the Greek prince, Hector in Troy, the title role in Hulk, a Mossad agent in Munich and King Henry VIII in Other Boleyn Girl.
Mr Bana superbly depicts the menacingly brutal if somewhat insane Nero a Romulan miner, and captain of the mining vessel Narada. He is a nasty piece of work, volatile, driven and out for retribution. Although silent for the first part of the movie, the tattooed face and pointed ears only add to his wrathful performance his eyes and expression say it all. Nero is irrational and unreasonable. I don’t know how Mr Bana achieves it but menace is not a word that does it justice. Nero is driven virtually insane by his sorrow. I would suppose his hatred for Spock is equal to that of Khan for Kirk in Star Trek II. Originating from the late 24th century, Nero seeks vengeance against those he felt were responsible namely Spock and the Federation of the destruction of all he holds dear ultimately resulting in his being transported to the 23rd century and creating an alternate reality.
************************************************************************************************
USS ENTERPRISE NCC1701.
One of the most important members of the cast if you can think of it that way is the Enterprise herself. The rejuvenation of the Enterprise is astounding. A redesign and one for the better I would say. Retaining the original shape there does seem to be subtle changes however, the hull is sleek yet elegant more streamlined with a subtle sheen that comes only from a newly built machine. The nacelles are bigger and longer and the sweeping wings where they join the hull are more substantial giving it an overall shape, which looks more like a space going vehicle than a toy model.
The interior is a revelation; it actually looks like what you would expect a spaceship to look like inside, bulkheads, pipes, tubes, catwalks, conduits, workstations and hundreds of people: a sheer hive of activity and bustle like a small city. The bridge while retaining a similar lay out is bright, light, and ultramodern, with multi-touch interfaces, and touch screens, multiple workstations and those glasslike strategy boards filled with images and text giving it more of a feel of a command centre rather than a stylised office.
In the engine room you see engines, generators, compressors, pumps with valves, with electronics, pneumatics, hydraulics, not a somewhat elaborate, swirling tube of gas but an area where you can get dirty and covered with grease it looks more like a big boiler room of a factory. Even the warp core is in multiple parts rather than one piece. I for one think this is what an engine room should look like.
We first see the Enterprise at night being built in the gantries of the Iowa shipyard after Jims Kirks bar fight when he is soul searching and deciding on his future. I like to think that it is this point at which his crush for the Enterprise starts eventually to develop into his love of the ship. After all the Enterprise is the love of Kirk’s life. Next we see her docked at the space station lit up in all her glory, but the point in the movie that made me go “wow” was when Enterprise rises up out of the gaseous atmosphere around Titan with Saturn in the background. I would not mind that image on my computer desktop.
We do view scenes Earth based with sweeping vistas and panoramas especially of pertaining to Iowa. There is one scene that appealed to my eye when Jim Kirk is riding his motor cycle along a road through a farming landscape with row after row of produce growing in the foreground and low lying mist in the background. The vista of the Starfleet Academy in San Francisco Bay with the bridge in the background is one of splendour although I do not know if this is an amalgamation of locations but it certainly does make for a beautiful sight. Vulcan’s scenery is stark and arid desert landscape filled with mountainous valleys and canyons, gorges, and mesas, although barren and desolate the area still holds a beauty. Whoever scouted these locations has a master’s eye.
This movie is not one solely filled with CGI and special effects although they do play a part of it but not engulfing it. These effects are exceptionally high-quality and added together with the marvellous direction of J J Abrams, form a drama rich with activity, action and thrills. The transporter effects are in particular an alteration that I feel was to some extent required. Instead of the usual shimmer of multicoloured lights it is a swirl of lights and substance like a whirlwind of atoms breaking apart and ready to fly off. The drilling platform used at one point with its lethal shaft of energy is so intense that you could almost feel the power behind it. All in all the effects are more believable and a feast to the eye and the imagination.
The stirring orchestral music predominant with brass and percussion gave me goose bumps and still does. Written by Michael Giacchino composer of music to Ratatouille, Mission: Impossible III and The Incredibles, it really conveys the drama of each scene and the emotions of the characters, menacing, moody and in my opinion unlike James Horner and Jerry Goldsmith’s musical content from previous movies and I am a James Horner fan. His choice of eerie choral pieces was just right and swept you along with the pace of the story. It was nice to hear how Mr Giacchino incorporated the Alexander Courage original theme into the end credits giving a salute to the original series that kicked it all off.
AFTERWORD
One of the points mum and I agree on is how with the original series, the characters were already a mature and established crew, with their roles created and recognised, whereas with this movie we see the beginning. We see the history and the events that formed and developed the characters, who they were, where they came from and how they came together to become the unique crew and leaving the characters future open for new and exciting adventures. We see a crew that gets injured, scraped, bloodied and bruised while still going about their work even if it is with a few scabs bruises and bandages. This is a movie, moviegoers will love, it is fairly light on the violence but does have its share of blasts and bangs and packed with spectacular action sequences. It is grittier and realistic and all in all one of the finest and more satisfying adventures to come along in a long time.
The story doesn’t try suspending belief or thinking the audience is not so bright. Ok so yes this is a story that has time travel and a villain whose intent is destruction but more importantly it is about the people. Without a doubt beyond compare, the finest Star Trek movie.
I was eagerly awaiting this movie but I was hesitant of how Mum would consider it but it won her over although she is not rushing out to grab a copy any of the previous movies. She told me that with this cast and production crew any sequels will be well worth a watch and she will be first in the queue when the next instalment is released.
Throughout the first viewing I sat with my mouth open and eyes wide open. I was so totally blown away with this shiny new rollercoaster of a movie that as soon as we left the cinema I said “I want to see that again” and I have, four times now. I wonder if I can fit another showing in before the run finishes at the local Cineworld? If not, I know what to put on my Christmas list.
Thank you for your attention
Should you like to read any of my other reviews you can find them on Ciao under melodysparks
![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: 2012-05-07 02:00 am (UTC)I only buy movies on DVD that I really enjoy. I loved Chekov for all the reasons you mentioned. I loved how Zoe imbued Uhura with all the characteristics that made the character an iconic role, and then took it one step further by making her brilliant and strong, ready to stand up for herself and what she wants.
Karl Urban was spot on as Bones, and Chris Pine brought the right combination of new energy and Shatner's mannerisms to make Kirk his own role. Quinto's portrayal of Spock was as you said: the emotions were there, simmering under the surface. It makes it all the more plausible why he would seek Kolinar (as he did in ST:The Motion Picture).
I'm looking forward to the sequel. Is it 2013 yet? :-)
no subject
Date: 2012-05-07 02:08 am (UTC)I just reread it and I want to sit through the movie again. I think I saw it 6 times at the cinema and I bought the novel, music soundtrack and the audio book (I swooned at the sound of Zachary Quinto's voice over the earphones)
And I did recognise Paul McGillion when I saw it although at the time my mum had no idea who he was until I introduced her to Stargate Atlantis (We are on the 4th disc of the 5 season boxset she only gets to visit every three weeks and we manage one or two episodes a visit)
no subject
Date: 2012-05-07 02:30 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2012-05-07 02:40 am (UTC)