Star Trek - (2009) (DVD)

Reviews

Reviewed by Micky B - 3 August 2010

Even many of the most staunch "Trekkies" are unaware that Gene Roddenberry's creation of "Star Trek" first saw light on the TV screen as far back as 1966. The pilot episode was called "The Cage", and starred Jeffrey Hunter as Captain Christopher Pike. Therefore, it might have been fairer to have called this one "Star Trek Begins" in the tradition of one of the later "Batman" movies. The filmmakers here have had to tread a fine line in order to keep the many old-time fans happy... while at the same time, make it aceptable for the "today" generation. After all, Daniel Craig had to completely reinvent the James Bond character in order that agent 007 would be compatible with the 21st century moviegoers! The young James T. Kirk is played by Chris Pine, who has successfuly emulated William Shatner's humour, arrogance and decisiveness - while retaining his own voice pattern. Facially, he projects as a kind of cross between James Dean and Matt Damon! Leonard Nimoy reprises his role as Mr Spock... but as an old man. The young Spock (born of an earthling mother, Amanda - Winona Ryder - and a Vulcan father, Sarek - Ben Cross) - is played by Zachary Quinto. And Scotty; Mr Sulu, Pavel; Dr "Bones" McCoy; Nyota and all the rest... yes, they're all here - though obviously now played by appropriate though very-much-younger actors. Chris Doohan, the son of the original Scotty, James Doohan, makes a cameo appearance in the transporter room. The plot? Well, if you're a true "Trekkie" irrespective of age, you won't be too concerned with a little detail like that. Suffice it to say that this is the first "Star Trek" movie ever to have won an Oscar; in this instance, for the best makeup. The action? Satisfactory. All in all, a worthy effort that should keep the majority of fans of the genre happy.