Since 1966 the ‘Star Trek’ TV and movie series has garnered
new generations of fans. All seem enthralled by the exploits of Captain
Kirk, Spock and others as they travel the universe on their eternally bold
mission where no man has gone before. ‘Star Trek Beyond’ celebrates the
franchise’s 50th anniversary and is the 13th in the film series. This
number proves lucky as the latest adventure of the U.S.S. Enterprise crew
dazzles as much as previous instalments. No doubt even Trek’s creator
Gene Rodenberry would marvel at how long his work has lasted as it zooms to
collect more enthusiastic admirers.
Continuing their five year mission, the U.S.S. Enterprise
team set forth on new horizons. Helmed by Captain James Kirk (Chris Pine)
with the help of Commander Spock (Zachary Quinto) and the rest, the ship is
nearly destroyed during a deadly skirmish. Stranded on a remote planet
ruled by war-lord Krall (Idris Elba), the crew try to find ways to
escape. Only by working together to defeat their latest adversary can the
Enterprise team truly live up to their stellar reputations.
‘Star Trek Beyond’ is a celebration of what has made the
series so popular. Whilst it has drifted away from being the intellectual
sci-fi drama of its TV origins to become a block-busting movie event, the
series still adheres to its character concepts. This is keenly felt in
‘Star Trek Beyond’ as it celebrates its golden milestone while moving the
franchise forward. Pine and Quinto have grown into their roles,
successfully giving their own spin on classic characters. This is the
case for their co-stars who make the core Trek crew feel like a fully formed
unit.
The plot might be standard Trek-fare but it’s no less
exciting. Directed with eager zeal by Justin Lin, each sequence glides into the
next with furious speed. As expected the CGI looks amazing with the
action superbly staged. Neither takes away from the involving story or
actors who combine to make this one of the better Trek film entries.
Although some scenes may feel familiar to long-term fans, the occasional hints
to the past shows the respect the current keepers of the flame have for what’s
gone before.
‘Star Trek Beyond’ is a fast-paced adventure sure to please
audiences. It’s a classic big-budget affair worth the ticket price.
Whilst some of the original Trek actors may vanish from our lives, their contribution
to the Trek brand ensures their legacy will always live long and prosper.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 8
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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