Better than the previous movies; not as good as the TV shows

Rating: 8/10 (16 May 2009)

First of all, I'm not a complete Trekkie. Meaning, I've watched some of the first series episodes as a child, all the new TNG episodes, and from there on all the rest of the spin offs. I've also watched all TNG movies. Having said that, I can honestly say this movie is far better than previous movies. First of all, the idea of restarting the series is a good one: taking young, relatively unknown and hungry actors, instead of those who have already made one movie too many. Casting is very good, and so is acting. I especially liked young Spock, Zachary Quinto, who has managed to put some depth to this old character. Young James Kirk is also adequate, but his role isn't very complex and interesting to begin with. The movie itself is interesting; plot is good and relatively original, and the concept of parallel universes affords a new beginning for future come. This movie isn't annoyingly self-righteous (like "Star Trek: Insurrection"). It does not unnecessarily seek to rock the old boat by killing beloved characters ("Star Trek: Nemesis", what a disgrace). It does what it is supposed to do: reignite the show. No doubt, new movies will appear, and it is not far-fetched to assume that in the future, a new young Captain Pickard will show up on the big screen. However, this movie, like its predecessors, is by no means complicated and inspiring. It does not teach us anything new, nor does it give us something to reflect on. After all, JJ Abrams does a good solid work in making a show; but as interesting as "Lost" is, one can hardly say it is complex or that it constitutes as "food for thought". If you want complexity, something to reflect on, go to the old TNG episode. Check out "Parallels"; "Ship in a Bottle"; "Conundrum"; "Yesterday's Enterprise"; and my favorite, "The Inner Light". Each of those episodes is much more complex than any Star Trek movie, sometimes even "mind blowing". Is it because such ideas aren't suitable for general public, not commercial enough? Perhaps. In summation, if you want the best, go for the old reruns – and not only of TNG, but also of Voyager, Enterprise and DS9. If you want a couple of hours' fun, go see the new movie. You know what? Go watch it anyway. Zachary Quinto is certainly worth it.