The Greatest of The Star Trek Franchise

Rating: 10/10 (27 October 2016)

Star Trek is one of the most beloved franchises of all time yet the rebooted trilogy are easily the series most divisive instalments. But this film and the 2009 original made me the Star Trek fan that I am today and this is in my (unpopular) opinion the franchises greatest instalment. The new cast of these films fit right into there roles and I could not imagine better replacements for some of the best cast characters of all time. Chris Pine really impressed me in this film he's still very entertaining and funny but he's also really good at portraying the rage filled Kirk that begins to emerge throughout this film and is a great arc for the character that would continue to be explored in Beyond. Zachary Quinto is also fantastic he once again is amazing at conveying the inner struggles that take place in his character and when he fails to keep that hold it allows Quinto to really show is acting chops. The relationship trouble between Spock and Uhura is not some meaningless sub plot it's a fantastic way to show the progression of these characters and how their continued service and past experiences have begun to effect and change them. But my God Benedict Cumberbatch was absolutely phenomenal as the Villain in this film not only is he incredibly menacing and physically imposing but also very heartfelt when you begin to more understand his motivations. He's also got some Incrediblely terrifying scenes where you legitimately start to fear for the life of the crew because you believe that he poses a real threat to them. The special effects are of course fantastic there seamless and look nothing less than amazing. Now I know that the biggest and most common complaint about this film are the comparisons to Wrath of Khan but honestly I think it worked for this film it allows the characters to be pushed to the edge of their abilities like the cast were in WOK and it gives us another chance at seeing one of the most beloved sci-fi villains of all time played by an amazing actor. The way they set up the five year mission was perfect it feels like the cast at this point have earned it and leaves you excited to see what they'll do next.
I think Star Trek Into Darkness has developed a lot of unwarranted hate I thinks it's a masterful edition to the franchise that I will always love.
A+/100%