One heck of a ride!

Rating: 9/10 (21 May 2013)

..just got back from seeing Star Trek: Into Darkness in IMAX 3D (which, by the way, this movie is TOTALLY worth seeing in true IMAX 3D. Really gorgeous to look at.)
I was a big fan of JJ Abrams first Star Trek flick, and went into this one as my most eagerly anticipated film of the summer. I am so gosh- darned happy to report that it did NOT disappoint. In fact it nearly shattered all of my expectations.
The crew of the first film is back and in fine form. Tremendous chemistry and witty banter abound in the midst of chaotic action. The stand-outs here are Chris Pine's Kirk, Zach Quinto's Spock and Simon Pegg's Scotty. The burgeoning friendship of Spock and Kirk is on display here with more intensity and sincerity then i think has ever been shown before in any version of Trek.
And I would be remiss if I did not mention the incredible performance from Benedict Cumberbatch. His villain (or...is he?) was just tremendous fun to watch.
The plot has more plot twists then you can shake a stick at, and I must say this movie went places i never expected it too. My only real complaint is the predictability of the final act. Once we started paying homage to a certain-previous Trek film it became painfully obvious where it was headed. But the first 3/4's of this flick are a real solid and keep you guessing.
So far this is the best film of the Summer.