Star Trek (film)/Background information/Development

Development on Star Trek began in when Paramount contacted Roberto Orci (who was working with J.J. Abrams and Alex Kurtzman on the studio's Mission: Impossible III at the time), asking for ideas on how to revive the franchise. Former Star Trek franchise head Rick Berman, though, shortly before he was let go from Paramount, has credited Abrams with presenting the idea of revisiting Star Trek to the studio when the latter was signed for a five-movie deal in early . ()
Daily Variety reported, on , that an eleventh Star Trek film was being developed by J.J. Abrams, having the story revolve around the iconic characters of James T. Kirk and Spock during their days at Starfleet Academy. Several days later, Abrams confirmed some parts of the report while denouncing others, stating that the announcement was an unofficial leak and was "not entirely accurate." He also stated that, while he was given the option to direct the film, he had not decided to do so at that time. Abrams declined to accept the director's position until the script was complete and he was sure he was the man for the job. He worked with Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci on the story throughout 2006 and early and finally signed on to direct on , when he also publicly announced his decision to direct the film. Abrams was convinced to do so by his wife, Katie McGrath, who felt the film had strong female characters, and by acclaimed director , who was a friend of Abrams and was impressed by the script. According to The Wrap, before Abrams signed up to direct the film, Paramount offered the position to , the director of the Evil Dead and Spider-Man films. 
Fans got an official look at the movie's direction when Paramount released a poster for the new film on : the teaser bore the Enterprise crew uniform insignia from the original series, against a background half command gold and half science blue. It hinted at a film to be set in the 23rd century which might feature the Enterprise itself. The poster was designed by the film's director/producer, J.J. Abrams. 
The film was greenlit in late February, at which time pre-production officially began. Paramount issued a press release on , which confirmed that production was under way, with Abrams directing, for a target premiere date of . 
By , some of the art department – still being filled by Production Designer Scott Chambliss – were already working, mostly from home; offices on the Paramount lot weren't finished before mid-May. 
Sound stage set construction began in September. Most design work was complete by . The budget was estimated between US$120 to $150 million, higher than any prior Star Trek film.