'Star Trek: Beyond' Review

It has been three years since Star Trek: Into Darkness, a film that is still a touchy subject for hardcore fans of the property. However, J.J. Abrams succeeded in reinvigorating the franchise back in 2009, but it will be the first time in which Abrams is not directing the film. Fast and Furious 6 director, Justin Lin, is in charge of Star Trek: Beyond, which was already getting some heat for the Fast and Furious style action sequences in the trailers. Granted, the previous two films were not without their grandiose action sequences or special effects, but the fear was that Lin would utilize these aspects of his previous films too much. Despite these worries, writer and star of the film, Simon Pegg did say that the trailers did not represent the film as a whole, as well as Lin saying that this film is a throwback to the original series. Well, let's find out, shall we?

When a surprise attack demolishes the Enterprise, led by Krall (Idris Elba), an alien creature who is in search of an ancient artifact that is on board the ship, the crew is stranded on the planet below and must band together to escape. We're also introduced to Jaylah (Sofia Boutella), a delightful addition to the current ensemble, who tries to help the crew escape the planet and defeat Krall. One of the strengths of this film are the character moments between Kirk, Bones, and Spock. We learn that being the captain of the Enterprise has taken a toll on Kirk and he begins to reflect on why he enlisted in Starfleet. Spock, also facing an internal struggle, ponders leaving the crew of the Enterprise. Bones, on the other hand, is not undergoing any of these self-examinations. He is the character that, throughout the film, acts as the familiar voice for both Kirk and Spock. The character development in this film was the strongest element.

I did, however, have problems with the film. One of the main things that I noticed was the direction of this film. It is apparent that J.J. Abrams was not helming this movie. In the previous films, there was emotional build-up, investment in the story, and there was a sense of urgency for the protagonists and antagonists. Also, the beginning of the film did not feel like Star Trek to me at all. We're in a world with countless alien species, yet we have these non-humanoid looking creatures speaking English? Its the same problem I had with some of the aliens in The Phantom Menace. Also, while we were supposed to emotional about Kirk and Spock's internal struggles, while I thought that the character development was the best part of the film, I did not feel any emotional investment in that storyline. That brings me back to the direction of the film. Had J.J. Abrams directed this film, I think this film would've packed a better emotional punch, which he succeeded in doing with the previous two films. Lin, I think, was trying too hard with these characters. I think it speaks volumes when your favorite moment of a Star Trek film is when a Beastie Boys song is utilized. As for the villain, Krall did nothing for me. While many thought Nero was forgettable, and many didn't like the Khan reveal, I thought they were much better villains for the story that each film was telling. Nero was responsible for the death of Kirk's father, and Khan was responsible for the death of Captain Pike, who acted as a father figure for Jim. What I am trying to say is, while the subject matter wanted this to be the most mature of the films, I felt it missed the point.

Overall, I thought the movie was fine. It could've been about 10-15 minutes shorter, seeing as I was glancing down at my watch a few times during the film, which should not happen. If you're a fan of these films, I will still tell you to go see the movie. Pine, Quinto, Urban and the rest of the cast still turn in great performances, and Sofia Boutella is a wonderful addition. There were funny moments peppered throughout the film, although they seemed to be reaching a few times. It's a good addition to the films, and it definitely has its fans. So, I encourage you to see it. All film is subjective, so you may completely disagree with my assessment of this movie.

Finally, it would be remiss if I did not mention Anton Yelchin. With his tragic and untimely death, Yelchin once again is fantastic in this film. Although, it does hurt whenever you see him in the film, knowing this is one of the last things he ever did. I am glad that this film was dedicated to him, and that his role will not be recast in the future. Yelchin was truly a great talent and will be sorely missed.

R.I.P Anton Yelchin.