Star Trek
The last time someone attempted to give the other biggest space sci-fi series of all time a prequel update, they effectively ruined the magic of the original for many. Not so this time...there is no Jar Jar Binks.

Captain’s log: Star Date blah blah blah meaningless numbers. It’s Star Trek Jim but not as we know it. Set phasers to review!

Supplemental: enough of this nerdiness. Despite not classifying myself as a ‘trekkie’ I know enough about the series and movie franchise to care if J. J. Abrams does justice to Gene Roddenberry’s vast universe.

There is reason to be sceptical of course, the last time someone attempted to give the other biggest space sci-fi series of all time a prequel update, they effectively ruined the magic of the original for many. Not so this time…there is no Jar Jar Binks.

With a cleverly written backstory, Star Trek begins with a thrilling attack by the enraged Romulan Nero (Eric Bana) who blames Spock for the future destruction of his home planet, so travels back in time in order to destroy the human-lead federation responsible for his people’s misfortune. Kirk’s father successfully pilots the ship while it is being destroyed, allowing 800 occupants including his newly born son to escape to safety, but is killed in the process. This creates an alternate reality in which Kirk (Chris Pine) is no longer a fast rising star-fleet pupil, but a thrill seeking nobody, drinking, joy riding and fighting in bars.

As luck would have it, nearby is the local Starfleet academy, and lo and behold Kirk is recognised and then convinced to do something with his life. Meanwhile, a young Spock (Zachary Quinto) passes his exams with flying colours, but is subject to extreme prejudice and bullying for being mixed race. Kirk doesn’t like Spock. Spock doesn’t like Kirk. And so begins the bro-mance of the film which holds it together so well.

There is a cheeky sense of humour with fantastic comic timing as well as some very self referential lines which got a cheer every time. The wonderful cameo by Leonard Nimoy (the original Spock) as his future self is inspired, and adds incredible weight to the story.

The design is very sexy, from the costumes and set to the sense of insignificance in the universe. The first time you see a planet being consumed from a black hole within or the fleet jump to light speed on the big screen I challenge you to not be awed. The shots on board shift from behind glass panes lending a futuristic lens glare to the updated retro ship; very subtle but quite beautiful.

If you feel like a bit of action then this is definitely the film to watch: it is energetic, moving, funny and breathtaking. Despite being quite a bit more rewarding for those who watched and enjoyed the series or films, it shouldn’t punish anyone who hasn’t. Live long and prosper. Oh dear…