Sunday, May 17, 2009
Star Trek 2009 Review
Star Trek (2009)
For the non-Trekkie, the first time Star Trek works—really works—is about twenty minutes into the picture, in a scene in which a young Spock stands before the Vulcan Science Academy after having been offended by a futuristic version of a “Your Mom” insult. Spock, played with alternating stony-faced reserve and comical understatement by Zachary Quinto, responds with an acharacteristically cutting “live long and prosper.” This “fuck-you” reimagining of the classic line, combined with the up-tempo pop song that thrusts you into the next scene, lets you know that this is definitely not your father’s Star Trek.
From that point on, the film hurls forward at typical action-movie pace, stopping only briefly to throw in the obligatory Trek references and a surprising number of allusions to Star Wars (farm boy dreams of adventure on boring home world, ice planet monster attacks, Ewok-style, comical aliens ensue). The film’s director, the talented J.J. Abrams (of Lost and Alias) admits that these references are intentional, but what is more impressive than the allusions themselves is the buoyant and comical tone—much in the spirit of Star Wars: A New Hope—Abrams brings to the picture.
This lighter tone works. As evidenced by the success of last year’s Iron Man, the future of the entertaining, mass-market action film isn’t in plot or even in racy special effects (though Star Trek certainly isn’t lacking in this area), it is in actors who fit comfortably into their characters, and who can deliver wry one-liners and playful banter with ease. In this department, Star Trek excels, and its stars—from the perfectly-cast Chris Pine as a pre-captain Kirk, to the hilarious Simon Pegg as the infamous “Scotty”—make the picture.
Mr. Pine, in an effective break from the tween-targeted romantic comedies that pepper his past, brings both a Shanter-esque charisma and a nuanced performance to the picture. His characterization of the young, gun-slinging Kirk is happily complimented by a crew of supporting characters reimagined by a group of largely unknown young actors (though their performances in this picture ensure they won’t remain unknown for long). At the heart of the ensemble are Mr. Pine and Mr. Quinto, whose on-screen bromantic chemistry works, whether they’re verbally sparing, pummeling each other, or (eventually) showing hints of the life-long friendship Trek-fans love them for.
Star Trek is not a “great” movie—nor does it have any pretensions of being one. What it does promise, with loud and unabashed enthusiasm, is a fun, fast-paced, enjoyable two-hours. “Buckle up,” says the young Kirk in a scene near the end of the film. Yes indeed.
The Bottom Line: Boldly go to Fandango and buy tickets now!
Katie’s Response: Star Trek’s two hours whiz by at warp speed. In a breakout performance as Captain Kirk, Chris Pine proves that good humor and charm are the original special effects. A crew of comedians (Simon Pegg, John Cho, Karl Urban) keeps the ship flying and the one-liners zinging. Star Trek doesn’t have the aspirations of last summer’s Dark Knight, but it’s so entertaining you won’t miss them.
ReplyDeletethis review is so well written and deep...are you sure you are not A.O. Scott?
ReplyDeleteCHRIS PIIIIINEWEWEWEWEWENNNNNEEEE
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, an excellent review! Most telling comment: "definitely not your father's Star Trek." I just wish it would all slow down a bit, and bid the passing moment to linger a while. The pace is for millenials who inhabit a very different planet. (ap)
ReplyDeleteThanks, anonymous. Funny, my father said something similar. But that's life for you: I watch the old Star Treks and think a lot of scenes would be improved by fast-forwarding through them.
ReplyDeleteStar Trek getting Star Wars-esque in a way that includes ewoks? I can *almost* envision this, but not quite... ie, your review has left me intrigued, and you guys are hot.
ReplyDeleteI just can't seem to get this review, (and this film), out of my mind. It has captured my imagination. Funny, if proximity is any indicator, I've almost certainly seen the film already -- so despite all protestations to the contrary, I now just might have to. Thanks reviewer, for your fresh and appealing insights into this picture!
ReplyDeleteThanks for commenting, Sayd. We are hot, and YOU are too! They're not rot really Ewoks (they lack the furry, teddy bear look), but there is an alien very much in the spirit of the Ewoks (small, funny noises/expressions).
ReplyDeleteThanks for a thoughtful and well-written review. You're right, Star Trek is fun and certainly doesn't take itself too seriously. It was pretty enjoyable. I could have done with a bit less of the special effects, though, and lots less of the crash-bang noise throughout much of the movie. In fact, I couldn't help but think of those quiet, great films--like Philadelphia Story, above--that neither need special effects nor require ear plugs. I'm looking forward to some of your review magic on one of those wonderful films.
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