Before I get this rolling, I will give you some warning that I did end up going to see four films in the last week, and I will be writing about them in the coming days (Star Trek Beyond, Jason Bourne (DBOX!), Suicide Squad and Nerve). More reviews will be incoming, so stay tuned.
Now, I grew up with Star Trek. My father loves Star Trek, so I grew up with the characters and this was really my introduction into science fiction. I unfortunately fell off the Star Trek train as I got older, but it has been nice to revisit that type of science fiction film in the newer Star Trek movies. I really liked the first one; J.J. Abrams did a great job. But… that appreciation stopped after I watched Star Trek Into Darkness. I thought that movie was atrocious. It was more of an action movie, but the main thing that I was informed about by my brother (Star Trek is a family affair here), is that Into Darkness violated the Prime Directive. And it definitely was not up to par to the first film. Needless to say, I was not excited about this new film. I knew I would see it eventually because I love science fiction and I truly believe that Anton Yelchin was a brilliant actor.
I ended up going to the theatre with a buddy of mine, just out of the blue, because we were in the mood for some sci fi goodiness. So, it was Star Trek:Beyond or …. Star Trek:Beyond. The film was directed by Justin Lin of Fast Five and Furious 6 fame. So I knew right away, that even if the movie was bad, dialogue wise, it would be a decent action/adventure flick. And boy, I am glad to say I was right.
The film follows the crew of the USS Enterprise, who travel to the other end of the universe to rescue a a lost and/or captured crew. They end up being tested on many different levels and it makes for a fun, eye-catching film. I loved the ship design and how the enemy ships looked when they were moving around.
This film stars everyone from the other films, but including Idris Elba as Krall, the antagonist of the film. He challenges the crew of the USS Enterprise. I also need to give a shout out to Anton Yelchin and his portrayal of Chekov. He was the main reason I wanted to watch this movie. I felt this movie was his final tribute after his tragic death in July of 2016. Each time he appeared on screen, I would smile and be a little sad at the same time that he’s gone. It was bittersweet. I have always thought after seeing most, if not all, of his filmography that he would win an Oscar someday. A young talent taken too soon.
I also thought the soundtrack was good. Nothing too flashy, but it was well done.
I would definitely recommend going to see it. Not only is it a good action film, but it is also a great science fiction film. If you’re a Star Trek fan, you’ve probably already seen it. If you haven’t, do yourself a favour and check it out. If you were like me, and you thought that Into Darkness was just…ridiculous, give this one a go. It will redeem the franchise for you.
Overall, I would give Star Trek: Beyond – a 3.5/5 – It was just a fun, well acted science fiction film, and a worthy addition to the Star Trek franchise in my opinion.
Until next time!
-Andrew