The Redemption
So... I reckon a whole lot of different trekkies set the bar of expectations in a bunch of different places. For me - I set a hopeful goal for this new Star Trek movie. The goal imposed by my hopes upon the makers of this film was for it to redeem the once great Star Trek legacy from the tragic wreckage of the television series Enterprise. Now just to make sure we’re all on the same page here - raise your hand if you believe that one of the biggest mistakes in television history was the failure to kill off Captain Archer in the middle of season one. I’m sure many would respond that Archer should have been killed off in the middle of the first episode or first scene even.
Anyhow, I don’t need to spiral into an epic rant about Archerprise. The point is that so much about the legacy of Star Trek is a uniquely beautiful thing, that it would have been a truly heartbreaking tragedy if no one were to lift it from the ashes which I need not describe further. Well… Thank the slain Klingon gods, the Bejoran profits and every deity in-between, this great redemption has been achieved.
With such a steady hand this film was soberly crafted with what seemed to be the deliberate objective of conquering its vast and formidable challenges without appearing to face challenges. Leonard Nimoy’s presence was written and presented as tastefully and powerfully as his influence was felt. The portrayal of the original bridge crew characters was contemporary and fresh - without pretending that the originals did not exist. And the measure of similarities and direct references which were included was perfect: Enough to satisfy our appetite for homage but tapping the breaks before plowing into fromage. And how awesome is the parallel reality/alternate timeline? It always bothered me when things were written into Star Trek episodes that conflicted with Star Trek history. But now this is no longer a problem… Clean slate. Cheating? Sure. But as this film reminds us, cheating is Captain Kirk’s style.
And for those of us in the “Captain Archer ruined Star Trek” camp… Nicely done on the Archer’s prize beagle transporter accident. A subtle, perfectly measured and executed jab – which for me was one of many fine jewels in this spectacular crown. To the same depth of conviction that I wish for those responsible for Archerprise to have their genitalia eaten by rabid Cardassian voles, I do sincerely wish for the makers of this film to live long and prosper.
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