May 19, 2013
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Review: Into Darkness (Star Trek)
well, mini-review
Going to avoid spoilers and simply say this: J J Abrams has managed to craft a film that BOTH trekkers AND non-Trek fans can love.
If you grew up on TOS and relish the character interplay among Spock, McCoy, Kirk, Scotty, Uhura – then you’ll love the way Abrams’ alt-universe reboot of Trek gives you ample reasons to enjoy discovering those friendships all over again. Nothing is a given…. you get to see these young officers grow up into men and women who are willing to sacrifice for each other. The alt-universe differences enhance the story, sometimes giving you the joy of seeing “how it could have been” back in 1968 had the writers gone a different way.
If you’re just looking for a great sci-movie to entertain you on a warm summer day, Into Darkness may be the best film you’ll find this summer. It’s got wall to wall action, gorgeous shots and scenes, good dialogue & writing, pacing that won’t wear you out or bore you, and plenty of material to keep your attention all the way through. I mean, what do you really need to know in order to understand a Star Trek story? If it’s written well, all you need is an understanding of humanity and the knowledge that they’re in a starship in space.
The homages in the film to some of the best Trek moments in the original series & movie delighted me. Loved every minute.
This is also an ideal film to see in IMAX.
So while I expect to enjoy many of this summer’s movies, and already have found something to enjoy in Iron Man 3 and something to think about in Oblivion, I have to put Into Darkness high up on my list of forever favorites.
