Even if you are a hardcore Star Wars fan, this new and updated Star Trek by director and producer J J Abrams may just bring you to the Trek side.

Like the new series of James Bond and Batman movies with Daniel Craig and Christian Bale respectively, the writers reviving this franchise have decided to go further back in time and start off with the origins of the two leads, James T Kirk and Spock.

The movie paced out steadily with almost the right balance between storyline and fast-paced action. The set pieces for the new Enterprise compared to the old had the familiar feel but with a modern facelift, and looked technically more up-to-date. Gone are the dorky and dull costumes as these new uniforms, though remaining faithful to the old designs, looked less of an eye sore.

James Kirk had the cocky and roguish air about him early on but grew rapidly as the story unfolds, and Chris Pine brought him to life with charm and confidence. The unemotional Spock was delivered spectacularly by Zachary Quinto with subtle emotions that spoke louder than words.

The unrecognisable Eric Bana stepped into the protagonist character with much devotion and conviction, making Nero looked less insane but fuelled by the mission to avenge his planet’s destruction.

However the script wasn’t perfect. Like the weapons used should have been of the future but instead there was a fencing sword involved. (This was where lightsabers were truly missed.)

Science and logic also seldom was an issue as more often than not the action sequences took over to become planned distractions. One good example would be when James was chased by an unimpressive alien monster which was at least four times his size and yet had trouble catching up to him.

But with the talented young cast who were virtually unknown delivering interesting characters that were affectionately true to the TV originals; and with a very fresh and remarkable script that was surprisingly matured and sophisticated, J J Abrams has given all Trekkies the best instalment yet, and a new lease of life for the series.

Reviewer’s Rating: 8 / 10

(all images from imdb.com)