Review of Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) by Jason T — 15 Aug 2014

I can see why fans of the original films and television series are not too excited about these two films, directed by J.J. Abrams. There is barely any time to catch your breath watching these film, forget about pondering the mysteries of deep space and moral dilemas of previous movies. However, if you are looking for a rip-roaring action movie that just happens to have the veneer of Star Trek slapped on this is for you.

To call this movie fast paced is like saying the Evil Dead remake was "kinda gory." This movie doesn't slow down for a minute. Which is awesome but also kind of a detriment when you are trying to figure out if the movie's logic makes sence or not. (Why did you hide your friends in missles again?) But for the most part you will be taken along for a breathless ride.

Despite the large cast, all of the major players get their own moments to shine, whether through actions or one-liners. Zachary Quinto is once again excellent as the ever logical Spock, and Chris Pine is his equal as the cocky but passionate James T. Kirk. That passion is what keeps him from being another rebel without a cause leading man, because his passion is for his crew. You believe he would do anything for them. Zoe Saldana makes more of an impression in this movie than she did in the first, standing up to Spock's detatchment in terms of their relationship.

Of course everyone knows by now that Benedict Cumberbatch plays Kahn, the great twist here being he has real motivation for his villany. He actually does come across as sympathetic in one key scene of the film. That doesn't mean he has not chance to chew any scenery. Of course he does: with a voice like that, it would be hard not to.

Another bonus, Robocop himself as a villian in the film! That's right, Peter Weller is a key figure in the movie as a Starfleet Admiral with a hidden adjenda. Great to see him in something with such a jucy role. Score: 8.5.