Star Trek: Beyond takes a while to get started. Part of the problem might be the script by Simon Pegg (who also plays “Scottie”) and Doug Jung. Justin Lin’s direction is adequte. Cinematographer, Steph F. Windon (veteran of the Fast & Furious films), delivers an action-filled big screen. The strength of the movie rests on Chris Pine as James T. Kirk, Karl Urban as Doctor McCoy, Zachary Quinto’s Spock, John Cho as Sulu, and the recently deceased Anton Yelchin as Pavel Chekov. And, once again, the talented Zoe Saldana is underutilized as Lieutenant Uhura. I found the fighting scenes tedious and the MacGuffin silly. But, other than that, watching Star Trek: Beyond is a good way to stay cool and eat popcorn. GRADE: B-
This one is definitely on Jackie’s list. After so many disappointing movies this summer, at least this one seems to deliver what it promises.
Jeff, STAR TREK: BEYOND delivers, but it takes its sweet time doing it.
How long as Holmes been with us now? Well over a century, and while a bit different in modern portrayal, a legend lives on. Other than him, The Bard, and Lewis Carroll, I can’t think of another long time favorite (story, yes, not character) that’s succeeded at the level of Star Trek. Fifty years now since the show in 1966 – impressive. I enjoy the films much more than the Star Wars stuff, so any rating better than a D+, George, and I’m all over it.
Roy, if you set the bar low, you’ll come away pleased with STAR TREK: BEYOND.
Mmm. Popcorn.
Jerry, popcorn with butter. Yum!
Our paper had a review that said the motorcycle scene would be devisive some love it, others don’t. What was your take.
BTW, our paper ran a review of AB-FAB which gave it 3 stars. This was surprising because I hadn’t heard that before. turned out the review was from the Fresno Bee, which is not a major source of reviews, or at least none that I ever recall seeing
Maggie, the motorcycle scene went on a bit too long for my taste. The muddled plot was more annoying.
There have been Terrible reviews. Yours is mostly a list of performers, but I gather you thought it was just OK, which is what a B- is, I guess. I’ll skip this, I’m sure.
Rick, once again a talented cast was wasted by a clunky script. You and I could have written a better story.
Get! A! Life!
Bob, you and William Shatner have a way with words!
I love saying this to Trekkies!
Bob, I remember when Shatner first dropped that phrase on SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. Classic!
George –
I saw it today and pretty much agree with your estimation. there are some large plot holes – notably that the unexplored Nebula was basically a day’s fl;ight from this massive space station. But it was a pleasant two hours away from the heat and humidity. Definitely worth the bargain matinee price.
Scott, I totally agree. STAR TREK: BEYOND is worth a bargain price on a hot day. With popcorn, of course!