Star Trek Into Darkness: Review

Not being a viewer of the classic Star Trek programmes and movies, I went in to this sequel with little prior knowledge of the detailed Star Trek universe. I hadn't even seen the 2009 reboot also directed by critically acclaimed director J.J Abrams, although had heard great things about it. Star Trek: Into Darkness follows the crew of the Enterprise as they attempt to track down a terrorist named Khan (Benedict Cumberbatch) who originated as one of their own, led by Captain James T. Kirk (Chris Pine). 

The movie opens in a particularly exciting fashion, with Kirk and Bones (Karl Urban) running through an exotic far away planet. It's notable how beautiful the foliage on the planet looks, with bright reds contrasting with the white-painted skin of their pursuers. We're quickly introduced to iconic characters such as Spock (Zachary Quinto) and Scotty (Simon Pegg) who go towards assembling the cast of accomplished acting talent. 


It's a stand-out point of how good the film looks at times. Landmarks such as a futuristic London look believable and entirely appropriate, with architecture not being too over-the-top yet still immensely impressive. It's a relief that J.J Abrams has been chosen to direct 2015's Star Wars Episode VII, as there are times where the Star Trek world he has created reminds you of areas seen in the 'rival' series. 

Benedict Cumberbatch is excellently cast as the aggressive, brutal and sinister Khan, with exchanges between him and members of the Enterprise being exciting and interesting. There is no precise weak-link when it comes to the actors, as everybody was enjoyable to watch, but Cumberbatch stands out as one of the most memorable characters I have seen in quite a while. 

Khan (Benedict Cumberbatch)

Star Trek: Into Darkness was not perfect however. There were a few times where conveniences allowed the story to progress and, without any spoilers, the movie just seemed to wrap up rather quickly. I'm not saying it is a short film, being just over two hours, but it goes rapidly from intense action to the conclusion. If these issues had been addressed, then I think the film would easily be amongst some of the best I have seen.

Verdict
Star Trek: Into Darkness is an enjoyable movie taken by itself. I say this because that's what it was for me, as I've never been an avid fan of the series, but I'm certainly aware that there are a few nods throughout which will give pleasure to those who have been long-time watchers. With a memorable and truly intimidating villain and a likeable group of heroes, it's certainly worth paying full price for.    8/10

"So tell me, why did you allow me to live?"