Star Trek Into Darkness and Beyond - Movie Review

Star Trek boldly goes to where the first movie from the reboot didn't, straight to greatness.

When the crew of the Enterprise is called back home, they find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization has detonated the fleet and everything it stands for, leaving our world in a state of crisis. With a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one man weapon of mass destruction. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew. (via IMDB.com)

Although I liked many his shows and few of his movies, I was never a fan of JJ Abrams. The first Star Trek was enjoyable but very restrained, perhaps with the notion that if the said reboot failed, it will unleash the wrath of thousands of fans. But he does perform here with the sequel, taking bold risks. Fair enough, these risks off.

The rapport between the actors and actresses displays on the screen. It shows how much they love working with the others and they approve of the good material. The lines are delivered well and always on cue, making them funny and emotional at the right moment while being genuinely realistic.

The writing is smart yet takes note of those that are new to the franchise, while making references to those who had been fans for decades. A nod to Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman and Damon Lindelof. Yes, there are many plot holes, but who cares about them if the movie is this fun!

The cinematography is UHHmazing. The way Abrams and Dan Mindel (DOP) spins the camera to give us the frantic feeling when The Enterprise simply floats stranded in space or when its tragically falling from the sky.

There are many movies that try to cash in more money by releasing in 3D and many are disappointments. Infact, I almost always discourage people from seeing movies with the added dimension. But Star Trek Into Darkness, I strongly suggest that you see it in digital 3D. If IMAX is available see it in that format. You may shed some extra cash, but trust me, it's all worth it. **** 1/2 out of 5.