Star Trek Beyond: The Most Essential Movie of the Franchise?
Every analysis of which Star Trek movie is the most essential often centers around key film and/or lore elements that originated in their selections. I will take a more pragmatic approach to answer this question, focusing on the impact and significance of these films within the broader context of the franchise.
The Critical Role of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
The Star Trek films and the franchise as a whole owe a significant debt to The Wrath of Khan (1982). This movie not only revitalized the series but laid the groundwork for the subsequent films and the entire Star Trek universe. Twilight of the Gods (TWOK), as fans often call it, used a much smaller budget with an emphasis on a gripping character-driven narrative, which resonated with audiences and critics alike. It is often heralded as the greatest Star Trek film ever made, and its success ensured that subsequent movies were still in development.
The Aftermath of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
The impact of Twilight of the Gods cannot be overstated. Without this film, Star Trek might be remembered as a short-lived endeavor with only a couple of failed movies and a brief animated series. Instead, it brought about a new chapter, launching the iconic Star Trek: The Next Generation and expanding the franchise into a rich, expansive universe that continues to this day.
Exploring Star Trek: The Motion Picture's Impact
While Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is often the first choice in discussions of essential Star Trek films, The Motion Picture (1979) also holds significant importance. This film introduced several key elements that became integral to the Star Trek universe:
The Firsts in The Motion Picture
The Motion Picture was the first time audiences heard the Klingon battle song, the Vulcan language of spoken dialogue, and the Vulcan ritual known as Kolinahr. It also introduced a mysterious race from a world called Delta. While intriguing, it also set a tone that wasn't replicated in subsequent films, leading to critical and commercial challenges.
The Evocative Impact
While The Motion Picture never quite matched the popularity and acclaim of The Wrath of Khan, its impact lies in the establishment of key lore elements and the introduction of new characters and species. The film's risks and innovations set a precedent for future entries in the franchise, influencing how the writers and directors approached storytelling in the subsequent films.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the Star Trek franchise, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan emerges as the most essential movie for its pivotal role in revitalizing the franchise, laying the groundwork for the next generation, and establishing a new standard for narrative depth and character-driven storytelling. On the other hand, Star Trek: The Motion Picture was a vital step in expanding the lore and, despite its challenges, paved the way for the continued prosperity of the franchise.
The journey through the Star Trek movies is a fascinating exploration of both triumph and evolution, each film contributing to the rich tapestry of this beloved universe.