By equal measures visually compelling , thrilling and very funny, Star Trek Into Darkness is also possessed with an air of the faintly clunky that, barring a classy opening, undermines a lot of the jeopardy.
These minor flaws arise from a script from Robert Orci that, although light and full of humour, has a whiff of predictability that removes a lot of the danger from proceedings. It’s difficult to engage when it never really seems the characters are truly in peril. That being said, when it boils down to it, those end up being relatively minor quibbles and there is far more to enjoy here than not.
The cast are all on great form and share an easy chemistry. Particular kudos to Chris Pine as Kirk who has more to do this time round and continues to make the role his own; and also to Zachary Quinto as a surprisingly comic, Sheldon Cooper-esque Spock.
Top marks, predictably, must go to Benedict Cumberbatch as the mysterious villain John Harrison who steals the show with a couple of great monologues. It’s a shame that he didn’t have more to do.
Elsewhere, Michael Giacchino continues to impress with a rousing score that undercuts the action perfectly, and the superlative visual effects from ILM gives the action a real dynamism and realism.
The producers bring a fresh spin on the beloved sci-fi franchise. However there is much here for the old school Trekkies, with plenty of fun references to the classic films, especially a tricky third act which reignites flames from a much earlier tale to enjoyable and surprising effect. Spot the Tribble.
All in all then, although the characters never really seem vulnerable, it’s nearly impossible not to be won over by the sheer razzle dazzle of it all. Abrams snappy visual style, the fantastic special effects, endearing performances and the impressive action keep the film near the top of the blockbuster pile. Nice job.