Is the Star Trek Movie Timeline Reverting to Its Original Course?
The upcoming Star Trek movie is raising many questions about the direction the franchise is taking. If there is one thing we can say for sure, it is that the Kelvin Timeline seems to be at an end. While The Abramsverse films attempt to harken back to the original actors and concepts, they are often criticized for missing the core essence of what Star Trek is all about.
As a fan, my favorite Star Trek was Deep Space Nine (DS9), which dealt with a war but also heavily explored diplomacy and interspecies relations. The current films, however, fail to capture these themes. In fact, they often treat them as mere comedic relief at the beginning of the film, with very little else to offer.
Why the Kelvin Timeline Is on the Decline
The Kelvin Timeline has been a popular choice for Star Trek films, offering familiar names and stories. However, as the films have progressed, they have often relied on absurd action sequences and gimmicks, which are both over-the-top and poorly executed. The Prime Timeline, while not without its issues, provided a more grounded and mature take on the series. Films like Star Trek Nemesis had the potential to be even better, but ultimately fell short.
Should We Go Back to the Original Crew?
Perhaps the solution lies in returning to the original slightly more familiar cast. This not only entertains the core fanbase but also appeals to casual moviegoers. Names like Scotty are more recognizable than those of the Star Trek: The Next Generation crew in popular culture. By reusing this familiar crew, directors can ensure that fans feel a sense of continuity and nostalgia.
Creating a New Timeline: Striking a Balance
However, the safest option might be to create a new timeline that closely resembles our favorite one, with key differences. This approach can entice both new and old fans. It allows for a fresh start without completely diverging from what fans know and love. Consider the ways in which the Great Movie Crossovers played out, bringing beloved characters back into the fold in a way that felt organic yet transformative.
Examples from the Kelvin Timeline
The Kelvin Timeline films, while flawed, have managed to integrate elements of the original franchise that resonate with fans. Star Trek (2009) reintroduced the familiar Star Trek series elements, presenting a waving, approachable version of Kirk. This portrayal of a flawed, yet charming and charismatic central character was a breath of fresh air for fans and new viewers alike.
Star Trek Into Darkness expanded on this characterization by delving into the consequences of Kirk's actions, offering a more nuanced version of the iconic character. This approach did much to bridge the gap between fan expectations and the evolving narrative.
The Case for Continuity in Star Trek Beyond
Star Trek Beyond marked a significant return to form for the franchise. It successfully reunited with the original Prime Timeline elements, featuring a version of Kirk that longtime fans would recognize but could still be shared with new audiences. This approach not only satisfied die-hard fans but also brought in a wider audience that was previously turned off by the Kelvin Timeline .
Conclusion
The upcoming Star Trek movie has a unique opportunity to strike a balance between honoring the original franchise and appealing to a new generation of fans. Whether through continuity or a fresh storyline, the key is to find a way to bring the original Star Trek spirit back to the fore. After all, it's this essence that made the Kelvin Timeline films appealing in the first place, and it's this essence that can once again reignite the Star Trek franchise.