Introduction

The Star Trek franchise has fascinated audiences for decades, with fans debating the merits of various timelines and continuities. Among the most recent and controversial is the Kelvin timeline, introduced in the film Star Trek (2009). As new series like Discovery and Strange New Worlds continue to be released, there's growing anticipation on whether the Kelvin timeline will be abandoned in favor of the original.

With Paramount returning to the classic timeline, it seems the Kelvin narrative might indeed be set to the side. But how likely is it that a future movie will finally abandon this timeline for good?

The Case for Abandoning the Kelvin Timeline

Those who favor a return to the original timeline argue that the Kelvin narrative, while entertaining, does not adhere to the established lore and continuity of the franchise. It introduces a new character, Spock, as an infant and reimagines key events such as the destruction of the USS Kelvin. This divergence from the traditional narrative has led some to view the Kelvin timeline as an anomaly that could potentially overshadow the beloved classic canon.

Compared to the beloved Original Series and The Next Generation, the Kelvin trilogy feels more like a standalone event, with a sense of novelty that diminishes with repeated viewings. Moreover, the return of established characters like Khan Noonien Singh and familiar technology, coupled with the affectionate nods to the classic series in Discovery and Strange New Worlds, signals a clear shift towards the original timeline.

The Pros and Cons of Continuing the Kelvin Timeline

Supporters of the Kelvin timeline, however, argue that it introduces new elements and characters that can enrich the franchise. The addition of alternate timelines, such as that of Christopher Pike, adds depth and complexity to the Star Trek universe. Additionally, the Kelvin timeline maintains fan interest in ways the traditional series do not, as it serves as a fresh take on the iconic characters.

However, the division between those who love and those who resist the Kelvin narrative continues to grow. For many longtime fans, it represents a departure from the comfort and familiarity of the classic stories that have informed the franchise for generations. This ongoing tension suggests that any future film introducing the Kelvin timeline might not resonate as strongly with core Star Trek enthusiasts.

Current Trends and Future Outlook

Currently, there's a clear trend of Paramount returning to the original timeline through series like Discovery and Strange New Worlds. The casting of actors who have reprised their roles from the classic series, such as Patrick Stewart as Jean-Luc Picard, further cements this transition. As these series continue to garner critical acclaim and fan devotion, it's becoming increasingly likely that any potential future film will align more closely with the original timeline.

The critical success of recent entries in the franchise, especially Discovery, which has been praised for its intricate storytelling and character development, suggests a renewed interest in the original canon. Fans can see this trend continuing, with any new film possibly standing as a sequel or side continuity, rather than as a direct continuation of the Kelvin narrative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Paramount's recommitment to the original timeline is a strong indicator of the future direction for Star Trek, it's still uncertain whether the Kelvin timeline will be entirely abandoned. Given the current trend and the growing resistance to the Kelvin narrative, it seems more likely that any future movie will bring an element of fresh continuity rather than re-establish the Kelvin timeline. For many, the original timeline remains the heart and soul of Star Trek, and its return may well ensure that the Kelvin timeline becomes a piece of Star Trek history, destined to be a well-deserved 'anomaly.'