Movie Review: Star Trek movie series
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What Parents Should Know
To go where no one has gone before. That was the mission of
the
Star Trek TV series and the spin-off movies. These
movies succeed in transporting viewers to another place and
time, replete with out-of-this-world species and tense
struggles, all led by well-loved TV characters. These movies
are a good introduction to science fiction for the uninitiated,
and there is much to love here for the aficionado, as well.
While kids younger than 6 may be intrigued by this foreign
world, many of the movies contain frightening situations and
scary villains that may frighten them. Older kids and preteens
will appreciate the breathtaking action sequences and
accessible humor.
Families who see these movies may want to discuss how aliens might perceive this planet and the way we interact. How do we as a collection of people compare to the galactic negotiations and battles depicted in Star Trek? How are women portrayed on this series?
Common Sense Media Review
Fans of science fiction in general and the
Star Trek television franchise won't be disappointed
by the spin-off movies. There's much to love about them:
charismatic and engaging characters, special effects that were
light years ahead of the pack for their time, and an alternate
universe full of weird species, exotic planets and engaging
battles.
The best of the movies is The Wrath of Khan. When an old enemy, Khan, steals a starship and comes looking for vengeance, Kirk and his crew face life and death together. The most emotionally engaging of the Star Trek movies, this film features special effects and a story that have stood the test of time. Based on Star Trek: Episode 27, the film appeals to non-Trekkers and really resonates for long-term fans.
The weakest in the series is the first film from the TV franchise, Star Trek: The Motion Picture. While beloved by hardcore fans, Star Trek: The Motion Picture may be a great bore to anyone else. It marks the triumphant return of the original cast members, but far too much time is spent reassembling the crew and exploring the new Enterprise, and the movie's dull Mr. Spock will disappoint those familiar with the fascinating character from the TV series. Once the mission gets underway, the pace improves, but fans will be frustrated by the focus on new characters Captain Decker and Ilia.
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home will especially appeal to nature lovers with its environmental theme.
In this series: Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier, Star Trek VI: Undiscovered Country, Star Trek: Insurrection, Star Trek: Generations, Star Trek: First Contact.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
