Star Trekis a renowned science fiction franchise, which began as a quirky, yet beloved TV series in the 1960s. The series spans a multitude of TV shows, films, games, books, and other forms of media.Star Trektakes audiences where no one has gone before, and the clever writing of the show allows for deeper themes to be explored and understood through subtle context.
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What makes the franchise fascinating isthe many films onStar Trek’s belt. The format between TV and film can be vastly different, with the latter focusing on action and a large budget. Out of the many films, only some can be regarded as the best of whatStar Trekhas to offer.
9Star Trek: Generations
WithStar Trek:Generations, audiences are introduced to a new cinematic changing of the guard. Thecrew of the Enterprise fromThe Next Generationlead their first feature film but seem unable to begin their adventures on a cinematic scale without the originalStar Trekcast physically passing the torch.
The film takes the audiences ofStar TrekandThe Next Generationand pairs them up for a buddy adventure betweenCaptain Picard and Captain Kirk, the latter, who had been trapped in the mysterious Nexus for years. Sadly, Picard and Kirk’s bond should be the crux of the film but lacks major scenes to create a friendship.
8Star Trek: Beyond
Following the rebooted timeline ofStar Trek, Kirk and company embark on a tonally different mission from the first two films.Star Trek:Beyondprovides audiences with a sci-fi adventure, filled with big-budget action. The scope of the film, including the music, feels like the series’ attempt at Marvel Studios Guardians of the Galaxy.
Compared to the first two films,Beyondfeels more like a side quest than the main adventure. This comes from the many talented actors in their respective roles embarking on their own “quests” in the film. However,the chemistry between Spock and Bonesis a treat.
7Star Trek: The Motion Picture
After the original series ofStar Trekwas canceled in 1969, a decade would pass until the crew returned to action.Star Trekreceived its motion picture debut, with the original cast returning onboard the Enterprise.The Motion Picturedeserves respect, for even being in a post-Star Warsworld, it doesn’t attempt to replicate its rival’s success.
Star Trek:The Motion Pictureis a slow-building film, one that seems more inspired by2001: A Space Odysseythan 1977’sStar Wars. The film’s story is a reunion of favorite characters, as well as dialogue heavy, and filled with intrigue for whatever the villain may be.
6Star Trek (2009)
The sophisticated sci-fi franchise was reborn with2009’s reboot. After saying goodbye to the experienced crew of the Enterprise inStar Trek6, fans of the series were boldly optimistic about the rebooted cast. The talent of the reboot shined, and each character brought the personality of the old cast to life, with a flare of something new.
2009’sStar Treklent itself to the action scene, with bold visuals, well-written humor, and a strong story for fans of old Trek and new to like equally. The film takes a novice crew of the Enterprise, and shows audiences a more modern Trek, for audiences of the 21st century.
5Star Trek 3: The Search For Spock
Without feeling like an echo of aStar Trekepisode,Star Trek3: The Search For Spockhas the impossible task of being a superior film to its predecessor. Although,Star Trek3’s strength, it does not attempt to do so, but instead, places the crew of the Enterprise on the pedestal, without an enemy to focus on.
Still reeling from the loss of their comrade, Spock, the Enterprise’s relationship with each other is center stage. The cast has never felt stronger, and their friendships shine through this stunning motion picture. The team of the Enterprise works together tirelessly and against all odds to save their fallen friend.
4Star Trek 6: The Undiscovered Country
Star Trek6: The Undiscovered Country, is a curtain call to the original crew of the Enterprise. It’s a beautiful cinematic send-off to the characters audiences have grown to love for the past 30 years. The plot itself is character-driven and filled with mystery. There are clever parallels to the closing of the Cold War, with a brewing peace treaty between the Federation and the Klingons signaling the end of a conflict that has reaped lives for too long.
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The film is somewhat a personal journey for Kirk, who must put aside hishatred for the Klingonsthat he holds responsible for the death of his son, and instead, seek the prosperity of peace amongst civilizations. It’s a grand goodbye to one of science fiction’s most famed crew.
3Star Trek 4: The Voyage Home
What makesStar Trek4: The Voyage Homenot only a greatStar Trekmovie, but one of the greatest is the fact that it is not afraid to have its own identity. Instead of having the Enterprise crew embarking on an action-packed adventure, filled with torpedos and phaser beams, they go back in time, to go save some whales.
The plot, on the surface, seems entirely ridiculous, but that’s what makes it worse. To see the Enterprise crew in a lighthearted and fun setting is entirely enjoyable, and a refreshing look at the audience’s favorite crew.The Voyage Homefeatures the cast getting into some eccentric situations, and it’s fun for everyone.
2Star Trek: First Contact
Setting a course to the destruction of the Borg is no easy task, but one that Captain Picard has been obsessing over to an unhealthy degree. Ever sincePicard’s humanity was stolen from him, he has been angry, and not thinking straight.Star Trek: First Contactis the climax of the Borg, and Picard’s acceptance of old demons.
There are some great moments inFirst Contact, whether they are filled with action, fun, or character-driven opportunities.First Contactis a rewarding viewing experience for fans of The Next Generation, as it is filled with excitement, visual spectacle, and an engaging premise.
1Star Trek 2: The Wrath Of Khan
Star Trek2: The Wrath of Khanmay well be the cliché choice, but it’s for very good reason. The Wrath of Khan is not only the best of whatStar Trekhas to offer regarding its cinematic entries, but it is a masterful film in general. It’s a great sci-fi flick that doesn’t slow down, and Khan is a truly threatening villain to the characters.
There’s an intensely strong plot, the tension that seems unending, and a great supporting cast. The film is filled with anguish for the Enterprise and a dramatic entry into the immortal friendship between James T. Kirk and Spock. The Wrath of Khan features an emotional crux yet to be topped in theStar Trekfranchise.
