"Star Trek" is a dream gig, but it can also be a nightmare. Brent Spiner, who played the android Data on "Star Trek: The Next Generation," spoke to TV Guide in 1994 about how he will always be Data in the eyes of the public. He could win an Oscar for playing an elderly woman, he said, and still die knowing that Data would be listed first in his obituary. "Star Trek" is such a powerful force in the pop cultural zeitgeist that playing a "Trek" character can mark an actor forever; it must have been hard to walk away from "Star Trek," walk into another audition, and hear "Hey! It's Chekov!" or "Do the Riker thing!"
This was certainly experienced by DeForest Kelley a prolific TV actor and well-known pop culture heavy prior to "Star Trek." Gene Roddenberry already knew Kelley in the early '60s after the pair worked...
This was certainly experienced by DeForest Kelley a prolific TV actor and well-known pop culture heavy prior to "Star Trek." Gene Roddenberry already knew Kelley in the early '60s after the pair worked...
- 5/6/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Prior to his gig on "Star Trek" in 1966, actor DeForest Kelley spent 20 years traversing the wild and hoary world of episodic television and appearing in supporting roles in little-regarded feature films. His first professional screen acting job was a one-off performance in the one-season 1947 TV series "Public Prosecutor." The series holds the distinction of being the first-ever mainstream televised series to be released on film, instead of being broadcast live, which was standard at the time.
Between that show and "Star Trek," Kelley appeared on over 80 TV shows, often just in single episodes, but sometimes returning for two or three. He also had bit roles in films like "Variety Girl," "The Men," "Taxi," and "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral," playing Morgan Earp. He was just a hardworking character actor, taking the jobs that were offered him. There is an integrity to that approach.
In 1960, Kelley appeared in an episode of "Alcoa Theater,...
Between that show and "Star Trek," Kelley appeared on over 80 TV shows, often just in single episodes, but sometimes returning for two or three. He also had bit roles in films like "Variety Girl," "The Men," "Taxi," and "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral," playing Morgan Earp. He was just a hardworking character actor, taking the jobs that were offered him. There is an integrity to that approach.
In 1960, Kelley appeared in an episode of "Alcoa Theater,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
It's unlikely that any of the actors who appeared on "Star Trek" in 1966 would assume they would be playing the same roles 18 years later, but "Star Trek" has had a curious habit of longevity. Each time the franchise dies out, the landscape shifts and the series is revived. That's certainly what happened in 1979 with the release of "Star Trek: The Motion Picture". After the original series was canceled in 1969, it was put into eternal syndication, allowing new audiences to find it for years thereafter. Trek conventions began in earnest in the mid-1970s, interest was renewed, and, lo, "Star Trek" returned. Sequel movies were put into production, and by 1986, the franchise released Leonard Nimoy's "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," the biggest hit in all of "Star Trek" until the release of J.J. Abrams' film in 2009.
Also by 1986, the characters had aged from their mid-30s to their mid-50s,...
Also by 1986, the characters had aged from their mid-30s to their mid-50s,...
- 4/30/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Vasquez Rocks is located in the northern part of Los Angeles County about 25 minutes away from Downtown L.A. via the 14 freeway. It's close enough to the city to be easily accessed by car, but far away enough to look like a remote wilderness. The park's celebrated rock formations look eerie, ancient, and alien from certain angles, making it a popular place for film and TV productions going back to the 1930s.
Trekkies likely recognize Vasquez Rocks as an oft-reused filming location, serving as a variety of alien worlds for various "Star Trek" projects. The park was featured in the "Original Series" episodes "Shore Leave", "Arena", "The Alternative Factor", and "Friday's Child". Later, Vasquez Rocks would serve as Vulcan "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock" and "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," released in 1983 and 1984 respectively.
Fans of "Star Trek: The Next Generation" would recognize Vasquez Rocks from the episode "Who Watches the Watchers?...
Trekkies likely recognize Vasquez Rocks as an oft-reused filming location, serving as a variety of alien worlds for various "Star Trek" projects. The park was featured in the "Original Series" episodes "Shore Leave", "Arena", "The Alternative Factor", and "Friday's Child". Later, Vasquez Rocks would serve as Vulcan "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock" and "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," released in 1983 and 1984 respectively.
Fans of "Star Trek: The Next Generation" would recognize Vasquez Rocks from the episode "Who Watches the Watchers?...
- 4/29/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
In the "Star Trek" episode "Metamorphosis", an important dignitary named Commissioner Nancy Hedford (Elinor Donohue) is being transported to the U.S.S. Enterprise to undergo a complex medical procedure that can only be performed on the ship. She is afflicted with a fast-moving condition called Sukaro's Disease which, if not treated, could prove fatal within a few days, even though Commissioner Hedford has no discernible symptoms. Unfortunately for her, Hedford's shuttle is randomly attacked by a shape-shifting blob of energy and pulled down to the surface of a nearby planet. Captain Kirk (William Shatner), Spock (Leonard Nimoy), and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) have to find a way to repair the shuttle and get the Commissioner back to the Enterprise before her condition worsens.
They are not alone on the planet. Zefram Cochrane (Glenn Corbett) is living there. This is unusual, as Zefram Cochrane -- the inventor of faster-than-light travel...
They are not alone on the planet. Zefram Cochrane (Glenn Corbett) is living there. This is unusual, as Zefram Cochrane -- the inventor of faster-than-light travel...
- 4/28/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
In the "Star Trek" episode "Metamorphosis", guest character Commissioner Nancy Hedford (Elinor Donahue) is taking a break from a vital diplomatic mission to be treated for a rare and potentially fatal condition on board the Enterprise. Her shuttle is attacked, however, by a mysterious energy blob, causing it to crash on a nearby — and presumably uninhabited — planet. Inexplicably, Hedford, Captain Kirk (William Shatner), Spock (Leonard Nimoy), and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) are greeted by a man named Zefram Cochrane (Glenn Corbett), the inventor of warp engines who had disappeared a century earlier. By "Star Trek" lore, Zefram Cochrane flew out into space as a very old man and never returned.
This Cochran, however, is young and vibrant here. It seems that the blob of energy — a blob Cochrane calls the Companion — is alive and lives on this world. The being is powerful enough to keep Cochrane young, and has kind...
This Cochran, however, is young and vibrant here. It seems that the blob of energy — a blob Cochrane calls the Companion — is alive and lives on this world. The being is powerful enough to keep Cochrane young, and has kind...
- 4/21/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
In the "Star Trek" episode "Court Martial", Captain Kirk (William Shatner) is brought on trial following the death of one of his officers, Lieutenant Commander Finney (Richard Webb). The U.S.S. Enterprise had encountered an ion storm and was being buffetted so badly it faced potential destruction. To flee the damage, Kirk had to eject a research vessel while Finney was still on board, sending his officer to his death.
This was a difficult command decision, of course, but there was some debate as to whether or not Kirk ejected the vessel while the Enterprise was at red alert, or if Kirk panicked and ejected the vessel while the Enterprise was still at yellow alert. The latter would be seen as grounds for incompetence and Kirk would be ejected from Starfleet. There is a computer record of Kirk's reaction, including a video, showing he did indeed act hastily, but...
This was a difficult command decision, of course, but there was some debate as to whether or not Kirk ejected the vessel while the Enterprise was at red alert, or if Kirk panicked and ejected the vessel while the Enterprise was still at yellow alert. The latter would be seen as grounds for incompetence and Kirk would be ejected from Starfleet. There is a computer record of Kirk's reaction, including a video, showing he did indeed act hastily, but...
- 4/7/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
William Shatner’s James T. Kirk starred in every episode of the original Star Trek television series and in the first seven Star Trek movies. After donning the role for almost two decades, Shatner followed in the footsteps of co-star Leonard Nimoy to direct a Star Trek film. Shatner directed the fifth film in the franchise, Star Trek: The Final Frontier, which received mixed to negative receptions. Shatner revealed that he has one big regret about making the film.
William Shatner as Captain Kirk in the Star Trek series
Shatner’s directorial venture was plagued with several problems, mostly arising from the cast & crew’s opinions about Shatner’s storyline. However, the T.J. Hooker star took all the responsibility for his failure, sharing that he was not emotionally equipped to handle the big-budget film.
William Shatner’s Biggest Regret Was How He Failed To Take Charge Of His Directorial Venture...
William Shatner as Captain Kirk in the Star Trek series
Shatner’s directorial venture was plagued with several problems, mostly arising from the cast & crew’s opinions about Shatner’s storyline. However, the T.J. Hooker star took all the responsibility for his failure, sharing that he was not emotionally equipped to handle the big-budget film.
William Shatner’s Biggest Regret Was How He Failed To Take Charge Of His Directorial Venture...
- 3/22/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
What's the best "Star Trek" episode? Of the 79 produced in "The Original Series," the most highly-regarded is often season 1, episode 28, "The City on the Edge of Forever." We at /Film named it as the best "Star Trek" episode and we're not alone.
Here's the premise; the Enterprise is exploring a planet home to the Guardian of Forever, essentially a sentient time portal. Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) is accidentally injected with the fictional drug Cordrazine and leaps through the portal, disrupting the timeline and the main characters' present. So, Kirk (William Shatner) and Spock (Leonard Nimoy) follow McCoy, winding up in New York City during the Great Depression.
There, they meet Edith Keeler. Keeler is an idealistic woman who runs a soup kitchen and preaches pacificism; Kirk falls in love with her. Unfortunately, Spock discovers that unless Miss Keeler dies, she'll grow to become an influential activist who delays U.S.
Here's the premise; the Enterprise is exploring a planet home to the Guardian of Forever, essentially a sentient time portal. Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) is accidentally injected with the fictional drug Cordrazine and leaps through the portal, disrupting the timeline and the main characters' present. So, Kirk (William Shatner) and Spock (Leonard Nimoy) follow McCoy, winding up in New York City during the Great Depression.
There, they meet Edith Keeler. Keeler is an idealistic woman who runs a soup kitchen and preaches pacificism; Kirk falls in love with her. Unfortunately, Spock discovers that unless Miss Keeler dies, she'll grow to become an influential activist who delays U.S.
- 3/10/2024
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
A note on revisionism: as many of you out there no doubt already know, it's become de rigueur for studios, corporations and filmmakers themselves to continue to tinker with their works. George Lucas and his "Special Editions" (and subsequent re-revisions) of the "Star Wars" films are the most prominent example of this, and the most illustrative of the concept's drawbacks. For while the idea of a "Director's Cut" or alternate version is a phenomenon that's been employed by everyone from Richard Donner to Michael Mann, Lucas' changes to "Star Wars" were part creative-minded, part "future-proofing" in terms of updating the visual effects to better conform with the Prequel Trilogy.
The most egregious victim of this trend is the original "Star Trek" TV series. Given that "Trek" had gained a (I believe erroneous) reputation for containing chintzy, so-called "dated" visual effects, CBS Television made the choice in 2006 to remaster the 1960s...
The most egregious victim of this trend is the original "Star Trek" TV series. Given that "Trek" had gained a (I believe erroneous) reputation for containing chintzy, so-called "dated" visual effects, CBS Television made the choice in 2006 to remaster the 1960s...
- 2/8/2024
- by Bill Bria
- Slash Film
Yeoman Janice Rand, the character played by Grace Lee Whitney in the original "Star Trek," only appeared in eight episodes of the show, but she left an impression. By Whitney's own description, Janice Rand was a "girl next door" type, adding a relatable element to the wild sci-fi setting of a series set in the 23rd century. While Captain Kirk (William Shatner) conversed and analyzed with Spock (Leonard Nimoy), Rand was busy doing petty jobs, filing paperwork, and distributing refreshments. I can't speak for other Trekkies, but when imagining myself getting a job on the U.S.S. Enterprise, I imagine being a yeoman is all I'd be qualified for.
Whitney has said in her autobiography "The Longest Trek: My Tour of the Galaxy," that Rand was written out of "Star Trek" because she had too much chemistry with Kirk. The relationship between Janice and Jim could easily have developed into something romantic,...
Whitney has said in her autobiography "The Longest Trek: My Tour of the Galaxy," that Rand was written out of "Star Trek" because she had too much chemistry with Kirk. The relationship between Janice and Jim could easily have developed into something romantic,...
- 2/3/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
At the beginning of William Shatner's 1989 film "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise-a is on shore leave, taking a much-needed breather while their ship undergoes extensive repairs and improvements. Scotty (James Doohan) and Uhura (Nichelle Nichols) are overseeing the repairs back on the ship. Chekhov (Walter Koenig) and Sulu (George Takei) are hiking together in Yosemite while Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley), Captain Kirk (Shatner), and Spock (Leonard Nimoy) set up their own camp nearby. This must not be a very long shore leave, otherwise I assume these people would all be at home visiting their families and not hanging out with their co-workers.
At night, McCoy, Kirk, and Spock gather around a campfire, cook beans, and enjoy marshmallows. Everything is comfortably low-tech. Kirk and McCoy attempt to introduce Spock to the Earth tradition of singing songs around the campfire, teaching him the lyrics to "Row,...
At night, McCoy, Kirk, and Spock gather around a campfire, cook beans, and enjoy marshmallows. Everything is comfortably low-tech. Kirk and McCoy attempt to introduce Spock to the Earth tradition of singing songs around the campfire, teaching him the lyrics to "Row,...
- 1/30/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Most Trekkies will be able to tell you that Robert Wise's 1979 film "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" wasn't as big a success as Paramount had hoped. The film is famously slow-moving, aiming for cosmic grandeur and hefty evolutionary themes over the then-popular whizzbang action of "Star Wars." "Star Trek" creator Gene Roddenberry oversaw the production of "Motion Picture," and the overall tepid response left him in Paramount's bad graces. This was in addition to multiple delays in filming, the production going over budget, and those common studio spats so often classified as "creative differences." According to William Shatner (as he wrote in his autobiography "Star Trek Movie Memories"), Roddenberry was essentially fired from the production of any potential sequel for "Motion Picture" as a result of all the drama, and the Great Bird of the Galaxy was given the faraway and somewhat demeaning title of "executive consultant" on any future productions.
- 1/28/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
"Star Trek III: The Search For Spock" is a memorable entry into the "Trek" canon for several reasons. The 1984 movie hesitantly followed up franchise high point "The Wrath of Kahn," introduced new Federation starship designs, and resurrected everyone's favorite half-human, half-Vulcan officer, played by Leonard Nimoy. "The Search For Spock" is a story for Spock lovers, and though it doesn't quite match the thrilling emotional and narrative highs of its predecessors, it still feels like "Star Trek" boldly going where it never has before. Unfortunately, though, there's one thing "Star Trek III" is missing: Kirstie Alley's Vulcan junior Lieutenant Saavik.
Saavik does appear in "The Search For Spock," but future "Cheers" star Alley is missing, replaced by actor Robin Curtis. Curtis does a fine job as Saavik and would go on to reprise the role in the next "Star Trek" film as well, but the recast is jarring for close watchers of the saga.
Saavik does appear in "The Search For Spock," but future "Cheers" star Alley is missing, replaced by actor Robin Curtis. Curtis does a fine job as Saavik and would go on to reprise the role in the next "Star Trek" film as well, but the recast is jarring for close watchers of the saga.
- 1/25/2024
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Nicholas Meyer's well-regarded 1982 sci-fi film "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" is all about failure. It begins with Admiral Kirk (William Shatner) looking down the barrel of middle age, having to acknowledge that he's likely past his prime. His eyesight is failing, and Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley) prescribes old-fashioned glasses. As the film progresses, we learn that Kirk has an adult son named David (Merritt Butrick) that he wasn't present to raise, and an old enemy, Khan (Ricardo Montalbán), whom he had left on Ceti Alpha V decades ago and had completely forgotten about.
Kirk tells a story of taking a test in Starfleet Academy called the Kobayashi Maru, a test that is designed to make the subject fail; it's meant to gauge a student's command acumen in a no-win scenario. Kirk so wanted to win that he changed the test, effectively cheating. He had, audiences learn, never...
Kirk tells a story of taking a test in Starfleet Academy called the Kobayashi Maru, a test that is designed to make the subject fail; it's meant to gauge a student's command acumen in a no-win scenario. Kirk so wanted to win that he changed the test, effectively cheating. He had, audiences learn, never...
- 1/9/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
If one visits the legendary Grauman's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, California (now called the Tcl Chinese), one can see the handprints of the cast and creator of "Star Trek." On the event of the franchise's 25th anniversary in 1991, Walter Koenig, Nichelle Nichols, William Shatner, George Takei, James Doohan, and DeForest Kelley all put their handprints on the cement next to their respective signatures. According to a story Takei told at a "Star Trek" convention (that this author personally attended), the cast were instructed to sign their names but not to put their hands in the cement. Takei, hating the restriction, plopped in his handprint anyway, and his fellow cast members immediately followed suit.
Leonard Nimoy, as visiting Trekkies will see, slapped his hand into the cement with his middle and ring fingers parted and his thumb out, arranged in the traditional Vulcan salute seen so often throughout "Star Trek."
That...
Leonard Nimoy, as visiting Trekkies will see, slapped his hand into the cement with his middle and ring fingers parted and his thumb out, arranged in the traditional Vulcan salute seen so often throughout "Star Trek."
That...
- 1/6/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
In William Shatner's film "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," the U.S.S. Enterprise is hijacked by a hippie Vulcan cult leader named Sybok (Laurence Luckinbill) and flown to the very center of the Milky Way. In reality, the galaxy's center is the site of a supermassive black hole called Sagittarius A*. In "Frontier," Sybok believes it's where God lives. Not a spiritual conduit to God, mind you, but the actual physical body of God Himself. Kirk (Shatner) and Spock (Leonard Nimoy) think Sybok is mad, but are dragged along in his mad scheme.
When the Enterprise arrives at its destination, however, it seems for a few moments that Sybok is right. He and the Enterprise crew encounter and land on a mysterious planet, and God Himself (George Murdock) appears. Everyone is awestruck ... except for Kirk. When God asks the mortal characters for a starship to spread His Word,...
When the Enterprise arrives at its destination, however, it seems for a few moments that Sybok is right. He and the Enterprise crew encounter and land on a mysterious planet, and God Himself (George Murdock) appears. Everyone is awestruck ... except for Kirk. When God asks the mortal characters for a starship to spread His Word,...
- 1/1/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The Starfleet uniforms seen on the original "Star Trek" series back in 1966 were designed by William Ware Theiss, a costume designer who had previously worked on major Hollywood productions like "Spartacus," and who would go on to design for films like "Harold & Maude," "Bound for Glory," and "Pete's Dragon." According to an article on StarTrek.com, Theiss became friends with D.C. Fontana on the set of "Spartacus" (Fontana worked as a member of the studio's typing pool), which gave him the connection he needed to land his "Star Trek" job. It was Theiss' idea to make futuristic space uniforms look more shirt-like and casual, which stood in contrast to the shiny-and-chrome sci-fi costumes that were more in vogue at the time.
Theiss was also notorious for the skin-revealing outfits he designed for the show's many female guest stars, and he was noted for being able to ride the line...
Theiss was also notorious for the skin-revealing outfits he designed for the show's many female guest stars, and he was noted for being able to ride the line...
- 12/30/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The future of "Futurama" is secured, thanks to Hulu. The streaming service revived the series for the second time (following in Comedy Central's footsteps), ordering 20 new episodes following the escapades of everyone's favorite intergalactic delivery crew. Ten of those episodes debuted as a revival season (season 11 by broadcast order) earlier in 2023. Following that, the series has been renewed for two additional seasons and there's even been talk of a new "Futurama" movie.
Before getting ahead of yourselves though, there's the back half of the initial 20 episodes that Hulu ordered. This is either season 12 or season 11 part two, depending on if you go by production or broadcast order — we'll stick with the latter for now. No official release date has been given yet, but these ten new episodes are expected to arrive in 2024.
At New York Comic-Con 2023, the "Futurama" production team partook in a roundtable and teased the upcoming episodes...
Before getting ahead of yourselves though, there's the back half of the initial 20 episodes that Hulu ordered. This is either season 12 or season 11 part two, depending on if you go by production or broadcast order — we'll stick with the latter for now. No official release date has been given yet, but these ten new episodes are expected to arrive in 2024.
At New York Comic-Con 2023, the "Futurama" production team partook in a roundtable and teased the upcoming episodes...
- 12/25/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
The series finale of "Star Trek: The Next Generation," called "All Good Things...," filmed from March 11 to April 5, 1994. The episode followed Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) as he had become unstuck in time, "Slaughterhouse-Five" style. Without warning, Picard would find himself thrown back in time seven years, just prior to the events of the "Next Generation" pilot episode. Then, just as unexpectedly, he would be thrown several decades into the future where he was an old man suffering from a degenerative brain ailment. Then, zip, back to the present. In all three time frames, Picard found himself needing to investigate a mysterious spatial phenomenon that seemed to be growing larger ... as it moved backward through time.
The trickster god Q (John De Lancie) informs Picard that the spatial phenomenon was going to destroy all of humanity ... and that Picard somehow created it. "All Good Things..." was an epic tale to wrap up an amazing sci-fi series.
The trickster god Q (John De Lancie) informs Picard that the spatial phenomenon was going to destroy all of humanity ... and that Picard somehow created it. "All Good Things..." was an epic tale to wrap up an amazing sci-fi series.
- 12/17/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
David Carson's 1994 film "Star Trek: Generations," set mostly in 2371, began with a flashback to 2293 when Admiral Kirk (William Shatner), Commander Chekov (Walter Koenig), and Captain Scott (James Doohan) attended the maiden voyage of the U.S.S. Enterprise-b. In the original draft of the script, the Enterprise-b scenes were meant to include the entire original cast of "Star Trek," so Leonard Nimoy and DeForest Kelley refused because their roles were insignificant and they didn't like the story. Nichelle Nichols and George Takei likewise turned down the film.
"Generations" involves a colossal negative space wedgie -- a spatial energy ribbon called the Nexus -- that scoops Kirk out of the Enterprise-b and holds him in a form of temporal stasis for 87 years until Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) can enter the same wedgie to retrieve him. Chekov and Scotty don't play a major part in the story. They are essentially there...
"Generations" involves a colossal negative space wedgie -- a spatial energy ribbon called the Nexus -- that scoops Kirk out of the Enterprise-b and holds him in a form of temporal stasis for 87 years until Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) can enter the same wedgie to retrieve him. Chekov and Scotty don't play a major part in the story. They are essentially there...
- 12/3/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Walter Koenig joined the cast of "Star Trek" in 1967 as Ensign Pavel Chekov, the feisty Russian upstart who was always quick to point out that a lot of human culture originated in his home country. He was often hot-headed and a little brash, but always capable.
By the events of the 1982 film "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," Chekov had been promoted to the rank of commander and served as the executive officer on board the U.S.S. Reliant underneath Captain Clark Terrell (Paul Winfield). In that film, Commander Chekov and Captain Terrell were captured by the revenge-bent Khan (Ricardo Montalbán), who forced miniature Ceti eels into their ears. The eels burrow into their hosts' brains and make them docile and suggestable, forcing Chekov to turn against Starfleet and aiding Khan in his evil schemes. By halfway through the film, Chekov is reunited with his old captain, James T. Kirk (William Shatner). Luckily,...
By the events of the 1982 film "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," Chekov had been promoted to the rank of commander and served as the executive officer on board the U.S.S. Reliant underneath Captain Clark Terrell (Paul Winfield). In that film, Commander Chekov and Captain Terrell were captured by the revenge-bent Khan (Ricardo Montalbán), who forced miniature Ceti eels into their ears. The eels burrow into their hosts' brains and make them docile and suggestable, forcing Chekov to turn against Starfleet and aiding Khan in his evil schemes. By halfway through the film, Chekov is reunited with his old captain, James T. Kirk (William Shatner). Luckily,...
- 12/2/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Clockwise from top left: Candy Cane Lane (Prime Video), Your Christmas Or Mine 2 (Prime Video), The Flash (Warner Bros.)Image: The A.V. Club
Prime Video—perhaps more than any other streaming provider—is really leaning into Christmas-themed movies this December. Eddie Murphy plays a family man desperate to win...
Prime Video—perhaps more than any other streaming provider—is really leaning into Christmas-themed movies this December. Eddie Murphy plays a family man desperate to win...
- 11/29/2023
- by Robert DeSalvo
- avclub.com
Spock (Leonard Nimoy) was perhaps the most striking and memorable character from "Star Trek," back when it first started to take off in syndication in the early 1970s. On a ship full of humans, Spock was half-human and half-Vulcan. He had angled eyebrows and pointed, Mephistophelean ears. It's also noted throughout the season that Spock has green blood (although he never bleeds green on camera), and McCoy (DeForest Kelley) once noted that Spock's heart "is where his liver should be." Spock is also stronger than a human, very long-lived (Vulcans can live to age 250), and has a much more sophisticated brain than a human's; Vulcans are intimidatingly intelligent.
The fact that Spock has green blood, however, wasn't merely a whim of "Star Trek" creator Gene Roddenberry. It seems that Roddenberry once visited the famed Mütter Museum, a curious medical archive located inside the College of Physicians in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The...
The fact that Spock has green blood, however, wasn't merely a whim of "Star Trek" creator Gene Roddenberry. It seems that Roddenberry once visited the famed Mütter Museum, a curious medical archive located inside the College of Physicians in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The...
- 11/28/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Star Trek Nemesis just about marked the death of the franchise. Indeed, the fact that it was a worldwide box-office disaster meant that many felt the series had run out of steam. For the first time in many years, there were no active big-screen franchises or Trek shows running on TV, with the often neglected Star Trek: Enterprise going off the air in 2005. It seemed space operas were out of vogue, with the rise of superhero movies taking Hollywood by storm. Not only was there the Sam Raimi Spider-Man movies and the Christopher Nolan Batman movies breaking box office records, but also a little company called Marvel studios decided to start making the own movies, beginning with Iron Man.
But what about Star Trek? For a while, Paramount wouldn’t have been able to produce a Star Trek movie even if they wanted to, with the company’s owner, Viacom,...
But what about Star Trek? For a while, Paramount wouldn’t have been able to produce a Star Trek movie even if they wanted to, with the company’s owner, Viacom,...
- 11/21/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
In his new autobiography "Making It So: A Memoir," Patrick Stewart stresses multiple times that he was not the least bit familiar with "Star Trek" before being approached to play Captain Jean-Luc Picard in "Star Trek: The Next Generation." He tells a story of being in Los Angeles for a gig in 1986 -- he was to read Shakespearean dialogue while a colleague gave a lecture on the Bard's text -- expecting nothing more than $100 and a dinner at T.G.I.Friday's in exchange. After the gig, however, he was contacted by a producer about a meeting with Gene Roddenberry ... a name that was completely alien to Stewart. At that point, he admitted, "Star Trek" was something other people in his home once watched in the background while he passed through the room on his way to more important theater gigs.
The story went that Gene Roddenberry actually didn't want Stewart for the role,...
The story went that Gene Roddenberry actually didn't want Stewart for the role,...
- 11/19/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
In the world of "Futurama," no one is allowed to utter the words "Star Trek" without facing arrest and severe legal penalties. It seems that by the year 3000, Trekkies had gone from being a loose-knit group of geeks to being a full-blown religion. After years of a Trekkie religion, schisms began to form in the church, leading to inevitable and prolonged Holy Wars. To solve the problem once and for all, humanity agreed to load every episode of the original series onto a rocket and launch them into deep space where they would never darken humanity's doorstep again. The severed heads of William Shatner, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, DeForest Kelley, and George Takei -- all of them kept alive in jars -- were also loaded onto a rocket and sent into space. Leonard Nimoy's head stayed on Earth and took a job in the local Head Museum. James Doohan's fate was not shared,...
- 11/6/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
If one were to broadly characterize each "Star Trek" show into a small handful of themes, one might say that the original "Star Trek" from 1966 is about bravery and balance. The characters are presented as bold — if not clumsy — frontiersman, frequently relying on their instincts and their brash confidence to escape difficult situations. Captain Kirk (William Shatner) often employs clever military tactics to outwit enemies. At the same time, he relies on the advice from his cold, emotionless first officer Spock (Leonard Nimoy) just as much as he relies on the passionate, angered responses of his very human medical officer Dr. McCoy (DeForest Kelley).
In contrast, "Star Trek: The Next Generation" is about the power of intellect, the importance of management skills, and the eternal solution of diplomacy. Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) often asks for input from his entire senior staff, stands somewhat aloof, and celebrates ancient literature. Only occasionally...
In contrast, "Star Trek: The Next Generation" is about the power of intellect, the importance of management skills, and the eternal solution of diplomacy. Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) often asks for input from his entire senior staff, stands somewhat aloof, and celebrates ancient literature. Only occasionally...
- 11/6/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The central joke surrounding Dr. Zoidberg (Billy West) on the sci-fi sitcom "Futurama" was established early on. Set in the early years of the 31st century, "Futurama" features a rogue's gallery of aliens, robots, mutants, and talking severed heads living alongside its relatively recognizable human characters. Zoidberg is a bipedal lobster-like alien who regularly issues drugs and surgically slices into the employees of Planet Express. In some of Zoidberg's first scenes, way back in 1999, he can be heard saying things like "Now open your mouth and let's take a look at that brain" or diagnosing his human patients with strange, fish-sounding diseases like fin fungus. He can sever and reattach limbs without much issue, although he doesn't always put them in the right place.
The gag, of course, is that he's a bad doctor. Being a space alien — specifically a Decapodian — Zoidberg doesn't seem able to grasp the biology of the mammals he works with.
The gag, of course, is that he's a bad doctor. Being a space alien — specifically a Decapodian — Zoidberg doesn't seem able to grasp the biology of the mammals he works with.
- 11/4/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
When "Star Trek: The Next Generation" premiered on September 28, 1987, it was saddled with crushing expectations. Gene Roddenberry's original series, which aired for three seasons in the late 1960s, was a syndication mainstay; though the show was a ratings loser during its initial run, it found its audience of sci-fi nerds as an afterschool homework distraction. The show became so popular, Paramount greenlit a big-budget film adaptation in 1979, which spawned a hugely profitable franchise that was still ongoing when the studio, hoping to fatten its cash cow, charged Roddenberry with concocting a spin-off series.
"Star Trek: The Next Generation" was set far enough ahead of the original series that, until later in its run, there wasn't a logical reason to work in the original cast (save for a clunky cameo from DeForest Kelley in the series pilot). If "Tng" was going to work, it had to sell audiences on the new characters.
"Star Trek: The Next Generation" was set far enough ahead of the original series that, until later in its run, there wasn't a logical reason to work in the original cast (save for a clunky cameo from DeForest Kelley in the series pilot). If "Tng" was going to work, it had to sell audiences on the new characters.
- 10/8/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Gene Roddenberry's celebrated sci-fi TV series "Star Trek" debuted on September 8, 1966, and recently celebrated its 57th anniversary. Initially, "Trek" wasn't terribly popular, and only managed to make a third season thanks to a coordinated letter-writing campaign (a campaign that Roddenberry was accused of orchestrating and encouraging himself). It wouldn't be until after "Star Trek" was canceled in 1969 that its popularity would significantly begin to grow. Thanks to a sweet infinite syndication deal, "Star Trek" reruns were common, and a cult began to form. By the early 1970s, the first "Trek" conventions began to appear. Naturally, conventions were a great place for the show's stars and creators to congregate and share production stories with a rising tide of obsessives. Fans were able to talk to and get autographs from William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, Nichelle Nichols, Majel Barrett, Walter Koenig, George Takei, James Doohan, and Grace Lee Whitney, as...
- 9/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The 1991 two-part "Star Trek: The Next Generation" episode "Unification" was a banner event for Trekkies. Although Dr. Leonard McCoy (DeForest Kelley) appeared in the show's pilot as a 137-year-old man, the events of the series were meant to be far enough removed from the original "Star Trek" series to assure no further crossovers. "Next Generation" was determined to shake off the legacy of its forebear and forge its own path.
After five seasons, however, the new legacy was established. "Next Generation" had lasted longer than the original series, and its characters were now recognizable on their own merits. "Next Generation" became its own thing. It was only then, when the show could stand on its own two legs and didn't require constant references to the original series, that a guest spot from a beloved original series character could take place. In "Unification," Spock (Leonard Nimoy) returned. Trekkies loved it, not just because they loved Spock,...
After five seasons, however, the new legacy was established. "Next Generation" had lasted longer than the original series, and its characters were now recognizable on their own merits. "Next Generation" became its own thing. It was only then, when the show could stand on its own two legs and didn't require constant references to the original series, that a guest spot from a beloved original series character could take place. In "Unification," Spock (Leonard Nimoy) returned. Trekkies loved it, not just because they loved Spock,...
- 9/17/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
"Star Trek" was the undisputed king of sci-fi television in the 1990s, but it lost that crown in the 2000s; prequel series "Star Trek: Enterprise" ended the franchise's reign with an abbreviated four season run (2001 to 2005). Different shows won the hearts of online fandom, including two contemporaries of "Enterprise" — "Futurama" and "Firefly."
The legacy of "Firefly" far outlasted its 14 episode run; fan demand led to the creation of the finale movie "Serenity" in 2005. Meanwhile, "Futurama" enjoyed a respectable 72 episode run from 1999 to 2003, but enduring popularity has revived it twice, first from 2007 to 2013, and again for a new season which premiered this summer. Short length doesn't mean a show will be forgotten, especially when the Internet can sustain a fandom like never before.
As detailed in "Star Trek" oral history book "The Fifty Year Mission" by Edward Gross and Mark A. Altman, these three shows intertwined in an episode of miscommunication and Hollywood office politics.
The legacy of "Firefly" far outlasted its 14 episode run; fan demand led to the creation of the finale movie "Serenity" in 2005. Meanwhile, "Futurama" enjoyed a respectable 72 episode run from 1999 to 2003, but enduring popularity has revived it twice, first from 2007 to 2013, and again for a new season which premiered this summer. Short length doesn't mean a show will be forgotten, especially when the Internet can sustain a fandom like never before.
As detailed in "Star Trek" oral history book "The Fifty Year Mission" by Edward Gross and Mark A. Altman, these three shows intertwined in an episode of miscommunication and Hollywood office politics.
- 9/11/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
In a 2020 video interview with Vanity Fair, voice actor Billy West explained some of his creative decisions surrounding his multiple "Futurama" characters. For the blowhard Captain Zapp Brannigan, West imagined William Shatner, as if he -- the actor, not Captain Kirk -- were in charge of the Starship Enterprise. Zapp is a creature of pure ego and vanity, which is how West sees Shatner.
On "Futurama," however, Zapp Brannigan is more in line with a widespread popular interpretation of Captain Kirk. Kirk is often called a ladies' man and an incautious cowboy. Zapp wasn't a ladies' man, but he was a pathetic lothario who too often sexually propositioned Leela (Katey Sagal). He referred to his bedroom as "the love-nasium," and was obsessed with wearing velour clothing. Zapp also wasn't merely incautious, but blitheringly incompetent as the commander of the Doop starship Nimbus. "It's an emergency, sir!" an underling would yell.
On "Futurama," however, Zapp Brannigan is more in line with a widespread popular interpretation of Captain Kirk. Kirk is often called a ladies' man and an incautious cowboy. Zapp wasn't a ladies' man, but he was a pathetic lothario who too often sexually propositioned Leela (Katey Sagal). He referred to his bedroom as "the love-nasium," and was obsessed with wearing velour clothing. Zapp also wasn't merely incautious, but blitheringly incompetent as the commander of the Doop starship Nimbus. "It's an emergency, sir!" an underling would yell.
- 9/11/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 4's Weirdest Episode Title Is A Reference To A Legendary Sci-Fi Writer
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This post contains spoilers for "Star Trek: Lower Decks" season 4.
"Star Trek" has always taken inspiration from titans of the science fiction genre. Whether it's "Strange New Worlds" delivering a heartbreaking riff on an Ursula Le Guin short story or "The Next Generation" scientists building on the concepts of Isaac Asimov, "Star Trek" has always worn its love of geeky sci-fi on its sleeve. It's only fitting, then, that the long-running franchise's most entertainingly chaotic entry, "Star Trek: Lower Decks," references one of 20th-century sci-fi's wildest figures: Harlan Ellison.
The nod to one of Ellison's works comes via the title of season 4, episode 2, "I Have No Bones Yet I Must Flee." In the context of the episode, this phrase is hilarious, as it references the inexplicable, bone-drinking capabilities of a cute creature called Moopsy that the "Lower Decks" crew...
This post contains spoilers for "Star Trek: Lower Decks" season 4.
"Star Trek" has always taken inspiration from titans of the science fiction genre. Whether it's "Strange New Worlds" delivering a heartbreaking riff on an Ursula Le Guin short story or "The Next Generation" scientists building on the concepts of Isaac Asimov, "Star Trek" has always worn its love of geeky sci-fi on its sleeve. It's only fitting, then, that the long-running franchise's most entertainingly chaotic entry, "Star Trek: Lower Decks," references one of 20th-century sci-fi's wildest figures: Harlan Ellison.
The nod to one of Ellison's works comes via the title of season 4, episode 2, "I Have No Bones Yet I Must Flee." In the context of the episode, this phrase is hilarious, as it references the inexplicable, bone-drinking capabilities of a cute creature called Moopsy that the "Lower Decks" crew...
- 9/8/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
The 1967 revision of the "Star Trek" writer's guide starts by asking the reader a simple question: "Can you find the major 'Star Trek' format error in the following 'teaser' from a story outline?"
"Star Trek" is a franchise that comes with many rules and dictums, many derived from its late creator, Gene Roddenberry. Other times they came from story editors and producers across the franchise's nearly-60-year history. And all of them are fiercely debated among fans in countless fanzines, convention halls, and chat boards, as well as on social media.
But rules are made to be broken, aren't they? Or, at the very least, broadly interpreted... like Starfleet's non-interference directive by some captains. And, to paraphrase Kirk, risk was "Star Trek's" business from day one. So let's look at 13 times when the makers of "Star Trek" took a risk and broke the mold.
Read more:...
"Star Trek" is a franchise that comes with many rules and dictums, many derived from its late creator, Gene Roddenberry. Other times they came from story editors and producers across the franchise's nearly-60-year history. And all of them are fiercely debated among fans in countless fanzines, convention halls, and chat boards, as well as on social media.
But rules are made to be broken, aren't they? Or, at the very least, broadly interpreted... like Starfleet's non-interference directive by some captains. And, to paraphrase Kirk, risk was "Star Trek's" business from day one. So let's look at 13 times when the makers of "Star Trek" took a risk and broke the mold.
Read more:...
- 8/28/2023
- by Maurice Molyneaux
- Slash Film
Spoilers for "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" follow.
It's been over a week since season 2 of "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" wrapped. I'd call the season a success; it built upon the rock-solid first season and swung further toward the fences. "Strange New Worlds" season 2 was daring, goofy, and pushed "Star Trek" into new frontiers while capping off with a bold cliffhanger right out of "The Next Generation."
While the premiere is at least a year away, it was confirmed back in March 2023 that "Strange New Worlds" has been renewed for a third season. The cast has already floated some ideas; Rebecca Romijn (Commander Una-Chin Riley/Number One) wants an episode showing how her character met Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount), for example. But it's not just the show's cast and crew with hopes and dreams for season 3.
After season 1 ended, I wrote a list of what /Film wanted out...
It's been over a week since season 2 of "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" wrapped. I'd call the season a success; it built upon the rock-solid first season and swung further toward the fences. "Strange New Worlds" season 2 was daring, goofy, and pushed "Star Trek" into new frontiers while capping off with a bold cliffhanger right out of "The Next Generation."
While the premiere is at least a year away, it was confirmed back in March 2023 that "Strange New Worlds" has been renewed for a third season. The cast has already floated some ideas; Rebecca Romijn (Commander Una-Chin Riley/Number One) wants an episode showing how her character met Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount), for example. But it's not just the show's cast and crew with hopes and dreams for season 3.
After season 1 ended, I wrote a list of what /Film wanted out...
- 8/21/2023
- by Devin Meenan
- Slash Film
The "Futurama" episode "Where No Fan Has Gone Before" introduced an interesting wrinkle to the universe. It seems that in the early 31st century, all of "Star Trek" had been banned, and one could be arrested merely for saying the words "Star Trek" in public. Fry (Billy West) mentions in a video store that the first six "Star Trek" movies average out to "pretty good." Everyone in the store immediately drops to the floor and Fry is quickly bundled out by his friends.
It seems that, in the future, "Star Trek" fandom had become so intense that it mushroomed into a full-blown religion all its own. In the years after its formation, the Trekkie religion quickly became violent, with various schisms forming within the church. Imagine old-school Trekkies getting into bitter arguments with the fans of "Star Trek: Discovery," but with gunplay. Fry, a closet Trekkie this whole time, is...
It seems that, in the future, "Star Trek" fandom had become so intense that it mushroomed into a full-blown religion all its own. In the years after its formation, the Trekkie religion quickly became violent, with various schisms forming within the church. Imagine old-school Trekkies getting into bitter arguments with the fans of "Star Trek: Discovery," but with gunplay. Fry, a closet Trekkie this whole time, is...
- 8/19/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Since its debut in 1966, Star Trek has boldly gone to nearly every cultural aspect of modern life. The franchise has included 13 feature films with various crews, numerous board and video games, hundreds of action figures, commemorative plates — you name it, and there’s probably a version with a Starfleet logo on it.
But despite all this exploration into other media and fields, Star Trek remains best on television. And after a long drought, the franchise is finally thriving again in its original medium, despite the bumbling of its parent company Paramount. Even with Picard done and Discovery entering its fifth and final season, multiple series are still in production, including the acclaimed Strange New Worlds.
But as the greatest Trek theme song reminds us, it’s been a long road getting from there to here. The Original Series was canceled after a budget-strapped third season in 1969 and only built its following in syndication.
But despite all this exploration into other media and fields, Star Trek remains best on television. And after a long drought, the franchise is finally thriving again in its original medium, despite the bumbling of its parent company Paramount. Even with Picard done and Discovery entering its fifth and final season, multiple series are still in production, including the acclaimed Strange New Worlds.
But as the greatest Trek theme song reminds us, it’s been a long road getting from there to here. The Original Series was canceled after a budget-strapped third season in 1969 and only built its following in syndication.
- 8/17/2023
- by Kirsten Howard
- Den of Geek
‘Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan’ (Photo © 2002 by Paramount Pictures)
Created by the late Gene Roddenberry, Star Trek has been around in one form or another since the first episode of Star Trek: The Original Series (Tos) debuted on NBC on Sept. 8, 1966.
Tos lasted three seasons and 79 episodes. However, it found a new life in syndication. With the success of 1977’s Star Wars and 1977’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind (during the nascent days of the summer blockbuster), long-time Trekkies were hoping to see their beloved characters on the big screen, which they did in 1979’s Star Trek: The Motion Picture.
Today, Trek is a pop culture juggernaut. It has to its name 13 feature films, eight TV series, three animated series, and numerous novels, comics, action figures, and other merchandise. Pretty impressive. Not to mention pretty intimidating if you want to go where no one has gone before for the first time.
Created by the late Gene Roddenberry, Star Trek has been around in one form or another since the first episode of Star Trek: The Original Series (Tos) debuted on NBC on Sept. 8, 1966.
Tos lasted three seasons and 79 episodes. However, it found a new life in syndication. With the success of 1977’s Star Wars and 1977’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind (during the nascent days of the summer blockbuster), long-time Trekkies were hoping to see their beloved characters on the big screen, which they did in 1979’s Star Trek: The Motion Picture.
Today, Trek is a pop culture juggernaut. It has to its name 13 feature films, eight TV series, three animated series, and numerous novels, comics, action figures, and other merchandise. Pretty impressive. Not to mention pretty intimidating if you want to go where no one has gone before for the first time.
- 7/24/2023
- by Kurt Anthony Krug
- Showbiz Junkies
Ever since the announcement of the second season of "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds," Trekkies have been anticipating this episode. "Those Old Scientists" will see Ensign Boimler (Jack Quaid) and Ensign Mariner (Tawney Newsome) from "Star Trek: Lower Decks" pass into the world of "Strange New Worlds," and interact directly with Captain Pike (Anson Mount), Spock (Ethan Peck) and all the rest. The shows are set about 120 years apart, however, so the characters will have to make use of an ancient, mystical time-travel portal in order to meet, but that's no big deal; "Star Trek" has featured multiple mystical time-travel portals in the past. At the head of the episode, the "Lower Decks" characters will be animated. Once they pass through said portal, they will appear in live action. The two featured voice actors will reprise their roles.
This is hardly the first time two "Star Trek" continuities have crossed over,...
This is hardly the first time two "Star Trek" continuities have crossed over,...
- 7/22/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
In 1991, the original crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise signed off – literally – with Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country earning critical acclaim and the biggest box office for the franchise since The Wrath of Khan. With Star Trek – The Next Generation ending its successful seven-season run, the time was right to give the new crew the reigns to their big-screen franchise. But, all involved were wary of making what would be seen as just an extended episode. Thus the bold move was made to work in none other than James T. Kirk, who – gasp – would die in the movie’s climax, passing the torch to Patrick Stewart’s Jean-Luc Picard. That’s right; it’s time to tackle Star Trek Generations!
To shepherd the Next Generation’s move to the big screen, Paramount Pictures decided to give the reigns to the feature film over to Next Generation producer Rick Berman,...
To shepherd the Next Generation’s move to the big screen, Paramount Pictures decided to give the reigns to the feature film over to Next Generation producer Rick Berman,...
- 7/19/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
There’s this theory out there that annoys most Trekkies, being that, of the films, only the even-numbered entries are good. This stems mainly from the fact that everyone remembers Star Trek V: The Final Frontier as being the worst movie of the series and ignores that Star Trek: The Motion Picture – while divisive – was a hit, and so was The Search for Spock. However, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier is indeed a bad Star Trek movie, and in this episode of Revisited, we’re going to look at exactly what went wrong with something that was clearly a passion project for its star and director, William Shatner.
Jump back to 1986, and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home was a significant hit. It was the highest-grossing movie in the franchise and earned critical raves. People that didn’t even like Star Trek were down with this earth-bound adventure of the crew of the U.
Jump back to 1986, and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home was a significant hit. It was the highest-grossing movie in the franchise and earned critical raves. People that didn’t even like Star Trek were down with this earth-bound adventure of the crew of the U.
- 6/11/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
This article contains spoilers for Star Trek and Battlestar Galactica.
When future television historians are asked to build the Mount Rushmore of fictional adventures through the galaxy, there is certainly room for debate. Rest assured though, there is a place for Star Trek and even a franchise many didn’t think would make it, Battlestar Galactica.
When Battlestar was released on ABC in 1978, it was almost a decade since Gene Roddenberry’s perennial trek had aired, failed, and was resurrected because of fan support. Since its inception, Star Trek was a survivor, and one of its strengths was always reinvention. This led to feature films, a renaissance of the property in the late ‘80s, and a recent reinvention and “refuel” treatment in the past few years.
Galactica, meanwhile, went from cult classic to mainstream critical success with its reboot in the early 2000s. Yet, that wasn’t the only reinvention in that franchise of note.
When future television historians are asked to build the Mount Rushmore of fictional adventures through the galaxy, there is certainly room for debate. Rest assured though, there is a place for Star Trek and even a franchise many didn’t think would make it, Battlestar Galactica.
When Battlestar was released on ABC in 1978, it was almost a decade since Gene Roddenberry’s perennial trek had aired, failed, and was resurrected because of fan support. Since its inception, Star Trek was a survivor, and one of its strengths was always reinvention. This led to feature films, a renaissance of the property in the late ‘80s, and a recent reinvention and “refuel” treatment in the past few years.
Galactica, meanwhile, went from cult classic to mainstream critical success with its reboot in the early 2000s. Yet, that wasn’t the only reinvention in that franchise of note.
- 6/11/2023
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
The nineteenth episode of the second season of "Star Trek," called "A Private Little War" has long been viewed as a metaphor for the Vietnam War. It involves the proliferation of arms, the deliberate involvement in another nation's civil war, and the nature of the Prime Directive. It also ends on a line of dialogue that can be read one of two ways. To this author, the ending of "A Private Little War" is clear. A quick poll of Trekkies, however, finds that many others interpret the ending in the opposite way. Let us delve.
At the beginning of "A Private Little War," Captain Kirk (William Shatner) and Commander Spock (Leonard Nimoy) are visiting a placid planet called Neural. The visit is leaving Kirk feeling nostalgic, as this planet was the site of his first planetary survey when he was a mere lieutenant some 13 years prior. Kirk points out that...
At the beginning of "A Private Little War," Captain Kirk (William Shatner) and Commander Spock (Leonard Nimoy) are visiting a placid planet called Neural. The visit is leaving Kirk feeling nostalgic, as this planet was the site of his first planetary survey when he was a mere lieutenant some 13 years prior. Kirk points out that...
- 4/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Ginnie Newhart, the wife of famed comedian Bob Newhart who came up with the innovative idea for how to conclude his Vermont-based sitcom by combining with it with his earlier Chicago-based show, has died. She was 82.
She died Sunday at their home in Century City after a long illness, publicist Jerry Digney told The Hollywood Reporter. She and Bob recently celebrated their 60-year wedding anniversary.
Bob Newhart starred for six seasons (1972-78) as clinical psychologist Bob Hartley on CBS’ The Bob Newhart Show opposite Suzanne Pleshette as his wife, then played Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon on CBS’ Newhart for another eight seasons (1982-90), when his wife was played by Mary Frann.
In one of the most admired series finales in TV history, Newhart winds up with a cheeky scene in which Dick wakes up in the middle of the night as Bob Hartley — he’s in bed with Pleshette in...
She died Sunday at their home in Century City after a long illness, publicist Jerry Digney told The Hollywood Reporter. She and Bob recently celebrated their 60-year wedding anniversary.
Bob Newhart starred for six seasons (1972-78) as clinical psychologist Bob Hartley on CBS’ The Bob Newhart Show opposite Suzanne Pleshette as his wife, then played Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon on CBS’ Newhart for another eight seasons (1982-90), when his wife was played by Mary Frann.
In one of the most admired series finales in TV history, Newhart winds up with a cheeky scene in which Dick wakes up in the middle of the night as Bob Hartley — he’s in bed with Pleshette in...
- 4/24/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This article contains spoilers for season 3, episode 9 of "Star Trek: Picard."
It's all been leading to this. The penultimate episode of "Star Trek: Picard" finally explained what's up with Jack Crusher (Ed Speleers), the son of Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden), who has been plagued with voices and visions. It turns out that the next generation of the Picard family is tainted by Jean-Luc's time as Locutus of Borg, and poor Jack is some kind of SuperBorg who can assimilate people with this mind. Vadic (Amanda Plummer) is gone, but the Borg are an even greater threat, and Jack's psychic ties to them make things even worse. Things seem hopeless, except that there's one advantage the crew from "Star Trek: The Next Generation" has over Jack and the Borg: age and wisdom.
"Picard" has sought to give "The Next Generation" a proper send-off, and it's...
It's all been leading to this. The penultimate episode of "Star Trek: Picard" finally explained what's up with Jack Crusher (Ed Speleers), the son of Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden), who has been plagued with voices and visions. It turns out that the next generation of the Picard family is tainted by Jean-Luc's time as Locutus of Borg, and poor Jack is some kind of SuperBorg who can assimilate people with this mind. Vadic (Amanda Plummer) is gone, but the Borg are an even greater threat, and Jack's psychic ties to them make things even worse. Things seem hopeless, except that there's one advantage the crew from "Star Trek: The Next Generation" has over Jack and the Borg: age and wisdom.
"Picard" has sought to give "The Next Generation" a proper send-off, and it's...
- 4/13/2023
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
Nicholas Meyer's 1982 film "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," Leonard Nimoy's 1984 film "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock," and his 1986 film "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," which have been packaged as a trilogy, all take place over the span of maybe 18 months. The three movies tell a sprawling story, culminating in a somewhat triumphant ending in "The Voyage Home." But that ending is missing something: punishment.
In the first entry in the aforementioned trilogy, Admiral Kirk (William Shatner) is faced with, well, the wrath of Khan (Ricardo Montalbán), a mysterious figure from his past who returns to teach the Admiral about his irresponsible habit of forgetting his promises. Kirk left Khan alone on a distant planet, which, thanks to a solar cataclysm, was quickly reduced to a near-uninhabitable desert.
Kirk had to acknowledge that his past victories might be considered failures and that he might...
In the first entry in the aforementioned trilogy, Admiral Kirk (William Shatner) is faced with, well, the wrath of Khan (Ricardo Montalbán), a mysterious figure from his past who returns to teach the Admiral about his irresponsible habit of forgetting his promises. Kirk left Khan alone on a distant planet, which, thanks to a solar cataclysm, was quickly reduced to a near-uninhabitable desert.
Kirk had to acknowledge that his past victories might be considered failures and that he might...
- 4/12/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The question has been asked in the pages of /Film in the past: do you prefer Spock when he remains cold and logical in extreme scenarios, or do you prefer him when he cracks and shows elements of his humanity?
Many Trekkies say they prefer the latter. Spock, half-human and half-Vulcan, was the eerie alien "Star Trek" character that initially served as the most intriguing element of the 1960s TV series. Sporting his Mephistophelean ears and chilly demeanor, Spock was the peculiar outsider on a starship populated by humans, the clear sign that "Star Trek" was indeed an otherworldly sci-fi series. It seems, however, that show creator Gene Roddenberry wasn't comfortable including a full-on alien on his program -- perhaps that would have been too, well, alien -- and elected to give the character inner drama. Hence his human lineage. Spock could be torn between two worlds, constantly wrestling...
Many Trekkies say they prefer the latter. Spock, half-human and half-Vulcan, was the eerie alien "Star Trek" character that initially served as the most intriguing element of the 1960s TV series. Sporting his Mephistophelean ears and chilly demeanor, Spock was the peculiar outsider on a starship populated by humans, the clear sign that "Star Trek" was indeed an otherworldly sci-fi series. It seems, however, that show creator Gene Roddenberry wasn't comfortable including a full-on alien on his program -- perhaps that would have been too, well, alien -- and elected to give the character inner drama. Hence his human lineage. Spock could be torn between two worlds, constantly wrestling...
- 4/6/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
This post contains spoilers for "Star Trek: Picard" episode 6.
As one of the latter-most series in the "Star Trek" chronology, "Star Trek: Picard" often delivers fans the gift of retrospect. When the show isn't taking a critical look back at some of Jean-Luc Picard's (Patrick Stewart) leadership decisions, it's basking in the glow of nostalgia with a full "Star Trek: The Next Generation" reunion and references to various "Trek" shows of the past. This week was no different: a trip to Daystrom Station brought back a vicious tribble, Professor Moriarty (Daniel Davis), and a new Data (Brent Spiner), while Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton) brought back a relic from Captain Kirk's days: the Hms Bounty.
"Trek" fans might remember the Bounty from "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," the fourth installment in the "Trek" film series and the second directed by Leonard Nimoy. "The Voyage Home" is one of...
As one of the latter-most series in the "Star Trek" chronology, "Star Trek: Picard" often delivers fans the gift of retrospect. When the show isn't taking a critical look back at some of Jean-Luc Picard's (Patrick Stewart) leadership decisions, it's basking in the glow of nostalgia with a full "Star Trek: The Next Generation" reunion and references to various "Trek" shows of the past. This week was no different: a trip to Daystrom Station brought back a vicious tribble, Professor Moriarty (Daniel Davis), and a new Data (Brent Spiner), while Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton) brought back a relic from Captain Kirk's days: the Hms Bounty.
"Trek" fans might remember the Bounty from "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," the fourth installment in the "Trek" film series and the second directed by Leonard Nimoy. "The Voyage Home" is one of...
- 3/23/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
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