The real crown jewel of this film is the performance of Zachary
Quinto, who continues to dazzle the crowd as he shows us the
battle between logic and the half-human/half-Vulcan mind. Ruled
by logic, he is the cool, analytical opposite to Kirk's hotheaded
judgmental disposition. Cumberbatch’s interesting character,
Harrison, also deserves a nod. He is not one of those typical
introductions of a formidable adversary who has nothing new
to offer. Cumberbatch brings to the theater acting with unique
pauses giving him the momentum to carry out the role of the
multi dimensional character as he tests the leadership of Kirk.
This time the film takes an opportunity to do what the old
Star Trek often did - using a futuristic scenario to comment on
contemporary issues of terrorism and the policy of manufacturing
a war to eliminate a perceived threat. Staying in the line between
science fiction and buddy cop, it tackles the relaxed image of the
captain. It is nowhere to be seen in this sequel as Kirk struggles to
make the right decision from wrong. Gut feeling or not, (he does
not overlook the significance of the loyalty of the hundreds of
crew members to their captain). Although Kirk makes the mistake
of endangering his entire crew, this mistake becomes the stepping
stone for future series as he learns what it means to be a captain—
being able to sacrifice for others.
Indeed, the film culminates to an anti-climatic end that stretches
out slightly longer than forever. The new film constantly makes
references to the original series only some of us recognize. But it
works. Abrams and his team deliver it with respect to the previous
installments, complementing the film with breathtaking visual
effects and exhilarating action. Overall this is a solid mainstream
sci-fi film for trekkers and non trekkers alike. So for now we wait as
the new film spreads its appeal to set the stage for the sequel.