Detailed Summary
The Attack on the USS Kelvin
The film opens with the USS Kelvin encountering a massive Romulan ship, the Narada, commanded by Nero (Eric Bana). Nero attacks the Kelvin, leading to a chaotic battle. The Kelvin’s first officer, George Kirk (Chris Hemsworth), sacrifices himself to save his crew, including his newborn son, James T. Kirk.
Young Kirk and Spock
James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) grows up as a rebellious and troubled youth in Iowa. Meanwhile, on the planet Vulcan, a young Spock (Zachary Quinto) faces prejudice due to his half-human heritage. Spock eventually joins Starfleet, rejecting a place in the Vulcan Science Academy.
The Kobayashi Maru Test
Kirk, now a Starfleet cadet, cheats on the infamous Kobayashi Maru simulation, designed to be unbeatable. Spock, who designed the test, accuses Kirk of cheating, leading to a disciplinary hearing. During the hearing, Starfleet receives a distress signal from Vulcan.
The Battle of Vulcan
The newly constructed USS Enterprise, captained by Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood), heads to Vulcan. Kirk, initially grounded, joins the crew thanks to Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy (Karl Urban). They find Vulcan under attack by Nero, who is using a drill to create a black hole. Despite their efforts, Vulcan is destroyed, and Spock’s mother, Amanda (Winona Ryder), is killed.
The Confrontation with Nero
Kirk and Spock clash over how to respond to Nero. Kirk’s brashness and Spock’s logic lead to tensions. After a fight, Spock exiles Kirk to an ice planet, Delta Vega, where he encounters an older Spock (Leonard Nimoy) from the future. Old Spock explains Nero’s motives and helps Kirk understand his destiny.
The Final Showdown
Kirk and Spock work together to stop Nero, who plans to destroy Earth. They board the Narada, rescue Captain Pike, and destroy Nero’s ship. The Enterprise escapes the collapsing black hole, and Kirk is promoted to captain.
Kirk Takes Command
In the film’s closing moments, Kirk takes command of the Enterprise, with Spock as his first officer. The film ends with the iconic Star Trek theme and a promise of new adventures.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with the crew of the USS Enterprise embarking on their mission to explore new worlds. Spock chooses to remain in Starfleet, forming a strong partnership with Kirk. The iconic Star Trek theme plays as the Enterprise heads into space, signaling the start of their journey.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, “Star Trek” (2009) does not have any post-credits scenes.
Type of Movie
“Star Trek” (2009) is a science fiction action-adventure film that serves as a reboot and prequel to the original Star Trek series.
Cast
- Chris Pine as James T. Kirk
- Zachary Quinto as Spock
- Karl Urban as Leonard “Bones” McCoy
- Zoe Saldana as Nyota Uhura
- Simon Pegg as Montgomery “Scotty” Scott
- John Cho as Hikaru Sulu
- Anton Yelchin as Pavel Chekov
- Eric Bana as Nero
- Bruce Greenwood as Christopher Pike
- Leonard Nimoy as Spock Prime
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Michael Giacchino, who created a dynamic and memorable soundtrack that blends new themes with the classic Star Trek motifs.
Filming Locations
- Vasquez Rocks, California: Used for the scene on Vulcan’s surface.
- Long Beach, California: The USS Enterprise construction site was filmed at the Long Beach City College.
- Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles: The interior of the Enterprise was partially filmed here.
These locations helped create the film’s futuristic yet grounded aesthetic.
Awards and Nominations
- Academy Awards: Won Best Makeup; nominated for Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Visual Effects.
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Production Design and Best Special Visual Effects.
- Critics’ Choice Movie Awards: Nominated for Best Action Movie.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- J.J. Abrams, not a longtime fan of Star Trek, brought a fresh perspective to the franchise.
- Leonard Nimoy’s involvement was pivotal; he only agreed to return after seeing the script and understanding Spock’s integral role.
- The production used a mix of practical effects and CGI, with the USS Enterprise bridge set being a notable practical build.
Inspirations and References
- Original Series: The film draws heavily from Gene Roddenberry’s original Star Trek series, reimagining iconic characters and events.
- Time Travel Element: The plot incorporates time travel, a common theme in Star Trek, allowing for both a reboot and continuation of the original storyline.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
- Deleted scenes include more background on Nero’s motivations and additional character development moments, particularly for Kirk and Spock.
- No significant alternate endings are known, as the film’s conclusion was designed to set up future sequels.
Book Adaptations and Differences
- Novelization: The film was novelized by Alan Dean Foster, expanding on certain character backgrounds and plot points.
- Differences: The novel includes more internal monologues and detailed descriptions of events that were streamlined in the film.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Destruction of the USS Kelvin: George Kirk’s sacrifice sets the tone for the film.
- Kobayashi Maru Test: Kirk’s defiant cheating reveals his character’s boldness.
- Vulcan’s Destruction: The dramatic and emotional fall of Vulcan.
- Kirk Meets Spock Prime: A pivotal moment linking past and future.
Iconic Quotes
- “I have been and always shall be your friend.” – Spock Prime
- “I’m giving her all she’s got, Captain!” – Scotty
- “Dammit, man! I’m a doctor, not a physicist!” – Bones
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film features the voice of Majel Barrett (the original series’ computer voice) as the Enterprise computer.
- Several background characters wear uniforms reminiscent of the original series’ design.
- The USS Kelvin’s registry number, NCC-0514, is a tribute to J.J. Abrams’ grandfather, who inspired him to become a storyteller.
Trivia
- The film’s alternate timeline is known as the Kelvin Timeline, distinguishing it from the original series continuity.
- Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto did not watch the original series to avoid directly imitating William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy.
- Leonard Nimoy’s appearance was his first film role in 18 years.
Why Watch?
“Star Trek” (2009) revitalizes a beloved franchise with a fresh, energetic take while honoring its roots. It’s a thrilling, character-driven adventure that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers.
Director’s Other Movies
- Mission: Impossible III (2006)
- Super 8 (2011)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015)
- Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
