Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

After a lunar cataclysm brings the Klingons to their knees, the foreign concept of peace with the Federation may finally be within reach. After 70 years of hostility, the Federation and the Klingon Empire prepare for a peace summit. Ironically, Captain James T. Kirk has been assigned as the first emissary to broker that peace. However, the prospect of intergalactic peace with sworn enemies is an alarming one. When the Klingon flagship is attacked, the U.S.S. Enterprise is held accountable and the dogs of war are unleashed again, as both worlds brace for what may be their final, deadly encounter. Following the unusual escapade of Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989) we join the crew of the Enterprise for their final grand adventure and what a send-off it is. I had a thrilling experience with The Undiscovered Country that brought action, exploration, a spy-thriller and mystery to the forefront whilst building up to the end of the series. The film was able to regain its more extravagant look after the previous instalment with being able to attain ILM for the effects once again. Seeing the Enterprise back to its full glory was a delight, looking outstanding for its final outing. I greatly enjoyed this story that saw some espionage segments whilst covering some real-world issues like racism and prejudice. Having our main cast have to come to accept the ruthless Klingons as allies after the countless attacks they have inflicted over the years and on the crew was highly interesting. They have caused great pain for some members, mainly Kirk after the death of his son David at the hands of Klingons, which created some tension, especially during the scenes where they host a dinner with them on the Enterprise. It is so awkward with constant remarks that rile each other up and discuss topics that cause friction between the two parties. However, it doesn't help when a certain member attempts to make matters worse by framing our gallant heroes of attacking them under their prejudices. That moment when the Enterprise fired two torpedoes at the Klingon vessel, Kronos One was a truly unexpected shocking moment that left me open-mouthed. The frantic rush of the crew to ascertain what just occurred was equally stressful as we cut to Kronos One where two crew members in space suits march through the ship killing almost everyone. When Kirk and McCoy beam aboard and attempt to save any survivors, including the life of High Chancellor Gorkon (the one most likely to attain any form of peace), who dies leading to their arrest and placement on trial. They are further framed in a suspenseful sequence that ends with them both being sent to the hard-labour prison camp, Rura Penthe. The two eventually escape and apprehend the one who aided in their set up and discover many spies who are preparing to assassinate the Federation President. It leads to a climactic battle where our main Klingon adversary, Chang, acted superbly by the phenomenal Christopher Plummer, takes shots at the Enterprise, unable to attack the cloaked vessel. I loved how Captain Sulu, now commanding his own ship, the U.S.S. Excelsior, arrives to aid the Enterprise taking Chang out together and all arrive on Earth to save the day. Closing off, we see both ships fly away as the Enterprise is ordered to dock and prepare for decommissioning. They of course ignore them in a tear-jerking moment that sees them fly off into the unknown one last time. I honestly shed a tear at this final adventure coming to its close and was extremely satisfied with how they closed it off with the utmost respect for these characters. I further liked the inclusion with each of their signatures appearing on screen as the music closes out the film, giving the time to honour each member. Overall, The Undiscovered Country is a perfect send-off to this long-running series with these characters. It nailed every aspect, from the comedy, heart, and action to the adventure which combined into a solid feature. A triumphant and worthy conclusion to one of the most popular sci-fi productions of all time. Also, check out the continuing voyages of the Enterprise under a new crew set 70 years after this story in Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV Series 1987-1994).

Runtime: 1h 50m

Director: Nicholas Meyer

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi / Thriller

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Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)

When the newly-christened starship Enterprise's shakedown cruise goes poorly, Captain Kirk and crew put her into Spacedock for repairs. But an urgent mission interrupts their Earth-bound shore leave. A renegade Vulcan named Sybok has taken three ambassadors hostage on Nimbus III, the Planet of Galactic Peace. This event also attracts the attention of a Klingon captain who wants to make a name for himself and sets out to pursue the Enterprise. Sybok's ragtag army captures the Enterprise and takes her on a journey to the centre of the galaxy in search of the Supreme Being. Following the crowd-pleasing Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986), we come to the one that seems to get the most hate of all the movies. There has been a law/curse that people associate with these films that the odd number films (1, 3 and 5) are bad whereas the even number ones (2, 4 and 6) are amazing. I can understand it and see why, but personally, I have enjoyed every single one. I can overlook all the flaws in each production and always have a great time with them, including this one, which unfortunately has quite a few. The Final Frontier did suffer from many production issues most notably having a low budget and not being able to hire ILM for their special effects due to them being in high demand. The special effects can be quite distracting, and feel cheap, especially compared to the standard of the previous ones. The plot is extremely ambitious and, Shatner (who directed this one), had some interesting ideas but ultimately were unable to be made to their fullest with all the problems that arose. Moving on from the negative points, I like this movie. Yeah, I may be in the minority but I am hearing more people saying they don't mind it. So clearly it isn't as hated as it once was, and, yes, it may not be perfect but even when at their weakest, these Trek movies are still perfect entertainment. I was so happy to see the return of the Enterprise in the last film after it was rebuilt although it is slightly disappointing to have it in constant need of repair. It did lead to some funny moments, however, like Kirk's dissatisfaction in the line, "I miss my old chair." and Scotty's line, "I know this ship like the back of my hand." before knocking himself out on a low-hanging beam. There are some amazing comedic moments throughout that were hilarious and had me laughing so that is a plus. Also, the character development is exceptional. We spend a lot of time with Kirk, Spock and McCoy and the three of them have so many fantastic memorable scenes together. Their scenes during shore leaves are beautiful from Kirk's mountain climbing irritating the Dr. who thinks he is playing games with life and Mr Spock using jet boots to hover beside Kirk. Distracting him, Kirk slips causing Spock to shoot down after him catching him at the last moment as Kirk sees McCoy running over saying, "Hi, Bones! Mind if we drop in for dinner?" I further love the campfire scene where they simply talk among themselves dropping some heartfelt dialogue and also try to get Spock to sing 'Row Row Row Your Boat'. Our main antagonist is the mysterious Sybok, a formidable adversary who wishes no harm to anyone, wanting no bloodshed only wanting to fulfil his mission. His Vulcan powers allow him to help people confront their pain and release them in some powerful scenes, especially with McCoy, who has a heartbreaking vision. But as Kirk points out, pain is what makes us who we are and is part of us, which is a great message. He also has a shocking revelation that comes into play later on. The action elements are pretty cool too, particularly during the raid on the fortress at night on Nimbus III. From explosions to phaser blasts and even a brilliant use of Spock's Vulcan nerve pinch. Overall, I don't think this film is deserving of the hate it gets. It's not without its flaws, but I found so much to enjoy in this intriguing story. The comedy is fabulous and the cast keeps delivering on their superb performances. Certainly worth a watch for some moments, if anything, but it is an underrated adventure. Also, see the final movie of the series Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991).

Runtime: 1h 47m

Director: William Shatner

Genre: Action / Adventure / Fantasy / Sci-fi / Thriller

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Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)

Branded as fugitives by the very Federation they swore to protect, the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise dutifully returns to Earth to face charges for crimes committed in the course of rescuing a resurrected Spock. But en route, it is learned that the Earth is being ravaged by a strange alien probe demanding a response from a life form that no longer exists. They discover the strange sounds of the probe are the songs of the humpback whale, which has been hunted to extinction by the 23rd Century. Commandeering a captured Klingon Bird of Prey, Kirk and his crew plan to save Earth by venturing to 1986 San Francisco to recover the whales, bringing them back to their time. A journey more alien to them than anything they have ever encountered in the far-off reaches of the galaxy. We are finally here folks, the big one. The Voyage Home is my all-time favourite Trek movie in the series tying very closely with Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982). I had such a wonderful time with this delightful adventure that sees two subjects I am most enthusiastic about joined together. Science fiction and the 1980s. Of course, the film was made during the 80s, which instantly also makes it amazing but to have them go back in time to that period was honestly a magical experience. I have always had a passion for that decade, like a nostalgia for a time I never knew and this movie only fueled it even more. Following on from the emotional escapade of Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984), this movie takes a much more comical approach which entails countless hilarious moments whilst delivering an important message. Having the crew try to understand the customs and life of the 20th Century was fantastic as it leads to so many misunderstandings and complications along the way sure to keep you chuckling. I laughed so much during this movie with this off-the-charts level of comedy. Not only are these scenes funny, but the acting of the cast is brilliant as they work off of each other perfectly as per usual and also the witty dialogue. I've linked a small compilation video below to show you some of the clever comedic moments of this masterpiece. My favourite scene in the whole film has to be the infiltration into the hospital to rescue Chekov, who was injured. Dr. McCoy gets some time to shine in his finest hour, showing his skills and knowledge but also, some superb criticisms of the 'dark ages' medical systems. He even heals random patients on their search. I love it when he gives an old lady a pill for her failing kidney, which leads to the highlight during the escape when they pass her shouting "The doctor gave me a pill, and I grew a new kidney!" The plot is equally amusing if you really think about it. Going back in time to rescue whales to save the future from a space probe sounds so absurdly weird, yet funnily enough, it works incredibly well, especially with conveying such an important message. During the 80s humpback whales were in danger of extinction and this film did go a long way in helping them out but it also applies to all species. Going forward we should not be so blasé about other species or help in their extinction as to quote Spock, "To hunt a species to extinction is not logical." I think stories like this are what separates Star Trek from other sci-fi projects and where it excels. Being set on Earth we have more of a connection to these characters/stories than in other movies, like Star Wars, having a deeper relation to it (at least in my opinion). I further liked how this film featured no antagonist, taking the time to develop on character whilst giving a good message filled with a great deal of heart. Overall, I thoroughly adore The Voyage Home as it takes the prize as the best Trek movie. There is so much I want to talk about but I'd be here forever so it is much better to watch it for yourself and experience the overwhelming enjoyment to be had in this phenomenal sci-fi comedy. Easily the highlight is the characters who generate endless amounts of banter, humour and entertainment in every scene. I cannot stress how necessary viewing this movie is, especially if you need some cheering up. Also, look into the next adventure in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989).

Runtime: 1h 59m

Director: Leonard Nimoy

Genre: Action / Adventure / Comedy / Sci-fi

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Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)

Admiral Kirk's defeat of Khan Noonien Singh and the creation of the Genesis Planet are empty victories. When they arrive at Spacedock, they are shocked to discover that the Enterprise is to be decommissioned. Mr Spock is dead and Dr. McCoy is, seemingly inexplicably, being driven insane. Then an unexpected visit from Spock's father, Sarek provides a startling revelation: McCoy is harbouring Spock's living essence. With one friend alive and one not, but both in pain, Kirk attempts to help his friends by stealing the Enterprise and defying Starfleet's Genesis quarantine. However, the Klingons have also learned of the Genesis Device and race to meet Kirk in a deadly rendezvous. I think that The Search for Spock is easily the most underrated of the Star Trek movies. I loved it so much and was quite surprised to see it considered one of the weaker films but for me, it ranks up there with the more beloved in the franchise. There are many rollercoasters of emotions throughout this adventure as it manages to evoke them all from its barrel of laughs with the comedic witty banter to its more tear-jerking side with its frequent tragedies. Following on shortly after the climactic events of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982), we are instantly transported back to the badly damaged Enterprise as it limps home. Having the film continue straight after the last one was a great choice as we explore some of the events that before seemed to have little significance but are now being fully expanded upon. Opening with someone breaking into Spock's quarters was brilliant as it set an air of mystery as we see Kirk investigate. Grabbing the intruder, we find out it is none other than Dr. McCoy who speaks of needing help getting home to Vulcan foreshadowing the later reveal. During the climax of the last film, Spock gave his essence to McCoy. It leads to so many hilarious moments with McCoy acting like Spock from questioning things as not logical to attempting to use Vulcan powers on people to no avail was incredibly funny. My favourite sequence in the whole film is easily the stealing of the Enterprise. All members of the crew chime into a plan to help McCoy. Each member is given time to shine in this fun scene full of comedic elements. Once aboard the still-damaged vessel, they start reversing out of the space dock in a tense moment with the doors still closed that open just in the nick of time. It was also nice to see the return of Spock's father, Sarek, who appeared in the original Star Trek (TV Series 1966-1969). He brought some very moving scenes in his mind-melding with Kirk. The scene displayed a heap of emotive imagery with Sarek repeating Spock's final words as the camera lingers on Kirk's eye. Seeing it widen and well up was heart-rending as he relives the still-open wound of his friend's death. If you don't want any spoilers then skip past the red. *Spoilers* Unfortunately, this movie only throws more at Kirk, really getting personal for him. From the destruction of the Enterprise to the tragic murder of his son, whom he had recently reconciled with, there is no end to his suffering. David's death came as a real shock to me and was a big gut punch for Kirk. The Enterprise's self-destruction was a huge moment, in which ILM outdid themselves with the special effects. Seeing her slowly burn, revealing parts of the inside before exploding entirely, plummeting to Genesis was heartbreaking. Our villains, the Klingons, also make a return from the series being led by, an interesting casting choice, Christopher Lloyd, who was a menacing and powerful opponent. He has a grand face-off with Kirk on the burning hellish Genesis, which was extremely cool. Our adventure ends with the return of Spock, slowly regaining his memory as he is surrounded by his overcome friends. A magical end to this journey full of hardships. Overall, I don't care what people say, I love The Search for Spock. It is so underrated with countless moments to enjoy and get emotional too. With outstanding effects and phenomenal acting, there is no end to quality in this beautiful feature. Also, take a look at the next journey in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986), my all-time favourite Trek movie!

Runtime: 1h 45m

Director: Leonard Nimoy

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

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Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)

It is the 23rd century. Admiral James T. Kirk is an instructor at Starfleet Academy and feeling old; the prospect of attending his ship, the U.S.S. Enterprise, now a training ship, on a two-week cadet cruise does not make him feel any younger. But the training cruise becomes a deadly serious mission when his nemesis Khan Noonien Singh, infamous conqueror from late 20th century Earth, appears after years of exile. Khan later revealed that the planet Ceti Alpha VI exploded, and shifted the orbit of the fifth planet as a Mars-like haven. He begins capturing Project Genesis, a top-secret device holding the power of creation itself and schemes the utter destruction of Kirk. The Wrath of Khan is easily Star Trek at its peak and deemed as the best movie in this series by Trekkies and it's plain to see why. This is probably my favourite Star Trek movie, tying with Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986), which I equally adore. Following the previous instalment Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979), this movie sought to bring back the formula and style of the original Star Trek (TV Series 1966-1969), returning it to its roots of being a swashbuckling space opera unlike the first movie, which was very slow with the story being less of the focus and no action present. This film goes all out on all fronts with a phenomenal story, breathtaking effects, heart-stopping action, outstanding acting, a tremendous antagonist and heartfelt emotional segments, which are all enriched by the magnificent score of James Horner. The visuals are taken to a whole new level in this adventure with the hiring of ILM who were able to make all of the practical and special effects look so incredibly real. This movie is also well known for containing the first all-CG sequence in a feature film during the Genesis creation sequence, which was a fantastic display of the early effect. I will never stop being blown away by the Enterprise. It looks extraordinary in every scene, especially during my favourite sequence where it enters the Mutara Nebula after sustaining heavy damage and being pursued by Khan. The whole scene feels like a submarine battle with neither ship being able to see one another, having to rely on their training and skill to win, which leaves us waiting in bated breath as to who will win. The setting is unparalleled to anything I have seen in any other sci-fi movie in terms of being so visually stunning with the illuminated purple, blue and pink swirls of the Nebula. Our main antagonist Khan easily steals the show with his marvellous performance that is unlike any other villain I have seen. Khan is a genetically enhanced superhuman who appeared in the original series episode 'Space Seed' back in 1967, which was one of the highlights of the show. This movie brought him back to seek his revenge in what would be the only film in the series to centre around a previous events of the series and yet, it is still enjoyable for new viewers who haven't seen the show. I think Khan is one of the greatest villains in cinema history. His line delivery is superb matched by his dialogue, making him constantly entertaining and one of those characters you just can't help but love. There are also so many quotable lines featured throughout that are frequently recited by me. From Kirk's iconic scream "KHAAANNN!" to my favourite, also from Kirk, "You've managed to kill just about everyone else, but like a poor marksman, you keep missing the target!" No matter how many times I hear it, I will always laugh due to how he says it. If you don't want any spoilers then skip past the red. *Spoilers* Of course, the most iconic part of the whole film is the sacrifice and death of Spock. It was such an emotional moment certain to choke up any viewer, Trekkie or not. It's such a powerful scene, and yes, they bring him back literally in the next movie, but it wouldn't be Star Trek without him. Overall, The Wrath of Khan is some of the best pieces of sci-fi out there. All of the regular cast outdo themselves and are matched by the stupendous villain. With beautiful visuals, score and acting, it all culminates into a brilliant action adventure from the golden age of movies, the 80s. Also, check out the sequel Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984).

Runtime: 1h 53m

Director: Nicholas Meyer

Genre: Action / Adventure / Sci-fi

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Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)

A massive alien spacecraft of enormous power destroys three powerful Klingon cruisers as it makes its way towards Federation space The Epsilon IX space station alerts the Federation, but they are also destroyed by the alien spacecraft. The only starship in range is the Enterprise, after undergoing a major overhaul in drydock orbiting Earth. Admiral James T. Kirk is ordered to take command of the U.S.S. Enterprise for the first time since her historic five-year mission. Kirk rounds up the rest of his crew and acquires some new members, and sets off to intercept the alien spacecraft. However, it has been three years since Kirk last went into deep space, is he up to the task of saving Earth? Following the adventures of the original Star Trek (TV Series 1966-1969) we are once again reunited with the members of the starship Enterprise for a much grander scale mission in terms of effects and scope. This was the first movie ever made in the Star Trek franchise, which would sprout six total excellent adventures. Although not the best in the series of films, I did quite enjoy this starting point. The Motion Picture is quite unlike any of the following movies which gives it a unique feel compared to the rest. Being their first big screen outing, and having to compete with other big blockbusters like Star Wars, I think they decided to take the approach of making everything feel extremely grand and cinematic to create a sense of awe, blowing away their viewers. It certainly did that and it reminded me very much of 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968), especially with the many long shots featuring little to no dialogue as we pan across stunning visuals accompanied by the beautiful score composed by Jerry Goldsmith. His music elevates the movie to a whole new level with countless breathtaking songs that brings this adventure to life. I would have to say that Jerry's album for this film is one of, if not the best of all Star Trek movies. The special effects used were certainly impressive and look outstanding, still holding up to today's standards and this was before ILM was brought on board for the following films. One of the most dazzling effects was that of the mysterious alien craft later identified as V'Ger using a generated power field around itself. With being the current objective of the Enterprise with the impending arrival of this entity, we spend most of the film on long wide shots of the craft that intertwine and frequently breaks up the story. Whilst looking very fascinating and hypnotic, these scenes drastically dragged out what could have been a much shorter adventure. It feels like a regular episode of the original series but dragged out and stretched as much as possible. I slowly began to become impatient with how long these scenes would go on, not that I hated them, but they would take far too long. Once the story became more the focus, I was easily re-captivated because it was fantastic. Everything about V'Ger intrigued me and as more of the mystery surrounding it unfolded I became more and more engaged. The revelation of what V'Ger is was also incredibly well executed and cleverly done. I loved seeing the entire crew back in action following the series and just hearing their iconic banter once again was truly delightful. From our main trio Kirk, Spock and McCoy, to the other members: Scotty, Sulu, Uhura and Chekov, it was amazing to see them all back again. As always, the trio steals the show. Every scene they are in together is an instant pleasure filled with their usual witty back-and-forth quips, their duty of care to one another, their ability to work as a team and emotionally heartfelt moments. Another aspect in need of recognition is the new and improved Enterprise, which also steals the show with its sleek new design, which looks simply magnificent. Overall, I had a great time with this first instalment in the original Star Trek movie lineup. It most definitely has the aesthetic of a cinema experience with its large shots and lingering on extravagant special effects. It is one of those films I find best experienced in a dark room, especially at night, and get completely lost in this other world. A worthy start to a phenomenal series. Check out the next expedition in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982).

Runtime: 2h 23m

Director: Robert Wise

Genre: Adventure / Mystery / Sci-fi

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Stingray (TV Series 1964-1965)

In the year 2065, the World Aquanaut Security Patrol (WASPs) explores the oceans and keeps the world safe from a variety of perils. The WASPs' most advanced combat submarine, Stingray, is their greatest asset commanded by Troy Tempest. Troy is not alone on his missions as he is joined by copilot Phones, and Marina, a princess of the undersea kingdom of Pacifica. Marina can breathe underwater, however, she is unable to speak. In charge of the WASPs is the gruff Commander Shore, whose daughter Atlanta is both a member of his staff and Marina's rival for Troy's affection. I remember Stingray from my childhood despite being a much older show from the 1960s and growing up in the early 2000s. I somehow managed to remember a few small details from this show, which led to my rediscovering this cult classic underwater adventure. Thanks to my memories of the theme song, submarine Stingray, the mechanical fish, some toys I owned and a very particular episode called 'Pink Ice', I was able to recollect and find this piece of my youth. Very specific points I know but that's what I recalled mainly from this series alongside of course the obvious detail of the characters being puppets. That was one of the most interesting aspects of Stingray was the use of puppets called a marionette. A marionette is a puppet manipulated from above with strings that are attached to a control used for each limb of a character or an object. It is a fascinating choice for a show and not something you see nowadays. We have seen this style used in other shows by Anderson like his other popular production: Thunderbirds (TV Series 1965-1966). This artistic choice for the show gave it a very unique style and look with the strings still being quite clearly visible, which in a way, I liked as it showed the realism of these models and the level of skill it must have taken to operate them. Not only that but the set designs are incredible whilst also being practical for fitting the models inside them and looking as realistic as possible. Whilst the characters looked, moved and acted like puppets, I grew attached to each member of the WASP crew as we see their friendships grow, their overcoming of personal struggles and successes in their most dangerous of missions. I began to see them less as just puppets and more as real people thanks to the amazing voice acting and deliveries as well as the puppeteering of the operators. My personal favourites of the crew have to be Troy and Phones who we spend the most time with on their missions in Stingray. They have a real bond with one another and have some enjoyable banter and scenes of working as a team when fending off deadly foes. The adventures we go on in these episodes are actually phenomenal with some great imagination and creativity on display here. Many of the action-oriented episodes are filled with explosions and stand-offs and feature some high-stakes sequences. On the other hand, there are a heap ton of suspenseful stories which have you hooked and sitting at the edge of your seat with many tense moments like my favourite 'The Disappearing Ships', which sees the crew left stuck in one of three ships set to explode with no way of knowing which will go off first. There is even one episode where the crew set out in search of the Loch Ness Monster. However, there are some lacklustre stories and I'd have to say they are the ones where Troy dreams up a whole crazy story for an entire 30 minutes. Yeah he does it three times and I mean one is okay but to recycle that idea multiple times was a bit annoying. The show features a heap of creative enemies for the WASPs to combat with some unusual designs but, they frequently battled with the recurring Titan and his surface agent, X-20, alongside their footsoldiers the Auquaphibians. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Stingray most especially because it was a dive back into my childhood. It has some superb stories filled with many spectacles and features some well-rounded characters. A fun show from the 1960s that still entertains people of all ages to this day.

Seasons & Episodes: 1 Season - 39 Episodes

Creator: Gerry Anderson, Sylvia Anderson

Genre: Action / Adventure / Animation / Family / Sci-fi

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