In preparation for JJ Abrams newest entry in the Star Trek filmography, I decided I’d finally watch his reboot of the beloved franchise. I have barely watched any Star Trek shows, therefore cannot praise the film for any of its Easter eggs for Trekkies (except Nimoy as Supreme Spock). However, I can comment on it being a good film. It’s definitely a visually stunning film and sounds terrific, adding to the futuristic setting of the film. But even with its great style and millions of lens flares, it isn’t style over substance.

The premise is intriguing; even without my knowledge of the time-travel element coming in. A hot shot wannabe captain whose father was arguably the best Starfleet had ever seen gets his moment in the spotlight when a rogue Romulen ship threatens to destroy the whole galaxy for revenge against his planet being destroyed. Sounds interesting right? Well that only amplifies when the screenplay introduces complexities to the story and explores themes of destiny and how the choices we make change our lives. There are few scenes that really caught my attention due to dialogue (if any, it was any of the comedic moments) but the actors certainly did.

The best performance without doubt coming from Zachary Quinto as the young Spock and Chris Pine as the flamboyant James T. Kirk. The rest of the cast is suitable (except Bana, I didn’t find his acting good at all) and I especially loved the characters of future Spock, Scotty, and the Russian dude (his accent is over the top but hilarious). Quinto portrays his character with the utmost intelligence and logicality of Spock. He is able to display zero-emotion when he needs to as a Vulcan but is able to seamlessly shift gears into the humanistic aspect of his character. And I think part of that greatness comes from the editing that provides smooth transitions between exposition and action. Along with the video editing, the CGI is impeccable.

Though there may be one or two lens flares not needed (so many lens flares!), one can’t help but marvel at the set-design and VFX Abrams creates. The action is full-throttle and fluid. The sound editing feels very realistic and adds another dimension to the fights; creating an immersive experience. The sound elements added texture to the film’s exciting elements, but I wasn’t thrilled with the score. It felt out of place and unnecessary at times, but it wasn’t terrible.

JJ Abrams’ Star Trek certainly didn’t make me a Trekkie, but it did achieve in what I came to it for. It made me want to see the sequel even more now. It’s a thought provoking film that is well executed with great set-pieces that catches the eye of its audience.