This movie will rip the Star Trek fan base in two like nothing before. People will either love or hate it. As someone who enjoyed most but not all things Trek, I loved how the movie both pays homage to the original series and films, while kind of flipping off the purists at the same time.
Chances are, if you enjoyed J.J. Abrams first big screen adventure with Kirk, Spock and their crew, you will have a lot of fun with this one too. If you think he took too many liberties, this one will probably make you cringe in anger. A well-known alien race gets a makeover that could have been more convincing, there are scenes cheekily referencing some classic Trek moments almost word for word while the look of it all couldn't be further from the originals.
That being said, the movie is a well-crafted, highly entertaining and visually stunning thrill ride with great performances, especially by Benedict Cumberbatch's villain who's providing some well-kept secret twists. Most characters get their moments to shine, there is plenty of humor and spectacular eye candy. It all doesn't feel as entirely fresh as the predecessor, but when it comes to big screen Sci-Fi it's still high up there.
There is not much more to say without getting into huge spoiler territory, so I am excited to see what people will have to say about the decisions that have been made.
8 out of 10 Tribbles.
You mustn't be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling.