Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) Review

 

Admiral Kirk retakes command of the USS Enterprise to confront a mysterious alien cloud that threatens Earth.

Director Robert Wise's Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) often falls under the radar compared to other entries in the franchise, but it offers qualities that deserve recognition, especially considering its ongoing impact.

The new cast members, Stephen Collins as Decker and Persis Khambatta as Ilia, add fresh dynamics to the story, while supporting roles from series regulars, including Grace Lee Whitney's Janice Rand, and Majel Barrett as Christine Chapel provide a sense of continuity.

Despite its sluggish pace, one of Wise's most overlooked strengths is how he reunites the original crew, giving characters like Scotty, Spock, and Bones a fitting return. Scotty's emotional attachment to the newly refitted Enterprise is palpable as he proudly shows Kirk the ship's upgrades. Spock's internal struggle between logic and emotion is on full display. Bones remains as skeptical and sharp-witted as ever. Uhura, Chekov, and Sulu are also given moments that remind us of the crew's enduring chemistry. Overlooked, Shanter, Nimoy and DeForest Kelley really offer unreserved screen presence.

Perhaps most groundbreaking is how Wise visually showcases the Enterprise. This was the first time audiences could see the ship up close, with slow, detailed shots emphasising its design and the personnel aboard. These moments help build the sense that the Enterprise is more than just a set piece-it reveals a functioning ship with hundreds of crew members at work, something the original series never fully achieved. The practical effects, while dated, retain a certain charm.

Jerry Goldsmith's score is another highlight, particularly the now-iconic theme that would go on to define Star Trek: The Next Generation. The music adds a sense of grandeur and scale to the film.

Overall, while the movie may be slower-paced, echoing 2001: A Space Odyssey rather than Star Wars, it is groundbreaking in its vision, combining thought-provoking science fiction with a respect for the characters and the world-building of the franchise.