A return to fun, and a return to form for the new version of the old Trek. The 13th Trek movie is also the second good odd-numbered instalment in a row. Lucky for some.
This new movie could arguably have given Elba more to do, earlier in the picture, but it is the inter-relationship of the Enterprise’s crew which is the real source of drama. An entertaining adventure.
Justin Lin proves a safe pair of hands at the helm of the Enterprise. Powered by a spirited sense of adventure and a nice teamwork dynamic, it’s fun, but not essential, summer viewing.
Star Trek Beyond certainly isn’t the most sophisticated sci-fi movie ever made but it is a very likeable one.
Fleet of foot, it all adds up to a highly satisfying Starfleet adventure which boldly goes beyond expectations.
Idris Elba’s Krall lacks the impact of some Star Trek baddies but this is still a breezy, action-packed and affectionate addition to the long-running series.
Where the picture succeeds most is in recapturing the positive, inclusive spirit of the original TV series, aided by some lovely performances and character interplay with affectionate nods to the original Spock, the late Leonard Nimoy. Time to beam up.
This third outing in the rebooted franchise is focused squarely on being a breezily entertaining summer blockbuster, one that’s light on its feet and not quite as annoyingly pleased with itself as its immediate predecessor.
The film franchise’s third rebooted instalment gets the aesthetics and spirit, if not always the plotting, spot on.
General release. Check local listings for show times.