After the startling success of J J Abrams first reboot of the classic Star Trek franchise, the inevitable sequel has, at last arrived. Into Darkness once again combines million dollar special effects with the myriad of concepts and creativity conceived by Start Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, but this time boasts an improved storyline and more convincing performances from it's main actors, alongside the predictable host of minor ones.
After former Star Fleet officer John Harrison (Benedict Cumberbatch) launches a terrorist attack against the space corporation, Captain James T Kirk (Chris Pine) and his Vulcan second-in-command Spock (Zachary Quinto) climb aboard the iconic Enterprise to attempt to capture him at the planet of the notorious alien species the Klingons. After being unmasked as ancient alien warrior Khan, Harrison escapes to begin an assault on Earth, and, as per usual, the crew of the Enterprise are the only ones who can stop him.
This is a more developed story to that of the previous Star Trek film, weaving themes of betrayal, pain and love into one, satisfying whole. Of course, a ripping yarn means nothing to a film without powerful performances from it's actors, but Into Darkness does not disappoint in this area. Chris Pine and Zachery Quinto reprise their roles as the ever present Captain Kirk, and cult hero Spock respectively, but it's Benedict Cumberbatch's tortured Kahn who truly stands out. The Sherlock star moves seamlessly between ultra-violence and flowing emotion in a role which seems perfectly suited to him. The stars are supported by a collection of favourite Star Trek characters including Scotty (Simon Pegg), Uhura (Zoe Saldana) and a future Spock played by original actor Leonard Nimoy.
Where Into Darkness, and indeed the original Start Trek series excels, is in it's action and special effects. There's goosebumps aplenty as the Enterprise leaps into warp speed, and exhilaration during battles with Kahn or the Klingons. It's everything you expect and want from Star Trek: pure, exciting science fiction.
However, the film falls short during the inevitable moments where emotion is attempted to be invoked in viewers. Scenes such as an injured Kirk and Spock making the "live long and prosper" sign separated by glass feel slightly flat and unnecessary. Perhaps scenes like this shouldn't even be attempted in films such as this. It is science fiction after all, not some Oscar winning tear-jerker.
Despite this, Into Darkness is exactly what you expect from a Star Trek film: explosive special effects, a strong, if slightly stretched story and decent acting. Above all, it's brilliantly entertaining, and too many films are forgetting that entertainment is what the movie industry should be all about.
8/10
