star trek grows up

After 40 years of in various forms (from go-go skirted crewmen, guys in big rubber alien suits, and snow cone space monsters that ate star ships) Star Trek has grown up. I viewed the new movie at an IMAX-branded digital theater. I’m not going to give away any of the story, but I will say that the movie is a rollercoaster ride suitable for anyone over the age of 13. Find the best theater you can to view the film – it makes a difference.

While the J.J. Abrams lens flares were over-the-top (and someone should have been watching the focus more closely), overall the film has a solid story and is well played. While there were plenty of tidbits for Star Trek fans to love, the film plays well for non-fans as well. This is a film not suitable for children (due to violence and language); it should play well for teens and adults.

As side note concerning the IMAX-branded digital theaters: these are not the same as the standard IMAX theaters – the screen is smaller and the projection is not via film, but a digital display via a high resolution DLP projector. Some bloggers have complained that these theaters are “not real IMAX,” and therefore not worth the surcharge associated with the facility. I agree, it’s not “real” IMAX – but the $3 surcharge was well worth it: the image was vivid, clear, with no jitters, no film junk, and no splices. The audio was enveloping and wide range. I felt it was definitely worth the extra $3 to me.

Go see Star Trek – it’s a great ride.