Review by: Nathan Travis There are three things that lie at the true heart of nerd culture, Comic Books, Star Trek, and Star Wars (sorry Doctor Who fans) and the greatest of these is Star Trek.  I think it is important you realize my bias.  Many sons grow up playing catch with their dads, going to ball games, learning how to be a successful athlete. While my dad and I certainly did some of that, what I truly grew up on is Star Trek.  The basement of my parents’ house is dedicated to his extremely extensive and impressive collection.  We watched it all growing up, TOS, Next Gen, DS9, Voyager, Enterprise, and any movie that popped up in the process.   Make no mistake, I freaking love this franchise.

As a result I hold the series to a higher standard. Into Darknessnot only met, but far exceeded the high bar I set.  J.J. Abrams has done something even the mighty George Lucas couldn’t do.  He has successfully re-booted his series without crapping all over it.  The film is a smooth, fast paced adventure.  It does a masterful job of paying respect to The Original Series, without feeling like it is being chained down by it.  The acting is superb, the special effects amazing, the soundtrack perfect.  Just as the 2009 reboot did, this film has captured the absolute essence ofStar Trek.  The film understands the importance of character development, and that those relationships are what truly make a film great.  Special effects are easy, money buys those.  Character has to be earned, and it is.

There is no shortage of Easter eggs for the observant fan. However, by far my favorite one is something that isn’t evident when you simply watch the film. Near the beginning of the credits as the cast list scrolls there is a name.  Transport Officer: Christopher Doohan, the son of the late and great, James Doohan, the original Scotty.  It is that kind of respect to franchise that makes this film so terrific.

(Nathan Age 10)

Even though I’m relatively new to movie reviews, this film is the first to earn a score of 5/5.  Go see it. You will not be disappointed. Unless you are a horrible person with poor taste, then you might not like it.  As a matter of fact, if you don’t like it, we will never be friends, and that is a great loss for you because I am awesome.  Finally a message to Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Karl Urban, Simon Pegg, John Cho, Anton Yelchin, and Benedict Cumberbatch .  Welcome to the family, you have all just gained a small piece of immortality in the heart of geeks everywhere.

Score: 5/5

Director: J.J. Abrams

Studio: Paramount Pictures

Release Date: 5/17/13