Star Trek

I was a Next Generation fan, but while I've absorbed some basic knowledge of the original series from the cultural aether, I've never actually seen a full episode or movie from the original series. (Ducks flying beer cans and remote controls) That said, here are some brief thoughts:

1) Adam had told me that Eric Bana was in it, and I said "ooh! Eric Bana!" and various other gigglings. And then two days later I watched it and completely forgot he was in it. That was some makeup job; they completely removed his hotness.

2) I'm not sure if other people agree, but I get excited when I see a mainstream movie with not-so-famous actors in it.

3) That Spock is a nice boy. My favorite character by far.

4) Not enough female characters. There were two, really, and one of them has about four lines. I know they were following the original series and didn't have much choice, but since this movie opened up possibilities for completely original story lines, I hope the next movie includes a strong female lead.

5) I realize this is so Generation Y of me, but it occurred to me a couple times while watching that Patrick Stewart is intricately wrapped up in my space-adventure imagination. If we can bring Nemoy back, can't we have some Patrick Stewart? Just stick 'im in there, let him quote Shakespeare or facepalm a little or some such adorable and wonderful thing. Eh? I think it's a good idea.

6) It is so refreshing to watch an action movie that doesn't rely on sexy people and action to tell a story and engage the audience. JJ Abrams' success lies in his attention to character development; they guy can make you care about a character you don't even like. The sexiness is there, the action is there, the cool shiny sets and the dumb-funny jokes are all there, but if you can get an audience to identify with and emotionally invest in your characters, you've got yourself a good movie. And this one is good.