Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) Movie Review: A Grand, If Uneven, Start to the Star Trek Film Legacy
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979), directed by Robert Wise, marks the first film in the beloved Star Trek franchise. Following the success of the original television series, this film aimed to bring the adventures of the USS Enterprise to the big screen with a grand, cinematic vision. While it offers a visually stunning experience and attempts to delve into profound themes, it is also noted for its pacing issues and complex narrative structure. As the starting point for the Star Trek film series, it sets a high bar for visual effects and scope, though it may not satisfy all fans’ expectations for action and character development.
Plot Summary: A Cosmic Encounter with V’Ger
The film begins with a mysterious and massive alien spacecraft, known as V’Ger, approaching Earth and threatening its destruction. The USS Enterprise, recently refitted and under the command of Admiral James T. Kirk (William Shatner), is tasked with investigating and addressing this imminent threat. Kirk, who had been relegated to a desk job, takes back command of the Enterprise, reuniting with his former crew members—Spock (Leonard Nimoy), Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy (DeForest Kelley), and others.
As the Enterprise approaches V’Ger, the crew discovers that the entity is an artificial intelligence with a profound and enigmatic mission. The vessel, which was originally a NASA probe sent out to explore space, has evolved into a sentient being with an existential purpose. The central mystery revolves around understanding V’Ger’s origins, its purpose, and its connection to the human experience.
Themes: Existentialism and Human Evolution
Star Trek: The Motion Picture is notable for its ambitious exploration of philosophical themes. The film delves into existential questions about the nature of life, consciousness, and human evolution. V’Ger’s quest to discover its creator and its struggle with the concept of self-awareness reflect broader themes of identity and purpose.
The film’s exploration of artificial intelligence and its quest for meaning mirrors the human search for understanding and connection. V’Ger’s journey is a metaphor for the quest for self-knowledge and the search for one’s place in the universe, highlighting the existential dilemmas faced by both human and machine.
Visuals and Special Effects: A Technological Triumph
One of the most significant achievements of Star Trek: The Motion Picture is its groundbreaking visual effects. The film’s special effects, overseen by Douglas Trumbull, were a major step forward for science fiction cinema. The depiction of V’Ger and the Enterprise’s journeys through space are rendered with meticulous detail and ambitious scope.
The film features some of the most visually impressive sequences of its time, including the iconic, lengthy scene of the Enterprise emerging from dry dock. The special effects were celebrated for their realism and attention to detail, contributing to the film’s sense of scale and grandeur. While some of the effects may seem dated by modern standards, they were groundbreaking in 1979 and set a high bar for future science fiction films.
Pacing and Storytelling: A Mixed Bag
Despite its visual achievements, Star Trek: The Motion Picture has faced criticism for its pacing and storytelling. The film is known for its slow pace, with extended sequences of space travel and contemplation. While these scenes are visually stunning, they sometimes detract from the narrative momentum and character development.
The plot, which is heavy on philosophical and existential themes, can feel dense and esoteric. The film takes its time to unravel the mystery of V’Ger, often prioritizing introspection and spectacle over action and character interaction. This approach can be both a strength and a weakness, as it provides a deep, contemplative experience but may leave some viewers craving more dynamic storytelling.
Characters and Performances: Familiar Faces, New Dynamics
The film reunites the original Star Trek cast, bringing back the iconic characters that fans had grown to love. William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and DeForest Kelley deliver strong performances, reprising their roles with the same gravitas and charisma that defined their characters in the television series.
Kirk’s struggle to regain command of the Enterprise and his strained relationships with his crew are central to the film’s emotional core. Spock’s internal conflict regarding his human and Vulcan heritage is explored in greater depth, adding layers to his character. Dr. McCoy’s continued skepticism and concern for Kirk provide a familiar and comforting dynamic.
However, the film’s focus on philosophical themes and visual spectacle sometimes comes at the expense of deeper character development. The interactions between characters can feel subdued, and some secondary characters are given limited screen time. While the core trio of Kirk, Spock, and McCoy remain central, their personal growth and relationships are not as prominent as in the original series.
Music and Score: A Memorable Soundtrack
Jerry Goldsmith’s score for Star Trek: The Motion Picture is widely praised for its grandeur and emotional depth. The film’s main theme, which became the basis for the Star Trek television theme, is iconic and instantly recognizable. Goldsmith’s orchestral compositions add a sense of epic scale and emotional resonance to the film’s visuals, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
The soundtrack complements the film’s themes and visuals, contributing to the sense of wonder and exploration that defines the story. Goldsmith’s work is considered one of the highlights of the film and has become a significant part of the Star Trek musical legacy.
Reception and Legacy: A Mixed Start to the Film Franchise
Upon its release, Star Trek: The Motion Picture received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While it was praised for its visual effects and ambitious themes, it was also criticized for its slow pace and complex narrative. The film performed moderately well at the box office, and its reception was somewhat lukewarm compared to the excitement surrounding the original television series.
Despite its mixed reception, the film holds an important place in the Star Trek franchise. It set the stage for future films and expanded the universe established by the television series. Its exploration of philosophical themes and its visual achievements left a lasting impact on science fiction cinema.
Where to Watch Star Trek: The Motion Picture Online
As of 2024, Star Trek: The Motion Picture is available for streaming and digital rental/purchase on several platforms:
- Paramount+: Available for streaming with a subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & YouTube: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options.
Conclusion
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) is a visually impressive and thematically ambitious film that serves as a grand introduction to the Star Trek film franchise. While it is celebrated for its groundbreaking special effects and Jerry Goldsmith’s memorable score, the film’s slow pace and dense narrative may not appeal to all viewers. As the first film in the series, it sets a high standard for visual storytelling and explores profound themes of existence and consciousness, making it a significant, if uneven, entry in the Star Trek legacy.
