All 13 Star Trek movies ranked from worst to best

2. Star Trek (2009)

Under J.J. Abrams’ direction in 2009, the Star Trek franchise underwent a bold and daring reboot. Seamlessly blending modern cinema’s faster pacing and beautiful special effects with the heart and soul of the original ’60s series, Star Trek helped bring the franchise to a new generation (another new generation, that is!).

The movie introduced a brand new cast who took on the iconic roles of Captain James T. Kirk, Mr. Spock, and the rest of the U.S.S. Enterprise crew. Yet, despite the new lineup, Abrams ensured that the movie remained true to the Star Trek essence and message, delivering a story that was a potent mix of space-bound adventure, scientific curiosity, moral issues, and the deep bond of friendship.

With a delicate balance of respect for its rich history coupled with the desire to forge a new path, Star Trek managed to not only reboot the franchise, but also revitalize it. The movie’s success lies in its ability to make Star Trek feel fresh and exciting while maintaining the same ideals that helped make the original series a classic. The modernized visuals and special effects, from the slick design of the Enterprise to the fast-paced and beautiful space battles, brought a level of spectacle and immersion that was a significant step up from previous entries. But honestly, it was the cast’s heartfelt performances along with the emotionally charged script that truly rekindled the spirit of Star Trek for both long-time fans and newcomers.