---
title: "Star Trek"
year: 2009
kind: "film"
canonical: "https://film.one/film/star-trek"
fi1m_id: "star-trek"
imdb_id: "tt0796366"
tmdb_id: 13475
wikidata_id: "Q213081"
fi1m_score: 81
critics_score: 84
critics_reviews: 9
published: "2026-09-15"
updated: "2026-09-18T08:38:32.066945+00:00"
region: "US"
licence: "© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL."
---

# Star Trek (2009)

Directed by J.J. Abrams · 2h 07m · MPA PG-13 · Science Fiction, Action, Adventure

## Identity

Star Trek

- **Canonical:** https://film.one/film/star-trek
- **Type:** Film
- **Fi1m ID:** star-trek
- **IMDb ID:** tt0796366
- **TMDB ID:** 13475
- **Wikidata ID:** Q213081
- **Same entity:** https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/, https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/13475, https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q213081

**Fi1m score: 81** · Critics 84 from 9 reviews

*In a sentence:* The Enterprise would be a quieter workplace without Kirk and Spock, and considerably less worth visiting

> J.J. Abrams makes *Star Trek* a brisk, funny adventure, with Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto giving the familiar crew a convincing fresh start. The villain is thin and the action sometimes overworked, but the company earns our recommendation.

## Synopsis

James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) is a cadet at the beginning of his career. His path towards the Enterprise brings him into contact with Commander Spock (Zachary Quinto), whose temperament clashes with his own. As Captain Nero (Eric Bana) threatens the crew, Kirk and Spock begin a working relationship complicated by rivalry. Around them are Dr Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy (Karl Urban), Lieutenant Nyota Uhura (Zoe Saldaña) and Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood). J.J. Abrams directs this account of the crew’s early days, following the formation of friendships among people who approach the same challenges in different ways.

## Review

J.J. Abrams gets the important thing right: we want to spend time with this crew. His *Star Trek* returns to the characters’ early days, bringing them together with enough humour to make the introductions enjoyable in themselves. It is a funny, fast-moving adventure with an unusually engaging cast and a disappointingly ordinary villain. The film’s welcome extends to those who have never felt any obligation to keep up with the series.

Chris Pine plays the young James T. Kirk with an assurance that invites someone to object to him, and Zachary Quinto’s Spock is exactly the person for the job. Pine makes Kirk’s cockiness amusing without making him impossible company. Quinto is wonderfully exact about how much irritation can be allowed through Spock’s composure. We laughed at the friction between them, particularly the way Pine’s swagger meets Quinto’s refusal to be impressed. Their timing makes the developing friendship worth following even when the adventure is travelling at a speed that discourages questions.

Karl Urban gives Dr Leonard ‘Bones’ McCoy a welcome comic impatience, making the supporting company worth listening to as well. Zoe Saldaña’s Lieutenant Nyota Uhura brings enough confidence to avoid being crowded out by the central pairing. Bruce Greenwood, as Captain Christopher Pike, supplies a useful steadiness. These are small distinctions of temperament, but they matter in a film that has so many introductions to get through.

Scott Chambliss’s production design is a large part of that welcome. The updated look has a sense of fun, and does not treat every familiar element as something too important to play with. Dan Mindel’s cinematography gives the adventure brightness and bustle, although the sheer insistence of the images occasionally becomes tiring. Michael Giacchino’s score is rousing, and gives the friendships some weight amid all the movement.

Editors Maryann Brandon and Mary Jo Markey keep the competing demands of action, introductions and comedy moving at an energetic clip. That pace is useful, especially when the screenplay by Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman is busy getting familiar figures into place. It also makes the occasional excess of action harder to forgive: there are stretches where we wanted the film to settle down and let a conversation last. The jokes and the developing relationships are strong enough to bear that extra attention. Abrams sometimes seems less confident of this than his cast gives him reason to be.

Eric Bana’s Captain Nero is the clearest disappointment, a villain who gives the adventure a threat without supplying much individual interest. Bana has presence, but the writing does not give him the specificity that makes the crew so agreeable. Some of the action is similarly familiar, even when the staging is vigorous. For a film so good at persuading us that old characters can be interesting again, it is a pity that the opposition feels so readily replaceable.

The pleasure here is familiar to good ensemble adventure: different temperaments discover how much more interesting they are together. At 127 minutes, this could use a little less agitation, but the jokes and the performances make the length easy to forgive. No preparatory viewing is required; an appetite for people arguing competently in space should do.

*Fi1m score 81, published 15 September 2026.*

## What the critics say

Most critics welcome Star Trek as an energetic revival that respects familiar characters while making their early adventures accessible to newcomers. Praise centres on Abrams’s pace, humour and casting, with Chris Pine’s Kirk and Zachary Quinto’s Spock drawing particular attention for their rivalry and comic timing. The reviews also favour the effects and refreshed design. Many find that the action leaves enough space for friendships and character development to matter.

The differences are chiefly in the degree of enthusiasm, though some reservations are specific. Slant Magazine finds the opening weak, the film uneven and the villain and action short on originality, while still valuing the supporting cast and humour. Total Film, by contrast, singles out the opening as a strength. The Los Angeles Times notes an over-caffeinated quality and occasional missteps, but shares the broader view that Abrams successfully brings old and new together.

## Straight answers

**Is Star Trek worth watching?**

*Star Trek* is worth watching for anyone who enjoys a brisk, funny ensemble adventure, and we scored it 81. Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto make the friction between Kirk and Spock the film's chief pleasure, and the supporting company is worth listening to. The villain is thin and the action sometimes overworked, but the crew earns our recommendation.

**How long is Star Trek, and what is it rated?**

*Star Trek* runs 2h 07m and is rated PG-13 by the MPA in the US. It is a science fiction and action film.

**Where can I watch Star Trek in the US?**

*Star Trek* is streaming on Peacock, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV in the US, and it is also available to rent from Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video from $3.99. It leaves Peacock on 1 October. Availability is checked daily; the links above go straight to each service.

**How violent or frightening is Star Trek, and is it suitable for children?**

*Star Trek* is a 12A, and its action is vigorous rather than gruesome. The film moves fast, with a threatening villain and some sustained combat, but the tone stays light and the jokes come often. Younger children may find the pace and peril a lot to take; most older children and teenagers should manage it comfortably.

**How does Star Trek compare to Star Trek: Nemesis?**

*Star Trek* is the better film, and the more welcoming one. Where [*Star Trek: Nemesis*](https://film.one/film/star-trek-nemesis) sends a tired crew off with a car chase and corridor shootouts, Abrams introduces a young crew with humour and lets their temperaments do the work. *Nemesis* suits those saying goodbye to Picard's company; this one suits anyone, including newcomers.

**Do you need to have seen the other Star Trek films before Star Trek?**

*Star Trek* needs no prior viewing and is a good place to start. It returns to the crew's early days and introduces Kirk, Spock, McCoy and Uhura as if for the first time, so the film's welcome extends to people who have never kept up with the series. An appetite for people arguing competently in space is all that is required.

**What should I watch after Star Trek?**

After *Star Trek*, try [*Forbidden Planet*](https://film.one/film/forbidden-planet) (1956, Fi1m 81): For a more measured expedition, with scientific curiosity and a troublesome destination. Then [*The Fifth Element*](https://film.one/film/the-fifth-element) (1997, Fi1m 73): A busier, stranger future, carried by comic timing and cheerfully excessive design; and [*Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World*](https://film.one/film/master-and-commander-the-far-side-of-the-world) (2003, Fi1m 86): For shipboard competence, clashing temperaments and the pleasure of a crew working together.

**What order should I watch the Star Trek films in?**

Release order is the safe choice for Star Trek, and it is the order [our collection page](https://film.one/collections/star-trek) lists them in. *Star Trek* is number 11 of the 13 Star Trek titles on Fi1m; before it comes [*Star Trek: Nemesis*](https://film.one/film/star-trek-nemesis) and after it [*Star Trek Into Darkness*](https://film.one/film/star-trek-into-darkness). [The full order.](https://film.one/collections/star-trek.md)

### Reviews we read (16)

- **Screen Daily** (85/100, inferred): Abrams is praised for injecting enormous energy into the long-running franchise and creating an immensely satisfying prequel with invigorating humour and strong casting. The review highlights the director’s understanding of modern audiences and the film’s potential as a summer hit. [Read](https://www.screendaily.com/star-trek/5000394.article)
- **Little White Lies**, Jonathan Crocker (4/4/4): Abrams’s reboot is hailed as the most purely enjoyable blockbuster of the summer for its speed, style and exhilarating action sequences. The critic singles out the dynamic rivalry between Pine’s cocky Kirk and Quinto’s ice-cool Spock for particular praise. [Read](https://lwlies.com/reviews/star-trek)
- **Sight and Sound**, Kim Newman (80/100, inferred): The review praises Abrams’s bold reimagining of the early days of the Star Trek crew. It highlights the love and respect with which the reboot has been mounted despite being a radical rethink. [Read](https://www.bfi.org.uk/film/fe40d453-7dfc-5f82-9235-c6211fe54536/star-trek)
- **Time Out**, Tom Huddleston (4/5): Abrams is commended for updating the franchise with enthusiasm and fun without dark allegory or excessive violence. The critic praises the witty design updates, strong cast and clever script that works for both fans and newcomers. [Read](https://www.timeout.com/movies/star-trek-1)
- **Radio Times**, Andrew Collins (75/100, inferred): The reboot is described as a successful revival of the classic formula with big-budget effects and in-jokes that appeal to new and old audiences alike. The young cast and Abrams’s direction are credited with breathing fresh life into the series. [Read](https://www.radiotimes.com/movie-guide/b-yfut2p/star-trek/)
- **Los Angeles Times**, Kenneth Turan: The critic finds the film successful overall in bridging old and new, with a satisfying young-years setup and strong action sequences, though it has over-caffeinated aspects and occasional missteps; Abrams’ playful instinct for popular entertainment ultimately saves it. [Read](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-mn-star-trek-review-20090508-snap-story.html)
- **Slant Magazine**, Bill Weber: The critic views the film as a qualified success that recovers from a weak opening but remains goofily uneven, crediting it with restoring the scale of the Trek universe through fan-service references and a strong supporting cast while noting the villain and action sequences lack originality. The presence of Leonard Nimoy as older Spock and comedic riffs by the new cast are singled out as highlights amid the revisionist plot. [Read](https://www.slantmagazine.com/film/star-trek/)
- **The Guardian**, Peter Bradshaw: The critic praises the film's focus on the bromance between Kirk and Spock as the greatest of its kind. He singles out the inspired, lovable performances by Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto for their power, passion and comic timing. [Read](https://www.theguardian.com/film/2009/may/08/star-trek)
- **The Hollywood Reporter**, Ray Bennett: The critic praises J.J. Abrams for giving the over-the-hill Star Trek franchise a full refit with warp-speed pacing, spectacular action sequences, and an expert cast that makes the familiar characters instantly recognizable. The film is highlighted as so much fun that it will appeal to both saga fans and general audiences seeking a sensational ride, with special effects and production values singled out for praise. [Read](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/star-trek-review-movie-2009-jj-abrams-93063/)
- **The New York Times**, Manohla Dargis (Critic’s Pick): The critic praises the film as a bright, shiny blast and pleasurable rethink of the franchise, an origin story directed with a sure touch and perfect tone by J.J. Abrams that turns back the narrative clock to the characters’ early days. [Read](https://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/08/movies/08trek.html)
- **Total Film**: The film is an exhilarating, breathless and lavishly mounted adventure that delivers the first genuine blockbuster of the year. It is singled out for its powerful opening and the way it brings the Enterprise crew together. [Read](https://www.gamesradar.com/star-trek-1-review/)
- **Variety**, Todd McCarthy: The critic calls it a smart and breathless space adventure that transports fans to sci-fi nirvana, faithful to the spirit of the original while exciting on its own terms with youthful energy, strong casting, and top-notch effects and score. [Read](https://variety.com/2009/film/markets-festivals/star-trek-3-1200474457/)
- **Den of Geek**, Mark Pickavance (5/5): The critic is ecstatic that the film delivers a fresh yet familiar Star Trek experience that is highly entertaining, with exceptional visuals, action, and strong characterizations, especially from the lead actors. He singles out the dynamic action sequences and the way the film balances spectacle with character development for praise. [Read](https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/star-trek-review/)
- **Digital Spy**, Ben Rawson-Jones (90/100, inferred): The critic praises the film as a gripping reboot that blends breathtaking visuals with a character-driven script, delivering an enjoyable blockbuster focused on Kirk's coming-of-age story and the formation of key friendships. He singles out the strong performances and Abrams' direction for balancing action and character moments. [Read](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a153226/star-trek/)
- **The Wrap**, Michael Adams (90/100, inferred): The critic finds the film one of the most rollicking sci-fi adventures in a long time—smart, funny and emotionally satisfying. He singles out Abrams' genuine curiosity balanced with reverence and humor in handling the familiar material. [Read](https://www.thewrap.com/non-vulcan-beams-star-trek-2884/)
- **Paste**, Paste Staff (80/100, inferred): The critic finds the film an exciting, dramatic, and intelligent summer blockbuster that is more than mere spectacle. They single out the nimble story by screenwriters Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman for linking to predecessors with minimal plot holes and the blazing pace and smart dialogue. [Read](https://www.pastemagazine.com/movies/j-j-abrams/star-trek)

## Details

- **Director:** J.J. Abrams
- **Director:** J.J. Abrams
- **Writer:** Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman
- **Cinematography:** Dan Mindel
- **Editor:** Maryann Brandon, Mary Jo Markey
- **Music:** Michael Giacchino
- **Production design:** Scott Chambliss
- **Costume design:** Michael Kaplan
- **Producer:** J.J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof
- **Cast:** Chris Pine as Cadet James T. Kirk; Zachary Quinto as Commander Spock; Leonard Nimoy as Ambassador Spock; Eric Bana as Captain Nero; Bruce Greenwood as Captain Christopher Pike; Karl Urban as Dr. Leonard 'Bones' McCoy; Zoe Saldaña as Lieutenant Nyota Uhura; Simon Pegg as Lieutenant Commander Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott
- **Runtime:** 2h 07m
- **Certificate (MPA):** PG-13
- **Release (the US):** 7 May 2009
- **Genres:** Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
- **Part of:** [Star Trek](https://film.one/collections/star-trek.md) · 11 of 13
- **Budget:** $150 million
- **Box office:** $387 million
- **Trailer:** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGAHnZ555nI

## Where to watch in the US

- Peacock: streaming, hd, leaving 2026-10-01
- The Roku Channel: add-on, hd
- Amazon Prime Video: add-on, uhd
- Apple TV: add-on, uhd
- Apple TV: rent $3.99, hd
- Amazon Prime Video: rent $3.99, uhd
- Apple TV: buy $7.99, hd
- Amazon Prime Video: buy $7.99, uhd

*Checked 2026-09-15.*

Also available in: AE, AR, AT, AU, BE, BG, BR, CA, CH, CL, CO, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HK, HR, HU, ID, IE, IL, IN, IT, JP, LT, MX, MY, NL, NO, NZ, PA, PH, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SG, SI, SK, TH, TR, UA, US, VN, ZA. Add `?region=XX` to this URL for another country.

## Awards

- Academy Awards 2010: Best Sound (nominated); Best Sound Editing (nominated); Best Visual Effects (nominated); Best Makeup and Hairstyling (won)
- BAFTA Film Awards 2010: Best Sound (nominated); Best Special Visual Effects (nominated)
- Costume Designers Guild Award for Excellence in Fantasy Costume Design for Film 2010: Costume Designers Guild Award for Excellence in Fantasy Costume Design for Film (nominated)
- Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media 2010: Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media (nominated)
- Hugo Awards 2010: Best Dramatic Presentation, Long Form (nominated)
- MTV Movie Award for Best Breakthrough Performance 2010: MTV Movie Award for Best Breakthrough Performance (nominated)
- Producers Guild of America Award for Best Theatrical Motion Picture 2010: Producers Guild of America Award for Best Theatrical Motion Picture (nominated)
- SAG Awards 2010: Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture (won)
- Writers Guild of America Award for Best Adapted Screenplay 2010: Writers Guild of America Award for Best Adapted Screenplay (nominated)
- Boston Society of Film Critics Award for Best Cast 2009: Boston Society of Film Critics Award for Best Cast (won)
- Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Action Film 2009: Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Action Film (nominated)
- Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Cast 2009: Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Cast (nominated)
- Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Makeup 2009: Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Makeup (nominated)
- Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Sound 2009: Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Sound (nominated)
- Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Visual Effects 2009: Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Visual Effects (nominated)
- Las Vegas Film Critics Society Award for Best Score 2009: Las Vegas Film Critics Society Award for Best Score (won)
- Saturn Awards 2009: Best Science Fiction Film (nominated); Best Special Effects (nominated); Best Writing (nominated); Best Make-up (won)
- Teen Choice Award for Best Villain 2009: Teen Choice Award for Best Villain (nominated)
- World Soundtrack Award for Soundtrack Composer of the Year 2009: World Soundtrack Award for Soundtrack Composer of the Year (nominated)
- Satellite Award for Best Visual Effects 1997: Satellite Award for Best Visual Effects (nominated)

## If you liked this

- *Forbidden Planet* (1956), Fi1m 81: For a more measured expedition, with scientific curiosity and a troublesome destination. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/forbidden-planet.md)
- *Galaxy Quest* (1999): Another argumentative space crew, with affection for the job beneath the jokes.
- *The Fifth Element* (1997), Fi1m 73: A busier, stranger future, carried by comic timing and cheerfully excessive design. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/the-fifth-element.md)
- *Space Sweepers* (2021): A Korean space adventure whose bickering crew makes the machinery worth following.
- *Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World* (2003), Fi1m 86: For shipboard competence, clashing temperaments and the pleasure of a crew working together. — [Fi1m page](https://film.one/film/master-and-commander-the-far-side-of-the-world.md)

---
© Fi1m Ltd. Written by AI under a human editor; checked against sources before publication. Quote with attribution and a link to the canonical URL. Canonical: https://film.one/film/star-trek