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Review: ‘Star Trek Beyond’ a sci-fi thrill ride

By Staff | Aug 1, 2016

Space. The final frontier. These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise….

Those words did not ignite immediate ratings popularity, but brought forth the science-fiction dreams of many civilizations during a time when men in space was part of the national agenda.

Gene Roddenberry’s “Star Trek” captivated an intellectual, philosophical, and equality minded environment where peaceful conflict resolution prevails in a galaxy still filled with difference and violent conflict.

“Beyond” spiritually , symbolically and successfully recaptures and reflects upon the challenges, discoveries, and adventures of Kirk, Spock, Bones, Scotty, Sulu, Uhura and Chekov.

Now, I dare say, it’s one of the best hold on to your seats action films of the year. That’s the brilliance. The one-on-one camaraderie blends well into the astonishing special effects in which “universe” and ship falling apart scenes excel. When the males and females are not punching and kicking hand to hand , the silver screen evolves into a black swarming mass of bats/bees saturating all points of egress. Translation: Think of how one lone bird can foul up a jet.

Males have dominated the outer space genres. The Trek odyssey propelled racial and gender harmony. Beyond suggests a step past equality i.e. cohabiting which has mixed results. Highlight: Bones tells Spock about “Earth Girls.”

Tossed off their bucking space broncos by a litany of one liners, speeding around the enemy’s base on a cycle, and promoting ‘go girl’ loyalty, aptitude, intellect and leadership, “Beyond’s” mainstay dilemmas resemble western heroes facing high noon. Ironically, Roddenberry did conceive the original series as a “Wagon Train to the Stars.”

Whether Trekkie, a Star Warrior , or seeking excitement , “Beyond” has the “force with it,” along with anticipated deep cerebral conjectures. It’s a fun, recommended interplanetary thrill ride for men and women.

For after the movie coffee house deep thoughts try these: (a) Name devices first shown on “Star Trek” that became household words; (b) Name Societal Cultural Changes first shown on “Star Trek;” and, finally, (c) Same questions but project answers from “Star Trek Beyond,” including ideals that need work to move beyond ‘fantasy?’