Written by Nessa Whitson
Modified & Updated: 13 May 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Are you a fan of the Star Trek franchise? If so, then you’re in for a treat! In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Star Trek: First Contact, the eighth installment in the iconic Star Trek film series. Released in 1996, this science fiction film takes viewers on an exhilarating journey through space and time as the crew of the USS Enterprise-E battles against the relentless Borg. But that’s not all – we have compiled an extensive list of 39 intriguing facts about Star Trek: First Contact that will amaze even the most devoted Trekkies. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to surprising trivia, get ready to explore the rich history and incredible details of this unforgettable movie. So sit back, relax, and prepare to get immersed in the fascinating world of Star Trek: First Contact!
Key Takeaways:
- “Star Trek: First Contact” is the eighth film in the franchise, featuring time travel, the Borg, and a blend of action and philosophy. It’s a beloved installment with strong character development and memorable quotes.
- The movie explores themes of unity, destiny, and fear, while showcasing the importance of teamwork and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a thrilling and thought-provoking addition to the Star Trek universe.
Star Trek: First Contact is the eighth film in the Star Trek franchise.
Released in 1996, this sci-fi action film is directed by Jonathan Frakes and serves as a direct sequel to the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation.
The film features the iconic characters from the television series.
Star Trek: First Contact brings back Captain Jean-Luc Picard, played by Patrick Stewart, and the crew of the starship USS Enterprise-E.
The Borg, a formidable cybernetic species, are the main antagonists in the film.
These relentless beings seek to assimilate all races and civilizations they encounter, posing a significant threat to the crew of the Enterprise.
The movie explores the theme of time travel.
The crew of the Enterprise must travel back in time to the year 2063 to prevent the Borg from altering history and preventing humanity’s first contact with an alien species.
The film received critical acclaim and was a commercial success.
It grossed over $146 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of the franchise.
The screenplay for Star Trek: First Contact was written by Ronald D. Moore and Brannon Braga.
They drew inspiration from various episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, including the popular two-part episode “The Best of Both Worlds,” which also featured the Borg.
The movie combines action, suspense, and philosophical themes.
It delves into the resilience of the human spirit, the desire for knowledge, and the courage to face the unknown.
The character of Zefram Cochrane, the inventor of warp drive, plays a crucial role in the film.
He is portrayed by actor James Cromwell and provides a comedic and charismatic element to the story.
Star Trek: First Contact features impressive visual effects.
The design of the Borg, the futuristic technology, and the space battles are visually stunning and enhance the overall cinematic experience.
The film explores the lingering trauma of the Borg on Captain Picard.
Picard was assimilated by the Borg in the television series but managed to break free from their control. In this movie, he faces his fears and seeks revenge.
The famous line “Resistance is futile” is frequently used by the Borg.
It has become a catchphrase in popular culture and is often associated with the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Star Trek: First Contact has a strong musical score composed by Jerry Goldsmith.
The soundtrack adds depth and emotion to the film, enhancing the intensity of the action sequences and the philosophical undertones.
The movie was praised for its blend of action and character development.
It showcased the growth of the crew members and their ability to work together to overcome formidable obstacles.
The character of the Borg Queen is introduced in Star Trek: First Contact.
She is portrayed by actress Alice Krige and adds a seductive and manipulative element to the Borg collective.
The portrayal of the Borg in the film was influenced by the idea of hive mind consciousness.
Their mechanical and cold appearance serves as a stark contrast to the humanity and individuality of the Enterprise crew.
Star Trek: First Contact includes time travel technology called the “Temporal Vortex.”
This unique concept allows the crew to travel back in time and alter the course of history.
The film explores the potential consequences of altering the timeline.
The crew must navigate the delicate balance between preserving the timeline and protecting their own existence.
Star Trek: First Contact showcases the humanity of Captain Picard.
Despite his position of authority, Picard is not immune to fear, anger, and vulnerability.
The movie raises ethical questions about sacrificing the few for the many.
The crew must face difficult decisions that test their morals and principles.
Star Trek: First Contact emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation.
The crew members of the Enterprise must work together to thwart the Borg’s plans and protect the future.
The film’s production design showcases a blend of futuristic and historical elements.
The blending of advanced technology with the aesthetics of different time periods creates a unique visual experience.
Star Trek: First Contact features intense and thrilling action sequences.
The battles between the Enterprise and the Borg drones are filled with suspense and excitement.
The movie explores the concept of redemption.
Several characters, including Picard and the crew, have opportunities for redemption and personal growth.
Star Trek: First Contact incorporates elements of humor to balance the darker themes.
The interactions between the crew members provide moments of levity and camaraderie.
The film pays homage to the original Star Trek series.
References to past events and characters add depth and continuity to the franchise.
Star Trek: First Contact received an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup.
The intricate prosthetics and makeup design of the Borg and other characters were highly praised.
The movie explores the concept of destiny.
It raises questions about whether events are predetermined or if individuals have the power to shape their own futures.
Star Trek: First Contact features strong performances from the cast.
Patrick Stewart’s portrayal of Captain Picard showcases his depth as an actor and his ability to convey complex emotions.
The film’s plot intertwines with historical events, specifically the launch of the first warp-driven spacecraft.
This connection between fiction and reality adds an additional layer of intrigue.
Star Trek: First Contact explores the concept of identity.
The characters grapple with their individuality and question how much of their identity is influenced by external factors.
The movie delves into the consequences of technological advancement.
It raises questions about the potential dangers and benefits of embracing new technology.
Star Trek: First Contact showcases the strong bond between the crew members of the Enterprise.
They rely on each other for support and demonstrate the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges.
The film explores the concept of fear.
It delves into how fear can influence decision-making and hinder progress.
Star Trek: First Contact features a diverse cast.
It emphasizes the inclusive nature of the Star Trek universe and the importance of representation.
The movie contains memorable quotes that have become iconic in the Star Trek fandom.
Lines such as “Assimilate this!” and “I am Locutus of Borg” have become fan favorites.
Star Trek: First Contact received positive reviews for its engaging storyline and character development.
Both critics and fans praised the film for its ability to balance action with philosophical themes.
The film’s success led to the creation of a spin-off television series, Star Trek: Voyager.
Star Trek: Voyager continues the story of the USS Voyager as it navigates through new and unexplored regions of space.
Star Trek: First Contact remains a beloved installment in the Star Trek franchise.
It is often regarded as one of the best Star Trek films and a standout entry in the sci-fi genre.
The movie continues to inspire and engage audiences with its thought-provoking themes and captivating story.
Star Trek: First Contact is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Star Trek franchise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Star Trek: First Contact is a groundbreaking film that captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline, memorable characters, and impressive special effects. As the eighth installment in the Star Trek film franchise, it successfully revitalized the series and introduced a new generation of fans to the beloved sci-fi universe.With a talented ensemble cast led by Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard, the movie showcased the resilience of the human spirit and explored themes of time travel, friendship, and the consequences of altering history. The film’s exciting action sequences and intense moments of suspense kept viewers on the edge of their seats throughout.Star Trek: First Contact not only pleased longtime fans of the franchise but also attracted new viewers with its engaging narrative and well-crafted storytelling. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable, making it a must-watch for any movie enthusiast or sci-fi lover.In summary, Star Trek: First Contact is a masterpiece that continues to leave a lasting impression on audiences, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable entries in the Star Trek universe.
FAQs
1. When was Star Trek: First Contact released?
Star Trek: First Contact was released on November 22, 1996.
2. Who directed Star Trek: First Contact?
The film was directed by Jonathan Frakes, who also played the role of Commander William Riker in the Star Trek series.
3. Is Star Trek: First Contact a sequel?
Yes, Star Trek: First Contact is the eighth film in the Star Trek franchise and serves as a direct sequel to the television series Star Trek: The Next Generation.
4. What is the premise of Star Trek: First Contact?
The film follows Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the USS Enterprise-E as they travel back in time to prevent the Borg, a cybernetic alien race, from interfering with Earth’s first contact with an alien species.
5. Did Star Trek: First Contact receive any awards?
Yes, the film was nominated for and won several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Makeup and a Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film.
6. Can I watch Star Trek: First Contact without watching the previous films or TV series?
While prior knowledge of the Star Trek series and characters can enhance the viewing experience, Star Trek: First Contact is designed to be enjoyed as a standalone film that introduces the Star Trek universe to new audiences.
If you're fascinated by the wonders of space travel, intrigued by the inner workings of the Federation, or captivated by the iconic Jean-Luc Picard, explore our other articles that delve into these captivating topics. From astounding facts about venturing into the cosmos to the intricacies of a powerful interstellar organization and the man who brought a beloved character to life, embark on a journey of discovery through our carefully curated collection of articles.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.