Written by Kristyn Ung
Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Star Trek: The Motion Picture, released in 1979, is the first feature film in the iconic Star Trek franchise. Directed by Robert Wise, the film takes viewers on a thrilling intergalactic adventure as the crew of the Starship Enterprise embarks on a mission to investigate a mysterious and powerful alien entity that threatens Earth.
With its captivating storyline, groundbreaking special effects, and beloved cast, Star Trek: The Motion Picture quickly became a fan favorite and set the stage for many more movies and TV series to come. In this article, we will delve into 46 fascinating facts about this cinematic gem, providing you with insider knowledge and trivia that will deepen your appreciation for this sci-fi classic.
Key Takeaways:
- “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” was a groundbreaking film that brought back the original cast and introduced new characters, captivating audiences with stunning visuals and a timeless adventure through space.
- The movie celebrated the enduring legacy of the Star Trek franchise, inspiring a new generation of fans and setting the stage for the continuing mission of the USS Enterprise in subsequent installments.
Revolutionary Film:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture was a groundbreaking film in the science fiction genre, marking the return of the beloved Star Trek characters to the big screen.
Original Cast Reunion:
The movie brought back the original cast from the Star Trek television series, including William Shatner as Captain Kirk, Leonard Nimoy as Spock, and DeForest Kelley as Dr. McCoy.
Directorial Debut:
The film marked renowned director Robert Wise’s first foray into the Star Trek franchise.
Special Effects Spectacle:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture featured stunning visual effects, showcasing the advanced technology and futuristic settings of the Star Trek universe.
Budget Breaker:
The film had a budget of $46 million, making it one of the most expensive movies of its time.
Musical Score:
The movie featured a memorable score composed by the legendary Jerry Goldsmith.
The First Star Trek Movie:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture was the first installment in the Star Trek film series, paving the way for numerous sequels and spin-offs.
Intense Production Schedule:
The film was completed in just over six months, with a tight schedule to meet the anticipated release date.
Box Office Success:
Despite mixed reviews from critics, Star Trek: The Motion Picture grossed over $139 million at the box office worldwide.
Cult Following:
The film garnered a dedicated fan base, contributing to the enduring popularity of the Star Trek franchise.
The Return of Spock:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture marked the return of Leonard Nimoy’s iconic character, Spock, after his apparent death in the television series.
Exploring V’ger:
The movie introduced the mysterious entity known as V’ger, which served as the main antagonist of the story.
Acclaimed Visual Design:
The film received praise for its intricate set designs, futuristic costumes, and overall visual aesthetic.
Epic Space Journey:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture took audiences on a thrilling adventure through space, as the crew of the USS Enterprise embarked on a mission to intercept V’ger.
Iconic Spaceship:
The movie featured the iconic USS Enterprise spaceship, instantly recognizable to fans of the Star Trek universe.
Emotional Reunion:
The film brought the beloved Star Trek characters back together, allowing fans to witness their on-screen reunion after years of absence.
Realistic Visual Effects:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture employed state-of-the-art visual effects techniques, creating a realistic portrayal of space travel and alien encounters.
Star Trek: The Motion Picture Merchandise:
The film’s success led to a wide range of merchandise, including action figures, posters, and even a novelization of the movie.
Academy Award Nominations:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture received three Academy Award nominations, including Best Art Direction, Best Visual Effects, and Best Original Score.
The Evolution of Captain Kirk:
The movie further developed the character of Captain James T. Kirk, showcasing his growth as a leader and his inner struggle with aging.
Introduction of New Characters:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture introduced new characters to the Star Trek universe, including the enigmatic Ilia and the ambitious Dr. Decker.
Culturally Influential:
The film had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring future filmmakers and influencing subsequent science fiction movies and television shows.
The Movie’s Opening Sequence:
The film’s opening sequence, featuring a mesmerizing flyover of the USS Enterprise, set the stage for the grandeur and scale of the story.
A Visual Feast:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture featured stunning visuals, from the vastness of space to the intricacies of the alien spacecraft encountered.
Paying Homage to the Original Series:
The film included various references and nods to the original Star Trek television series, delighting fans with subtle callbacks.
Extended Director’s Cut:
Years after its release, a director’s cut version of the film was released, with additional scenes and enhanced special effects.
Science Fiction Spectacle:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture embraced the grandness of the science fiction genre, captivating audiences with its imaginative world-building.
Leonard Nimoy’s Behind-the-Scenes Contributions:
Leonard Nimoy, in addition to reprising his role as Spock, also contributed to the film’s story development and creative decisions.
Captivating Space Battles:
The movie featured thrilling space battles, showcasing the USS Enterprise engaging in epic confrontations with V’ger’s formidable forces.
The Legacy of USS Enterprise:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture continued the legacy of the USS Enterprise, solidifying its place as one of the most iconic starships in science fiction history.
A Thought-Provoking Storyline:
The film explored themes of identity, evolution, and the quest for knowledge, presenting audiences with philosophical questions to ponder.
Return to Familiar Settings:
The movie revisited familiar locations from the original series, such as the Starfleet headquarters and the bridge of the USS Enterprise.
Significant Visual Effects Milestones:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture pushed the boundaries of visual effects technology at the time, setting new standards for future films in the genre.
The Presence of V’ger:
V’ger’s looming presence throughout the film created a sense of mystery and suspense, driving the narrative forward.
Interstellar Exploration:
The movie depicted the exploration of distant galaxies and encounters with unknown civilizations, capturing the essence of space exploration.
The Movie’s Reception:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its spectacle while others finding it slow-paced.
Star Trek: The Motion Picture Soundtrack:
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Jerry Goldsmith, became highly popular and is considered one of the greatest film scores of all time.
Celebrating Star Trek’s Legacy:
The movie celebrated the enduring legacy of the Star Trek franchise, reminding fans of the timeless appeal of its characters and stories.
The Quest for V’ger’s Origins:
The crew of the USS Enterprise embarked on a quest to unravel the mystery of V’ger’s origins, leading to shocking revelations.
A Timeless Adventure:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture continues to captivate audiences with its timeless adventure, reminding us of the enduring charm of the Star Trek universe.
An Ensemble Cast:
In addition to the original Star Trek cast, the film featured a talented ensemble of actors, each bringing depth to their respective characters.
Inspiring Future Generations:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture inspired a new generation of fans, leading to the creation of subsequent spin-offs, television series, and films.
Embracing the Spirit of Exploration:
The film captured the spirit of exploration and the boundless possibilities of the unknown, a core theme of the Star Trek franchise.
A Voyage of Self-Discovery:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture delved into themes of self-discovery, as the characters confronted their fears, desires, and the path to their own personal growth.
The Triumph of Teamwork:
The movie highlighted the importance of teamwork, as the crew of the USS Enterprise united to overcome challenges and save the galaxy.
The Continuing Mission:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture set the stage for the continuing mission of the USS Enterprise and the exploration of new frontiers in subsequent Star Trek installments.
Conclusion
Star Trek: The Motion Picture is a groundbreaking film that paved the way for the beloved Star Trek franchise. With its engaging storyline, stunning visual effects, and iconic characters, it captivated audiences around the world. The movie’s success led to a long-lasting legacy, spawning numerous sequels, spin-offs, and a dedicated fan base.
Whether you’re a lifelong Trekkie or new to the Star Trek universe, Star Trek: The Motion Picture is a must-watch film that showcases the spirit of exploration, friendship, and the infinite possibilities of the cosmos.
FAQs
1. When was Star Trek: The Motion Picture released?
Star Trek: The Motion Picture was released on December 7, 1979.
2. Who directed Star Trek: The Motion Picture?
The film was directed by Robert Wise, known for his work on other famous films such as The Sound of Music and West Side Story.
3. Is Star Trek: The Motion Picture a sequel?
No, Star Trek: The Motion Picture is not a sequel. It serves as the first feature-length film in the Star Trek franchise and follows the crew of the USS Enterprise as they encounter a mysterious and powerful alien entity.
4. Are there any other movies in the Star Trek series?
Yes, Star Trek: The Motion Picture is the first of many films in the Star Trek franchise. It was followed by several sequels and spin-offs, including Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, and many more.
5. Can I watch Star Trek: The Motion Picture without prior knowledge of the Star Trek series?
Absolutely! Star Trek: The Motion Picture was crafted to be accessible to both new viewers and long-time fans of the series. It introduces the main characters and provides a thrilling adventure that can be enjoyed on its own.
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