Orci Ready To Engage Trek Fans July 31, 2007
by Anthony Pascale , Filed under: Orci/Kurtzman, Star Trek (2009 film) , trackback
I had a chance to talk to Star Trek co-writer Roberto Orci at an evening event during Comic Con. For the most part we just chatted informally just like any two Trekkies, but I did ask him about some fans’ questions regarding how the new film will fit into Trek’s canon. Orci admitted that in the case of his (and writing partner Alex Kurtzman’s) recent film Transformers - they did make some significant changes in the universe, but that that film was translating a cartoon to a live action film. However, he also made it clear that any changes to Star Trek would be much more carefully considered. Orci (emphatically) said:
We are ready to engage any fans…lovingly…over the plot of Star Trek.
Even though our conversation was informal, Orci did want me to share that with the readers of TrekMovie.com (a site he says they do visit). In talking to the writer further he also made it clear the team plan to ‘engage’ in a dialogue with the Trek fans (something they have done with the Transformers fans for the last year). Although they are not planning on breaking their pact to keep plot details secret, they do want to hear about what is important to Trek fans.
This was the third time I have had a chance to chat with the writer and after each meeting I am more and more convinced that he and the new team are on the right track. I was again impressed with how enthusiastic he is for the film and how respectful he is for the franchise and the fans. I very much look forward to this dialogoue with the fans.
Orci: 35th Most Powerful Latino In Hollywood
…at least according to the Hollywood Reporter’s ‘Latino Power 50.’ Making Bob more powerful than Jimmy Smits, but less powerful than Salma Hayek.
Comments»
First
here we go: wish list:
bring back kirk
leave the enterprise the same as seen in tos
have darren dochterman do the effects! ( imean it) he gets it
use the original bridge set (maybe with minor tweeks)
use the original color scheme
kee the uniforms (3rd season material/fit)
Am I the only person who believes that any commenter who posts “First” and then hits the submit button should receive a forty-thousand volt shock back through the internet?
It’s nice to see that the pros working on the movie are looking at trekmovie.com. I hope they don’t take everybody’s comments seriously or to heart–we’d wind up with a bloated movie only suitable for the most hardcore of fans. But that they are at least looking at the fan comments is heartening. Thanks for reporting on the talk you had with him, Anthony!
I want to see the ship! THE NEW SHIP! Hey! ENGAGE me!! The new ship and some production design sketches! I, ah… ahem. Sorry–… carried away… um, ah, third?
They can throw everything out after TOS. Or ignore some of the canon.
#3: “Am I the only person who believes that any commenter who posts “First” and then hits the submit button should receive a forty-thousand volt shock back through the internet?”
We’re working on that. ;)
#2 actually, since this is pre-tos, the enterprise will either be in a variation we have yet to see, or the pilot version ie: bigger bridge, pointy nacelle caps, bigger deflector dish, etc.
and if the bridge is as we remember it, it would likely be as we remember it from the pilot ie: very gray, silver, and more “formal” than the tos-bridge
i hope they take this into consideration when making the sets and such
I say keep the outside of the ship the same and update the interior with with either the 1701 A, D or E’s type of interior and computer system. Then have the tricoders and phasers be a cross between TOS and TNG’s.
How about GREAT ACTING, AMAZING STORY and TOP NOTCH SETS!!! Oh yeah, and make sure the Director knows what the hell he’s doing for pacing, editing, etc.
If the tone set by the Director isn’t spot on, he could really stink up the place!! Please, puh-lease, PUH-LEASE get it right!!
Seriously, though, if we’re being engaged, I’m going to drop a few questions:
1. For a new big-budget movie you’ve obviously got to redesign everything. WIll the new designs resemble TOS a little? A lot? How drastically is the ship being redesigned? Who is your production designer?
2. What other TOS and trek films characters can we expect to see?
Dear Producers,
Please note which contributers on this site that you SHOULD NOT look to for advice.
Star trek canon is great. Don’t change anything ( only add something new )
I have to agree with Anthony when he says he is “more convinced that the new team is on the right track”
When I saw Leonard Nimoy take the stage at Comic Con last week I knew these guys were going to pay the Star Trek legacy the respect it deserves. Which is more than could be said for Berman and co.
I would like to see a tough tight version of Star Trek (think Wrath of Khan) that is character driven (those characters are what made the original a classic. TOS is proof you don’t need a ton of cgi to make great entertainment) that has some attitude.
What I don’t want to see is Berman’s watered down pc version of Star Trek (think Data singing Irving Berlin tunes in Nemesis) where all the fun was taken out of the mix. The man did the near impossible. Over time he made the ST universe bland.
Berman’s version of Star Trek in many ways plays like a soap opera (some of the TNG/Voy character episodes should be shown as Lifetime movies of the week) rather than a shoot from the hip fun sci fi series that tackles the big questions.
What I would like to see most from a personal point of view is the return of William Shatner as Kirk.
If Kirk was never brought into Generations and just tossed of a bridge (for no apparent reason) this would not be an issue.
That said, Kirk’s end (the worst of any major fictional character ever) has left such a bad taste in my mouth (and many others) that I don’t see the series in the same light as I did prior to Generations.
I understand from the writers point of view you don’t want to just throw Shatner in just for the sake of having him in it.
On the other hand more than anything I want to see Kirk + Spock ride off into the sunset the way they should have before Generations.
In a perfect world Star Trek XI should close out the first era of ST (give Kirk + Spock good endings) while at the same time show the way to the future with a kick ass film with great new actors to play these iconic roles.
I want to see something that really feels like a modern, big budget reimagining of TOS. With more sophisticated versions of the ship, costumes, and sets. I want them to just go all out.
I’m in the “change everything” camp.
But uh, Anthony, that picture you use of Orci disturbs me.
I keep thinking that “Star Trek’s” being written and produced by Joey Tribbiani. Where’s Chandler?
yeah, just go all out in space, the full-blown frontier!
Anthony ever thought about creating a forum for the site? Or is this the best way to communicate? I wonder if you should also have an email news alert feature? This is the main site I go to for all Trek news now.
#13
Yeah, speaking of TWOK, I’d really like to see another tightly focused story like that — one which doesn’t veer off into time travel or alternate realities or any of that other crap the TNG movies always did. Keep it grounded in the “real” world like Nicholas Meyer did so well.
Kirk, Spock & McCoy (who may or may not be in it.) Had charm and chemistry back then. Lightning in a bottle, catch it if you can. Thats what I suspect we’re all really worried about.
RE: a forum
now that the site is on a new server, work on the new forum will begin shortly. It will be done before the one year anniversary of trekmovie.com (later in august). Bob will obviously have an open invitation….we will see what happens
Hey, if Shatner isn’t in this film, that’s okay by me, as long as you tell a good story. I suspect that’s the case with most _reasonable_ fans. So don’t worry too much about the BBKers here!
And I apologize for people posting here who don’t seem to realize that as the SCREENWRITERS you probably have very little say in how the new ship, sets, and uniforms look!
Plus, I suspect you have a gut sense that listening to advice like in post #2 would just cause Trek XI to become an Ishtar-level flop… Best not even to mention stuff like that to J.J….
Production designer is the awesome Scott Chambliss who has worked with us for years.
It has to have William Shatner as Kirk. Kirk and Spock together one more time to officially pass the torch to a newer generation of trekkies who will discover the life of what TOS is.
if anyone is wondering that really is Roberto Orci
anyway…any questions on who is involved in the film are answered in the ST08 info section
http://trekmovie.com/trek-xi-movie-info/
the crew are specifically here:
http://trekmovie.com/trek-xi-movie-info/crew/
I will be updating the crew section soon with some more folks names. By the way it was great to finally removed the ‘(rumored)’ notation next to some of the names on the cast page:
http://trekmovie.com/trek-xi-movie-info/cast/
OK, here is a partial wish list for the production team.
First off make Kirk a woman…Ha ha, just kidding. Seriously though, good luck casting him.
1. Do whatever it takes to bring William Shatner in as a 24th century Captain Kirk. Nimoy without Shatner will never work.
2. Ignore Generations if you must.
3. Keep the exterior of the ship similar to what we saw in TMP.
4. Update/re-imagine the interiors and uniforms (as much as I like the miniskirts from TOS they do not belong in a modern movie.)
5. Do not be a slave to “canonists.”
6. Include Captain Pike, Gary Mitchell and Carol Marcus.
7. Show us Kirk’s Kobayashi Maru solution as a film opener.
I would like to see Spock and Picard talking about the dead Kirk in the 24th Century as somekind of introduction.
But I don’t want see William Shatner as Kirk. He died in Generations. Maybe, now the time has come for Spock to die in the 24th Century.
It has to have a good plot, well written dialog, and some action.
If it has that, I could probably stand cheesily colored sets.
Anthony why are they being so secret about the plot? Is the plot going to be announced when they announce who the new Kirk is? Just curious.
Craig…and everyone
it is impportant to bear in mind that we are still 17 months away from this film. How much do you know about the Indy 4 plot? not a lot…not even a name and that movie opens in 10 months. Plus this is JJ Abrams/Damon Lindelof/Roberto Orci/Alex Kurtzman….how much do you know about how Lost is going to end or how Alias was going to end? These guys play it close to the chest that is just their way. They relish in the mystery and I believe that they think it helps both the experience as well as the promotion. Look at the hype around 1-18-08
But that does not mean they wont talk about stuff….this is just the beginning really…they dont start shooting for over 3 months
The TOS Enterprise is my favorite of all Trek ships - but I’d like to see it and the sets re-imagined - make it feel like it’s in the future again AND keep the TOS/60s aesthetic. (no fax machines on the bridge)
Re 22:
Hi, Roberto! It’s exciting to have you here with us!
Orci ready to engage Trek fans? Well, I’ve been doing that online for a few years now and … it’s not pretty.
#3
No you are not. Being first doesn’t make someone a winner and strutting about like one has actually accomplished something of any importance at all makes one mostly a loser imo.
As to the subject matter–I would like to see the Shat back as well but I’ll go no matter who is in the cast (except perhaps for Paully Shore).
Wow…..Bob…Hi…welcome to tm.com….this is the place to be…..now more than ever. Can I say I think you are kind of cute?
….well he did say he was ready to engage the fans ;)
anyway What I want more than anything is to just feel like Trek is real big again….like it is a first rate top of the line blockbuster epic experience. I am tired of of being in the shadow of Star Wars and other big franchises. Trek was their first and is still the best….now go prove me right will you cutie?
Please Mr. Orci, one request, please give us some truly alien planets, I’m tired of seeing earth bound deserts.
Keep the Exterior of the TOS Enterprise shape the same, but then do what they did with the Enterprise from the films, give the ship more texture..as if someone built the thing, and not a model. Otherwise, do what you like.
#22 Roberto Orci - July 31, 200
Good to see you stopping in here. There are a lot of diverse fans who visit this site and some truly interesting opinions floating about. Good luck for the duration. I hope your movie is a smash hit.
#24
Anthony you are doing a great job covering the progress on the new film and this forum gives fans a chance to share in the excitement. Keep up the good work.
I for one look forward to a cheering standing ovation on opening day!
#15. Dennis Bailey - “I’m in the “change everything” camp.”
Do you mean to say that you would change the Enterprise?
Are you talking minor changes to make it more realistic for the big screen, or a completely different looking ship???
In response to a “Complete Extreme Makeover”…
I would say that if the overall tone of the script had been a bit lighter, and, the production values, ( costumes, etc.), hadn’t been so “Dark”, then
“Lost In Space” COULD have been a much better film.
But….
They totally Screwed the Pooch when they gave us that abomination of a “Robot”.
I really admire the artistic contributions made to Trek by people like the Okudas and Andrew Probert over a period of decades, and I’d love to see them contribute to this movie as well. That said, I’m looking forward to seeing all the new ideas that a talented Production Designer who hasn’t spent years steeped in all of this can bring to it.
Anthony I wasn’t trying to sound mean about my last post about the plot. I was just curious.
One other request would be to keep the tone CONSISTENT all the way through, like the TOS movies did so well.
The problem with the TNG movies is they veered all over the place, from light comedy to serious drama back to light comedy. It made it hard to take anything seriously.
Star Trek is going to be an interesting movie to see.
The real challenge here is how much can they adhere to the original series designs and styles, while maintaining a level of believability that would work for a general audience.
We are dealing with a balancing act, and one wrong move could lead to a disaster.
However, if done right, this could be fantastic.
After Lost, I believe Roddenberry’s vision is in safe hands.
1) Kirk - hard to have “alive” but why not in a recorded message to Spock?
2)TOS type Enterprise, but not slavish
3) Homage to uniforms but not PJs
4) Forget Finnegan and such stuff for plot, except possibly as character cameos
5) Consider a Spock deathbed scene if you really need to fit Kirk in…
6) Above all, make it character and plot driven, not FX driven
#2
leave the enterprise the same as seen in tos
have darren dochterman do the effects! ( imean it) he gets it
use the original bridge set (maybe with minor tweeks)
use the original color scheme
kee the uniforms (3rd season material/fit)
Thank God There Is Someone Else Who Get’s It!!!
Leave TOS The Way It Was & Quick Thinking About Reinventing The Wheel!!!!
Leave TOS the same.
yeh Dochterman gets it… i saw some of his NV footage on the CBS (me and my NV plugs… lol) and he certainly does know the look
I’d like to see a good story done in real colors rather than heavily tinted; a little positive idealism, but not mawkishness; like to see Kirk; my only fannish thing is to say TOS photon torpedoes are energy bolts(Making of Star Trek- Roddenberry-Whitfield) without a need for a fancy wheel and pulley track. Otherwise I just hope the movie is two solid hours of entertainment.
#44 and #2
Your analogy of “reinventing the wheel” is poorly used. An analogy comparing Coke to New Coke would be more appropriate. Put yourself in the shoes of someone who has never watched Star Trek. Would you spend your money and see a movie if it looked exactly like an episode of TOS? Probably not. People my age(18-22) overwhelmingly think that Star Trek is nerdy and uncool. I know this because I live amongst these people. The approach that JJ and company are using is one that will draw all kinds of people by giving it a fresh look, which is necessary to achieve that goal. Though the basic elements will still be present, the look will be drastically different. Plus, I ILM has already been slated to do the FX.
39. Dennis Bailey
“I really admire the artistic contributions made to Trek by people like the Okudas and Andrew Probert over a period of decades, and I’d love to see them contribute to this movie as well. That said, I’m looking forward to seeing all the new ideas that a talented Production Designer who hasn’t spent years steeped in all of this can bring to it.”
Agree completely. We need a new Star Trek.
Star Trek is about Vision not Committee. Don’t worry about the fans, because no matter what, some of them are going to hate what you do. Those fans aren’t important. If you stick to your vision & make a great movie, then you’ve done your job.
Regarding ‘first’ posters: since doing so seems to elicite negative responses, it’s reasonable to consider those posters trolls. I don’t see any rules of conduct on this site, but other sites find trolling unacceptable — and punishable. Just a thought…
First of all the boob who wrote the article used ENGAGE referring to TOS. Dont ever do that again. This is Kirks time not TNG.. Second. Dont ever mix TNG And DOS stuff. MAkes for sloppy writing. And third They better bring SHAT back…
Keep The the old girl as seen on the show and we’ll do fine.
and they better refer to landing part as landing or boarding party not the lame away team.. ugh.
I personally do not want to see any “Okudagrams” in this movie…
I am tired of that look.
TTM
This reminds of me of an episode of the Simpsons in which the producer of Itchy and Scratchy tried to get a focus group of kids together to find out what they’d like to see in the show. They seemed to want everything and all the information was conflicting. In the end the producer shouts “ahhhh you stupid kids don’t know what you want! That’s why your all still kids, ‘cuz you’re stupid!”
…but what the heck, I’ll throw out my wish list.
For the look of the show, I’d like to see it look like the time period it’s supposed to be set in. That is, if it takes place before TOS, it should resemble “The Cage” but with some minor improvements. If the Enterprise is in the film, I’d like it to look like the Enterprise from TOS but with minor improvements. Such as the exterior still retaining the same shape but with a little more detail to give it scale. If it’s set prior to “Where No Man has Gone Before” I’d like to see the pointy nacelles, but with some light in those domes (bussard collectors if that helps). The interior to me should be the same, but still look more metallic and technical. Similar to the movie “Galaxy Quest” where you see the mock up of the original somewhat cheap looking set, then you see the ship built by the aliens. Everything’s the same but looks more realistic. Do something with those viewscreens too. Make ‘em look like they serve a purpose.
Actors, I’d like to see actors that resemble the characters (actors from TOS) they are supposed to portraying. I’d like to see them act like those characters, but not doing bad impressions of them.
Know the characters and don’t try to put them in situations that don’t feel like they’d be in (like Picard the action hero, leading away teams).
Canon is canon. It’s been somewhat closely guarded for 40 years. Despite what may be seen coming from the most vocal posters on the internet, there’s a lot of people who loved those other shows. Don’t alienate them. Everyone should be able to view and enjoy this movie. Even people who’ve never seen Trek. I don’t want to have to explain every single detail to people who’ve never seen Trek either. If you have any questions about canon, ask the Okudas.
Aside from that, I just want a good story. Make it feel like Trek, but not a copy of a movie we’ve already seen.
…finding a way to bring Shatner in would be nice too.
Mr. Orci, welcome to mayhem.
Since the script is written, I doubt there is little can be done to fit ALL our wants and desires in. I won’t plead for Shatner, or tell you what a bum Berman was (and I cannot fathom why that would come up on this thread) or beg for the Enterprise to be faithful to it’s 1960’s blueprint.
All I want is a good Star Trek story. I’m sure you and your partner worked dam hard on it. Thanks.
(PS… how about starting the movie in Iowa?I got this ideal place, you see…)
;-)
X
Mike’s graphic contributions to “Star Trek” go way beyond the designs that people think of as “Okudagrams.”
As far as the use of backlit “cels” to represent instrumentation, Jefferies’ TOS Enterprise bridge was literally surrounded by it. Okuda reintroduced the approach in “Star Trek IV.”
#51 JNC…..
Which “boob” did you refer to? Did you mean Anthony, the owner of this site who works dam hard to get you the news as you sit at your computer?
There are some manners in here… be civil and don’t threaten.
William Shatner as Captain Kirk and Leonard Nimoy as Spock.
I am not old enough to have ever seen Kirk + Spock in a first run film. I was only 10 when TUC came out
It would be history to see them together again.
I’d like the design of the interior of the Enterprise to be recognizably TOS but updated. Same for the uniforms.
We’ve been revisiting past styles so much recently… always reinventing what’s been there before. Why not do it like that in the movie? Acknowledge that during the 2250’s / 2260’s (whenever the movie will be set exactly) the Federation is going through one of those phases where retro looking uniforms are in? ;-)
I very much liked the suggestion above of finally seeing how Kirk ‘defeated’ the Kobayashi Maru and would love if Carol Marcus (and son?) could at least be mentioned if not be seen.
I’d also like a good fist fight in old Star Trek tradition, but not to replace story, only to complement it ;-)
I’d love to see Shatner come back and have a final goodbye together with Nimoy. But I agree that he should have a role that makes sense and is relevant to the story. Otherwise it would just hurt.
I always loved Nicholas Meyer’s approach to Star Trek best and his movies were immensely satisfying. I want to have that feeling back.
#38: “Do you mean to say that you would change the Enterprise?
Are you talking minor changes to make it more realistic for the big screen, or a completely different looking ship???”
Whatever the artists and designers and producers think is best.
I liked the “Lost In Space” movie. :)
#48. Ryan -
You are absolutely right. In fact, this is one of the biggest concerns I have about the success of this film. Will reinventing ST with modern sensibilities be enough to draw in an audience in that age bracket?
Virtually all of the people I known, or have ever known, in my age group (18-22 or so) find Star Trek, or anything even bearing that name to be extremely embarassing. The name alone would drive many of them away, no matter how good the movie looks. Just asking for a ticket in front of their peers would seem humiliating.
Simply put, everything Star Trek is a source of derision. You’d be laughed at and called a nerd and a loser if you actually went and saw it. And that is a very unfortunate state of affairs — most don’t see the story or the characters as worthwhile, can’t see them, because of the way ST *looks*.
Thus, I think that things really have to be changed to overcome the negatives of the name, “Star Trek,” alone. I really hope they succeed…it’s not an enviable task.
I think it’s important to realize that this can be a new start for Trek. I certainly don’t want the production team painting themselves into a corner by essentially cutting and pasting TOS onto the big screen. Give them room to enjoy themselves and be creative. Berman’s Trek suffocated under the weight of itself.
We’ve seen in TMP that the Enterprise can be both familiar and different. I think there is room to be imaginative with the old girl and yet be completely faithful to the original design. I don’t want to see a heavy battle cruiser though, the Enterprise is a vessel of peace and exploration. Trek really needs to get beyond the constant Star Wars battles that we’ve been subjected to in all the majority of the movies. Space battles are simply boring, tired, and unimaginative. I want to see some intellectually challenging Sci-Fi.
As for Shatner…the character of Kirk died and I think it would undermine the credibility of this creative team if they were forced to shoe horn Shatner’s character back into existence. Some people seem fixated upon getting Kirk back, regardless of the consequences. I think my feelings on the matter can be best summarized by the following quote.
“After a time, you may find that ‘having’ is not so pleasing a thing, after all, as ‘wanting.’ It is not logical, but it is often true.”
How about what was mentioned with Spock learning of Kirk’s death? Then remembering Kirk say he knew he would die alone? Spock then having flashbacks to their first adventures and he remembers Kirk came back for him and now he must go after Kirk. In the progress he saves Kirk from death through a time travel adventure. Kirk says, I thought I was dead and Spock says - you were never alone!
If we can’t have that, how about Commander Kirk and Lt Spock joining forces with Captain Pike of the Enterprise. TOS NCC1701 with updated interior and minor exterior updates. Updated uniforms, phasers, communicators with Ent/Cage/TOS feel. Show us how it would look if made now, but honor the original.
1/ William Shatner is a must
2/ I hope the inside of the Enterprise is brought up to date (the hell with canon is this regard)
3/ I’d keep the outside of the Enterprise as is.
4/ Many good looking women in those short TOS skirts
5/ It would be cool to see Captain Pike
6/ I’d like it to have a Batman Begins feel to it.
7/ I’d love the film to have an epic feel to it.
I’m sure it’s too late to add any of this stuff into (except Shatner who I heard you guys are working on) the film.
Best of luck.
#62 “How about what was mentioned with Spock learning of Kirk’s death? Then remembering Kirk say he knew he would die alone? Spock then having flashbacks to their first adventures and he remembers Kirk came back for him and now he must go after Kirk. In the progress he saves Kirk from death through a time travel adventure. Kirk says, I thought I was dead and Spock says - you were never alone!”
No, no. Please no. This is exactly what shouldn’t happen. No time travel, and especially no sentimental, cheesy references to The Final Frontier. Gah. Let Trek live without falling back on the same tired crap that recent Trek has used. Ground it in a little more reality than is has been afforded of late.
I certainly applaud Roberto for mingling with the fans. I wish he and the other production staff well. I am very grateful for their reverence to the hundreds if not thousands of people who worked to make Star Trek what it is for over 40 years.
PS: Get a part for Bill Shatner as James T. Kirk!
OMG HE SAID ENGAGE THATS WHAT PICARD SAYS HE DOESNT RESPECT TOS!1! AGGAHAGA!
My only wish is that Dr. McCoy has a big part in it. He’s as important as Spock and Kirk.
To me, at least.
Ummmm, the script’s already done. Right, Bob?
@ Roberto Orci-
Perhaps listening to fans is not the best idea after all. The fans are partially to blame for the current state of Trek. If I were to give your creative team one piece of advice…it would be to keep the original series close to your heart, and then let it grow out of you from there. If you can capture the spirit of TOS…don’t be slaves to the fan base…you’ll never find the answers you seek here. Trek may take place in outer space, but it is partially about our own inner journeys. You will find your own answers there.
#61
You say Kirk died.
I say so what?
Nearly every major character in the series has died and been brought back to life. Spock got his own major motion picture about being brought back to life.
I would much rather see Kirk and Spock on screen again then worry about credibility that does not (and has never) existed in the Star Trek universe.
Besides, how can you have Nimoy and not Shatner? It would seem half baked like Generations did.
I say lighten up and bring back Shatner + Nimoy for one last go around for no other reason than it would be fun.
How serious can you take the “death” of any Star Trek character?
The only thing I wish to add is for the writers to respect and MAINTAIN establish canon. Plus, bring back the Shat in post-Gen era and the movie will be a hit. :)
I’d like to see something of the story behind the episode, “Obsession”, Kirk’s & Spock’s personal backstories and of course, their first meeting.
Maybe with a smattering of Christoper Pike, Gary Mitchell and a 30’s ish Dr. McCoy, if that works. It all depends upon the time they intend to depict the events of the movie.
I’d to see the exterior of the ship stay the same. Love that futuristic smooth look with the weathering. It would be great to see ILM do the original design and it’s detail. I mean, you’re going to change a few things, anyway, and it would be assuring to us older, almost dead fans that, “things change, but remain the same”.
And, since you must, change the interior, do that, but keep it the same.
I am a long time BBK person.
So I guess I don’t have to go into great detail as to what I want.
I echo New Horizon at #68
Well said.
#61 “Some people seem fixated upon getting Kirk back”
And some people are fixated on “shoehorns” and keeping Kirk dead. ;-)
My guess is that there are more fans who want him back than not.
I would agree that a “shoehorn insertion” of Shatner as a post generations Kirk that does nothing to further the story would be a terrible idea. But
just because you or I might not see a way to realistically bring him back doesn’t mean the writers and producers can’t come up with a way.
If written well it would bring closure to one era while giving birth to another.
Nimoy and Shatner together again. How cool would that be!
#69 Ivory,
None of this is up to the fans. He may join the cast, but it’s less likely every day. If the casting announcement comes for the “new” Kirk and Shatner’s not there too, I’d say it’s not going to happen at all. You may have to accept that.
If death isn’t credible in Trek, where’s the drama? I personally need a good story, not just the presence of a known actor on the screen to make me happy.
The script’s already done. Production, as I understand it, is supposed to start in November. If the script’s really as good as Abrams and Nimoy say it is–and props to Bob and Alex for impressing two men with high artistic standards–then I say don’t waste too much time altering the script in a way that could jeopardize its coolness factor by _shoehorning_ in some half-baked bring back Shatner as Kirk scenario that really won’t appeal to anyone but a few diehard fanboys. It’s not worth it.
A pleasure to see you here, Mr. Orci. If you’re a Trek fan to any degree, you know how impossible Star Trek fans are to please. I admire your willingness to engage us anyway.
Regarding the look of the movie, my feeling is this: if its a “reboot” or “reimagining” or whatever the buzz word of the moment is, by all means, go crazy Broadway-style on the production design (a/k/a the Dennis Bailey “change everything” approach). If the film is intended to fit into the continuity of the previous shows and movies (and by casting Nimoy, they almost have to go that route), then the production design has to believably fit visually into what has been previously established - which would be somewhere between “Enterprise” and the original series and its pilots. That’s a pretty wide berth, but not an unbounded one.
#74 Robert April
I don’t think there are many that want to “keep Kirk dead”. Nice ploy… do you debate?
The point may be only settled by the actual film. Was(would) the story be moved along by the addition of the older Kirk’s presence? If he’s added to just satisfy a few hardcores, then forget it. I want a good story. If he helps it, fine.. if not, don’t bother.
It’s Star Trek, not Bill’s adventures as Cap’n Kirk
funny how some people care more about shirts and sets.
for me, the essence of trek is captured in a few special moments or feelings:
–the music that went with the title scene of “this side of paradise” - a feeling of mysterious excitement, something weird is going to happen, truly alien. just the anticipation of going somewhere new, beaming down into the unknown, and who knows what’s going to pop out.
–the moment when kirk sort of straightens his body, gets a cocky look, and starts confronting an alien leader or kang or a computer gone amok (landru! — you are a machine! you are imperfect!). he’s confronting the weird and the alien, from a position of confidence, trusting his wits. it’s the unknown, but there’s no fear. confidence!
–mind control, weird spores, nutty alien rituals, stuff that carves to the core of the human psyche (your animal mind is essential for command!; the human half and the vulcan half constantly at war, but intellect wins over both!). personality and character revealed through heart-wrenching exchanges of mind into alternate body.
that’s my vote for the real essence of trek.
Mr. Orci
I’m sure your story will be great. Heck, Nimoy said it was outstanding!
All I would like to see is something that feels like it took place when TOS occured. Something that resembles TOS themes, sets and special effects. it doesn’t need to be exact, it just needs to resemble TOS. Now, the Enterprise exterior…don’t touch that. :-)
Thank you, Sir
Hey Roberto:
Even more than having Shatner back as Kirk. I would like to have a shout out to me (well known super fan VOODOO) somewhere in the film.
There is a crisp $20 bill with your name on it if you can get it done.
#76 “some half-baked bring back Shatner as Kirk scenario that really won’t appeal to anyone but a few diehard fanboys.”
I keep hearing this line and how bringing back Kirk will only appeal to a few diehard fanboys. If it were a half-baked poorly written appearance than I agree. Only “fanboys” would like it.
But it seems from what I have been reading that a well written back story that furthers the plot and brings back Shatner as Kirk is what most people want to see.
Oh, and the Generations script was “already done” a number of times before that movie debuted. But you already knew that.
I’m thinking it’s gonna take place shortly before the events of Where No Man Has Gone Before (like six months to a year before). The uniforms and sets were quite primitive. I’d rather see a better look to both, than to stubbornly stick with those looks. I don’t think they’re going to spend all that money on the movie to make it look as cheap as it did in the 2nd pilot. SOOO…. a “reboot” of the look of everything would be best, I think–but with stylistic tributes to the original look.
But of course, I’m sure nobody has real strong opinions about any of this. ;)
I think it’s safe to say please bring back William Shatner as Kirk, post Generations.
Xai:
Didn’t J.J. Abrams himself just say (not even a week ago) that they are doing everything they can to find a role for Shatner?
People in here are not making this up.
I would start to worry when they announce the new Kirk + Shatner is not mentioned.
Until then I will take Abrams at his word.
Also, get off your high horse. Star Trek isn’t Citizen Kane. It has no credibility. These are comic book characters for god’s sake. If you want fine art go rent a Bergman film.
We all know you don’t want Shatner back, but it seems you are in the minority.
#78
:-)
Many of your posts seem to come right out of an episode of “The Paper Chase” as well.
I may be one of the few people who may not care one way or another if Shatner is in this movie. I think it would great if Shatner were in it, but I think I would still enjoy the film if it were good & he still didn’t appear in it. I still don’t think this movie will be used to un-do the events of Generations if it is also meant to bring in new audiences.
#85 “People in here are not making this up.”
LOL
How funny!
If possible keep the classic design of the Big E. Recreate all of the original sets but dress them up just a little to make them appear more modern. Also show us some parts of ship we have never seen before like the bowling alley or extend the engineering set more to reveal a whole other section.
Keep the bridge as close to the original as possible!!!
I hope we see a bad ass Captain Kirk. Not some punk kid like Anakin in Star Wars episode 2. Use this philosophy: “Once a bad ass always a bad ass.”
Live long and Prosper!!
Roberto, here’s what’s important to this (41 year old) fan: capture the spirit of Trek, and try not to violate the characteristics and principles of the original main characters. **Do not** feel constrained by canon. Use it only as guidance to help shape YOUR version. Not just for this movie, but the NEXT 10 movies! I don’t want you or future creators to feel so constrained by what’s come before. Lay the foundation for the next 40 years, that’s job enough.
That’s it, for me. It’s not important if Nimoy and Shatner are in it. It’s not important if you say something takes place in 2208 and “canon” says 2207. I don’t care about shirts or sets. Give us an Enterprise that **reflects** the original as opposed to a pixel perfect recreation of a model built in the 60s. Have fun with Trek. Make us have fun with it. LOTS of fun with it. Let my mother (a casual fan) have fun with it.
No insult intended to other fans, but if you (Roberto & Co) try to squeeze everything to fit “canon”, you will fail. You’ll still do something that makes someone unhappy, so don’t bother. I trust your creds. You’re not going to mock Trek and give us a campy “Brady Bunch Movie” experience, or ignore it completely like Sony did with Godzilla in 1998.
I hope you get my drift. Take the best elements of TOS, reimagine it in such a way that it appeals to the original Trek generation as well as the, um, next. That’s a heckuva challenge, and I suspect you guys wouldn’t take it on if you weren’t ready to face it. GOOD LUCK!
As a serious fan, I don’t want to sit through endless charicter establishment. I know who Kirk is. I know who Spock is. Tell me something I don’t know about them.
And I can accept a refit Enterprise explaination, since this is Pre-TOS. Make it look cool. The Refit Enterprise has always been one of my favorites.
My not-particularly-noteworthy suggestions…
Remember continuity, but don’t be a slave to it. There are hardcore fans that insist Pike can’t be in the movie because Kirk said he only met Pike when he was promoted to Fleet Admiral, or something like that. That’s going overboard, I think. I, for one, don’t mind if Pike makes a cameo appearance, handing over command to Kirk.
Give Gary Mitchell a cameo appearance early in the movie (assuming the movie starts with Kirk taking command of the Enterprise) but have him leave the Enterprise on temporary assignment (he can make some remark about leaving Kirk stuck with a Vulcan XO), that gets him out of the way for the Kirk/Spock friendship to grow, but doesn’t wreck continuity with “Where No Man Has Gone Before”.
The Enterprise should look familiar, but not identical to the 1960s ship. Saucer, nacelles, secondary hull. The devil is in the details… the movie Enterprise was a fantastic miniature, the only thing it really lacked was the glowing engine nacelle caps. A cross between the TV and movie Enterprises would be best… how about glowing nacelles as well as the glowing deflector dish (get rid of that silly radar antenna of the ’60s.) Let the new guys give it their own touch, but not so extreme as what their contemporaries did to the new “Galactica” (which looks dull and sterile, in my opinion.)
I like the idea (suggested above) of the movie being bookended by Spock learning of Kirk’s death (in the Enterprise-B or TNG era, whichever) and remembering how he first met Kirk. Perhaps a big Starfleet memorial ceremony, with Kirk getting a marker at Starfleet Academy (similar to famous graduates buried at West Point.) Maybe Shatner could appear in a recorded message for Spock that was to be delivered after his death, a’la “The Tholian Web” (he could make an in-joke about “I hope you watched this THIS TIME!”).
And move up the release date a week or so. Has there ever been a blockbuster movie that opened on Christmas Day? I’m a big Trek fan, but I’m not sure I can get away with going to see a movie on December 25, but I sure want to be in line on opening day. Aim for Dec 18-20, like the Lord of the Rings movies.
I like the idea of a series of five movies, each one set in one year of the Five Year Mission. That would make the first movie “YEAR ONE”. Everyone knows the famous narration and the Five Year Mission, so each movie’s setting would be self-explanatory. Later movies could begin with a short action sequence, recreating the finale of one of the more famous episodes, like the space amoeba or the Doomsday Machine, before going on to a “new episode” we’ve never seen before.
Robert Orci is kinda hot.
Robert Orci as Kirk!
Star Trek is 79 episodes and six movies….for me. (…and a few more from some of the newer series, too).
So, Kirk’s not dead. In my world, Kirk never died. And he’s going to have some classic scenes with his good friend and contemporary, old Spock….
What a way to pass the baton from Classic Series Star Trek to new Star Trek.
69. Ivory -
I would like to take the death of a character very seriously….but unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be possible. What emotional investment is there if we just bring them back from the dead? Sorry, but I don’t think the whole resurrection of Spock helped Trek in any way. Nimoy was short sighted for having killed the character in the first place. Everyone dies, and Kirk should be no different.
I lost my father back in December, and no matter how hard I wish…he’s not coming back. I personally feel that bringing characters back from the dead is cheap and insulting to the viewer. It’s an easy out. It’s far harder to actually move forward and just DEAL with it.
I agree with many posts, that you can not be a slave to cannon, but instead must respect cannon and not go out of your way to contradict it. I like a good story as well and can over look cannon, if the story is good and engaging. No matter what happens with this movie many will not like it because it was either to “camp” or to “modern” or it to a degree changed “cannon” some wont enjoy for a Space Adventure. As for Shatner, I respect the character of Kirk and how he played it, do I want him in the movie? I honestly don’t care, some seem to believe Shatner to be a god, I don’t, he is just one actor of many who started the great franchise many of the other seem to get over looked, note this is my opinion.
Again I agree with some of the people here, a cross between TOS and TMP/TWOK sets and ship design would be great to see or even a cross between ENT/TOS, would maybe make slightly more sense. But either way I personaly doubt we will see the color scheme of the TOS episodes. Don’t bring in the sonar dish, have the glowing deflector, and as for the Nacel caps…you better get that right or there will be hell to pay! Just ask CBS Digital! In closing, go with your gut, give us a movie that will capture and engage us.
95. New Horizon - July 31, 2007 - Re: Kirks Death. I fully agree, it is a very cheap and easy way. But I don’t think they will ignore Generations.
#85 Ivory
I have no horse, high or otherwise. You read alot into my words that aren’t there, so calm down.
You said
“Didn’t J.J. Abrams himself just say (not even a week ago) that they are doing everything they can to find a role for Shatner?”
Yes he did… but that doesn’t mean it’s a lock. I do allow that it could go either way, but the fact he wasn’t present on the stage at ComicCon didn’t look good. I suspect they can’t get together on dollars or maybe screentime. I don’t know.
you said
“People in here are not making this up.”
I’m sorry, but…huh?… making what up?
You said…
“I would start to worry when they announce the new Kirk + Shatner is not mentioned.”
Fine… I was just pointing out a possibility in my opinion.
“Until then I will take Abrams at his word.”
Glad to hear it…too many people on this site were over-reacting to rumors recently and flamed the writers, JJ, Berman and anyone they could think of that would keep their ideals from being seen on the silver screen.
You said..
“We all know you don’t want Shatner back, but it seems you are in the minority.”
You assume alot about me. If you have actually read what I’ve typed, several times in several posts… you’d know that I don’t care one way or another. I want a good story. If he helps it, fine.. if not, don’t bother. I’m going either way.
I wasn’t on the attack in my post as you assumed… I was pointing out that it may not happen.
Perhaps you need to go feed your own horse.
Mr. Orci–
I hope you and everyone else are having fun getting all of us worked up over here! First, the great announcement at Comic Con and now you showing up here at Trek Movie Report? Fantastic!
Ok, here’s my brief wishlist: Green slave girls, bongos in the theme song, non-ridged Klingons AND red railings on the bridge. Oh, and for you and anyone else from “Star Trek” (2008) to drop by and make our collective day! Thanks!
Long time lurker. First time poster
I agree with whoever said the film should have the epic feel of TMP and the emotion of TWOK.
I would have to agree with the people who would like to see William Shatner return as Kirk.
#79 Neal
I got so excited reading your description of what the essence of Star Trek should be I…I…guhh………hey, anybody got a cigarette??
Ok…Here is MY opinion. I’m Excited about the new film. I want it to continue, and expand on, the adventures of TOS era Trek. Having said that, let me say this. I want Shatner, Nimoy, Nichols, Takei and any other recognizable Trek veteran in the movie. Why? Because this will be the LAST chance to get these people together…We’ve lost De Kelly, and James Doohan, lets not BLOW the LAST real opportunity we have to see our treasured cast one last time!
#54
A first draft is written, but we don’t think a script is ever done, even after it’s shot (the editing room is another forum for adding what we all want). We wrote it with enough flexibility to take other opinions into account, so don’t feel like it is pointless to chime in.
Your preferences are noted.
wnmhgb airs this weekend. tell scott not too modern or communicators would have video feeds, one thing that you can change if the clues tell us its 1225.08 is put Spock in his familiar Blue Shirt. hope your flashforwards to Nimoy’s Spock are done in the vain of Shatner’s flashbacks in Captains Peril. If you do have the Farragut (Shatner’s Ashes to Eden has a discription of that scene with the Vampire Cloud) good luck
Please bring back Captain James T. Kirk post Generations. I beg you.
#89 T Negative “show us some parts of ship we have never seen before like the bowling alley”
Hey, what the f….who let this guy in? Orci’s looking for input and this pinhead’s pitching bowling alleys!! I’m in the Fifth Ring Of Hell!!!!!!
I want to know how you guys could possibly write a script that’s so much cooler than what the fanboys here could dream up. I don’t think anyone here has nailed what this film has in store for us.
#103 Roberto Orci
Thanks for responding. I stand corrected, and as I said earlier, thanks in advance for the work you have all done.
X
Hello there Mr.Orci. I had no idea you were actually going to post! Welcome.
As a VFX guru I would like to chime in on that point. I would hope that your teams make use of the most cutting edge software apps that Linux has to offer! Things would go much smoother, giving you guys more time to focus on other duties.
More to come.
Take care,
Sean Burns
“Sean4000″
#103 Roberto Orci
… and now about that little scene in Iowa at the beginning of the movie. I have this friend, Orbitalic, that has written a great opener and I know just the place to film it….
;-)
Thanks again,
X
Xai….tsk, tsk, tsk…..are we selling something?
I was telling my 12 year old son yesterday that the writers of the Transformers movie were writing the new Star trek movie and he got very excited and said ‘That movie was great…the new Star Trek movie is gonna be AWSOME!…’ I think that if the new movie can be fun for a new generation and have elements of the old guard ( original cast members ) to interest the original trekkies..the film will be a HUGE Box office winner!!
103. Roberto Orci
Have you looked at actor Jesse Lee Soffer (Will Munson) on the CBS soap “As the World Turns” as Kirk? Pretty strong resemblance to The Shat.
And yes, please have Shatner in the film post Generations as Kirk, too.
#111 harry
>.. hardly, I am having fun!
If Mr. Orci is interested at all, I know Orbitalic will offer his opener for free and I do know a good spot in Iowa to film the opener that Orby envisions… and that locale suggestion is free as well.
I just get a kick that I got a response from one of the writers!
What fun!
X
#106
I believe that the original blueprints or tech manual to TOS had a bowling alley.
MR. ORCI,
Thank you for joining us. My feelings on this matter are best encapsulated by what # 69 Ivory stated. The FUN and the POSITIVITY of having Shatner in this film as Kirk should easily outweigh any reservations you have about the character being “dead”. Shatner himself very satisfyingly brought Kirk back in a series of novels; you guys can explain his resurrection in a movie tie-in such as a novel or comic book if you don’t wish to waste precious screentime. I also agree with whoever said that Shatner without Nimoy in Generations felt half-baked. These 2 icons are a CLASSIC SCREEN DUO, similar to what the great Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau were to the genre of comedy!
YOU have a chance to right a depressing wrong and bring a happy ending to one of the most beloved characters in sci-fi. Don’t let it pass. Recall the joyous ending of Star Trek III, when Spock lived again and rejoined his friends. The ending of that film left fans shedding tears of pure happiness! Your film should mirror that.
Be known as the man who brought back back William Shatner as Kirk!This is likely the last chance anyone will have. Live long and prosper.
#114 Xai
I know (that you’re kidding), but seriously, while you’ve got Orci’s ear, push the “red railings” thing, willya? There’s a pal!
Re: 115
Yes, and they’re even mentioned in Alan Dean Foster’s book adaptations of TAS! That doesn’t mean I really need to _see_ the bowling alley, though…
I mean, isn’t it high time we saw what the toilets look like in the future, instead?
#118 Sleeper
Well, there’s this tube thing….
LOL
maybe they just transport the…. ummm, you know… out?
#118
:-)
Roberto:
My offer of $20 is still on the table if I get some type of mention in ST XI.
All kidding aside is there any chance of you guys making a lot of long time fans happy + putting Shatner in the film?
The entire nexus concept is so vague and poorly written surely there must be a way to give the character (who had the worst ending of any major fictional character ever)a more dignified ending.
I understand if you cannot answer.
ps: Best of luck to all you guys. I hope you make the best ST film ever and return the franchise to it’s glory days.
#119
As in “Scotty, beam the shit out of me!”????
Roberto,
J.J. Abrams whether simply to appease certain fans, or actively attempting to, stated you guys are working on inserting Shatner in the film.
No one has to remind yourself, Alex, or J.J. this will probably be the last occasion to have William Shatner in a Star Trek film. I along with many others strongly encourage you not to pass this oppurtunity.
I think this is one occasion where a majority consensus can say to hell with “canon.”
Simply insert Kirk/Shatner into the film and do not even address how and why he is in it. Prior to the release of the film some related marketing can be done to explain all of the nuts and bolts of how he has returned.
Just treat it as an event that has already occured. Then an official movie related comic book or graphic novel can go into all the details.
This is a tremendous oppurtunity to have Shatner and Nimoy together one final time.
Addendum:
I promise you, we WONT raise hell that a certain tidbit of Berman era continuity was thrown out the window.
It won’t be another Han shot first debacle. Put the man in the film and don’t even worry about that aspect of continuity.
This thread gives new meaning to “too many chefs in the kitchen.”
God help Orci, Kurtzman et al.
“et al” Ooooh, you’re GOOD!!!
Re 119:
Well, I guess now we know the real reason McCoy didn’t want to use the transporter… Ew.
A note on casting-
I must admit, I was actually bummed that Matt Damon doesn’t seem to be getting the role of Kirk,
however after the announcement of Zach Quinto as Spock, I think the notion of Damon as Kirk should be reconsidered.
Damon physically appears quite young, and you couldn’t ask for a better Kirk as far as the resemblance to Shatner, not to mention Damons penchance for self-assured smirks, his general demeanor, and charm.
I think Matt Damon would actually make a profound Kirk and he is a contemporary of Quinto in age and appearance.
If nothing, consider Damons built in audience that will manifest itself in box reciepts ;)
#125
Not really, when you take into account the overriding consensus that seems to be prevalent, it could be broken down into:
1. Bring back Shatner, to hell with canon
2. Maintain the spirit of Star Trek
3. Tell a good story
That really isn’t alot to request or hope for, is it?
#129- it works for me.
#22-
Mr. Orci. Always nice to chat with a fellow writer and professional. I hope your time here proves as fruitful as I suspect it will prove enlightening.
Re 129:
There’s no consensus on these boards! My own preferences regarding the new movie would be:
1. Tell a GREAT story
2. Do justice to the spirit of Star Trek
3. Shatner? Eh, if you can make it work well. If not, fuhgeddaboudit!
And I’m sure everybody else has their own lists of priorities.
Re 131:
Wow. Shadow6283 actually being polite for once. Although what was that about being a “fellow writer and professional”? Eh?!!
Greetings (and hi, Roberto)!
It all sounds pretty darn cool.
I don’t know if I have that much of a wish-list, but here’s what I hope for…
1] The Trek Universe is a wonderful place, and a new film that’s true to that world would be cool with me. Don’t be afraid of continuity, but don’t let it overwhelm you, either. One of the strongest Trek films, ironically, was the one that was a direct sequel to an episode, but it told its story on its own and did just fine.
2] I don’t think a cut-and-paste of TOS is either necessary or warranted, but I also think that many of the TOS sets could translate to modern versions stunningly well, because Matt Jefferies was just that good. :) By the same token, the movie may give us many opportunities to see things we haven’t before, and full opportunity should be taken to explore them and let the creativity flow.
3] Okay, yeah, I think the Enterprise is iconic, and shouldn’t be redesigned into something different. But just as we saw incredible detail on the TMP version, imagine how pretty the TOS version could look at the same level of detail. It could “look” very different while being essentially the same, and I bet folks who’ve not taken a look at Trek in a long time would be duly impressed
As for the babble about Trek being an embarrassment. Phfft! Tell a real story, with great characters that people can identify with, and Trek will be embarrassing for nobody.
And in the end, that’s the most we can ask. Here’s hoping for a really great film that makes its audience laugh and cry and enjoy the ride. And based on what I’ve seen and heard and read, I’m starting to get pretty optimistic.
Bring on Star Trek!
Best,
Alex
BRING BACK SHATNER!!!!!
#133-
I extend it to those who not only merit it, but who actually engage in the practice themselves on occasion. You’d be amazed at the results you’ll get, especially in dealing with people who differ not only in opinion, but philosophy, when you practice extending it yourself.
As for the “fellow writer and professional,” the terms are pretty much self-explanatory, I think. Let that suffice.
“fellow writer”?
As Dizzy Dean once observed, “it ain’t braggin’ if you can do it!”
Captain Kirk’s crusted, moldy, broken, battered corpse spirit says:
Help me Roberto Wan Orci ! You’re my only hope!
( Not having died helps also but……)
Hello Mr Orci!
I thought about what I wanted to see in the movie, but decided to keep it to myself. Since in the end, when I watch a movie, I want to be surprised by new ideas. I already know what my imagination can come up with, I want to see what you (and Mr Kurtzman) can do…
But I do feel I need to counter balance the “bring back Kirk!!!” issue.
I agree that Kirk got a bad death scene, and I would have liked it if he was brought back. I also know it’s tempting to succumb to the overwhelming fan pressure to bring him back. But, your movie shouldn’t pay for the “sins” of past movies. If you feel that including old Kirk in the movie doesn’t work then just leave him out. I doesn’t matter how much the fans will complain, if the movie’s good, all will be forgiven.
#137-
Mr. Orci, it just gets better from here on in. Trust me.;)
If it’s an older Spock, eg. TNG era or so, why not a holographic Captain Kirk talking with him? (hint, hint!)
Actually, damn that idea. I want a flesh-and-blood Kirk!!!
I wasn’t for Shatner being in this originally, not because of continuity, but mostly for how much a joke hes become, but now I agree having him be in this would be good if only to get the stank of Berman off of Star Trek.
So I have to ask one question some one anyone can ask it please please explain to my why so many need to see GAry Marshall in this fil? WHY!!? WHY? WHy!!!!?????!!
(Mr Orci kudos to you for being brave enough to handle the many fans of Star Trek…I know we are not an easy crowd to please….)
Until next time. \\//_
I think Star Trek should be done like a period movie: as close as possible to a 60’s aesthetic, in movie making style, costumes, music, etc., but of course take advantage of the expanded budget and SFX capabilities. DO NOT REIMAGINE! Why bother doing Star Trek if you are going to change everything?
As far as Kirk coming back, I don’t think he should have ever died. Bring him back alive. You don’t have to say how. How to put him in and/or Spock in without some contrivance like Generations? It may be best for to start out as an interview of Kirk and Spock for historical research, or some event triggering a reminescence, or whatever.
Give Shatner and Nimoy a chance to ad lib as Kirk and Spock. (Interviewer asks Kirk “Didn’t you die?” Kirk says “I got better.”, he does a double take at Spock. Spock raises his eyebrows, glances away. Kirk (to Spock): “Thanks again, by the way.” Spock: “You’re welcome. It was the least I could do.”)
Just please, NO TIME TRAVEL.
Make it entertaining while keeping it in the tradtion and story continuity of Star Trek the original series. Make it a big sweeping epic adventure and give it meaning.
I bet Orci is going huh?! with all this Gary Mitchell, USS Farragut stuff. Would be very suprised if he even knows or cares about the backstories as described and seen on the show
My two cents: I don’t want the sets, uniforms and ship exterior to look exactly the same as in the series, myself. The set designer can feel free to not do the bridge in an “In Living Color!” style, and I’d really like it if the uniforms were not brightly-coloured velour tops. And it doesn’t matter to me at all whether the nacelles are pointy or not.
As everybody is posting suggestions for the new movie and hopes that Mr. Orci is reading and considering them, I will join in :)
William Shatner needs to be in the movie as Captain Kirk post-Generations. He needs to be resurrected.
My proposal: An enemy from the past is threatening the Federation in the 24th century. An enemy Kirk and Spock encountered during their first mission and whom they thought defeated. During some kind of mind-meld between him, Kirk and Spock back then, this enemy can only be defeated by Kirk and Spock. But Kirk is dead. So Spock embarks on a journey to find a way to resurrect his old friend. During this journey he tells the story of how he and Kirk met and what happened during their first mission to cause this dilemma. Maybe during their first mission they visited a planet, on which one person can be brought back to life every 100 years or so when certain planets align or by an ancient computer that needs the cause of the resurrection explained to it and only if it sees it as worthy, it does it (that would be in the tradition of the old TOS-series where Kirk and Co. encountered such machines now and then). This enemy wanted to resurrect his dead wife or child there, but Kirk brought someone dear to him or dear to Spock back to life before him. A battle ensued during which Kirk and Spock thought this enemy to be defeated. Back in the 24th century, Spock reaches this planet again and resurrects Kirk. Together they defeat this enemy once and for all and together they ride of into the sunset…
I think that this way, fans would get back Kirk without removing the focus from the “flashback”-story. Shatner and Nimoy wouldn’t even have that much screen-time and it would still be worthy of them…
Maybe this enemy tries to go back in time to stop young Kirk from resurrecting the person so that he can resurrect his child/wife. But by doing so, by killing Kirk back then, he would alter the timeline and destroy the future. So in the end, “old” Kirk and Spock have to travel back in time, too, to save their younger selfs and the future…
Time travel is a very popular story-device for casual movie-goers ;)
With this storyline no one needs to know how or when Kirk died or even who Kirk is. The casual movie-goer just needs to know that someone named Kirk is dead in the 24th century and has to be brought back to life by his friend Spock to save the world. The Star Trek-fans would have more knowledge - about Kirks death etc. - and would have a different experience…
I think this movie needs William Shatner as I believe that if the name William Shatner as Captain Kirk is attached to this movie, more people - those who haven’t watched a Star Trek movie for a long time and still remember Shatner as Kirk - will come and see it.
Trektacular, I think that’s unfair - sure, it’s difficult to know every last detail of Star Trek but I think if he’s taking the time to come here and read our comments then you can count on him to have a lot of time for the details.
Which leads me to really one of my only hopes for the film - respect all previous canon (or as much as possible if the story really demands it).. Someone gave an example of “I don’t mind if you say an event happened in 2208 and canon says 2207″ - well I feel the opposite in that such a small detail like that can be easily researched and to not do so just seems like laziness considering all the money involved. Hell, set me up with a paycheck from Paramount, a copy of the script and a gagging order and I’ll watch all Star Trek from start to finish for you and make certain that the little things that will give Trek fans opportunities to bitch are solved - but I’m sure someone’s already got that job!
Also, since Abrams was saying that you’re trying to find a way for Shatner to appear, I did have a thought that the best way would be for Spock to be on his deathbed and Shatner to appear as a vision of Kirk rather than flesh & blood Kirk - although then you’ve got to worry about killing off Spock as well, and you can see how bitter some of these people remain about Generations….
Casting Suggestion for Kirk
Jacob Young from All My Children
12. Ozy - July 31, 2007 Star trek canon is great. Don’t change anything (only add something new )
Agreed!!!!
first
Dear JJ and Roberto Orci,
Pre-TOS Means:
1. Shatner as Kirk plus young Kirk (who was absolutely grim and a stack of books with legs) (I believe Kirk was spoken about in WNMHGB as an upper classman of Gary Mitchell)
2. Nimoy as Spock plus young Spock (Quinto) (hiding his emotions of his falling out with Sarak as he chose Starfleet Academy over Vulcan Science education (Journey to Babel)
3. Gary Mitchell (WNMHGB), he could introduce Ruth (little blond lab technician) to Kirk
4. Finnegan (Shore Leave) academy days upper classman bully
5. Ruth (Shore Leave) Kirk’s major love interest of his youth, NOT Carol Marcus who was later.
6. Captain Pike (The Cage)(change of command to Kirk)
7. Captain Robert M. April (TAS) turned over Enterprise (Yorktown) to Pike
8. NCC-1701 Enterprise, pilot version with spikes on nacelle caps, large deflector dish, exhaust vents on engines, tall bridge dome on saucer, lots of hull markings. The Enterprise was a concrete gray (greenish/gray) color.
Tie these people, places and things together and you have the core canon from which to build a story.
Let’s look at this ….logically.
Shatner as Kirk shouldn’t be in the film merely to right the wrong of ‘Generations,’ or to appease a certain segment of fandom.
Rather, if you are doing a film about the young Kirk and Spock, and you have an elder Spock somewhere in the mix, it only stands to reason the older Kirk be included as well. One of the faults of ‘Generations’ and the episode ‘Unification’ was the other missing crucial element in the dynamic. In the case of ‘Generations’ Spock was missing, and ‘Unification’ Kirk was missing.
It was deliberately decided during the birth pangs of Trek that the duo of Kirk and Spock would be written to compliment and play off one another, so that when you think of one, you think of the other.
In actuality, they are two sides to one single character, with ‘Bones’ to a lesser degree completing that character.
Neither character alone is as interesting or engaging as they are together. The rapport Shatner and Nimoy have is pure joy for writers and an audience.
It is actually a severe disservice to both characters, to have one missing, especially in a film focusing on these two characters exploits and coming together.
It’s beyond an urgency to include Shatner given the scenario of the type of film we are apparently getting, indeed it would be a crime NOT to include Shatner.
Spock’s Kirk’s best mate. He wouldn’t leave him in the nexus, missing in action. Reminscing about a past adventure whilst leaving his friend in limbo, however practical for a plot; just doesn’t fit with the characters we know and what they do for and feel for each other.
An article years ago said “Kirk risked everything and lost the Enterprise, his son, and his rank saving his best friend. Spock didn’t even take a tricorder reading of the nexus.”
It will still be somewhat of a downer seeing a young Kirk knowing what happens to the character in the future. Shatner as Kirk can remedy that. I think you know what this fan wants lol
Aside from the Shatner issue: I would love to see the original score in the movie somewhere. Perhaps like as happened in Bond with Daniel Craig, save it til the key moment maybe later in the movie (or wherever it happens) when Kirk gets the Enterprise or first sees it. That theme is as synonymous with Trek as the Starship Enterprise.
Grunberg: redshirt. Definitely :D
Wishlist:
Eradicate this ridiculous idea of a recast and give us a proper Post-NEMESIS storyline!
What I’d like to see. Is getting the look of the TOS era right. That doesn’t mean it has to look ’60s of course. The bridge of the Enterprise and the uniforms from the Cage look more timeless than what followed IMO:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/Anarchist/TOSTheCage4.jpg
#155 Exactly. When Spock was resurrected in Star Trek 3, he asked Kirk why he did it. Kirk responded: “You would have done the same for me.”
Now is the chance. Let Spock do it for him.
btw Mr Orci, a very warm welcome to the board :)
Oh dear god. This is the guy who wrote Transformers? I have a bad feeling about this.
I would just like to start by saying how amazing it is to have Roberto Orci coming on here to read the posts, and personally address them. This is something that means a lot to me in particular, taking time to be with the public and not insulated from them, doing what you want and not having regard for the fans. It goes a long way doing this, and its genuine.
What I want to see from the movie is the sense of wonder that I had when I first saw TOS (for me, the first episode I ever saw was the 1980’s video release of “Space Seed” - the one in that sky blue/grey box from Paramount - Gateway Video, had the trailer for TWOK before it)
Of course, I would like to see Shatner in the film, but it’s not a necessity. Just bring us back to a time when we could be taught a lesson in morals or how to be better people now to ensure that future will happen, but do it in a way that we were taught it through a hell of a great adventure.
Don’t hit us over the head with the lesson, we’ll get it through the ride we take on the way.
If we’re in the TOS period, which is my favorite, don’t make it so that you have to throw everyone who has a link to the crew in there, but if you find spots to give us a taste of some of them, that would be cool! If you could find spots for folks like Pike and those who had impact on our characters before heading off on their five-year mission, that would be great!
Bottom line, the feeling I would like to come away with is like the scene at the end of the TNG episode where Picard goes home - I think its called “Homecoming” - when you see Picard’s nephew outside, lying against a tree, looking up at the stars and wondering. That, in a nutshell, is Star Trek.
Dear Mr. Orci,
Another fan joining in to welcome you to the boards. I know that I am very excited and am eagerly anticipating the new film. I have never seen anything you have written (at least, not that I recall) or that Mr. Abrams has produced/directed, but I am most impressed with what I have seen in interviews and other snippets at this site.
I’ll keep my suggestions simple…
I love Star Trek. I have loved it since I saw my first episode of the Animated series on Nickelodeon in the mid 1980’s. I watched the episodes, read the novels and comics, dressed in the costumes, and even converted my room into my own Captain’s Cabin.
Now, as I have aged, I still find Star Trek as timeless as ever. I find it to be inspiring and informative, heck… I even work it into sermons from time to time.
If your new production can inspire the imaginations of the youth, and influence the perceptions of adults towards a more just, positive future for mankind, then you will have captured the essence of Star Trek, and you will have made this fan proud.
Sure, I have my preferences about a reboot (in favor), costumes and sets (Dennis Bailey of this board came up with some kick-butt TOS uniforms a few years back on the Trek BBS), and who should be in and out of the movie… but in the end, what I care about most is the imagination behind it.
Thanks for reviving my imagination with the anticipation of what is to come.
Stardate 12.25.08 looms ever closer… the adventure is just beginning!
Rob+
Kirk must return.
His death is the low point of Star Trek
Is it Or-see or Orkee by the way?
What about a scene showing Captain Pike handing over the 1701 to Captain Kirk? Pike could be taking Kirk up to the 1701 in a shuttle and do a flyby scene, maybe not as long as the one TMP. Then have the shuttle go into the shuttlebay where the Enterprise crew would be to see their new Captain take over and be wondering if this new Captain will be as good as Pike?
Maybe I’m not thinking straight but, um, shouldn’t they have done this sooner? As in “ask the fans what they’d love to see?” It’s August ‘07, the film opens December of next year! I would have thought they would want at LEAST two years to put this together from final script phase… Anyone?
#155 “Kirk risked everything and lost the Enterprise, his son, and his rank saving his best friend. Spock didn’t even take a tricorder reading of the nexus.”
Great point.
#167
I suspect they have been visiting this site from its inception and are well aware of our views.
Whole Fried Chickens (4)
Coke (1)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anal_retentive
hey Roberto - i’m so fuking pumped to see this film..i cant frickin wait.
i gotta go eat something now….
I say screw the fans.. If they try to adhere to too much fanspeak, they’re gonna get bogged down in making the fandom happy and not get the big picture. If there is one fan they need to listen to its Gene Roddenberry. I’m not trying to minimize the fan, I’m just saying that they need to surround themselves with their peers who are trek fans and that should be sufficient. Too many cooks in the kitchen makes for bad soup.
173 i wouldnt discourage fan input too much. Michael Piller, god rest his soul, was one who recognised the merit of those watching the show and successfully made sure fans could send in scripts. Ron Moore is someone who started as a fan submitting spec scripts.
When Piller left Trek so did the open submission policy and the quality of a lot of inhouse scripts with him.
Mr. Orci,
I would request a return to Star Trek’s science fiction roots. A compelling, exciting science fiction story that just so happened to star the characters of Roddenberry’s universe is what the franchise needs. After all, though it was an excellent movie, Wrath of Kahn was only a single incident and it was not even Roddenberry’s.
Think more along the line of the classic epsiode- Devil in the Dark, Errand of Mercy, Tholian Web, Doomday Weapon. All of those were character driven, very exciting- and thought provoking. Science needs to return to Star Trek in the worst possible way.
The movie franchise has produced a series of great films (I liked every one of them), but since TWOK and Roddenberry’s passing the producers of the movies and the shows (DS9, VOY, and ENT) have taken Star Trek out of the scioence fiction and into either noisy action films or soap opera. While those things have their place as elements in Star Trek, they are suffocating it now. It has become its own genre, and a very limited one as far as stories told and audience watching.
Roddenberry wanted Star Trek to be science fiction first and anything else second. That’s why he pursued scripts from major sci fi authors. People seem to think that he was all social commentary- but such is only soft sci fi. There was a lot of hard sci fi as well. (Oh, and by the way, in case you’vce seen Voyager: technobabble does not qualify as science.) Science fiction is a fertile, unlimited genre because science is always expanding and exploring. Action and soap opera are pretty much tapped out. There are only so many ways to fall in love or blow things up.
Rant aside:
1) Bring back Shatner, and if you can, fix Kirk’s death. Generations was a horribly disappointing film for the fans of TOS. Kirk should die on the bridge of his ship, in action, saving us all. That is what Kirk does.
2) Use the characters of “Where No Man Has Gone Before” and “The Cage.” Don’t force characters of later episodes and don’t invent a bunch of new characters to clutter up the already cluttered continuity. Explore the characters that exist. Gary Mitchell would be especially welcome.
3) No time travel. Time travel has been done to death in recent Star Trek. It has become the only science left in the franchise- and its the weakest science of all. There’s still plenty of other things to do beside bloody time travel.
4) Think long term. I would hate for this movie to be a one shot. Plan a trilogy. Everyone else is doing, so why can’t Star Trek?
5) Just to emphasize: go out and read some Arthur C. Clarke (especially Rendezvous with Rama), Isaac Asimov, Greg Bear, Robert Heinlein, Larry Niven, William Gibson, Ben Bova, David Brin, Gregory Benford, John W. Campbell- any of them! That is science fiction. That is where Star Trek needs to live. That is where Roddenberry got his whole vision from. Return Star Trek to science fiction. Give the franchise back its future.
Thank you for working on this movie and for taking the time to listen to all of here. Thanks to Abrams and the whole crew for making Star Trek the object of excitement again instead of scorn. Good luck to all of you!
#153 Bryan-
JJ & Mr. Ocri, READ HIS POST.
He GETS IT!!
Add to it NO black collars on uniform tunics and each starship having it’s own logo.
Since the film is set BEFORE the series, the visual template that should be used is the one from “The Cage.” (with appropriate and non-distracting updates.)
Using anything OTHER than this look would be a set-up for endless criticism for ignoring the established and VERY well known history of Trek.
If Arthur Conan Doyle, who came to HATE writing the Sherlock Holmes stories and killed him off, could be compelled to bring him back from the dead, then surely Paramount Pictures can be “encouraged” to do no less for Captain James T. Kirk!!
Wasn’t Kirk the guy who got an award for creative thinking? So, please, use your brains to boldly come full circle and fix the disastrous error which has been made in “Generations”. Let us see Spock fulfil his duty and his friendship and save his captain, at last. I am sure you will be able to create a story we can re-enact in our minds and our hearts, a story which embraces the past and the future by giving us a chance to learn more of a part of the storyline we do not know much of yet and by giving us back the most vital and indispensable core figure of Star Trek.
Hey, re-boot or not? Gives a real answer already! ;)
Re 137:
True enough, Harry! IF you can do it! I’m just surprised because up until this point Shadow has hardly acted professionally, nor have his posts been particularly well-written.
But if we see a sudden dramatic upsurge in both professionalism and writing quality from this point on from Shadow, hey, I’m all for it!
#160
DON’T WORRY.
No masturbation jokes or golden showers in Trek!
On second thought…
#165
It’s Or-see
#167
Correct.
To all:
Thanks for the warm welcome. I’ve read every post word for word and we thank you for the time. Since we are still 17 months away, we must be careful not to wear each other out, so we’ll be back near the end of August for another more proper chat.
Take care…
With the script written, this point may be moot. Everyone who loves Star Trek knows this, but it seems like no one ever says it specifically. There are two things that really MADE Star Trek, regardless of the costumes, special effects, aliens, ships or whatnot. First, it was the relationship between the characters, primarily Kirk, Spock and McCoy. The conmaraderie, friendship, loyalty and family feeling is what made it. Second, it was the exploration of and what it means to be human, which was best seen through the eyes of Spock and later, Data. That is why the best episodes are not, in my opinion, the fast-paced, action packed, special effects laden ones, but the quieter, character driven ones. Best example: the best episode of TNG is “The Inner Light.” These are the things they got away from in the later series, which made them inferior. These are the things the new gang should be focusing on.
Hey Bob….thanks again for dropping in and taking a big dose of fan wishlists. Hopefully this first round gave you something helpful or at least was entertaining. I know we all look forward to more dialogue.
Re: 182
Well said, Steve. If the new movie has the qualities you mention, Star Trek XI will be remembered as a classic, regardless of whether or not Shatner is in the movie.
#183
LOL Anthony, you are really doing something special here. Your mom SHOULD be proud of you!
Some great posts being made here, especially by 148. Admiral_Bumblebee, 154. Josh T. and 155. dalek.
Josh T. hit it on the head when he said “the duo of Kirk and Spock compliment and play off one another, so that when you think of one, you think of the other.” Let’s have Shatner back as Kirk one last time, and kick off this new chapter in Star Trek history right, Orci! You are well aware that we on this site only represent a small percentage of the ticket buying public. And look how many of us want Shatner back! His return would play BIG to the general public.
You are in a unique position, Orci; you have a chance to make history and restore a lot of goodwill and hapiness in the process. Don’t believe in the no-win scenario, my friend! Bring back Kirk.
Re 181:
Thanks for stopping by, Roberto! We’ll see you again at the end of August!
And special thanks to Anthony as well, for helping make this happen!
But Roberto (or can we call ya Bob?) -
If there are no golden showers in Trek, what will you use for a transporter effect?
(no, wait, you mean the other kind of golden shower? Nevermind…)
Thanks Roberto really great of you dropping in!
I would love a very cool, retro look. Since Nimoy is in this, AS Spock, the looks should be similar to the progression we saw in the series, from The Cage to the series, to the movies. This earlier era should not resemble the movie era. Make it retro, make the sets larger, with modern production techniques, make them from fiberglass, brushed aluminum. There is nothing wrong with the design they simply need some spit and polish. With Nimoy in this…as Spock….you shouldn’t turn the retro bridge into something that belongs on a death star. It’s Star Trek, old school, keep it that way. Besides, retro is in, retro is cool. Less is more. Keep it simple with clean lines and give us somethign that looks like it belongs in Trek’s adventurous early years. No hotels in space, no comfortable plush chairs, no 24th century sensibilities cluttering things up. Oh yeah, color, lots of color…no more washed out digitally corrected tints (I’m so tired of that) And if you want those colors to really pop….film it in old school 3 strip technicolor. That’ll really get eyes open…these kids today wouldn’t know what hit em.
I think the ENTERPRISE mirror universe 2 parter showed that you can have the sets etc from the old show now…and they look good…
Re: 181 - very classy
wow Roberto Orci was here?
First James Cawley now R Orci
wow just wow - what a fuking site!
who next…Shatner?
thanks Snake…and I am sure that James (who I also got a chance to hang with at Comic Con) would be happy to see you list him along with Bob….but dont forget our other regulars like Daren Dochterman, Mark Altman, Rick Sternbach and Dennis Bailey…and the many other writers and contributors.
#180-
What Harry said, huh?
Biblical scripture, too, I suppose?
Enjoy the ride.
Mr. Orci,
Thank you for taking the time to listen to the fans. I love TOS like crazy. Like so many of us, I get chills every time I see the tricorder screen de-scramble images of history in that little motel room in City On the Edge of Forever. The hair stands up on the back of my neck when I hear Kirk say “Gentlemen… beam me aboard…” in The Doomsday Machine. These are powerful moments filled with drama and suspense. I cannot wait until Christmas 2008.
Here is my two cents on the elements I feel most needed to make this thing truly fly:
• Story = job #1
• Update, alter as you may, but stay true to the visual essense of TOS
• Give us a true sense of adventure (stunning alien worlds, eerieness, sense of wonder)
• Exploit Kirk’s cleverness (i.e; Corbomite Manuever)
• The bond between Kirk and Spock (chemistry)
• Drama (high stakes threat)
• Fun/humor
• Beautiful cinematography (wheatfield scene in the orig. Superman)
• Killer score
• Action (8 minutes hovering around the Enterprise, no matter how beautiful, does not hold most people’s interest)
• Breakthrough FX
These are the things I think most of us want to see, regardless of whether the costumes or sets are done a certain way. Hit these and you will have an awesome reimagining.
Again, thank you so much!
Well, i’m so far down the list I doubt anyone is actually reading this now, but my 2 cents:
- I’d like the ship to look her old self, albeit it can be an “earlier version” that could look reasonably different inside. Of course, she has to look like the Enterprise, or you lose the emotional connection. But the same exterior, the same sounds, the “feel” needs to be the same.
- The characters need to ring true. Audience needs to have some nice moments where the leads do something emblematic of their core nature. Having them walk and talk like Shatner, Nimoy, etc helps, but I want to se Kirk do something courageous because he has to save his friends or, more especially, his ship - which was always his first love. (Hell, he may even need to sacrifice the girl to save the ship - perhaps setting the tone of his later experience). I want to, in the midst of all the jeopardy and the ticking clock, see Kirk think, steel his jaw, and jump into danger.
- Arcs. A thought on character arcs, I think, from what we know of early life for these characters, the arcs for the principals shoud be something like;
Kirk - Bookish obsessive over grades gets in touch with his passion (finds his mojo, if you will) and emerges as the kick-ass hero he know.
Spock - Tight-lipped, conlficted nature, feeling alienated in a world of humans - comes to begin to find his place, and to value his human side a bit.
McCoy - Somewhat jaded, coming out of bad divorce. Comes to realise he can start afresh in space and demonstates his overwhelming devotion to medicine and to helping others.
Basically each othem has the potential to go from a fairly unpleasant place at the start, to a much happier, determined and positive place by the end.
Kirk: Introvert/obsessive -> Shackbuckling hero
Spock: From Isolation to starting to feel a belonging
McCoy: From Depressed to reinvigorated.
That