Karl Urban: Being McCoy Like Winning The Lottery February 15, 2008
by John Tenuto , Filed under: ST09 Cast , trackback
In the latest issue of the official Star Trek Magazine, Karl Urban talks in more detail about being a Trekkie working on Star Trek. The Lord of the Rings actor reveals that he is a big time sci-fi fan, and cites Star Trek The Original Series, The Next Generation and Voyager as his favorite Treks. He tells the mag that after persuing and then getting the job as the new McCoy he felt like he had “won the lottery.” More below.
Urban on McCoy, Kelley and Nimoy
Urban on what interests him about McCoy…
his unwavering compassion for humanity, and the way he is able to execute that and still maintain this air of irascibility.
Throughout the interview it is clear that Urban has a deep and profound respect for Star Trek and in particular, DeForest Kelley. The actor notes what a unique opportunity it has been for Zachary Quinto to have Leonard Nimoy around and wishes he had the same chance:
…it would have been really, really lovely just to sit down and have a cup of coffee and a good chat with DeForest. I just think that he was a remarkable actor and filled with great compassion.
On being on set for Nimoy’s first day back as Spock
As a Trekker myself I got chills up my spine just hearing him deliver those Spock lines in that Spock cadence. It was really a thrilling and exciting moment to be witness to.
Urban on the cast and crew and future
Urban is effusive about the cast and crew of the new film. He notes director JJ Abrams “vision,” writers Orci & Kurtzman’s “fantastic script,” and the “100 percent right for their roles” cast as the most exciting parts of the film. Urban is also looking ahead, saying that he and his fellow cast mates are looking forward to embodying the Trek crew characters “over at least three films.”
The latest issue of Star Trek Magazine has much more from Urban as well as other good articles on the film, and much more. Pick it on newsstands now.
Loading ...
Comments»
Great to hear about another one of the actors with a positive attitude! I think this, again, bodes very well.
It’s great to hear how highly he thinks of Trek and how much he respects it! I think he’ll make a great Bones. :D
I’m gonna have to resubscribe.
Here’s to the remarkable talent that was DeForest Kelley.
Urban is a cool dude. He has a definite reverence for the role that’s good to hear.
De Kelley was a class act all the way. I’m glad to see Urban being so respectful of the actor and the role.
nice to hear something on McCoy
At least 3 films? heck yes!
He would have loved to meet DeForest Kelley and chat over coffee?
Well, with the deceased Mr. Kelley being a tea drinker, you could say,
“Karl Urban can’t see DeForest for the teas!”
Ba-dum-bum!! :)
9. Harry Ballz
:)
This is still the hardest casting for me to wrap my head around… I still see him in LOTR, permantely angry and scowling and yelling.
However, that he was a DeForest fan… well, that is the glimmer of hpe ;)
I still hope McCoy is the voice of the audience
well i tell you. hearing karl urban talk about deforest kelly and giveing him all the respect in the universe is just the coolest thing and i think he will make an excellent bones. i just can’t wait to see the movie and nice to know they are looking at makeing 3 of them. wow karl you like to be in big blockbusters don’t you. first the lord of the rings trilogy and now looks like startrek for 3 movies. nice going.
# 11 - I feel the same way.
That and his assassin role in the Bourne movies.
#4, Amen! Cheers, dear!
#9, {{{{{{{{{{groancringe}}}}}}}}}}}}
#12 I actually caught some of “Comanche Moon” last month, and I thought Urban had the role of Woodrow Call nailed to the wall. Now that I’ve seen pix of him clean-shaven, I can definitely get a “Bones” vibe about him.
IMHO, always.
Peace. Live long and prosper.
The Vulcanista }:-|
I hate how new actors coming into a Trek movie or TV show always feel they have to give their ‘credentials’ as a ‘fan’. Who gives two craps?
I’m pretty sure Christopher Lloyd didn’t have didley squat of any Trek before creating one of the most memorable villains in the series.
I don’t care if you’re a fan or not. Just do a good job and I’ll like you. If you’re bad, I’ll hate you - fan or not.
Poida, emobies absolutely none of the compassion, respect or sould of what Star Trek was. Bit infinite diveresity does allow for gobshites i suppose.
;o)
Live long and keep quiet……………PLEase!
wish we had more from the article…Hey he used Trekker—-the real deal my friends!!!
16…huh?
I am pleased to hear that Karl Urban is a fan , it means to me he knows what he is getting into and will do his very best to honor and respect the legacy of the big shoes he is to fill.
I just want to hear a snippet of him saying,
“Dammit Spock!”
“He’s dead Jim!”
“I’m a doctor, not a bricklayer!”
Most people (myself included) totally got the Urban casting after seeing pics of him at the Cloverfield premier…look at those and tell me you don’t see it.
Karl is a remarkable actor and he is going to be awesome as McCoy! They casted well.
scarily enough I think he’ll make a great Dr McCoy. Karl Urban is pretty decent actor all things considered.
#9 Harry - PEEEEEEE-EEEEEEWWWWW. Dude, you gotta quit farming old Henny Youngman bits for source material. ;-)
He should make a great Bones.
I wish he had been tabbed to play Anakin in the new Star Wars films. A bit too old, maybe, and I’m not sure even he could have save that god-awful Lucas script, but it would have been a lot easier to take him seriously in the role.
#16
I’ve read through your comment 27 times and yes….yes I think I’m insulted.
I think.
FOOD FIGHT! :-)
I wish STM could/would link their articles to trekmovie.
Peace. Live long and prosper.
The Vulcanista }:-|
#4 - steve623 - “Here’s to the remarkable talent that was DeForest Kelley.”
I’m with you Old Friend.
Urban really comes across as a very likable guy. I wish it was May 2009 already.
hmmm I’m guessing by some of the squabbling and the young ages that my Trekker comment didn’t mean anything. I’m sure there’s an old timer out there that understands. Kids as you grow up Remember This. Don’t be Green unless you’re a hot chick, but always, always drink the green stuff (unless there’s a Romulan in the house)
#30. I’m old enough to get the Trekker reference! The thing is, I am happy to be called a Trekkie - never mattered much to me, frankly. I never saw anything to apologize for — and therefore I never saw a reason to dignify it (or whatever) with the suffix -”er.” Although WHY that’s more dignified, I have NO idea. . .
Karl Urban is even cooler than I thought he was. I’m glad he inherited the part; he deserves it.
I never understood (and still don’t) what the “controversy” over “Trekkie” was and why I should now say “Trekker”. I’m a Trekkie…unless someone can give me a real good reason otherwise.
Are the new cast planning/expecting/hoping to play their roles at least as long as the original actors did?
If not, what would you do after only 3, 4, 5, or 6 films?
Recast the crew again?
Or move on to a recast of TNG?
#33
If they go past film #4 I expect Chris Pine to shave the top of his head and paste a dead squirrel there in it’s place as a sign of respect for those who came before him!
When each cast member responded to the question (during the livechat) concerning their favorite moment on the set so far, I remember Urban blogging about that moment he descibes - Nimoy’s first lines in the movie as Spock. At the time I thought, “Hm… that’s really cool. He didn’t even mention himself.” After reading the above, I am positive he is a true fan and honestly respects and appreciates the script and his role as our favorite space doctor. Nice to hear, because he was a very convincing not-so-nice assassin in Bourne.
Harry#34- LOL!
this makes me want to go to new zealand and take the lord of the rings trail to mordor.
Coming this fall to CBS, Blake Powers stars in “Mordor on the Orient Express”.
Good to see you around, Greg!
reading things about deforest makes me want to eat beans cooked with whiskey and roast marshmallow’s with people that take pictures of fat chicks.
It’s a shame that great people like Deforest Kelley have to die. Some times I wish I could go back in time just to see him and shake his hand.
>>Nice to hear, because he was a very convincing not-so-nice assassin in Bourne.
>>
Many of De Kelley’s roles prior to Star Trek were heavies (bad guys). It’s really wild to catch an older western, and see him as a real rotten meanie.
9
Ugghh. Harry.
I can’t help it if I love CORNY jokes!
I know, I know…that doesn’t mean I have to share them! Oooh, tough board! :)
Kelley was fantastic in that role.
Wow, everything about those Karl Urban quotes is just wonderful. I love stuff like this, it really helps calm the fears, and it’s heartwarming to hear from someone with a genuine sense of what they’re involved with, an appreciation and love for it. Good, good stuff.
Go go Karl Urban!
NOT CANON!!!! He’s far too muscular to be Bones Im sorry Im filing a complaint with the FCC & Paramount.
I’m extremely picky about how they’re going to do these roles, especially Bones. ‘Cause he’s my ultra-favourite character from any series, and I really love De Kelley. But I’m completely happy so far with Karl. The fact that he’s a Trekkie settles pretty much all of my fears. And he really does resemble a younger version of De.
Now let’s just hope that 1) he can do the accent, and 2) they give him blue contacts. (yes, I’m that picky)
Oh, here you all are!
Re: #15. Poida
Maybe they do it because they suddenly feel insecure because Star Trek has such huge history behind it and an even bigger following. Can’t remember who said it, but a few have said “I didn’t know anything about Star Trek when I auditioned…” blah blah blah. Somehow it feels a little unfair to me that they couldn’t care less about Star Trek but got this incredible opportunity and here I am, dying, envying them this fabulous gig when, to some of them it’s just another job. Well, so be it. They are actors and I agree with you somewhat, if they do a good — no — excellent job, I can overlook that they weren’t avid Trekkers before this.
And re: #25. Poida
“#16
I’ve read through your comment 27 times and yes….yes I think I’m insulted.
I think.”
Hilarious. Reminds me of an episode of TOS after Spock says something stern to Kirk and McCoy and Kirk said (to McCoy), “I’m not sure but I think we’ve just been insulted.” to which McCoy replies “I’m sure.” LOL
Regarding Eomer as McCoy, at first it took me a while because all I could see was long, blonde hair, Viking look, howling over his sister’s broken body on the battlefield. Then when I saw him without LOTR makeup, I thought it might be possible. Am looking forward to finding out.
kg
We used to have reasonably sincere and informed discussions around canon but now we only seem to get the repetition of the lame joke comments.
Some people care about canon but I don’t think anybody is expecting to see “your father’s Star Trek”. Could we give it a rest. Do you think? Please?
It is ashame De Kelley, Jimmy Doohan, Mark Lenard, et al are not around anymore to see what will be the rebirth of Star Trek. Too bad Paramount didn’t do this years ago.
Man this is going to be a long wait. I may have to stop coming here Anthony because I’m sure real spoilers are going to start flying soon.
GOF#47- I agree with you as to eye color. So many closeups were incorporated in the original series (as opposed to the movies), we saw their individual eye colors almost glowing in every episode. Just as recognizable as command gold and science/medical blue.
Enough cannot be said of De Kelley’s talent. He had the illusive “it”. He was always my pick for which crew member I’d most like to have a beer with. Urban’s got some big little shoes to fill.
In the episode with “Balok” I loved it when Kirk got mad at McCoy for continuing his Physical/ignoring the red alert and not telling him. After Kirk leaves the room and McCoy is alone, McCoy says something like “if I jumped every time there was a red alert I’D END UP TALKING TO MYSELF.” LOVE IT!!!!
In the above picture Urban has a real mischievous look about him. De Kelley had that look at times. I’m really psyched — can’t wait to see the movie!!!!!!!!!!!
kg
Will Chris Pine be cast in 45 years as Denny Crane on a reboot of Boston Legal?
#52 Katie, and it was nice when over 20 years later in Star Trek V, De nearly repeated the line during the camping scenes: “You call this relaxing? I’m a nervous wreck! If I’m not careful I’ll end up talking to myself!” :)
Re: #51. elmachocombo
Agreed!!
And, by the way, are you a Torontonian? Reason I ask — your moniker is very similar to the name of the bar on Spadina at College (El Mocambo) where the Stones performed in March of 1977. Coincidence?
kg
Re: #54. Shatner_Fan_2000
Really? I’d totally forgotten that. Better get the movie out and watch it again. Haven’t seen them for a while. That’s a riot! Thanks for pointing that out!
kg
Re: #54
Wait, is that when he was complaining because Kirk scared him out of his wits when he fell off the cliff and Spock caught him when he was six inches above the ground? Then I do remember it. Hah! Cool.
kg
#56 Katie, yes, it’s a nice bit of trivia. :) Trek V also had Kirk quoting the “All I ask is a tall ship, and a star to steer by” line he had previously used in the TOS episode The Ultimate Computer.
Trek V certainly had its faults, but the Big 3 were presented wonderfully faithful to TOS, IMO. :)
Poor Harry gets no respect around here…….just ask his doctor, Dr. Vinnie Boombatz!
*RIMSHOT* ;-)
Rodney was the SHIT. :-)
It’s good to hear that Urban, unlike Quinto, seems to be familiar with original ST and it’s good to see him being so respectful of Kelley and the role he’s about to portray. I think this is an essential prerequisite for delivering a good McCoy, although for me there can be only one “Bones”.
it’s funny that “Karl’s article” is printed inside a Trek Magazine with a cover of “One” of the Treks He doesn’t Like. Oh by the way, DS9 RULES!!!!!!!!
I still see Eomer as well, but I have faith in him as a fellow fan, and a versatile actor.
58: Trek5 missed the boat entirely on the Big 3:
Kirk sacrificed his ship and crew much too easily
Spock was far too chatty, like an old lady
McCoy was OK, as he was peripheral to the plot, and just had to emote
Kirk had to rely on Sybok to free him so he could regain command, and it was Sybok’s self-sacrifice and the Klingons that saved our boys from a successful hijack of the E. Shatner made his Kirk into a true wuss. And Spock shrugs because Sybok is his half-brother, and becomes useless to Kirk. And they sit in the brig, chatting like a couple of old ladies, before being freed by Scotty. I’ll stop.
Good luck, Karl!
The Lord of the Rings and Star Trek is the betts is the best
DS- 9 rules..but i respect his opinion…
#60 Viking “Rodney”
You got that right! My favorite line of his…
I walked into a bar….the bartender says, “what’ll you have..” I said, “surprise me..”
He shows me pictures of my wife NAKED!
Hey-oh!
#66 Harry - Ah, Borscht Belt humor…….. ;-)
#63-
I agree with #58. Trek V was really bad in a number of ways, but I think it portrayed the big three, and the relationships therin, wonderfully. The movie does not get recognized for this as it’s significant flaws seem to get all the attention. But if you like TOS for it’s characters and relationships, STV demonstrates them at their greatest warmth and vividness. Very touching when those three are together, in my opinion.
15# - CL was an avid Trekfan before being cast as Krug. Watch the bonus materials that come with “Search for Spock”. I’m with Vulcanista on this one - I’m much more comfortable knowing a key player in the cast has more than a passing familiarity with things Trek.
49# Captain Pike you took the words right out of my mouth. Apologies to those who don’t like canon discussions - its some of the minutae of ST that has endeared itself to fans over the years. Of course some of us are going to be concerned about protecting “what has gone before” because it made ST what it is to us. It would be nice to have a reasoned discussion about what’s important and what isn’t and why - I’d love to sit down with Mr. Orci for a few beers and chat about it. But to belittle those of us for whom issues of canon are of a little more than passing importance in the guise of an poor attempt at humor is really unwarranted. These kinds of posts have popped up in more than one thread lately and I’m tiring of them. Then again, the internet has never really been known for raising the level of discourse now, has it.
I totally am in fangirl heaven right now… Love him! And to know that his favourite ST series are the same as mine is just so cool. The man has taste! Also, to those who have only seen him in LOTR or Bourne, I can assure you that this is not all he can do. Please have faith, okay? He will be excellent as Bones.
I still can’t believe he’s now part of the ST universe… I can’t wait till May 2009!! And 3 more movies?! *faints*
Great interview…of all the original Trek actors, Deforest Kelley struck me as the plain nicest. A kind and caring man, like his character….and it’s good to see that Urban has a healthy respect for his predecessor, and the fact that he’s a Trek fan is just icing on the cake.
Well, I’m sold on Urban…so now can we see the movie??
I just look forwaed to seeing him and Quionto sans the macho beard stubble. I think he’ll do great.
Quinto even
darned sixth finger keeps getting in the way
Urban or otherwise, there are a few things I’m REALLY hoping to see done with McCoy…
Establish that he’s NOT a Starfleet grad… while it was never stated in film, the original treatment script for Way to Eden said it, and that a bad divorce helped him decide to go to Starfleet. It fits his character, too, with his badmouthing of Starfleet beauracracy. The majority of books have acknowledged this.
Mention his daughter!
Mention his southern roots
I’d also love a cameo from Dr M’Benga!!
#66 Harry
I don’t know how you can top, “so my girlfriend calls me up and says come on over there’s nobody home. I went over–there was nobody home!”
I wish Mr. Urban all the success in the world. Despite what Shat fans might have to say, Bones may be the toughest character to replace. Mr. Kelley was imply beloved by everybody.
#47 I also wish for the blue contacts…
#75 I totally agree with you, mentioning these things (his divorce and thus his enrollment in Starfleet, his daughter) would deepen and explain a lot about the character.
After reading this thread, I have more and more confidence in this movie, and in Urban as well. McCoy is my all-time favorite character, TOS is my favorite show… and to think I will have to wait ’till may 2009 … *sighs…*
And just for fun, I’m pasting the link to IESB.net, concerning the covering of the Cloverfield premiere. Check out those pics of Urban… this will reassure you, I’m sure!
http://www.iesb.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4125&Itemid=99
Hey, I haven’t been around lately. Good to be back :-)
Wow, those Trek actors need to eat more. Mangia, mangia!
Harry#66- Oh Harry, that was priceless.
#68–”Trek V was really bad in a number of ways, but I think it portrayed the big three, and the relationships therin, wonderfully.”
Come on, Gary Seven.
That’s like saying Saddam Hussein could be a really sweet guy sometimes. You are asking us to admire a tiny diamond in a great big mound of poo-poo.
I like the Big 3’s chemistry as much as anyone, but “The Great Trek Turd (aka STV)” tried way too hard with that. It is the only time I was actually embarassed to be in the theater for a Star Trek movie. To each his own, I suppose, but I prefer to pretend it didn’t happen at all…
“I don’t care if you’re a fan or not. Just do a good job and I’ll like you. If you’re bad, I’ll hate you - fan or not.”
Jeez. You think it’s just possible the man went out of his way to mention that he’s a fan himself because, well, he is, rather than an (obviously) misguided attempt to win someone like you over? And that maybe he’s sincere as a result in his appreciation for getting the job?
None of which means he’ll be any good in the role, of course. But try to keep a little perspective, fanboys: this is a major studio production with a huge budget, an A-list director/producer and a highly pedigreed cast. It’s really not just about you.
I just watched STV, and it sucks for sure, but McCoy actually manages to shine outside of the pansy threesome premise of the film.
And, off topic, I must say that Laurence Luckenbill gives 120% to Sybok. He’s got that LSD 1960’s thing going with his eyes until he realizes he’s just been a putz all along, and then he does very well as someone ready to sacrifice his life to save innocents he has put into danger. He oozes sincerity.
Little did Laurence know that his character would be pooped upon by the Trek community.
I wish Eomer well as McCoy!
#75–With 3 films (hopefully) to come, I would imagine some of the minor tidbits of information about the characters we love are bound to rear themselves. Everyone seems to have suggestions which they would like to see on screen in the new movie. Some clamour for Gary Mitchell, others for the McCoy backstory. Still others want to see Finnegan, Finney, Carol Marcus, Matt Decker, 7 year-old T’Pring, Kelso, Number One, and on and on. It is important that they do not overload the film with nostalgic nods to the fanboys/girls. Most of the general moviegoing public wouldn’t get it anyway.
I’m sure we’ll get our share of inside jokes and nostalgic references, but too much of that can jam the flow of the film, and won’t do anything to keep the rest of the world interested. #81 makes a good point which applies to this topic as well. It is really not just about you, me, or anyone else who bothers to post daily at trekmovie.com. It is as much about those who— never before gave Star Trek a chance, left it behind in the mid- ’80’s, gave up on it after seeing VOY, or never heard of it at all!
83. Closettrekker
As far as I’m concerned, The people that needs, for instance, Gary Mitchell, to be in the movie in order to be able to enjoy it, can imagine that Crewman nº 2 in the bottom right corner of the second scene in the bridge is Gary Mitchell and no one will have any way to proove him wrong.
Wow, more power to Karl Urban for apparently “getting it” about Dr. McCoy and DeForest Kelley. This is just great to read.
I’ll wager a New Zealand dollar by way of Georgia our great friend Bones says “I’m a doctor, not a (blank)!” … (He won’t say “He’s dead, Jim,” because that would provoke laughs during what would have to be a serious moment.)
The more good news I read about this movie, the more bitter I am at having to wait another five months.
This reminds me, anyone recall interviews with movie guest-stars in the past (I’m thinking in kiss-up shill-fest magazines like Starlog) where the star professed to have been a Star Trek fan (because I guess it’s what Paramount’s PR department told them to do) but it felt insincere? I’ll have to dig through the archives to refresh my memory with examples unless anyone else recalls this with specific stars (I’m thinking maybe Persis Khambatta or Catherine Hicks or Kim Cattrall.)
#84
Things like that might work for you, and the 15-year-old popcorn consumers, but some of us tend to be all for this unique mixture of imagination and brain teasing, and I for one would imagine that Crewman nº 2 in the bottom right corner of the second scene in the bridge to be Gary Mitchell, but then I would expect him to be shown when he saves Jim’s life as he did, and then I would want to hear Jim call him Mitch. Then, I would actually have Gary Mitchell in the film. If I can‘t have that or if they don’t want to cover that, I‘d rather do without him. He and his relationship with Kirk have already been perfectly and memorably portrayed in WNMHGB. I wouldn’t need the film to provide me with false front of a fundamental story, as you suggest.
Isn’t Closettrekker the guy who didn’t know who Robert Wise was?
86. Iowagirl
>I wouldn’t need the film to provide me with false front of a fundamental story, as you suggest.
Then, you arent one of the people who needs Gary Mitchell in the movie to be able to enjoy it.
Mitchell would be a wonderful addition to the movie– and I truly think Matt Damon would be perfect in the role…with some hair dye.
So… he likes… Voyager??? He’s kidding, right?
My respect for him just dropped several notches.
Hoping it could have something to do with being interviewed by a UK mag.
They generally hate DS9 and love Voyager over there.
WHY is beyond my comprehension…
#62- Just have to repeat it– DS9 RULES!!!!
Thank you.
DesiluTrek#85- Kirsti Alley. During filming she claimed that she tried to imitate Spock as a girl with the eyebrow thing and made reference to being a huge ST fan. Then after Nimoy didn’t sign her for TrekIII because she wanted an outrageous sum of money (ref. I Am Spock), she later referred to Wrath of Kahn in the press as ” a science-fiction movie” and said she did it because she was just starting out in the business. In spite of her attitude, Nimoy is very gracious when describing her in the book.
If this is the most successful movie yet, I somehow think there will be more than three movies with this cast.
#87–Actually, I was quite aware that he directed TMP. But if you are referring to the fact that I did not know what the rest of his directing credits were, then yes. What is your point?
#80: I never understood the hatred towards Trek V. Okay, it may have had large continuity issues, especially in retrospect with all of the galaxy’s measurements being set in stone by TNG and the other spin offs. But apart from the ship having to many decks and some FX shots being substandard even for a late 80s flick, it is still a decent movie. I like the typical “god is an alien” TOS type storyline. I like the character interaction and the background it provided in those flashbacks. I even liked that “peace planet gone Mad Max” aspect. I’d easily prefer it over INS or NEM and my feelings are overall positive as for all TOS era movies.
#90: Well, I’m from Europe and you are right. VOY is much more popular than DS9 over here. In Germany twice as many people watched it and though there are some Niners here as well, it never made it primetime. VOY on the other hand was shown Friday night back then.
Personally I also prefer VOY over DS9. DS had strong characters and was a great show for what is was, but in retrospect it was the weakest show. It’s war driven story arc lost a lot of its appeal after it was over and whenever I think of Trek’s greatest moments only a couple of DS9 episodes come to my mind (with Trials and Tribbleations, Far Beyond the Stars and The Visitor being some all time classics).
VOY on the other hand had numerous great standalone episodes. Despite its obvious flaws, there are more than 50 episodes I consider part of my personal all-time favourites. The same applies to ENT. Both shows could have been better but at least the emphasized SOME aspects of Trek DS9 blatantly omitted: sense of adventure, strange new worlds, new life and civilisations, the journey itself, bizarre phenomena etc…
DS had its moments but to me it just wasn’t what I expected Trek to be. The first couple of seasons were clueless attempts at continuing NG under stationary circumstances. It didn’t really work. And when they began straying from these NG style standalones, they shifted the stress to war and love relationships…some stuff was great while it was on but lost a lot of its appeal when they ended this war. Apart from some real classic moments (especially the TOS related stuff), I never pick a DS9 episode when I want to watch some classic Trek.
I dunno…but that’s the way I see things. I don’t hate Trek V and I still prefer VOY and ENT over DS9. Can’t help it. But that’s my take on Trek…
#86–I could be mistaken, but you may have missed the point of that conversation. The point was that it is completely unreasonable for them to be expected to include everything we know about the characters’ pasts in one film, especially when we have yet to discover just how much of the story takes place in the time period prior to the five year mission.
I think Cheve was just chiming in on the potential insignificance Mitchell may have in relation to the story. Actually, the 3 of us are probably on the same page. If Mitchell’s relationship with Kirk prior to WNMHGB is crucial to the story, then fine. However, we don’t exactly know if ANY of the story takes place on board the Enterprise (under Kirk’s command) prior to Gary’s death. Since the story apparently moves to different time periods, it could very well be that the pre-WNMHGB time has nothing to do with the story.
Anyway, Mitchell was just an example of the many characters/events that some are hoping to see depicted in the film. There just isn’t enough time to cover all of that and still tell a good story, IMO.
#88
I think GM would be important to the movie, IF the movie actually covers the Academy timeline, including the Kirk/GM timeline. If they still chose to leave him out, I’d consider that an oversight, not one I would lose much sleep over, but another matching part of the jigsaw. Imaging though that he’s there, as you suggested, although he isn’t, would be false front as I meant it.
#95, 84
Agreed as to the timeline. I was just reacting to Cheve’s somewhat pejorative comment with respect to the people who consider GM an important character and think he should be in the film if “his” timeline is covered. But maybe I took his post the wrong way. Sorry if I did.
#94–” But apart from the ship having to many decks and some FX shots being substandard even for a late 80s flick, it is still a decent movie. I like the typical “god is an alien” TOS type storyline.”
AJ already touched on some of its failings, but here are a few more:
–Sarek’s child with a “Vulan Princess” (?)
–An Enterprise that doesn’t work
–A “Planet Of Intergalactic Peace” that somehow the benevolent Federation has allowed to be neglected to the point of deprivation and chaos
–A “frightened” Romulan (who obviously did not understand her role)
–Klingon warrior who put his head down while “apologizing”
–The Enterprise is hijacked by a bunch of ragtag hooligans
–Uhura’s fandance
–Scotty and Uhura humiliating themselves in a directionless romp
–helmsman and navigator lost in the woods
–geriatric rockclimbing
–Spock toasting a marshmelon and singing “Row your boat”
–too much “forced” humor
You are, of course, entitled to your own opinion, and mine is no more valid just because I say so. I don’t think the “God is an alien” aspect was in itself a failing. I thought the script was poorly written and the acting poorly directed. The low budget f/x did not even really bother me.
On another note, you make an extremely good point about how the different Trek spinoffs are received in Europe. I find that very interesting indeed. And I, too, prefer ENT to DS9–although I like DS9 alot better than VOY…to thine own Trek be true.
#11
he’s a doctor not a rider of rohan, damn it
I didn’t want to sound pejorative. I meant that I didn’t care for those things and that, anyway, there is allways a way to exlpain it without denying what was done before.
Siridi#98- LOL!
whats going to be most intriguing is seeing how the cast chemistry works out, I don’t know if any of these actors have ever work together on any other projects. It does not sound like any of them have ever worked together.
Closettreker:
The fact that JTK sacrificed his ship and crew so easily in ST5 always disturbs me. “Let me do SOMETHING!” Blecch.
#99
Ok
#102 Clossettreker could we make the argument that Star Trek 5 is reminicent of the very best work of the great european director Uwe Boll?
You know whats going to fun about the new film The Love hate mostly love situation between Mccoy and Spock. It will be interesting to see Karl Urban and Zachary Quintos take on that one.. Its going to be fun seeing them argue over things I hope Abrams keeps that aspect of their relationship.
So he’s a Voyager fan, eh?
Let’s hope his interpretation of McCoy proves to be as compelling as Harry Kim and Chakotay… or even moreso!
#104—The chemistry between the 3 actors portraying Kirk, Spock, and McCoy is the biggest questionmark in my opinion. But we have to remember that we are most likely going to see those relationships in their beginnings in this 1st installment. They obviously have to get to know each other (both the actors and the characters) before that dynamic really develops into the one recognizable to us.
McCoy and Spock have some of the best moments in Trek history. If they can add just one of those to this film that would be great. I’ll keep my fingers crossed…
I can’t wait to see him deliver a good ole’ McCoy line. I think he could pull some of those off very well.
And the old Spock / McCoy rivalry could get very funny in this movie! I hope that goes somewhere…
#97
I don’t understand your hatred for the ST V movie. I know it was not on par with TWOK but is was pretty good. If I am not mistaken you have listed this posting before. The ending could have been better, but it played out fairly well. You forgot to list the psyco cat lady with the three boobs who almost kicked Kirks ass.
My lingering issue has been new actors playing roles that we are ALL greatly familiar with and quite fond of. That I have a problem accepting freely. I would not pay top dollar, or go out of my way to see, a cover band of my favorite band. Yeah, they might play awesome and the songs are great, but is it the same? I for one will wait for the movie to be released onto DVD. Just as I would not go to Madison Square Garden to see an Allman Brothers or Grateful Dead cover band, I would go to a bar.
To stay on subject, I think Karl was great in LOFR and Comanche Moon, even embarrassingly enough in Xena. But as McCoy, I don’t know it sticks in my craw.
I would like to see Lisa Kudrow as Janice Rand.
Canon??
What is Canon?
I’m glad that he reassured me and various others about the new film.
I would also like to see Joyce DeWitt as T’Pau, Melissa Joan Hart as Carol Marcus & Christina Applegate as Janice Lester.
I wonder if the movie will cover McCoy’s divorce & his daughter Joanna?
# 108 Star Trek V bad. and among Trek fans myself included it is a film that is not held in high regard. Firs of all out of the blue they bring in a long lost older half brother from out of nowhere which is a little contrived to say the least, his mission he needs a ship to cross an energy barrier to find god. who for some strange reason cant cross the energy barrier himself to find Sybok of course this means the being is not really god, trip rendered unnecessary.Of course they are all searching for Eden or Shagra la or something like that. This story line isnt even good enough for a tv episode, a bad tv episode please lets not forget the camp fire sing alon, actually lets forget it. On top of this why does the Enterprise which seemed like new in star Trek 4 morph into a lemon in 5, doesn’t Scotty and star fleet engineering believe in regular maintainace checks on their star ships to see that they are not falling apart?. Bad writing combined with Shaters inability to direct a coherent film was a recipe for disaster of a movie. Troma films could have done a better Trek movie then this
Re: #114. Garovorkin
Excellent point!! I hadn’t thought of that. (Of course I try not to think about ST:V too much.) Kirk could have saved everyone the embarrassment of the whole movie by asking “What does God need with a Starship?” when first talking to Sybok.
Oops. Actually, the more I think about it, the request wasn’t made until they “met God” face-to-face. Sybok wanted the ship to get to God. RATS. Thought I was being brilliant.
Um, I’m gonna go eat…
kg
#75: Also, “The Ultimate Computer” heavily implies that he didn’t attend Starfleet Academy, what with the fact that Kirk had to explain to McCoy one of the activities of cadets at said Academy.
#113: It better mention his daughter somehow, what with her mention in the animated series (which various people have been trying to indicate as canon now).
Urban and Pegg (and to a lesser extent, Cross, Ryder, and Greenwood) have a hard task to “live up” to the ability, skill, and characterization of familiar, but no-longer-with-us actors and yet be able to fully express their own ability, skill, and characterization for these larger-than-life characters.
No matter what these 2 to 5 actors do, they’ll face plenty of critics of their performance, and undoubtedly a few fans. I have faith in the abilities of Urban, Ryder, and Greenwood (and to a lesser extent, Pegg and Cross), and eagerly await whenever the film comes out.
#117 Tim with regard to urban and the rest of the cast yes they are going to suffer unfair comparisons to the original actors,You have to admit they have alot guts to take on these roles knowing they are going to have to run the gauntlet fom not only movie critics but Die hard trekies who cannot anyone else in these iconic roles. They have a difficult task ahead of them but I think they are up to the challenge it presents.
#105 - Jamie
“So he’s a Voyager fan, eh? Let’s hope his interpretation of McCoy proves to be as compelling as Harry Kim and Chakotay… or even moreso!”
Chakotay?! You’ve gotta be kidding… I always thought Robert Beltran’s performance was one of the worst on the show… Roxanne Dawson, Robert Picardo and Kate Mulgrew were the good actors, IMO. And don’t you worry, Karl will be up to the challenge. :)
#117
I have no doubts about Ben Cross as Sarek. I’ve been following his career (when his work is available in US) since Chariots of Fire. When he’s got good material to work with, he never fails to blow me away. Be assured, he’ll deliver.
And as an aside, an interview with Cross at TrekMovie.com would be sweet!
Peace. Live long and prosper.
The Vulcanista }:-|
#120 Vulcanista… I agree. Cross is playing a highly important role. And, unlike Ryder, who would have to be placed in “age makeup” if they ever showed her in a scene with adult Spock, Cross can easily appear as Sarek in any future Star Trek production alongside Quinto as his grown son. I’m looking forward to seeing what Cross brings to the part. Let’s hope his Sarek gets more than one appearance!
#119: “I always thought Robert Beltran’s performance was one of the worst on the show”
Beltran looks for every opportunity to bash VOY. Has he acted in anything notable since VOY went off the air? He should be grateful he can now earn extra cash on the convention circuit & autograph conventions.
IMO the best actor on the show was Robert Picardo, he was terrific!
#113–Only if it’s relevant to the story.
#109
Only if she plays her as Phoebe Buffay. :)
Peace. Live long and prosper.
The Vulcanista }:-|
yay!
- DEEP SPACE NINE..this is the best…has so many recurrent characters..and the relationships between them are so complex..the way in which the races of aliens are presented is so great..in VOYAGER…the ‘darkside’ doesn’t exist… is so ’shiny’ [exception are just borg episodes] in ‘ENTERPRISE’..the relationships between characters are so ‘forced’..so ..fake..and is totally ..unoriginal
#126 “ENTERPRISE….the relationships between characters are so ‘forced’..so fake”
Yeah, watching Star Trek is like having sex…….not much fun if anyone involved is faking it! :)
Reading these interview parts just made me very, very happy. Thank you, Mr. Urban.
Re: #120. The Vulcanista
I agree. I haven’t seen him in much but I’ve liked what I saw. He was also in “First Knight”. I think he was the one who was banished from the round table (you’re fired! :-) ).
Re: #113. I Love My Moogie
There is SO MUCH stuff they could insert. Wonder what they’re going to cover. At least they have 3 movies to do it. I’d love to be a spider under the table in those meetings. (Bajoran reference.)
Re: #118. Garovorkin
“…with regard to Urban and the rest of the cast — yes they are going to suffer unfair comparisons to the original actors…”
I wouldn’t want to be in their position. WHO AM I KDDING!! I’D LOVE TO!!
It will be interesting to see their interpretation of the character under J. J.’s supervision.
Personally, I would love to know who all they considered for the various characters. Wonder who else was up for “Bones”?
Re: #122. I Love My Moogie
Where do you find this stuff out? I’d love to know. I saw a bit once where Harry was complaining that the women (Janeway, Torres) didn’t want to look too old in the final episode. He seemed to be saying that they were being really prissy about it. Guess I love gossip. How sad.
Gotta go make dinner.
kg
‘IMO the best actor on the show was Robert Picardo, he was terrific!’
Never has there been an actor who can project impatience, annoyance, and irritation so well. I can relate to a guy like that. ;-)
#130 got to agree, best character on the show. still fav charachter of all time has to be Garak!
First post here!
Have to say I think Bones is probably my overall favourite character, and I think that character is in safe hands with Mr Urban from what I’ve read, and I am starting to ’see’ him in the role now.
I still think Gary Sinese would have been a better choice in the role though - he looks so much like a younger DeForest Kelly.
I’m still most concerned with the casting of Kirk - Lets hope the casting succeeds on all levels!
- 7FN
It’s a shame DeForest Kelley is no longer around. After reading From Sawdust to Stardust, Kelley seems like a very interesting person. The final chapters were really hard to get though without a kleenix though ….
All in all if the biography is accurate, Deforest Kelley seems like a class act. The biography just underscored how big a loss his passing truely is.
While I’m glad to see Urban is a true fan and excited about doing this, I just can’t picture Eomer as Dr. McCoy. I know, typecasting’s a terrible thing. But I can’t. Of course, anyone who says VOY is among his favorites gives me plenty of doubt too.
I tried with that show (VOY), I really did… It just seemed like Berman and Braga had no idea what they were doing with that show. DS9 always seemed to live VOY’s shadow when the two were both on the air, but DS9 is the show that (usually) broke new ground while still holding Trek’s/Roddenberry’s basic principles.
DS9 went about it differently than the other shows, and it was certainly darker than the other Treks, but it also dug a lot deeper, showed greater character diversity, and dealt with timely issues in a way no other Trek has, aside (perhaps) from the original series. It wasn’t always perfect, but most of the time it was. VOY just struck me as TNG-lite most of the time. It had a great pilot episode, and held a lot of promise, but it squandered it quickly.
And Neelix. Sheesh… What were they thinking?
I enjoyed many aspects of Voyager.
A Federation starhip lost in the Delta Quadrant was a wonderful concept for a show, unfortunately, that concept was wasted in many respects by weak or already done stories.
There were many weaknesses to the show including the over use of nonsensical techno-jargon and Janeway being able to beat the Borg at every turn.
The show did have it’s strengths. I really thought the cast was wonderful and the chemistry they shared onscreen was genuine (with the exception of Kes.)
There were also many stand alone episodes that were really great. One that comes to mind is the episode where Janeway pilots Voyager through two pulsars to get rid of the invading Aliens. That was a very powerful moment in Trek. Also the episode “Shattered” where Voyager is divided into multiple timelines. Another one I really enjoyed was the two parter “Equinox.” The episode where the future Chakotay and Kim come back to the Delta quadrant to save Voyager was also very good. There are others that don’t come to mind right now.
Would be nice to have a series - it would be better to get well away from the politically correct crap that Jerry Taylor made of the ATROCIOUS “Voyager” (Roddenberry must be spinning in his grave)
But at least the basic tenets of Rodenberry’s vision are here.
Have to agree about Gary Sinese, but he’s way too old now for a potentially long running thing like this.