Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
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Directed by William Shatner
Story by William Shatner, Harve Bennett, & David Loughery
Screenplay by David Loughery
When movie such as this one are reviewed, it is important to keep in mind that it must be viewed through two different lenses. First, as a stand-alone—something that can stand alone on its own merit. Second, as another entry of an epic franchise. It seems these days reviewers can only do the former, which is why movies with immersive plots—supposedly a sign of good movies—are at such a critical disadvantage. It's for this very reason that Star Trek V was almost universally panned. However, I am going to do what very few (or perhaps zero) reviewers have done, and review it as a chapter in one of the most ambitions, epic, and long-running franchises ever. I'm also going to do that without being derogatory toward trekkies because these poor people have been abused quite enough. Contrary to popular belief, one can pay attention to the plot of Star Trek movies and still live a rich and fulfilling life.
The original Star Trek cast was featured in three television seasons, six motion pictures, and another "pass the torch" movie rounding out the series. The first film tried unsuccessfully to blow your mind. That set the stage for what is considered by many to be the TOS Trilogy. Star Trek II, III, and IV —with a linear plot that can easily be combined into one large film—took us through a major space battle, an apocalyptic view of the arms race, and a trip back in time to save the Earth. When all of that was done, those of us who were invested in the series wanted a movie whose purpose was to deepen the stories of the individual cast members. While it was unfortunate that so much time was spent with the "big three"—Kirk, Spock, and McCoy—as a character study, Star Trek V did a pretty good job. From this perspective, it shouldn't be too mysterious why some people liked it very much. People who haven't seen enough Star Trek to already know the cast well, however, may wonder why they should care or why some of the scenes are significant. Those people will find this film to be quite boring. And majority rules, doncha'know, just ask the makers of Ishtar —also not a bad movie. Telling the truth can be dangerous business.