How Should Paramount Revive Star Trek with a New Movie Franchise?

The recent popularity of the Star Trek movie franchise saw a resurgence of old-school fans and the introduction of new fans to the universe. However, the success of the latest installment, 'Beyond', was not what Paramount had hoped for. With a budget of $185 million, the film needed to make approximately $400 million to break even, but it only managed to make $341 million. This is a stark reminder that the franchise needs to adapt and evolve. In this article, we will explore how Paramount can capitalize on the strengths of the new Star Trek cast and narrative to continue the franchise successfully.

Lowering the Budget for Future Success

Future Star Trek movies need to keep the budget lower to ensure financial success. The 2009 movie Star Trek was the only game in town for a big-budget science fiction action adventure, whereas 'Beyond' in 2016 was just one of many such films competing for the audience's attention. Given the increasing competition in the genre, Paramount needs to ensure that the next movie can achieve a success level without a hefty box office requirement. A gross of $300 million worldwide could realistically be considered a financial success for future Star Trek films.

Focus on Character Interactions, Not Spectacle

'Beyond' was successful primarily due to its strong ensemble cast and the charm of character interactions. In Star Trek, the story is as much about the crew's personal growth and relationships as it is about the space battles. Fans are increasingly interested in deepening their connection with the characters and their narrative arcs. Therefore, the next movie should prioritize character interactions and cut down on space battle action scenes. The franchise has always been about overcoming cultural differences and fostering unity, themes that can be explored through the crew's interactions.

Emphasizing the 'Classic Star Trek' Vibes

For fans of the original series, the curriculum of Star Trek should stay true to its roots, marking key moments that resonate with the franchise's legacy. Setting future episodes in out-of-their-time situations, such as 'The City on the Edge of Forever' or 'The Voyage Home', can help maintain the starship's classic and timeless appeal. These situations bring the characters to different times and places, emphasizing their enduring qualities and making the plot more engaging and relatable. Any unexpected setting change or more grounded real-world environment can add layers of depth and emphasize the characters' lovable attributes.

Integrating Time Travel Elements

The teaser of Chris Hemsworth as Kirk's father opens up the possibility of a compelling storyline involving time travel. This could provide a unique setting that challenges the crew and their understanding of the universe. Time travel plots have always been a staple of the Star Trek franchise, and a well-executed narrative in this vein could help propel the story forward. Such an integral element can also add an extra layer of complexity to the characters and their relationships, making the journey more compelling and memorable for the audience.

Conclusion

If Paramount wants to continue the Star Trek movie franchise with success, they need to focus on key elements that have always defined the series: strong character development, grounded real-world storylines, and the right balance of action and character interaction. By highlighting these strengths, the franchise can appeal to both long-time fans and new audiences, ensuring longevity and success in the genre. Whether it's a classic space adventure or a time travel twist, the key is to bring the best cast back and tell a story that resonates with the essence of Star Trek.