Why Did the Creators of the Star Trek Movie Franchise Choose to Continue the Timeline?

The Star Trek movie franchise, which had originally diverged from the television series for a reboot, ultimately continued the established timeline. This was not a one-and-done project but instead involved a total of seven films and three series, along with three films set in an alternate timeline. This decision was driven by the enduring popularity of the original characters and actors, but logistical and creative considerations also played a significant role.

The Need for a Continuation

Despite the original cast members being still popular, the actors were reaching an age where their roles could become more challenging. The decision to continue the timeline came after the immensely popular The Search for Spock, with subsequent films like Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home and Star Trek Generations following suit. The continuity was preserved by introducing new characters or reimagining story arcs, ensuring the franchise remained true to its roots.

Star Trek: Phase 2 - A Failed Television Initiative

Before the films took over, there was a significant attempt to continue the original series structure through a project called Star Trek: Phase 2. This venture aimed to continue the story with most of the original Star Trek: The Original Series (TOS) characters. The biggest exception was Spock, who was replaced by a new character named Xon.

Xon: Xon was introduced as a full-blooded Vulcan, leading to a significant character arc focused on the exploration of emotion, a concept familiar to Spock, who had a human mother. The project initially included a new second-in-command, Commander Will Decker, and a new navigator named Ilea, a native of Delta V, a planet where the women are naturally bald and the society is overtly sensual.

Reasons for the Rapprochement: Paramount was planning to create a new television network at the time and intended to use Star Trek: Phase 2 as a flagship series. However, the network was ultimately not launched due to various business factors. The project's fate was further complicated by a lawsuit brought by Leonard Nimoy, the actor who played Spock, against Paramount over the use of his likeness in advertising without compensation.

Adapting Phase 2 for the Big Screen

The production of Phase 2 was far advanced, with scripts written, actors cast, and sets built. Recognizing the significant investments already made, Paramount decided to repurpose the work. The studio was also greatly influenced by the success of Star Wars, which emerged as a major film event. The story of Phase 2 was reworked to fit a film format, resulting in the release of Star Trek: The Motion Picture.

The TOS cast members who participated in Phase 2, such as Leonard Nimoy, were also included in the film. Additionally, Persian Khambatta portrayed Ilea, and Steven Collins played Will Decker. The character of Xon, however, was short-lived, appearing in the transporter accident early in the film. The conflict between Nimoy and Paramount was eventually resolved, allowing for the return of Spock in the final film.

Conclusion

The decision to continue the Star Trek timeline through multiple films and series was a strategic move that preserved the franchise's integrity while addressing practical concerns. From the ambitious Star Trek: Phase 2 to the definitive Star Trek: The Motion Picture, the franchise has demonstrated its enduring appeal and adaptability.