Movie Review: Star Trek Into Darkness - Mon., May 20

First off, kudos to J. J. Abrams for directing and producing a true work of art and a super-fine piece of spring entertainment: Star Trek Into Darkness. From the opening sequence, chills ran through my body like opening a bay door in deep space, except the water on my tongue did not boil and I did not lose consciousness. The bay door closed and the story held my rapt attention through the remaining two hours.

More than anticipated, Into Darkness keeps the Star Trek franchise booted up, suited up and ready to go boldly into the future. The opening sequence plays like an opening scene from Star Wars or Indiana Jones with a story that immerses you immediately into the lives of another culture; this one alien, not technologically advanced, and close to extinction.

And, surprise, surprise, once again Captain James Tiberius Kirk is rebelling against rules and superior officers. I don't think I give too much away by saying that.

In Into Darkness things are not always what they seem. Be prepared to be surprised.

Keep your sense of humor sharp. Laughs will come when you least expect them.

I do not want to give away too much of the plot because it's much more fun going in with no pre-conceived notions. Do expect a rollicking-good story and excellent performances from the cast.

I continue to adore the young crew playing parts iconically belonging to William Shatner (Captain Kirk), Leonard Nimoy (Mr. Spock), DeForest Kelley (Bones), George Takei (Sulu), Nichelle Nichols (Uhura), Walter Koenig (Pavel Chekov),and James Doohan (Scotty). They do the franchise proud.

Enjoy!

Travel Bug out.