Viewed in
1999, 2011
Formats
VHS, HDTV
Premise
KHAAAAAN! 'Nuff said.
Loved
Pretty much everything.
Thoughts
Holds up amazingly well as not just one of the best Star Trek films of all time, but one of the best science fiction films of all time.
The writing was fantastic. It had the perfect mixture of lively dialog, a thrilling cat-and-mouse space chase, Moby Dick allegories, intellectual debates, cool twists, and great characters pushed to their limits. Thanks to the strong emphasis on story and character, the actors seemed to be really invested and put in their best performances.
I loved what the film makers did with my three favorite characters from the series. DeForest Kelley was at his sarcastic and grumpy best as Bones, and was spared from spouting the obligatory "He's dead, Jim" line. Words cannot justifiably describe Leonard Nimoy's/Spock's greatness in the last twenty minutes. And Ricardo Montalban's portrayal of Khan's obsession almost made me sympathize with him. As for Shatner's Kirk, there is no word needed to explain his equally immortal and mocked "Khan!" moment.
Historically, there were some significant moments worth noting, such as maintaining the series' legacy by using one it's best antagonists, as well as Kristie Alley's debut as a hot Vulcan. Techno-philes should recognize Ed Catmull and his pioneering computer graphics.
If I had to nitpick, it would be that Khan's character was bit underwhelming in the intimidating and magnetic presence department compared to the "Space Seed" episode. Also, it would've been nice to see Dr. Chapel and Yeoman Rand again.
Even after multiple viewings decades later, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan was still immensely enjoyable. I think even more if you've seen Montalban's episode from the series.
What I would change
Nothing.
