When JJ Abrams announced that he would be remaking the original "Star Trek" - I thought here's just another "retooling" of a franchise that has past its prime. Plus - I've always been a "Star Wars" fan first and foremost. Actually this new "Trek" is said to be a prequel to the original series - chronicling their early adventures.
But now that the cast has been set - I'm getting kind of excited about this! If you're a fan of the original 60's television show - you're going to be excited, too! The casting is DEAD ON! I really couldn't have picked them better myself! So - here is who will be on board the USS Enterprise coming Christmas Day 2008:
Chris Pine as James T. Kirk
Actor Chris Pine takes the lead as the new Captain James T. Kirk - originally played by William Shatner. Chris has some pretty big shoes to fill - and will no doubt have the most "Trekkies" watching and judging his portrayal. One thing's for sure - the guy is HOT! But without a true hit on his hands (yet) - he's got the most to prove. Previously - Pine has co-starred on the big screen in "Just My Luck" with Lindsey Lohan (bleh) - and "Smokin' Aces".
Zachary Quinto as Spock
This casting choice has caused the biggest hoopla so far - the choice of who would play the iconic Vulcan was announced during the sci-fi fever that is Comic Con 2007 - with the original Spock - Leonard Nimoy by his side. Personally - I can't see anyone else playing Spock. Quinto's got the look and will bring alot of buzz to the movie. Not only has he gained quite a following as the serial killer Sylar on NBC's hit series "Heroes" - but he's bound to make Spock hotter than he has ever been before!
Karl Urban as Leonard "Bones" McCoy
The only thing I've seen Karl Urban in (that I can remember) is the "Lord of Rings" trilogy - where he played the flawed warrior - Eomer. But - you have to admit he also really looks the part. Definitely a perfect choice for the cranky on-board doc. Like I said - perfect casting! Urban also appeared in the films - "The Bourne Supremacy" and "The Chronicles of Riddick".
John Cho as Hikaru Sulu
John Cho is not really a stranger - I first saw John in a small role in "American Pie" - but he really broke out as Harold in "Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle". Cho is currently finishing the sequel to "Harold & Kumar" - and can be seen now on the small screen in a small role on ABC's "Ugly Betty". Cho takes over the role of Sulu from "Heroes" actor - and Howard Stern regular George Takei.
Simon Pegg as Montgomery "Scotty" Scott
You might notice the actor who will be "beaming them up" - Simon Pegg in his hit comedy/horror movie - "Shaun of The Dead" which he co-wrote and also starred in. Most recently Pegg also wrote and starred in 2007's "Hot Fuzz". He will be filling the role of Scotty - originally played by the late James Doohan.
Zoe Saldana as Nyota Uhura
This is the one actor that is new to me - I've never seen Zoe in anything - but like everyone else in the cast - she looks the part. Saldana will play the alluring communications officer - the role made famous by Nichelle Nichols.Anton Yelchin as Pavel Chekov
Anton Yelchin is the youngest member of the cast - and he will be the new chief navigator on the USS Enterprise. You might remember Yelchin from his role in "Alpha Dog" with Justin Timberlake. He also has an extensive television resume - with roles on such shows as "Law & Order" and the Showtime series "Huff". Anton will be taking over the role in "Star Trek" made famous by Walter Koenig.
So that's it - not a bad roster. Can't wait to see how this cast gels together. I'm really glad they aren't going with any big names for any of the roles - saving the big name (Eric Bana) for the role of the villain in the film - Nero.
So what do you think? Now that the casting is complete - and we can picture the crew - are you excited about this prequel? Does anyone else think this is as SPOT ON as I do! If you ask me - this NEW "Star Trek" is shaping up to be a big movie event for 2008!!
Happy Friday!
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