STAR TREK II
THE WRATH OF KHAN

1982 **** 113 mins.

Basically, just forget Star Trek: The Motion Picture. The only homage given to the first film is the use of a couple of shots of the Enterprise in the dock and leaving the dock. That's about it. This film begins a new story that continues through its sequels.

Admiral Kirk once again assumes control of the Enterprise to battle an old enemy, Khan. Khan, in his attempts to get revenge on Kirk, steals something called the "Genesis Project". To find out more about that, you will just have to watch this entertaining and engaging little film that gave Kirstie Alley her start. Also, for those of you who are Tarantino buffs, the quote at the beginning of Kill Bill Volume 1 can be found here. "There is an old Klingon proverb that revenge is a dish that is best served cold."

Of course, I must make a complaint or two. My first complaint is that no relationship with the first film is established. This just takes Star Trek into the realm of its normal being, totally negating the artistry of the first film. Also, Ricardo Montalban, the actor who plays Khan, obviously is a stage actor. His voice and actions are to big for the screen. He acts as if he's doing Shakespeare. I understand if that's his character, but it's still a little bit too over the top.

Oh, well, on the whole, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is a worthy installment in the Star Trek legacy.
Rated PG for space violence.