Star Trek lives! As director JJ Abrams faces the No Win Scenario, passing on his first attempt with a marvelous melting pot like no other Star Trek movie before. From the unforgettably gripping (best ever?) opening it runs at warp speed, never sacrificing respect for the original in its breathless pace. Like Scotty says about the Enterprise, this film is exciting, a pleasure to watch again and again, and from the booming box office apparently the world agrees. It's been too long since that could be said about a Star Trek movie.

Beyond looking gorgeous this film has a mission, dedicating itself overtly to self-expression and self-improvement. It's powered by the ceaseless optimism found always at the center of Roddenberry's vision, resonating with all generations. Far from being "too young" or "not humanist enough" the script celebrates achievement, responsibility and risk, though never ponderously. No chance of that as it's unexpectedly funny, with many laugh out loud moments playfully recalling classic moments. Wry humor has always been a welcome element in Trek, and it's great to see this confidant vision with a good sense of humor.

The cast could not be better chosen, as individuals or part of the ensemble. Pine and Quinto hit their marks convincingly, and Urban as McCoy is spot-on. And the mood of the production is right: This is two-fisted action without a hint of cynicism. Gone is a limp-wristed Starfleet, as Captains Robau and Kirk (Sr.) shame the fey officers presented in the past. It's not a perfect film, with obnoxious product placements, curious ship designs, and the notorious lens flares. I'll buy Chekov as boy wonder in the brains department, but does he have to be a champion sprinter also? Sulu's fencing was brief and disappointing.

The new (enormous!) Enterprise looks better in motion than early stills, though the interiors could use a little consideration. Now the production design has ample room to tune their approach into something more subtle and elegant, particularly the seriously underdeveloped engineering area. And if the plot substitutes too much red matter for gray matter well, at least it tries to present an explanation. Baiting the attention of the many into higher thoughts to come can't be all bad! And that time for maturity will come, that's the point of a reboot. The big three and the gang of four are in place, with a tall ship and plenty of stars to steer by, lots of potential and everybody talking about any Trekkers' favorite subject. What's not to like?