“Resistance is futile.”
So goes the advertising slogan, and perhaps the phrase the marked the turning point of “Star Trek: First Contact.” But the resistance of the Enterprise in their fight against evil isn’t all that is hopeless.
Trying not to like the newest addition to the Star Trek library is nearly impossible.
I am really not a Star Trek fan, never have been, and probably never will be. But for the two hours that the Starship Enterprise fought bravely against the vicious and sinful forces of the Borg, I was as much a trekkie as anyone I’ve ever met.
While focusing on a clear plot or consistent acting can sometimes cloud this judgment, the best way to rate any movie is, or should be, entertainment value. “Star Trek: First Contact” was as entertaining a film as I’ve seen in months.
Perhaps what is, and always has been, the most pleasing about Star Trek, the next generation or any generation, is the exceptionally clear line drawn between good and evil. While there may be a gray area for any single character in the story, there is never any question who the “good guys” are, and who needs to be annihilated before the movie’s over.
Not only is that difference clear, but Jean-Luc Picard and the Enterprise crew are about the easiest good guys in Hollywood to root for.
Since the plot is virtually inconsequential, I won’t bore the reader with it, but for what is essentially an sci-fi suspense thriller, the story holds up well.
The most pleasant surprise of the film for me, though, was the appearance of James Cromwell. For those of you that may have forgotten, he was the farmer in “Babe,” and won an Academy Award nomination for his efforts.
He is just as good here. He plays Zephryn Cochran, an alcoholic scientist who is about to make the most significant technological breakthrough in the history of mankind. His eccentric drunk should win him another nomination.
The best part of the film, however, was the interaction between Data (Brent Spiner), and the leader of the Borg collective. As always, Data is intriguing, but every aspect of moviemaking - writing, acting, and filming - makes these scenes some of the best of the year.
“Star Trek: First Contact” is a movie no one should miss. Just remember: resistance is futile, so sit back and enjoy the show.
Grade: A