After seven successful seasons of “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” it was time for their voyage to the big screen. For the first foray into the cinemas, the TNG team pulled several key crew from the show – notably the writers and director. Unfortunately, it made for a film that felt a bit like an expanded episode of the TV series, albeit made with a bigger budget. It also is mired by one of the more convoluted elements in any of the franchise films – the Nexus. Does that make it the worst of the franchise? Or does it have merits? Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our Star Trek series with David Carson’s 1994 film Star Trek: Generations.
We talk about the frustrations we have with this film and why the Nexus is such a problematic element within the story. We look at Ronald D. Moore and Brannon Braga – the two screenwriters – and ponder why they struggled so much with the concept and what they could’ve done differently to make an arguably better film. We debate the decision to bring Carson, Braga, Moore and even composer Dennis McCarthy, over from the TV show and why this decision may have lent to the small scope feel of the film. We relish in the relationship between Captain Picard and Data, notably in their conversation in Stellar Cartography, and what it brings forth in their relationship. And we complain about many other story issues we have with this film, looking at whether the issues here make it a better or worse film that Star Trek V.
It’s an interesting film to discuss that’s full of frustrations and missed opportunities. Regardless, we have a great time talking about it so check out the movie (or don’t) then tune in to this week’s show! The Next Reel: when the movie ends, our conversation begins.
