Where to watch Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
3 1/2 Stars
After noting in my review of Star Trek: The Motion Picture that Spock’s presence was perfunctory, the inverse is true of this smashing sequel. Mr. Spock is the lynchpin of the film and his final scenes are among the most moving moments in the franchise’s long standing history. This time around the filmmakers have honed a great story and script that recalls and superbly captures the essences of the original series. Kirk (Shatner), Spock (Nimoy) and the entire crew of the U.S.S. Starship Enterprise are forced into battle with an old foe in Khan, played with zeal by the magnetic Ricardo Montalban.
This second outing in the big-screen adventure of the Federation’s battles while gallantly protecting the frontiers of space is a big improvement over its predecessor. Based on an episode titled ‘Bad Seed’, that aired in the second season of the series this beautifully realized film has just the right mix of brains and action to satisfy fans new and old. Watch out for the cliffhanger ending that will tug at the heart strings.
Director: Nicholas Meyer
Stars: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, Ricardo Montalban
This film put the franchise back on track. Kudos to Nick Meyer for his directing skill. If this film had failed, we probably wouldn’t be talking about Star Trek.
Also interesting in this film is the introduction of Kirstie Alley as Savak. She would later gain fame as a replacement for Shelley Long in the TV sitcom hit Cheers.