discussion comment
11 years ago
I like Deep Space 9 myself -- it took a couple seasons to find its stride, but it certainly doesn't disappoint.
I think Wrath of Khan is the best single example, but it relies on a little back story. From that perspective, it doesn't exactly stand on its own, but as a suspenseful sci-fi flick it really works for me. The action has consequences -- and the stakes are high. It paces itself perfectly and spends some time on themes, too. Not wanting to lose, but having to face death, for example.
The new ones, and maybe this is just me being old and curmudgeonly, just seem like there's too much everything. Like they're almost being intentionally obtuse. "Oh, I heard you like big starships. How's THIS for you? Oh, I heard you like loud explosions. Well there's THIS, and THIS..... and THIS!!!!" Too much tension between characters and not enough rapport and trust. Too much comic relief -- what's with Scotty's sidekick? Good for a laugh or two, but he doesn't do anything else.
The stories are taking a back seat to eye candy and deafening sound effects. Not that they're bad, but like I said before, it's like someone found out you like something and they've set out to see just how much of it you're willing to take at one time.