Review: Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)

When it comes to the Star Trek film series, each installment has its own unique flavor, and Star Trek V: The Final Frontier is no exception. Released in 1989, this fifth entry in the original series lineup attempts to tackle some big ideas, all while staying true to the hallmarks of the franchise. Directed by William Shatner, who also reprises his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk, the film explores themes of faith, friendship, and the eternal quest for knowledge. As a collector, it’s worth examining where this film stands in terms of Star Trek lore and the physical media landscape.

Plot Summary

The story kicks off with the crew of the USS Enterprise-A being called back from shore leave to resolve a hostage situation on the desert planet of Nimbus III, known as the “Planet of Galactic Peace.” The situation quickly escalates when it becomes clear that the hostage taker is Sybok, a Vulcan with a radical vision who believes he can find the ultimate truth at the center of the galaxy. As the crew finds themselves entangled in Sybok’s quest, they are forced to confront their own beliefs and relationships, leading them to a destination that promises answers but also raises more questions. Without giving away the ending, let's just say that the journey is filled with unexpected twists that challenge the crew in unexpected ways.

Performances

The original cast returns with their usual chemistry, though not all performances hit the mark. William Shatner’s Kirk is as confident and brash as ever, bringing a sense of leadership that anchors the film despite its narrative struggles. Leonard Nimoy as Spock provides a nuanced performance, balancing his logical demeanor with the emotional weight of dealing with his half-brother Sybok. DeForest Kelley shines as Dr. McCoy, injecting humor and heart into the story.

Yet, it's Lawrence Luckinbill as Sybok who stands out with a performance that oscillates between zealot and visionary. He brings a charisma to the role that makes the character’s conviction almost contagious, even if his motives are somewhat muddled. The supporting cast, including Nichelle Nichols, George Takei, Walter Koenig, and James Doohan, offer solid contributions, although they are not given much room to explore their characters deeply in this outing.

Direction and Craft

William Shatner's direction is ambitious but not without its flaws. He aims to tackle profound questions about the human condition and spirituality, but the execution can feel uneven at times. There are moments where the narrative loses its focus, leaving viewers to wonder about the film’s ultimate direction. However, Shatner does manage to inject some of his trademark flair and theatricality, which can be both a strength and a weakness.

The film’s visual effects are a mixed bag. While some sequences are visually striking, others show the limitations of the era's technology. The special effects team had to work within a constrained budget, and it shows, especially when compared to the previous entries in the series. The production design captures the familiar Star Trek aesthetic, and Jerry Goldsmith’s score provides an uplifting accompaniment, blending new themes with the classic Star Trek motifs.

Collector's Verdict

For the dedicated Star Trek fan, owning Star Trek V: The Final Frontier is about completing the collection. It may not be the series' crowning achievement, but it holds a unique place in the franchise's history. From a collector’s standpoint, the best format to own is the Blu-Ray release, which offers improved picture quality and sound, along with a selection of special features that provide insights into the making of the film. While it is not a rare find by any means, the movie is a staple in any comprehensive Star Trek collection.

Star Rating

2.5 out of 5 stars

Best Format

Blu-Ray

Rarity Rating

Common

Overall, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier is a film that’s best appreciated as part of the broader Star Trek universe. It might not be the most polished entry, but it offers glimpses of what makes Star Trek enduringly popular: the exploration of new ideas, the strength of friendship, and the courage to ask big questions. For collectors, it’s a piece of the Star Trek puzzle that, despite its imperfections, deserves a spot on the shelf.