Star Trek Film Order: Your Ultimate Guide to Watching the Trek
Hello, Trekkies! We know you're eager to boldly go where no one has gone before, but with 13 films and multiple timelines, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. Fret not, as we've crafted this casual and friendly guide to help you watch the Star Trek films in the perfect order. So, grab your phasers and let's dive right in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and star trek film order.
The Original Timeline (TOS)
The Original Series (TOS) Films
Alright, guys, let's kick things off with the classic Star Trek films featuring the original cast. These films are set in the 23rd century and follow the adventures of Captain Kirk, Spock, and the rest of the USS Enterprise crew.
1. Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) - Kickstart your journey with this 1979 film that picks up where the original series left off. The crew encounters an alien entity that threatens the Enterprise.
2. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) - Get ready for an epic rematch as Khan Noonien Singh returns to seek revenge on Kirk. This film is a must-watch, as it features one of the most iconic villains in Trek history.
3. Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984) - In this thrilling sequel, the Enterprise crew must find Spock and restore his katra (soul) while evading the wrath of the Klingons.
4. Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986) - The crew travels back in time to 20th-century San Francisco to find humpback whales and save the future. This film is a great blend of humor and adventure.
5. Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989) - The Enterprise crew embarks on a quest to find the mythical planet of Eden, but things quickly go awry. This film is a bit of a wildcard, so approach with caution.
6. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1994) - As the Klingon Empire crumbles, Kirk and the crew must navigate a delicate peace negotiation. This film serves as a fitting farewell to the original cast.
The Next Generation (TNG) Films
The Next Generation (TNG) Films
Now that you've caught up with the original crew, it's time to set a course for the 24th century and meet the crew of the USS Enterprise-D.
7. Star Trek: Generations (1994) - This film serves as a bridge between the original and Next Generation timelines. Kirk makes a brief appearance before the Enterprise-D crew takes center stage.
8. Star Trek: First Contact (1996) - The Borg travel back in time to prevent humanity's first contact with Vulcans. The Enterprise-E crew teams up with the crew of the Defiant to save the future.
9. Star Trek: Insurrection (1998) - The Enterprise crew stumbles upon a secret that threatens an alien race known as the Ba'ku. This film is a great blend of action and social commentary.
10. Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) - The Enterprise crew faces off against a Romulan clone of Captain Picard in this action-packed adventure. Unfortunately, this film is often overshadowed by the events of Star Trek: The Next Generation, but it's still worth a watch.
The Kelvin Timeline (TOS Reboot)
The Kelvin Timeline (TOS Reboot) Films
In 2009, J.J. Abrams gave Star Trek a fresh coat of paint with a reboot that introduced a new cast and an alternate timeline. If you're up for a change of pace, give these films a try.
11. Star Trek (2009) - A young Captain Kirk and his crew face off against a rogue Romulan named Nero. This film is a thrilling reimagining of the original series and a great starting point for new fans.
12. Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) - Kirk and the crew must stop a one-man weapon of mass destruction in this sequel to the 2009 film. This film is a love letter to the classic Trek films and features a surprising twist.
13. Star Trek Beyond (2016) - The Enterprise crew faces off against an ancient enemy in this action-packed adventure. This film is a fitting tribute to the late Leonard Nimoy and a great way to wrap up the Kelvin timeline.
The Prime Timeline (TOS, TNG, DIS)
The Prime Timeline (TOS, TNG, DIS) Films
If you're looking to stick with the prime timeline, you can watch the following films in chronological order. Keep in mind that these films are set in the same universe as the original series and The Next Generation, but they don't follow the same continuity as the TV shows.
- 1. Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
- 2. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
- 3. Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984)
- 4. Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)
- 5. Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989)
- 6. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1994)
- 7. Star Trek: Generations (1994)
- 8. Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
- 9. Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- 10. Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
- 11. Star Trek (2009)
- 12. Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)
- 13. Star Trek Beyond (2016)
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, guys! Whether you're a seasoned Trekker or a newcomer to the final frontier, we hope this guide helps you navigate the vast expanse of Star Trek films. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go where no one has gone before. Live long and prosper!