Thursday, 7 July 2011

Star Trek (2009) - Reasons for Success


One of the major reasons for the success of this impressive sci-fi blockbuster was due to its production through Paramount; therefore taken seriously. Well known stars such as Zachary Quinto and Simon Pegg played very iconic character in Star Trek – intriguing fans to watch their performance. Its spring/summer release was a good season for audiences due to the brighter weather and the fact that more people generally go out during these seasons.

There are many relations to reality within the film, such as Nokia and Budweiser. Not only do the companies pay for their product placement, but audiences find connection towards these items in a modern materialistic fashion. Other aspects that the audience can relate to are the characters that are based around a ‘work force’ even in its futuristic style. Older audiences will see definite relations from this compared to their own work place; there’s always the nagging one that takes control (Spock) and the funny one that everyone gets on with (Scotty). Positive reviews and many awards reassure the few people who are unsure of the movie. The fact it is a 12 certificate allows almost all ages to watch and loosens restrictions unlike 15’s and 18’s, this increases audience almost tenfold due to the fact that a high percentage of cinema goers are within their teens. Star Trek accumulated 12 awards through 45 nominations. If no one had been that bothered about seeing it then the high publicity of its numerous awards would sway them to watch it.

Despite the movie being a sci-fi genre there are also aspects of comedy and romance which provide entertainment for all audiences. The obvious aspects of relation towards the classics keep the old fans interested; big bangs, comedy and introduction to characters keep newbies happy. The romance and empowering of women throughout is one for the women. The film was fortunate to have one of the largest preformed fan bases – Trekkies – who would watch it to see how well it was done in relation to the classics. The change of direction in the narrative appealed to audiences who may have found Star Trek dull and boring before. Yet the sci-fi action has a surreal atmosphere which acts as escapism and lets the mind wonder: asking ‘what if?’

Merchandise was another key reason for the films huge success, releasing action figures and various day-to-day items such as lunch boxes and bags with the all too recognisable Star Trek crest. Previous Star Trek merchandise was also bought due to the uncovering of the almost forgotten craze.

Overall Star Trek was a majorly successful film due to its diversity and huge fan base. It certainly ticked many boxes for genre.

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