The hero in 'Star Trek'


"The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few." - Spock, "Star Trek Into Darkness"

There is one seminal moment in all of "Star Trek" lore. It comes near the end of "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," when Spock (Leonard Nimoy) sacrifices himself to save the Enterprise and her crew. As Captain Kirk (William Shatner) comes down, they have an emotional moment. Spock, who seemed emotionless, turns out to care a great deal for Kirk, the Enterprise, and all his friends. In part, that scene is what makes that the best of the "Star Trek" films.

In the original series, and in the original films, Spock is a key figure. While he might be the favorite of some, or even most, fans, there was no doubt that the central figure was Kirk. He was the alpha male hero, and not just because of William Shatner's performance.

When J.J. Abrams rebooted the franchise and series in 2009, some of that began the change. The characters, and their roles in the world, began to morph. While Kirk (Chris Pine) and Spock (Zachary Quinto) remain key figures in the story, it's not as clear cut who the central hero is. In fact, I'd argue that in the new "Star Trek" it's Spock that has become the central hero.

That's an idea that is somewhat reinforced by the changes in familiar story that come at the climax and conclusion of the latest installment, "Star Trek Into Darkness." While it seems like this rebooted franchise will continue, it will be interesting to see how this role reversal plays out.

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