While the “Star Trek” franchise has been dormant in the film world since 2016, Paramount+ is riddled with new TV series in the universe that have been keeping the diehard fans happy over the last five years. However, it appears Paramount is ready to bring the franchise back to the big screen and the studio knows just the director to make it happen. Well, to be fair, the latest director that will attempt to make it happen, as “Star Trek” has been experiencing quite a few false starts over the past half-decade, huh?
According to Deadline, Paramount has brought in Matt Shakman to direct a new, untitled “Star Trek” film. Not much is known about the film, as it’s unclear if the studio wants to continue the universe that began in 2009’s “Star Trek” or if that cast will be left behind in favor of a brand-new story. What we do know is this new mystery film is written by Lindsay Beer and Geneva Robertson-Dworet.
Shakman is probably best known for his work on the Marvel Studios TV series, “WandaVision,” which just earned 23 Emmy nominations yesterday. He’s also directed quite a few episodes of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” as well as installments of series such as “Game of Thrones” and “Fargo.” If it goes into production, the new “Star Trek” film will be his first feature.
Notice the use of the word “if?” That’s not being pessimistic. You see, this isn’t the first time a filmmaker has been named for a new “Star Trek” film over the last several years. Famously, we had S.J. Clarkson become attached to “Star Trek 4” but that feature fell apart over apparent contract negotiations that fell through. That film was supposed to follow a time-travel story with the return of Chris Hemsworth. Then, it was announced that Noah Hawley was going to make a brand-new “Star Trek” film without that cast. However, much like the sequel, Hawley’s film fell apart. It’s also unclear how this might affect the new “Star Trek” film from writer Kalinda Vazquez. Now, Shakman is attempting to right the ship and move the “Star Trek” franchise into new territory on the big screen.
A release date for the film is already set, as this “Star Trek” entry is expected to arrive in theaters on June 9, 2023.