This movie did not disappoint. From start to finish, the action and the plots twists come at you at a steady pace. I found myself completely engaged with the characters and the story throughout. Benedict Cumberbatch is masterful in his role as the film’s villain. He is always one step ahead due to his brains and brawn. The interaction between the main characters is fun to watch. Whether it’s the jokes or the emotional moments, they are always entertaining. There are plenty of large and small nods to the Star Trek franchise that fanboys will love. This leads to one of the film’s only real weak spots: A reinterpretation of one of the most iconic Star Trek moment that moves away from homage and closer to a corny rip-off. Only the fantastic acting in the scene salvages it.
**** 1/2 out of *****