Another Pass at Star Trek V: The Final Frontier

Star Trek V: The Final Frontier is a movie that begs the audience to ask many questions. Why does God need a Starship? Why is Captain Kirk climbing the mountain? How many “Rows” are in “Row Row Row Your Boat”? And more! From Farragut Forward, William Jay joins Case and Sam to attempt to answer a few of these questions.

 

Overview

In the latest episode of the podcast, hosts Case Aiken and Sam Alicea, along with guest William J., delve into the complexities of "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," celebrating the film's significance within the franchise on its 35th anniversary. They provide an engaging overview of the movie's production challenges, particularly highlighting William Shatner's directorial debut and the budget constraints faced. The discussion covers character dynamics, including an analysis of Kirk, Spock, McCoy, and the antagonist Sybok, as well as critiques of pacing, plot structure, and the film’s attempts at humor. The hosts explore pivotal scenes, such as the Yosemite sequence and the galactic barrier climax, while offering constructive suggestions for improving character development and overall narrative flow. The episode concludes with reflections on the film's legacy within the Star Trek canon and a look at upcoming podcast topics, ensuring listeners are informed and engaged in the broader Star Trek conversation.

 

Notes

Introduction and Overview (00:00 - 10:01)

• Podcast hosts Case Aiken and Sam Alicea introduce the topic: Star Trek V: The Final Frontier
• Guest William J. joins to discuss the film
• Mention of Star Trek's 35th anniversary and William Shatner's recent comments

Movie Context and Production (10:02 - 20:24)

• Discussion of Star Trek V's place in the franchise
• Comparison to previous films directed by Leonard Nimoy
• William Shatner's directorial debut and its challenges
• Budget and production issues highlighted

Character Analysis and Plot Elements (20:24 - 28:41)

• Examination of Kirk, Spock, and McCoy's roles
• Discussion of Sybok as the antagonist
• Critique of the film's pacing and structure

Yosemite Scenes and Ship Issues (28:41 - 40:23)

• Analysis of the extended Yosemite sequence
• Critique of the Enterprise's technical problems
• Discussion of the film's attempts at humor

Alien Encounters and Rescue Mission (40:23 - 52:10)

• Examination of the Nimbus III setting and inhabitants
• Analysis of the rescue mission sequence
• Critique of Uhura's dance scene and its place in the film

Sybok's Powers and Ship Takeover (52:10 - 01:01:40)

• Discussion of Sybok's psychological abilities
• Analysis of the Enterprise crew's reactions
• Critique of the logic behind Sybok's plan

God Entity and Galactic Barrier (01:01:40 - 01:08:31)

• Examination of the film's portrayal of a god-like entity
• Discussion of the galactic barrier concept
• Critique of the film's climax and resolution

Visual Effects and Set Design (01:08:31 - 01:18:07)

• Analysis of the film's special effects
• Discussion of budgetary constraints on visuals
• Comparison to effects in other Star Trek films

Proposed Improvements (01:18:07 - 01:26:25)

• Suggestions for improving the film's plot
• Ideas for better character development
• Proposed changes to the film's pacing

Alternative Plot Ideas (01:26:25 - 01:35:20)

• Discussion of potential alternative storylines
• Suggestions for improving Sybok's character
• Ideas for enhancing the film's themes

Franchise Impact and Legacy (01:35:20 - 01:44:09)

• Analysis of the film's impact on the Star Trek franchise
• Discussion of its place in Star Trek canon
• Comparison to other odd-numbered Star Trek films

Final Thoughts and Recommendations (01:44:09 - 01:54:24)

• Overall assessment of the film's strengths and weaknesses
• Recommendations for potential viewers
• Discussion of the film's place in Star Trek history

Wrap-up and Future Topics (01:54:24 - 02:16:12)

• Summary of key points discussed
• Mention of upcoming podcast topics
• Information on where to find the hosts and guest online