Roll-M |
Galaxy Quest (starring Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, Tony Shalhoub; screenplay by David Howard and Robert Gordon; directed by Dean Parisot; rated PG). Anyone who has ever been to a Star Trek convention knows that it is something "out of this world" - the people are "different," which is not necessarily a bad thing. As a frequent guest speaker myself at numerous Trek cons over the years, I have a special affection for fans and their passion. They dress in costume and re-enact their favorite character roles in a healthy, safe (if somewhat strange for the uninitiated) environment. So I was a bit leery of a film that might make fun of these enthusiasts.
Not to worry. Galaxy Quest is a delightful satire of the Trekkie phenomenon.The plot is actually one that several of my writer friends and I have been kicking around for years, without it actually coming to fruition: the actors are mistaken for their character counterparts and must prove their mettle in a real space adventure. If you've seen Trek (is there actually someone on the planet who hasn't?), this film will have you roaring with laughter and recognition. If you're not familiar with the phenomenon, join the crew, beam aboard, and remember - "Never give up! Never surrender!" (apparently Galaxy Quest's version of "Live Long and Prosper").
Tim Allen is perfect as the Captain Kirk counterpart; blonde-wigged Sigourney Weaver is a sexy space bimbette crew member (looking far younger than usual), and Alan Rickman is wonderful as the Spockish alien half-breed, a frustrated Shakespearean actor, type-cast and stuck in superstore-opening hell.
This is destined to become a classic for all Trekkers. Even if you are not part of that demographic, go anyway and have a great time with this satirical adventure!
FIVE OWLS OUT OF FIVE