Bryce Zabel (Dark Skies), in conjunction with J. Michael Straczynski (Bablylon 5) recently posted on his blog a treatment proposed to Paramout in 2004 for a “reimagining” of the original Star Trek series.
Back then I remember reading something about it, although at the time I don’t think that a reimagining was that publicised. However I am sure that I would have been horrified at the thought of tampering with the mythology.
However, we are now 2 seasons in to the excellent reimagining of Battlestar Galactica, which has brought us a dark and brooding version of the story that is so good I wouldn’t even dream of watching the old show again.
And having now read their treatment for the show, I am so disappointed that they didn’t get a green light. What the treatment does it look back at the original and weave in an overall arc, reasons behind the original mission and knit it together with a beginning, a middle, and an end. Focusing on the relationship between Kirk, McCoy and Spock, having an end game in sight from the off would give better focus and purpose to the show, making it essential viewing week in, week out.
Whilst I am a big fan of JJ Abrams and I’m sure that his movie will be great, given the choice I would rather see a reimagined, darker, grittier Star Trek show week in-week out, than a one off movie. Paramount really missed a trick here, given the success of Battlestar, do do something new and fresh that builds on the existing fan base and generates a new generation of trekkies.
