After the high-profile exit of Roberto Orci, Star Trek 3 is still searching for a director.
But now the ambitious shortlist has been revealed.
It’s no secret that Roberto Orci is no longer attached to direct the upcoming Star Trek sequel. And while he’s apparently still on board to produce, the Trek reboot writer is to be swiftly replaced with a more experienced director. Who will that be? It looks as though the shortlist is down to just five names…
According to Deadline Hollywood, Paramount Pictures is still looking for a director for Star Trek 3… but they seem to have narrowed it down to five favourites.
“Paramount Pictures, JJ Abrams and Skydance Productions are eyeing five top directors to replace Roberto Orci as the Star Trek 3 helmer,” they explain.
“Studio is high on and has met with Rupert Wyatt, who helmed ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’,” they added. “He seems to be atop this list, but he’s got company. Morten Tyldum, director of the Oscar bait film The Imitation Game, is on a list that also features Safe House helmer Daniel Espinosa… Justin Lin, the Fast & Furious helmer… finally there is also Duncan Jones, the Source Code helmer.”
Of course, Rupert Wyatt shot to fame following Rise of the Planet of the Apes – arguably the best of the modern Apes films so far. But while the director has already dabbled in big budget sci-fi, he’s still a relatively new name, having only directed three films to date.
And it looks as though the same can be said of the rest of this shortlist.
In fact, it’s safe to say that Paramount Pictures seems to be looking for some new talent for the rebooted Star Trek franchise. And while Jonathan Frakes is interested in taking the helm it looks as though they may be more inclined to get some fresh ideas floating around for the upcoming ‘Star Trek’ sequel.
But which of these directors is best suited to Star Trek 3?
I can’t help opting for my personal favourite, Duncan Jones. After the absolute masterpiece that is Moon, he really would be the perfect director to take a fresh look at this ageing sci-fi franchise. But it looks as though he’s already ruled himself out.
What we’re left with is a collection of fresh-faced, young directors who might just make a difference when it comes to Star Trek 3. But do any of them have the Trek knowledge to make a great Star Trek movie?
Out of the rest of these contenders, Rupert Wyatt is the one that really stands out. He’s already shown an affinity to the more emotional aspects of storytelling… and at the heart of Star Trek, that’s what really keeps the fans interested.
But can he make a great Star Trek movie? For now, we’ll have to wait and see.
Which Star Trek 3 director would you like to see? Should Duncan Jones reconsider? Let us know what you think in the comments below…
