With the new Star Trek Beyond trailer premiering a Rihanna song, this new TV spot (watch it above) didn’t stand a chance. But it’s a good one!
So far about all we know of the plot of Star Trek Beyond is the Enterprise gets blown up by an alien named Krall (Idris Elba), who really hates the Federation. From the trailers it’s clear what to expect: after they abandon ship, the crew of the Enterprise is spread out over this mysterious planet and must work in pairs to reunite. The trailers have been full of unexpected character combinations, working together to overcome a hostile environment and an implacable enemy.
But this new Star Trek Beyond TV spot puts the focus on a more classic relationship: the enduring trio of Dr. “Bones” McCoy, Captain James T. Kirk and First Officer Mr. Spock.
Sure, Star Trek Beyond is loaded with more explosions than fans of the original series may want, but as far as the characters go Beyond looks just as warm and aware of the proper dynamic as J.J. Abrams’ 2009 reboot, Star Trek.
This new Beyond teaser also gives us some of our best looks at the USS Franklin in action. An older Federation ship (similar to the Enterprise NX-01 of Star Trek prequel series Enterprise), the Franklin appears to be the Enterprise crew’s ticket off Krall’s planet.
Star Trek Beyond is in theaters July 22.