Where to start

Star Trek

3 versions · originally a series, 1966

Star Trek is a visionary saga exploring the boundless potential of humanity through interstellar diplomacy, scientific discovery, and camaraderie.

✦ Most fans start here

Star Trek (1966)

Star Trek

The original tv

✦ Start here

Star Trek

Gene Roddenberry · Series · 1966

Star Trek (1966) serves as the foundational blueprint for the franchise, establishing the iconic dynamic between Kirk and Spock while defining the optimistic spirit of the U.S.S. Enterprise's five-year mission.

Star Trek

2009 film

Star Trek

Film · 2009

The 2009 film offers a high-octane cinematic reimagining of the franchise, focusing on the volatile early origins and clashing personalities of young James Kirk and Spock within a fresh timeline.

Star Trek: Lower Decks

2020 series

Star Trek: Lower Decks

Mike McMahan · Series · 2020

Star Trek: Lower Decks (2020) shifts the perspective to the unsung support crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos, blending workplace humor with the daily realities of life aboard a Starfleet vessel.

Common questions

Should I watch the 1966 Star Trek series before the 2009 movie?

You do not need to watch the 1966 Star Trek series to understand the 2009 movie. The 2009 film functions as a standalone reboot of the franchise, allowing new viewers to follow the story without prior knowledge of the original television series.

Is Star Trek: Lower Decks suitable for someone who has only seen the 1966 series?

Yes, Star Trek: Lower Decks is accessible to fans of the 1966 series. While it is an animated comedy set in the same universe, it rewards long-time viewers with references to the history established in the original show while maintaining its own distinct narrative style.

What order should I watch Star Trek, Star Trek, and Star Trek: Lower Decks?

You can watch these titles in any order. The 1966 Star Trek series established the universe, the 2009 Star Trek movie offers a reimagined timeline, and Star Trek: Lower Decks provides a modern animated perspective. Each title functions independently within the broader franchise framework.

How long is the 2009 Star Trek movie compared to the 1966 Star Trek series?

The 2009 Star Trek movie is a feature-length film lasting approximately two hours. In contrast, the 1966 Star Trek series consists of multiple seasons with individual episodes lasting about fifty minutes, offering a much larger volume of content for viewers to explore.

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