DVD Review: Star Trek Original Series Remastered
Paramount Releases Classic Series with Improved Visual Effects
Dec 1, 2008
What is Star Trek: The Original Series Remastered?
Being the series that started it all, the original Trek series which first aired in 1966, deserved its turn in getting the best DVD treatment possible. Though it had already been released on DVD in its original form back in 2004, the dated looks of the classic show still clashed with its later follow-ups, from Next Generation onwards, leading us to the last series, Enterprise.
As technology improved and visual effects became more refined, the good folks at Paramount began to explore whether it would be feasible to touch up some of the exterior shots, i.e. any shot previously handled by way of miniature (and crude) models, such as space shots, and phaser effects.
As it turns out, these were not only possible, but are rather enjoyable, helping bring out what was already a good set of stories, into a more fluid set of episodes.
In the same way that Lucasfilm redid some of its effects in the Star Wars Trilogy Special Edition series, the newly revised effects aren't so much meant to replace the elements of the story, but to enhance the existing storyline, which has survived on its own merit for over 40 years. This decision has many purposes, chief among which is to appease the hardcore fan base, who would certainly vocalize their discontent, in disturbing what to many is already TV history in its original form.
Visual Changes in Star Trek: The Original Series Remastered
As stated in the previous paragraph, let it be said that the biggest changes are cosmetic in nature, and in no way affects the plot of any episode, as they were originally written. Amongst the biggest changes:
- All new external shots of the ships, and incredible detail on planetary surfaces while in orbit, replacing the "pastel color of the week" planet surface, previously seen in the 1960's version
- Much more fluid camera angles regarding the ship's movement, such as the enterprise breaking orbit, or changing its flight path
- Shuttle bays are much more realistic, as they were originally very primitive looking, down to the model shuttle, looking like it was being moved by hand under the miniature set
- Varied special effects, ranging from phaser blasts, to cleaner transporter f/x
Furthermore, each episode was digitally remastered with both sound and picture clarity, bringing new life and color to this timeless popular show.
Star Trek Remastered Notable Extras
Seeing no need to reiterate a "best-of" list of the original series' episodes, something must still be said of the various extras packed into all three seasons' boxed sets, complementing this re-release. Chief among the new features, are short and concise updates on what the cast of Trek has been up to, in the years marking the end of the original series' adventures.
Over the course of all three seasons' DVD sets, viewers get a rather non-Trek look at William Shatner's involvement in his equestrian interests, Leonard Nimoy's professional photography work, Walter Koenig's impressive book and collectible search, George Takei's involvement in a Japanese American history museum, and Nichelle Nichols' stage work. Look for a feature with the late James Doohan as well, who recounts his favorite Trek moments. DeForest Kelley is clearly missing in action, having passed away several years back.
One fascinating set of mini-documentaries, is one entitled "Billy Blackburn's Treasure Chest", which is hosted by bit actor Billy Blackburn, who played a variety of secondary and background characters, over the course of the series. Blackburn seems to have had a lot of leeway on set, being allowed to make home movies of the cast and crew, resulting in a candid glimpse behind the scenes of this legendary show. Ironically, these featurettes come off as more interesting than the Life After Trek segments.
Hardcore fans of the show will appreciate the additional content of all three sets, which include extra episodes of Trek lore connected to the famous "The Trouble with Tribbles" episode, namely the animated episode "More Tribbles, More Trouble" and the Deep Space Nine ep "Trials and Tribble-ations", which incorporated the modern series's characters (Sisko, Dax, O'Brien, Bashir, Worf) into the original Trek episode, with remarkable results.
Look also for the original pilot "The Cage", in both original and extended format, in the third season's box set.
This group of DVD sets is a perfect choice for both newcomers and hardcore fans, preferably those who hadn't already purchased the original release a while back. The episodes are already timeless, this set is further polish on an existing gem. A must for Trek fans.
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