This month, the movie “Star Trek” will appear in a theatre near you. Since its first episode, appearing on NBC in September, 1966, until today—five subsequent TV series and 10 movies later—I have, to my knowledge, yet to witness a single scene. Why am I bringing up Star Trek? It has my attention. Here’s a show that has endured into its fourth decade, hasn’t been in the theatre for the last seven years, and is currently envisioning a sequel to what its producers project will be a huge hit this month. I wonder, what’s the “magic” behind Star Trek’s permanence in American society? Is there more to it than meets the eye? Interestingly, if I were asked to produce a movie about a subject matter that I believe is important to all mankind and pertinent in today’s world, it would feature such themes as diversity, understanding, hope, and the triumph of good over evil. I would name it something like, “Shoot for the Stars.” Wait a moment! The Trekkies may be onto something. Beam me up, Scotty.
