New Talent Joins Starfleet for Upcoming Star Trek Film
Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, known for their work on Dungeons & Dragons: Thieves’ Honor and the script for Spider-Man: Homecoming, have officially signed on to write, produce, and direct a new addition to the Star Trek franchise. This new film aims to breathe new life into a series that has been quiet on the big screen for quite some time.
However, Trekkies who were hoping for a continuation of the J.J. Abrams reboot universe might want to temper their expectations. Reports indicate that this upcoming movie will not follow the timeline of Chris Pine’s character. While Pine starred in Goldstein and Daley’s D&D films as well, it’s noteworthy that this project will not connect to any past Star Trek shows, movies, or previously announced projects. Fans of characters like Jean-Luc Picard and Kathryn Janeway may find themselves cautiously optimistic, as details about the plot are being kept tightly under wraps.
Getting back to the movies has been a challenging journey. Since Star Trek Beyond was released in 2016, Paramount has explored various options, even considering Chris Hemsworth for a return as Kirk’s father. There was also talk of Quentin Tarantino delivering a gangster-themed take on the franchise. Filmmakers Noah Hawley and Matt Shakman had made significant strides, even constructing sets, before the projects stalled out, with both ultimately moving on—Hawley to FX’s Alien: Earth and Shakman to Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps.
In 2024, it came to light that two additional Star Trek films are also in the works. One of them is termed a “Final Chapter” script from Steve Yockey, featuring familiar faces like Pine, Quinto, and Saldaña. The other is an origin story from Toby Haynes, based on a screenplay by Seth Grahame-Smith. Unfortunately, both projects seem to be stuck in limbo, akin to a stranded spaceship with flickering life support panels.
Revitalizing Star Trek is now a key priority for Paramount’s new leadership team, headed by David Ellison and Skydance, who took the reins in August. Goldstein and Daley have an existing relationship with the studio, having produced and directed the upcoming Skydance project May Day, which stars Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh. This film will be available on Apple TV+.
The duo has a solid track record, previously directing New Line’s successful comedy Game Night, as well as taking the helm for a reboot of Vacation. They have also contributed to projects like Horrible Bosses and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.
Goldstein and Daley are represented by CAA and a variety of talent management agencies.
