New cast or not-this is STAR TREK at its finest. I was concerned that they would be filming a cheesy ret-con or reboot that ignored what history has been established. What I got was a story that-in my mind-plausibly established how the core crew of the Enterprise came together, even if the relationships aren't quite the same as I remember them being.
The synergy between the actors mirrors that of the original cast, with the new crew bringing their own take to each part. The special effects work was mind-blowing. The writing held the same celebration of humanity for which STAR TREK has always been known.
I hope these gentlebeings will sign on for future voyages because I'm willing to sign on with them for the duration.