This movie has everything - an excellent (and historically relevant) plot, very good acting, and incredible CGI. The CGI characters are so real that they virtually become actors in their own right, worthy of autographs and Hollywood recognition. Pandora is now on my "bucket list' of vacation spots - LOL!
J.J. Abrams got it right. This movie drives the Star Trek franchise into a direction that should appeal to a diverse audience. The prequel approach was an excellent vehicle for moving away from the staid "trekkie" genre, to a mainstream production. While easily identifiable (sometimes comedically), the new cast brought a fresh and more realistic feel to their characters. The special effects are leading edge and absolutely spectacular. Hard core trekkies may feel slightly betrayed and disappointed that their years of keeping abreast have been wiped away in one fell swoop. This is the new beginning of Star Trek. I look forward to the sequels.