Science Fiction; Adventure; Comedy

Here's the shocker of the century: Star Trek is science fiction.

We've never heard something so crazy.

Although the sci-fi trappings are less prominent than in previous Star Trek films, they're still very present. Sure, time travel isn't exactly a realistic sci-fi trope, but you can't understand Star Trek without first understanding that it's the greatest science-fiction series of all time.

Equally important to the Star Trek formula is adventure. The series has long taken some inspiration from classic adventure stories. For example, creator Gene Roddenberry initially pitched the show as "Wagon Train in space," referring to a prominent Western series at the time. In another universe, Kirk is a noble cowboy or free-spirited swashbuckler.

In contrast, The Voyage Home switches things up by leaning toward comedy. Once the crew travels to the past, we're treated to a great deal of humorous social commentary and satire. In fact, the film doesn't even have a real villain. That sure sounds like a comedy to us. This gives the movie a lighthearted energy that distinguishes it from others in the series.