Star Trek Sequel Signs JJ Abrams to Direct Untitled Movie
JJ Abrams has signed on to direct the “Star Trek” sequel set for release next summer by Paramount Pictures.
Abrams helmed 2009’s “Star Trek” reboot, which raked in $257 million domestically, and over $385 million worldwide - the highest-ever grosses for “Star Trek” movies.
Entertainment Weekly confirmed the directing deal, which also includes screenwriters Alex Kurtzan and Roberto Orci, as well as producer Damon Lindelof. The cast of 2009’s “Star Trek” will return, including Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto.
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Vulture reports that filming the “Star Trek” sequel will commence this winter. The film has not yet received a title, and the date of release was originally set for June 2012, but has since been pushed back to allow writers time to polish the script.
The science-fiction entertainment franchise was created by Gene Roddenberry, and has resulted in eleven films, dozens of games, novels, an attraction in Las Vegas, and many traveling museums featuring film props.
Rights to the franchise were sold to CBS, although feature film and DVD distribution rights belong to Paramount Pictures.
“Star Trek” has a cult following, and reactions of the director’s commitment to the new movie have inundated Twitter.
Twitter user Richard wrote, “JJ Abrams officially set to direct Star Trek! Great news indeed!”
“Very excited for the next Star Trek (12th movie!) with JJ Abrams at the helm again #nerd” wrote James.
Ryan simply wrote on his Twitter account, “Wooo!” in reaction to the directorial announcement.
A two-time Emmy Award winner as well as a Golden Globe Award winner for the series, Abrams is perhaps best known co-creating and producing “Lost” on ABC.
J. J. Abrams is a film and television producer, screenwriter, director, actor, and composer. He directed films such as “Morning Glory” with Rachel McAdams and “Mission: Impossible III” starring Tom Cruise. Television series Abrams has helmed include “Alias,” “Felicity,” and Anatomy of Hope.”
