As Star Trek 3 direction is definitely out of the question for J. J. Abrams given his Star Wars committments, Skydance Productions and Paramount have had to look elsewhere for someone to helm the highly anticipated sci-fi sequel.
Despite any form of feature direction experience, Roberto Orci, who has been lobbying for the job for quite some time, is reported to have now been made an offer.
It is understandable why Orci would be considered for the job given his knowledge of the ins and outs of the franchise, having co-written the last two Star Trek features, but is that testament enough that he can tackle such a huge film as his debut?
Everyone’s main concern is his lack of experience in the director’s chair, particularly as even previous Star Trek first-time feature directors such as Leonard Nimoy (Star Trek III: The Search for Spock) and William Shatner (Star Trek V: The Final Frontier) had at least cut their directing teeth on TV shows such as T. J. Hooker. Having said this, both Skydance and Paramount are involved so Orci is going to find himself working with some of the most experienced collaborators in the business for sure. Something else working in Orci’s favour is his fifteen year track record as a film and TV producer meaning he surely knows what is to be expected of him. Also, as the third entry is sure to involve most of the central cast members reprising their roles this should help make things somewhat easier for the new helmer to settle into his chair.
Whilst we can understand the concerns, there are few people who have been as involved as Orci in the latest Star Trek franchise and we’re eager to see what direction he takes us with a script he is preparing with co-writers J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay.
What are your thoughts?
