TRANSFORMERS Writer Looking To Direct STAR TREK 3

The script-writing duo that brought you hits (it’s all subjective) like the rebooted Star Trek films, two Transformers films and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is no more. At least as far movies go. Variety is reporting that Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci are splitting up their silver screen partnership, although they will still work together on television projects.

The reason for the split-up is so they can pursue separate careers as directors. Orci is specifically looking to direct Star Trek 3, which he’s already been hired to write with Patrick McKay and John D. Payne. If chosen, Orci would succeed J.J. Abrams, who withdrew from directing the third installment to helm Star Wars Episode VII.

Meanwhile, Kurtzman is already set to write the Venom spinoff in the Amazing Spider-Man series, which he co-wrote with Orci. He’s also being looked at to oversee Universal’s reboot of their monster movies line, like Van Helsing and The Mummy.

While the rebooted Star Trek films have raised outcry from hardcore fans, there’s no denying that they’ve been successful critically and commercially. Orci is in the unique position of having been involved with the production of the previous films. If he’s chosen as director, it’s likely he’ll keep the tone of the third installment similar to Star Trek and Star Trek Into Darkness, rather than go for a completely different feel. Although with Abrams gone, there’s unlikely to be any lens flare, so that’s a plus.

Now, whether that means the film will actually be good is a different question. Most of Orci and Kurtzman’s projects favor flash over substance, so it’s unlikely we’ll be seeing anything too cerebral with Star Trek 3. The most important thing now is for it to be entertaining. If you want social commentary on the differences between human and alien culture, watch the Original Series. These new movies are blockbuster entertainment, and that’s okay.

SOURCE: Variety