Star Trek definitely lived long and prospered. Though the original series’ late ’60s run only lasted three seasons and was cancelled due to low ratings, reruns went into syndication around the world, earning the show legions of fans who clamored for more — and on December 7, 1979, they got Star Trek: The Motion Picture, which celebrates its 45th anniversary today.
The film marked the first of several big-screen adventures for Captain Kirk, Spock and the crew of the USS Enterprise. And despite a number of problems — including a script that was not completed until production was already well underway, and mixed critical reviews when the film was released — it helped reinvigorate the franchise, leading to multiple sequels and spin-offs that have become a cultural phenomenon.
What else don’t you know about Star Trek: the Motion Picture? Read on to find out!
1The Fan Who Kept the Show Alive Has a Cameo
Paramount/Everett Collection
2William Shatner Thought It Would Fail
Paramount Pictures/Everett Collection
When William Shatner attended the world premiere of the film, he was not exactly optimistic about its success. Seeing the completed movie for the first time, Shatner was struck by its slow pace and thought it marked the end of the Star Trek journey. He famously remarked, “Well, that’s it. We gave it our best shot, it wasn’t good, and it will never happen again.” He recalled his initial reaction 15 years later and added, “Shows you what I know.”
3The Cast Had Concerns About Aging
Paramount Pictures/Everett Collection
After a decade-long hiatus, cast members were understandably worried that fans might feel strange about their favorite characters looking older on the big screen. To help hide the passage of time, special lighting and camera tricks were employed to make the actors appear younger. Shatner even went on an extreme diet to prepare for the role. However, the filmmakers decided to embrace the aging process in the following films (surely to the relief of everyone on the Enterprise).
4Uhura’s Earpieces Were the Only Original TV Props Used
Paramount/Everett Collection
5Vulcan Dialogue Was Written to Match the Actors’ Lip Movements
Paramount Pictures/Everett Collection
