All 14 Star Trek Movies Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score

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Following three seasons on primetime television and two as a Saturday morning cartoon, transitioned to the big screen, fueled by the popularity of science fiction movies like and . These films didn’t just perform well; they sparked a second – and some would say third – wave of sequels, prequels, and spin-offs, which continue to this day as the franchise celebrates its 60th anniversary. Examining the 14 films as ranked by Rotten Tomatoes, even the lower-scoring ones are considered successes.

Besides James Bond, Marvel, and DC Comics characters, Star Trek is the film series with the most installments in recent times, but it still appeals to a relatively small group of people. While those unfamiliar with the show may pick up bits and pieces through general cultural awareness, things like photon torpedoes and the Prime Directive aren’t as well-known as lightsabers or the Force. It’s interesting that many Star Trek fans (Trekkers or Trekkies, especially those who dress up as characters) actually think most of the Star Trek movies aren’t very good. Over time, people tend to view them more favorably, and even the worst episodes or films usually have their supporters. When Star Trek films are ranked according to Rotten Tomatoes critics’ scores, the results are surprisingly logical (though there are a few unexpected entries), and almost every film seems better than its rating suggests.

Star Trek: Section 31 – 22% – Is the Most Controversial Movie in the Franchise

Okay, so everyone’s been talking about this one, and honestly, the reaction has been
rough. It was a total flop with most critics – and it looks like a lot of fans didn’t love it either. It’s kind of shocking, because it stars Michelle Yeoh, who’s an Oscar winner! But even she couldn’t save it, apparently. What’s really different about this film is that it’s a huge departure from other Star Trek movies. It’s set in this period they call “the Lost Era,” and instead of the usual Starfleet heroes trying to do good, it follows a much grittier, more ragtag crew – think a “dirty dozen” but in space.

The main issue with the film is that it started as a pilot for a TV series. Pilots can focus on introducing characters and hinting at future stories. But as a standalone movie, the characters don’t get enough development, and the interesting details of the Section 31 organization are sidelined in favor of a simple space heist. Therefore, if a viewer is willing to be lenient, even the “worst” Star Trek movie can still be enjoyable.

Star Trek V: The Final Frontier – 22% – Is a Much Better Movie Than Its Score

Directed by William Shatner-taking the helm because Leonard Nimoy had directed the prior two films-Star Trek V: The Final Frontier was once considered the weakest entry in the Star Trek film series. The movie brought in a previously unmentioned sibling for Spock and explored a religious storyline that Gene Roddenberry openly disapproved of. Furthermore, the film’s special effects were disappointing, as the filmmakers chose to cut costs by not allowing enough time for Industrial Light & Magic to complete them after finishing work on Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Following the popular Star Trek movie-the one known for its whale scenes-The Final Frontier didn’t quite resonate with audiences. However, despite some flawed visual effects, it features what is arguably the most meaningful story of friendship for Captain Kirk, Spock, and Doctor McCoy. Interestingly, the most commercially successful movie series ever, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, made a similar choice. Furthermore, with most of the original cast now gone, any film showcasing them is a precious and welcome addition.

Star Trek: Nemesis – 37% – Was an Ignominious Finale For The Next Generation Crew

The tenth Star Trek film, Nemesis, is unfortunately remembered for effectively ending the movie series. However, it offers both good and bad moments for fans. While it features the long-awaited wedding of Will Riker and Deanna Troi, it’s also the film where Data tragically dies – without even a chance to say goodbye to his close friend, Geordie La Forge. Director Stuart Baird was reportedly attempting something radically new, as Jonathan Frakes explained in The Fifty-Year Mission: The Next 25 Years by Edward Gross and Mark A. Altman.

Despite its flaws, Nemesis is a boldly envisioned movie built around a traditional Star Trek idea. It expanded the history of the Romulans, featured a duplicate of Picard, and explored some thought-provoking ideas. However, the film’s poor reviews and box office results gave Paramount the reason they needed to stop making movies with the TNG cast. Producer Rick Berman revealed that the studio was already looking for a fresh cast and new characters even before the film was approved, as detailed in The Fifty-Year Mission.

Star Trek: Generations – 47% – Paid Dearly for Killing Captain Kirk (Twice)

I remember when Star Trek: Generations came out in 1994 – it felt so soon after The Next Generation ended! It’s fascinating to learn that Brannon Braga and Ronald D. Moore were actually writing the series finale and the movie simultaneously. They really intended it as a moment where the older generation passed the baton to the new one, but it definitely wasn’t without its controversies. I recall a lot of fans were upset about the destruction of the USS Enterprise-D and, shockingly, Captain Kirk’s death – even if it happened twice! Apparently, William Shatner himself has some regrets about how he portrayed the character, but he


One issue both reviewers and viewers had with the film centered on its complex storyline. The concept of “the Nexus”-a kind of isolated reality where people experience perfect lives forever-came at a steep price: the destruction of an entire star system just to allow the villain access. However, much like Kirk’s fate in the film, many believe it receives unfair criticism. From Data’s new “emotion chip” to the thoughtful ideas behind the allure of the Nexus, Generations is a strong beginning to the new age of Star Trek films.

Star Trek: The Motion Picture – 51% – Is a Slept-On Sci-Fi Classic With Flaws

The making of Star Trek: The Motion Picture was filled with errors, disagreements, and a strict deadline imposed by the studio. Released in 1979, The Motion Picture arrived ten years after the original Star Trek series concluded. However, the characters felt different from how fans remembered them. The playful banter, humor, and friendly arguments were missing. Supporting characters like Sulu, Chekov, and Uhura had very little to do. And the ending, which was written and filmed as it appeared, left many viewers confused and disappointed.

Similarly, The Motion Picture perfectly captures Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry’s ideas about this world. A huge danger is approaching the galaxy, but a direct fight wouldn’t help and isn’t even an option. Dealing with this threat relies on understanding and willingness to give something up, rather than exciting space battles and weapons. Plus, with a powerful score by Jerry Goldsmith, the film proudly shows off its expensive special effects (although many weren’t finished until the director’s cut came out many years later).

Star Trek: Insurrection – 55% – Is the Film That Feels Most Like an Episode

Similar to The Final Frontier, the third TNG movie came after the most popular film in the series. Star Trek: Insurrection really feels like an extended episode of TNG, with its exploration missions and a villainous admiral. The movie is full of strong character development, including Data’s involvement in the titular uprising and the start of the official romance between Riker and Troi.

Despite receiving generally positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is often considered a disappointment. It doesn’t have as much action as earlier Star Trek movies (with the possible exception of The Motion Picture), and it came out during a period when audiences weren’t appreciating the franchise as much. Furthermore, the romantic storyline between Picard and a woman on the planet the Enterprise crew was defending bothered fans who wanted him to end up with Doctor Crusher.

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock – 81% – Retroactive Reviews Rehabilitated This Film

Leonard Nimoy’s directorial debut, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, sparked debate when it was released. A major point of contention was the destruction of the original USS Enterprise, which many longtime fans viewed as a beloved character in its own right. The film also seemed to reverse Spock’s death from the previous installment. While fans generally wanted to see Spock return, many felt the way it was handled felt contrived. Finally, the death of Kirk’s son struck some as a needlessly dark turn for a story typically focused on a positive future.

The Rotten Tomatoes score for Star Trek III benefits from later reviews, which view the film differently than those from when it was first released. There used to be a saying among fans that the “odd-numbered” Star Trek movies weren’t very good, but that isn’t true in this case. Considering this was his first time directing, Nimoy did a great job working within a tight budget, which meant filming on sets instead of on location. From the battle on the Genesis Planet to the exciting scene where the Enterprise is stolen, The Search for Spock is an enjoyable Star Trek movie and is considered one of the best in the series.

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home – 81% – Is Many Fans’ Favorite Film in the Franchise

Following three intense and dramatic movies, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home offered a welcome opportunity for some lighthearted entertainment. The original series often balanced humorous episodes with thought-provoking science fiction stories that explored social and political themes. This film features the Enterprise crew – unexpectedly piloting a Klingon Bird of Prey – traveling back in time to the 1980s with a unique mission: to save a couple of humpback whales. Similar to The Motion Picture, the film avoids large-scale space combat, and the only use of phasers is directed at a simple doorknob.

Considering how passionate fans are about the characters they love, it’s not hard to picture the reaction if this movie came out now. It leans more towards being funny than a serious space story. Spock, who’s getting used to being alive again, is often the target of the jokes. The film’s message about protecting the environment is pretty clear. Still, it’s not only one of the most well-loved Star Trek movies, but it also made more money than any other film, considering how much it cost to make.

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country – 83% – Is Still Unappreciated Despite the Praise

From the very beginning, the starship Enterprise’s purpose was closely linked to the tensions of the Cold War. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country cleverly used the end of the Soviet Union as the basis for a story marking Captain Kirk and his crew’s final adventure. In the film, the Klingon Empire represents the Soviets, and they are attempting to establish peace with the Federation, but Kirk is initially skeptical. Despite his reservations, he ultimately prevents a conspiracy involving officers from both Starfleet and the Klingon Empire who are trying to derail the peace negotiations.

As a huge Star Trek fan, I always say that by the sixth film, this cast and director Nicholas Meyer really nailed it. They found that perfect balance – you’ve got your sci-fi ideas, but it’s grounded by the themes of friendship and a good sense of humor. It proves this older crew still had plenty left in the tank, and the ending? Perfectly bittersweet. Honestly, no matter what Rotten Tomatoes says, Star Trek VI absolutely deserves to be mentioned when people debate the best films in the entire franchise.

Star Trek Into Darkness – 84% – Is a Mixed Bag of Wrath of Khan Callbacks

Star Trek Into Darkness, the second film in the “Kelvin timeline” trilogy, is a visually impressive movie. The beginning immediately captures the spirit of adventure and the strong bond between the crew – hallmarks of the Star Trekseries. The story also explores how the destruction of Vulcan impacted Starfleet. While the film’s music, stunning visuals, and action are all excellent, it’s not without its flaws.

The biggest problem was choosing Benedict Cumberbatch to play “Khan Noonien Singh.” Into Darkness changed Star Trek‘s backstory for this character, making his conflict with Kirk and the Enterprise feel less significant than it should have, given his history. The movie also reused the ending of The Wrath of Khan, but instead of Spock dying, it was Kirk. This didn’t feel right or have the intended effect because it happened too early in the characters’ development.

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2025-10-04 22:14