It’s the quintessential “Trek” conundrum about the needs of the many versus the needs of the few. Directors, writers, actors, and everyone in between have a duty to tell the absolute best stories that they possibly can, regardless of how the most hardcore fans might feel about it. But, at the same time, there’s the reality that the concerns and thoughts of the more reasonable fans out there might be worth paying attention to on occasion. I personally don’t envy anybody in the position of having to make such difficult calls on a daily basis, but Alex Kurtzman seems to have figured out the trick with “Star Trek.”
In a new profile by Variety, the longtime franchise writer and producer remarked upon dealing with various different reactions received by some of the more divisive “Trek” shows in recent years. “Star Trek: Discovery,” for instance, caused quite a stir by introducing the new character of Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) as the secret adoptive sister to Spock. Meanwhile, the animated series “Lower Decks” shocked more old-school fans with its course language, zany tone, and irreverent humor. So whose opinions are worth giving the time of day to and whose aren’t? According to Kurtzman:
“We listened to a lot of it. I think I’ve been able to separate the toxic fandom from really true fans who love ‘Star Trek’ and want you to hear what they have to say about what they would like to see.”
How’s that for a refreshing amount of honesty? The best storytellers know there’s simply no pleasing everyone, so at a certain point one must trust their own instincts. That said, it’s obvious to see how shows like “Discovery” course-corrected in response to constructive criticism. Hopefully, Kurtzman’s balanced approach will be just what “Star Trek” needs.