In mid-2009, I firmly convinced myself that I had no need to ever see the new Star Trek film. Just give me my beloved crew from the original series (TOS), thanks - no need for a rebooted or reimagined Star Trek 90210. Plus, with all the quick cuts and explosions in the preview, I absolutely could not tell what in the heck was going on. Recently, my need for more Trek comics compelled me to pick up STAR TREK: THE OFFICIAL MOTION PICTURE ADAPTATION, and I must say, I was impressed. There's no reimagining here, and while it does qualify as a reboot, it fits with TOS. To explain it might be crossing too far into spoiler territory, but let's just say that if you can accept TOS episodes "Mirror, Mirror" or "City on The Edge of Forever", you should be able to accept this.
The story adaptation is ably provided by Mike Johnson and Tim Jones. Let me clarify that as of this writing, I still have not seen the movie; however, if what is contained in this trade is any indication of what I will see, it should be nothing short of entertaining. I have to hand it to these guys for making a comic adaptation so exciting, and while the storyline does have a few quirks, I certainly can't blame it on them. David Messina, a regular Trek contributor for IDW, provides some spectacular art, perfectly capturing the looks of the actors and giving the whole package a very polished look.
One odd thing about this adaptation - the first issue didn't hit stands until well after the movie had been released, and the story was spread out over six issues, with this collection being released around one and a half years after the movie. That's some delay. Upon completing it, I thought back to the times when a movie adaptation would generally be handled in two or three issues, often being completed before the movie was even released. We certainly are living in different times.
For related stories, check out the tie-ins Spock - Reflections, Nero, and Countdown. Chances are that these will all be collected in an Omnibus edition at some point, but as I've learned: why put it off? Now to rent the movie...