Running Time: 1 hour 9 minutes 17 seconds

In 2009, Justin Lin returned to what would become his marquee franchise with Fast & Furious. The fourth film in the series was a return to basics, featuring a reunion of the original cast, including both Paul Walker and Vin Diesel, in an effort to revitalize the franchise.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by Zach Moore of Always Hold On To Smallville to look at Lin's fifth film. We discuss the decision to bring Lin back after Tokyo Drift, the stylistic differences between the two films, and of course, the title. We also take a look at the career of Star Trek 2017's newest writer, Jesse Alexander.

Chapters

Fast & Furious (00:05:40)

Lin's Return (00:21:57)

Final Thoughts (00:38:17)

Jesse Alexander (00:45:15)

Wrap-up (01:00:30)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guest

Zach Moore

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 48 minutes 22 seconds

After two consecutive Hollywood blockbuster, Justin Lin returned to the world of independent filmmaking with Finishing the Game. The film is unlike any other in Lin's filmography, a "mockumentary" about finding an actor to replace Bruce Lee in his final movie, The Game of Death.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at Lin's fourth film. We discuss how it differs from the rest of his movies, what it says about Lin as an artist, and the impact which Bruce Lee had on the culture. We also touch on the upcoming Star Trek: 50 Artists, 50 Years exhibition.

Chapters

Finishing the Game (00:01:39)

The Style (00:18:24)

50 Artists, 50 Years (00:33:45)

Wrap-up (00:36:43)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 24 seconds

Less than five months after the release of Annapolis, Justin Lin was handed the keys to the Fast and the Furious franchise. His first of four consecutive sequels was The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. The film offers and interesting take on the franchise, expanding the mythology by focusing on entirely new characters instead of continuing the story established in the first two. Written by Chris Morgan, the movie features Lucas Black, Nathalie Kelley, Bow Wow, and Sung Kang. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by Brandon of Melodic Treks to discuss Lin's third movie. We look at how it differs from the other films in the franchise thus far, the members of the crew who are joining Lin for Star Trek Beyond, and the return of Han from Better Luck Tomorrow. We also discuss news, including the release of J.J. Abrams' latest production, 10 Cloverfield Lane, and the casting of Shohreh Aghdashloo in Star Trek Beyond.

Chapters

Tokyo Drift (00:02:54)

Its Place in the Franchise (00:22:01)

News (00:41:41)

Wrap-up (00:52:14)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guest

Brandon-Shea Mutala

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 27 seconds

After the success of Better Luck Tomorrow, Justin Lin was given the opportunity to work on big studio productions with substantially larger budgets. The first of these was Annapolis in 2006. The film, starring James Franco, Tyrese Gibson and Jordan Brewster, looks at a cadet's first year at the U.S. Naval Academy.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at Lin's second film. We discuss how it effectively uses cliches, the similarities to J.J. Abrams' Star Trek, and how accurately it portrays the Academy. In news, we remember TNG and DS9 visual effects supervisor Gary Hutzel, discuss the hiring of Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth as executive producers on the new Star Trek series, and touch on the order of Doug Jung's new pilot, Scalped.

Chapters

Annapolis (00:00:44)

Accuracy (00:20:05)

News (00:50:26)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 29 minutes 57 seconds

Over the course of its history, many artists have left their mark on the Star Trek franchise. Back in 1966, Gene Roddenberry was the first. 50 years later, Star Trek is in the hands of The Fast and the Furious director, Justin Lin.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike begin their final series, looking at Justin Lin’s career as a feature film director. In Part 1, we are joined by Dennis Castello of Continuing Mission to examine Lin’s first film, Better Luck Tomorrow. We discuss the themes of the film, Lin’s distinctive style, and how the film is similar to George Lucas’ American Graffiti. Then, in a special news segment, we are joined by John Tenuto to discuss addition of Nicholas Meyer to the writing staff of Star Trek 2017.

Chapters

Better Luck Tomorrow (00:06:00)

John Cho (00:25:34)

Final Thoughts (00:35:17)

Nicholas Meyer (00:38:25)

Star Trek VI (00:55:47)

Wrap-up (01:16:10)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Guests

Dennis Castello and John Tenuto

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 51 minutes 50 seconds

J.J. Abrams may not be returning as the director of Star Trek Beyond, but that should not suggest that his presence will not be felt as a producer. What do his past producing efforts suggest about his contribution to the upcoming movie?

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John recap their series looking at all of the films which Abrams has produced for other filmmakers. We discuss his work on The Pallbearer, The Suburbans, Joy Ride, Morning Glory, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, and Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation. We also hold a tournament to determine which picture in his impressive filmography is the crappiest.

Chapters

The Early Years (00:02:08)

Bad Robot (00:10:02)

The Bracket (00:26:42)

Wrap-up (00:36:40)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 19 minutes 54 seconds

After the unexpected success of Brad Bird's Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, Bad Robot and J.J. Abrams were asked to return to produce a third installment of the Tom Cruise franchise. This time, Oscar-winning filmmaker Christopher McQuarrie was hired to write and direct Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by Krissy of Educating Geeks to look at the most recent film that Abrams has produced for another filmmaker. We discuss how it compares to the other films in the franchise, what McQuarrie brings to the film, and how Rogue Nation is intrinsically linked to Star Trek Beyond. We also discuss the news that Bryan Fuller has been hired as the showrunner of Star Trek 17.

Chapters

Rogue Nation (00:08:47)

Christoper McQuarrie (00:27:24)

The Star Trek Beyond Connection (00:46:36)

Bryan Fuller (00:53:06)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guests

Krissy Lenz

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 10 minutes 10 seconds

Happy with the results of Mission: Impossible III, Tom Cruise and Paramount chose to continue their collaboration with J.J. Abrams and Bad Robot for the fourth film in the franchise, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol. While Abrams would not direct the film himself, he would oversee it as producer. This production should be especially to fans of Star Trek, as it closely mirrors the relationship which Abrams has with the 50th anniversary movie, Star Trek Beyond.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John are joined by Adam of The Red Shirt Diaries to look at Brad Bird's Ghost Protocol. We discuss how our thoughts have changed since its initial release, what Bird brought to the project as a director, and what this film tells us about Star Trek Beyond. We also profess our love for Robert Elswit.

Chapters

Ghost Protocol (00:08:22)

Abrams as Producer (00:36:41)

Wrap-up (00:58:30)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Guest

Adam Drosin

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 47 minutes 35 seconds

After a successful reboot of the Star Trek franchise in 2009, J.J. Abrams put his producer hat back on the following year for Roger Michell's Morning Glory. The film stars Rachel McAdams as the producer of a daily morning news/talk show. In an effort to boost ratings, she hires a legendary reporter played by Harrison Ford to anchor the show, against his better judgment.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at Morning Glory. We discuss how the movie differs from other Bad Robot productions, the filmmakers involved behind the scenes, and long-time collaboration between Abrams and Ford.

Chapters

Morning Glory (01:09)

A Bad Robot Production (22:28)

Wrap-up (38:06)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 9 minutes 6 seconds

After successfully launching his directing career with Mission: Impossible III, J.J. Abrams' name had become a brand. The first movie to be heavily marketed as a "J.J. Abrams Production" was Matt Reeves' Cloverfield.

Cloverfield, is a giant monster film in the vein of Godzilla, but with a twist: The entire film is seem through the camcorder of our unexacting protagonists.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at the fourth picture in our series. We discuss the movie's marketing, the found-footage aesthetic, and what Abrams brought to the production. We also preview the upcoming sequel, 10 Cloverfield Lane.

Chapters

The Marketing (00:02:15)

Thoughts on the Movie (00:17:07)

Abrams' Contribution (00:35:11)

Wrap-up (00:58:17)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 52 minutes 46 seconds

In 2001, the first Bad Robot production was released. Joy Ride tells the story of two brothers on a cross-country road trip who prank the wrong truck driver, with deadly results. The film stars Paul Walker, Steve Zahn and Leelee Sobieski. It was directed by John Dahl and co-written and co-produced by JJ Abrams himself.

I this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike look at Abrams' third production. We discuss the film's tried and true horror cliches, Abrams' range as a filmmaker, and why Joy Ride is important to Abrams' history. We also look at this year's Oscar-nominated Star Trek vets, and touch on the trailer for the next Abrams production, 10 Cloverfield Lane. 

Chapters

Oscars (00:55)

Joy RIde (16:25)

John Dahl (31:50)

Wrap-up (44:42)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 54 minutes 21 seconds

In 1999, J.J. Abrams produced his second feature film, The Suburbans. The movie, directed by Donal Lardner Ward, looks at a one-hit wonder from the 80s which is attempting to stage a comeback in the 90s. The cast features Ward, Abrams favorite Tony Guma (who co-wrote the script with Ward), up-and-coming star Will Ferrell, and 90s icon Jennifer Love Hewitt.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John look at this lost film from Abrams' pre-Bad Robot career. We discuss the historical context of the film, Abrams' motivations for making it, and how slang has changed over the years.

Chapters

The Suburbans (00:01:55)

Abrams' Contribution (00:21:25)

Wrap-up (00:45:45)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 48 minutes 14 seconds

As the trailer proudly states, Star Trek Beyond is produced by J.J. Abrams. We all know that Abrams directed the last two Star Trek films, and we all know that he is not directing this one. So what does it mean when we see that Abrams is producing the new movie? 

We try to answer that question in this new series on Commentary: Trek Stars, where we will be looking at each of the films which Abrams produced for other filmmakers. In Part 1 of this series, John and Mike cover The Pallbearer, a film starring David Schwimmer and Gwyneth Paltrow which was directed by Cloverfield director Matt Reeves, and co-written by Reeves and Friday Night Lights creator Jason Katims.

We discuss the heavy influence of The Graduate on this film, its place in the history of Miramax, and the contribution of cinematographer Robert Elswit.

Chapters

The Pallbearer (00:06:35)

Miramax (00:20:55)

Wrap-up (00:37:27)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 46 minutes 9 seconds

Much has been made of Simon Pegg's contribution to the screenplay for Star Trek Beyond. So much so, that people tend to forget that Pegg has a partner on the project, co-writer Doug Jung.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at Jung's first movie, Confidence. We discuss the film's intricate structure, its similarity to other films from the time period, and what it tells us about Jung's contribution to Beyond. We also remember TOS writer George Clayton Johnson.

Chapters

Doug Jung (00:01:39)

Confidence (00:03:59)

Ocean's Twelve (00:19:33)

George Clayton Johnson (00:35:33)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 27 minutes 5 seconds

Many have criticized J.J. Abrams for turning Star Trek into Star Wars with his 2009 film.  But what happens when Abrams make a Star Wars movie for real?

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike add a postscript to their series on J.J. Abrams with a look at his latest directorial effort, Star Wars: Episode VII--The Force Awakens. We discuss the movie on the whole, Abrams' direction in particular, and the work of other Trek veterans on the crew. We also give our thoughts on the first trailer for Star Trek Beyond.

Chapters

The Force Awakens (00:01:12)

Crying in Movies (00:19:57)

Spoilers (00:48:29)

Trek Collaborators (01:04:51)

Wrap-up (01:17:31)

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 1 hour 4 minutes 52 seconds

Over the course of the last decade, Simon Pegg has come to prove himself not only as a fine, but also as one of the best writers in the movie business. 

This week on Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at each of the five films which Pegg has co-written, including Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, Run Fatboy Run, Paul, and The World's End. We also discuss Bad Robot's restoration of Phantasm.

Chapters

Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and Run Fatboy Run (00:01:10)

Paul and The World's End (00:14:10)

Conclusion (00:33:12)

Wrap-up (00:48:24)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 43 minutes 4 seconds

Six years after the release of Hot Fuzz, Simon Pegg finally reteamed with Edgar Wright on the screenplay for the final film in the Cornetto Trilogy, The World's End.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at the film, which is last script to be penned by Pegg prior to the release of Star Trek Beyond. We discuss how Pegg has grown as both a writer and an actor, how this film fits in with the other two films in the Cornetto Trilogy, and how the Cubs haven't won a World Series in 107 years.

ChaptersThe World's End (00:00:48)The Coda (00:14:54)Wrap-up (00:30:47)

HostsJohn Mills and Mike Schindler

ProductionMike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 47 minutes 13 seconds

In 2011, Simon Pegg teamed with his on-screen partner, Nick Frost, to write his fourth screenplay, Paul. The film, directed by Greg Mottola, stars Pegg and Frost as two British sci-fi geeks who take a road trip across America to visit UFO hotspots. Along the way, they meet Paul, an alien played by Seth Rogen, who is on the run from government agents.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look Paul. We discuss why the humor did or did not work for us, whether or not the character of Paul is likable, and how well Pegg fares without Edgar Wright.

ChaptersPaul (00:00:44)Worlds Collide (00:14:52)Wrap-up (00:35:26)

HostsMike Schindler and John Mills

ProductionMike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Editor and ProducerMike Schindler

Executive ProducersCharlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Running Time: 56 minutes 33 seconds

After the success of Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, Simon Pegg became a sought-after commodity for both his acting and writing. David Schwimmer's Run Fatboy Run featured both of those talents.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at Pegg's third screenplay, which was co-written with Michael Ian Black. We discuss how accurately the film portrays a marathon, the changes that Pegg made to Black's original script, and why it's ultimately not very good.

ChaptersRun Fatboy Run (00:00:43)John's Marathon (00:19:19)Wrap-up (00:41:38)

HostsJohn Mills and Mike Schindler

ProductionMike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 39 minutes 56 seconds

In 2007, Simon Pegg re-teamed with Edgar Wright to create the second film in the Cornetto Trilogy, Hot Fuzz. Much like its predecessor, Shaun of the Dead, is to Zombie movies, Hot Fuzz is an homage to Cop movies, in all their forms. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John look at Pegg's second screenplay, which he co-wrote with Wright. We discuss how the film compares to Shaun of the Dead, how it utilizes sub genres, and how it was promoted with Hot Fuzztivals. We also debate the merits of Nicolas Cage movies.

Chapters

Hot Fuzz (00:00:45)

Sub Genres (00:19:03)

Wrap-up (00:30:44)

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Production

Mike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Running Time: 52 minutes 25 seconds

In 2004, the movie world was formally introduced to Simon Pegg. Not only did star as the title character in Edgar Wright's beloved film, Shaun of the Dead, he also co-wrote the screenplay.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike examine the first picture in the Cornetto Trilogy, and Pegg's career. We remember our first impressions of Pegg, discuss what we think about the film today, and try to determine why Pegg has become a geek icon.

ChaptersShaun of the Dead (00:00:48)Impressions Today (00:23:06)Wrap-up (00:38:31)

HostsJohn Mills and Mike Schindler

ProductionMike Schindler (Editor and Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Will Nguyen (Content Manager)

Over the past few days, many of us here at Trek.fm have been discussing the news of a new Star Trek TV series, coming in January of 2017. But who is it that's making this show?

In the final season premiere of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John  discuss the series, specifically looking at executive producer Alex Kurtzman and his career in television and film. We discuss his previous work, what his role on the show may be, and speculate on who may write the series.

In this episode, we also begin a new series on Simon Pegg in which we look at his work as a writer. In Part 1, we discuss his portrayal of Scotty in the JJverse films.

We also remember TOS visual effects artist, Howard A. Anderson, Jr.

Running Time: 1 hour 3 minutes 38 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Charlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Howard A. Anderson, Jr. (00:01:04)

New Trek Series (00:08:04)

Our Thoughts (00:25:47)

Simon Pegg (00:43:42)

Wrap-up (00:56:49)

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Every fan has dreamed of working on Star Trek. Few have made that a reality. Eric A. Stillwell is one of those few.

In the sixth season finale of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by Eric to look at his career working in Star Trek. We discuss how he got a job as a production assistant on The Next Generation, the work he did as a script coordinator on the series, and how that led him co-writing one the best episodes of the franchise, Yesterday's Enterprise.

In this episode, We are also joined by Voyager writer/producer James Kahn, who gives us glimpse at his new movie, Wrongside Bob.

Running Time: 1 hour 38 minutes 23 seconds

HostsJohn Mills and Mike Schindler

GuestsEric A. StillwellJames Kahn

Editor and ProducerMike Schindler

Executive ProducersCharlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate ProducerBecome one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production ManagerRichard Marquez

Content ManagerWill Nguyen

ChaptersEric Stillwell (00:01:36)The Writing Process (00:17:07)Yesterday's Enterprise (00:42:57)Prime Factors (00:59:03)James Kahn & Wrongside Bob (01:13:32)Wrap-up (01:25:51)

Send us your feedback!Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm

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You never know what might happen while recording a podcast. Your cat might run by and rip setup and rip your external hard drive out of your laptop. You might crack a tooth on a Nutri-Grain Bar. Or you might have to drive across town to purchase Star Wars tickets. If you're lucky, you will capture the unexpected on mic.

Such is the case on this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars. Mike and John try to recap their look at Psycho by comparing Robert Bloch's novel to Joseph Stefano's screenplay. But in the process, tickets for Star Wars: Episode VII--The Force Awakens went on sale. This podcast is the result.

Running Time: 59 minutes 19 seconds

HostsMike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and ProducerMike Schindler

Executive ProducersCharlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate ProducerBecome one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production ManagerRichard Marquez

Content ManagerWill Nguyen

ChaptersPsycho (00:01:15)Star Wars (00:07:02)The Trailer (00:34:45)Psycho Again (00:43:22)Wrap-up (00:50:29)

Send us your feedback!Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm

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One year after the release of Robert Bloch's novel, Alfred Hitchcock adapted Psycho for the big screen. To complete this task, he enlisted the help of Joseph Stefano to write the screenplay. The result is one of the best movies ever made.

In this episode Commentaty: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at Stefano's movie. we discuss the impact the film had on the culture, the similarities between the movie and Stefano's Star Trek work, and the validity of Gus van Sant's remake.

Running Time: 1 hour 7 minutes 19 seconds

HostsJohn Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and ProducerMike Schindler

Executive ProducersCharlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate ProducerBecome one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production ManagerRichard Marquez

Content ManagerWill Nguyen

ChaptersThe Movie (00:02:07)Gearshifting (00:18:42)Star Trek Comparison (00:38:30)The Gus Van Sant Film (00:45:10)Wrap-up (00:57:49)

Send us your feedback!Twitter: @trekfm Facebook: http://facebook.com/trekfm Voicemail: http://www.speakpipe.com/trekfm Contact Form: http://www.trek.fm/contact Subscribe in iTunes: http://itunes.com/trekfm

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Everyone thinks of Psycho as a film by Alfred Hitchcock. But in fact, the story originated as a novel by future Star Trek writer, Robert Bloch. The book tells the story of a man who runs a secluded motel, and his relationship with his very controlling, and sometimes murderous, mother.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike is joined by Grace Moore from Women at Warp to look at Bloch's novel. We discuss point of view, character motivations, and connections between the novel and Bloch's Trek work. We also take a look at James Kahn's upcoming feature film, Wrongside Bob.

Running Time: 49 minutes 19 seconds

HostsMike Schindler

GuestGrace Moore

Editor and ProducerMike Schindler

Executive ProducersCharlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate ProducerBecome one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production ManagerRichard Marquez

Content ManagerWill Nguyen

ChaptersThe Novel (00:02:40)Comparisons to Trek (00:22:15)Wrap-up (00:35:37)

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In 1959, Robert Bloch wrote his most famous novel, Psycho. One year later, Joseph Stefano adapted that novel into a screenplay for Alfred Hitchcock. The rest is history. Years later, both Bloch and Stefano would go on to write for Star Trek.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John are joined by Grace Moore from Women at Warp to begin a new series looking at both Bloch and Stefano, and their work on Psycho. In Part 1, we examine their contributions to Trek, including Bloch's original series episodes, What Are Little Girls Made Of?, Catspaw, and Wolf in the Fold, and Stefano's Next Generation episode, Skin of Evil.

Running Time: 1 hour 5 minutes 31 seconds

HostsMike Schindler and John Mills

GuestGrace Moore

Editor and ProducerMike Schindler

Executive ProducersCharlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate ProducerBecome one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production ManagerRichard Marquez

Content ManagerWill Nguyen

ChaptersBloch & Stefano (00:02:08)What Are Little Girls Made Of? (00:08:22)Catspaw (00:16:03)Wolf in the Fold (00:23:58)Skin of Evil (00:34:12)Final Thoughts (00:43:06)Wrap-up (00:46:44)

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Michael Piller was a master of many things. But one particular area in which he excelled was as a writer of pilots. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike recap their look at Michael Piller's pilots. We discuss the first episodes of all five of his creations, including Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, Legend, The Dead Zone, and  Wildfire. We also discuss the merits of young adult fiction.

Running Time: 47 minutes 20 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Charlynn Schmiedt, Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekf 

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Star Trek Pilots (00:00:49)

Non-Trek Pilots (00:11:09)

Final Thoughts (00:32:45)

Wrap-up (00:35:58)

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Michael Piller may be known best for his science fiction work, but that by no means  was the extent of his talent. His final television series, Wildfire, is about an eighteen year-old girl who is released from juvenile detention to work on a horse ranch.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John are joined once again by Star Trek writer and Wildfire associate producer Eric A. Stillwell to discuss Piller's work on the show. Eric tells us how the show came about, Piller's dedication to research, the challenges of shooting outside of California, and the impressive cast, which includes Nana Visitor. Eric also shares some more details of Michael Piller projects that went un-produced.

Running Time: 1 hour 1 minute 2 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Guest

Eric A. Stillwelll

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Research (00:01:48)

The Premise (00:15:45)

Collaborators (00:31:36)

Final Thoughts (00:39:33)

Wrap-up (00:49:22)

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In 2002, Michael Piller created his fourth television series, The Dead Zone. The show, which starred Anthony Michael Hall and Nicole de Boer, was adapted from Stephen King's novel about a man who develops the ability to see events in the future.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by The Dead Zone associate producer and Star Trek writer Eric A. Stillwell to look at Piller's work on the series. We discuss other projects that he was developing, his writing process, and the impact the he had on other writers.

Running Time:  1 hour 7 minutes 57 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guests

Eric A. Stillwell

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Other Projects (00:03:00)

The Dead Zone (00:10:20)

Promoting the Show (00:28:25)

Final Thoughts (00:43:43)

Wrap-up (00:48:22)

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A mere three months after creating the show which launched the network, UPN debuted Michael Piller's third television show, Legend. The series featured Richard Dean Anderson as a writer in the Old West whose fictional hero comes to life with the help of an inventor played by John de Lancie.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at Piller's first non-Trek show. We discuss the fun tone, de Lancie's under-utilized talent, and the fact that this show actually existed, despite what Max says.

Running Time: 46 minutes 23 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Legend (00:00:50)

Piller's Pilots (00:11:34)

Westerns (00:30:26)

Wrap-up (00:36:10)

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Few people have had  a greater impact on the history of Star Trek than Michael Piller. In addition to turning The Next Generation around in Season 3, Piller also created both Deep Space Nine and Voyager.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by Larry Nemecek, author of The Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion, to begin a new series on Michael Piller which will look at each of his television pilots. In Part 1, we cover Piller's work in Trek. We discuss how he impacted Season 3 of The Next Generation, what he brought to the creation of Deep Space Nine and Voyager, and challenges he faced writing the third TNG movie, Insurrection. We also give our thoughts on the new Starfleet uniforms debuting in Star Trek Beyond.

Running Time: 1 hour 15 minutes 38 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guest

Larry Nemecek

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

The Next Generation (00:02:37)

DS9 and Voyager (00:23:55)

Insurrection (00:39:15)

Wrap-up (00:51:02)

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In 1978, Jerry Goldsmith won the only Oscar of his career for composing the score to Richard Donner's The Omen. The film stars Gregory Peck as a man whose secretly adopted son is the child of Satan. Spoilers: They all live happily ever after.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike is joined by Marcelo from The Talk Film Society Podcast to look at The Omen. We discuss the film in general and Goldsmith's score in particular. We also touch on our favorite Goldsmith scores from throughout his career.

Running Time: 54 minutes 58 seconds

Host

Mike Schindler

Guest

Marcelo Pico

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

The Omen (00:03:45)

The Score (00:15:15)

Goldsmith's Career (00:23:07)

Wrap-up (00:41:09)

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When Star Trek made the jump to the big screen in 1979, it was important to the filmmakers that Star Trek: The Motion Picture was not just a big episode of the television show. It had to be a MOVIE. In order to reinforce this concept, Oscar winner Jerry Goldsmith was hired to compose the film's music.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by John Tenuto to look at Jerry Goldsmith's work on Star Trek. We discuss his score for The Motion Picture, his return to the franchise with The Final Frontier, his theme for Voyager, and his work on the Next Generation movies. We also talk a little bit about Generations. Because why wouldn't we?

Running Time: 1 hour 16 minutes 34 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guest

John Tenuto

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

The Motion Picture (00:01:53)

The Final Frontier (00:23:35)

Voyager (00:37:43)

The Next Generation Films (00:42:45)

Wrap-up (01:02:39)

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In 1997, James Cameron's Titanic was the king of the world. It shattered box office records and won eleven Oscars, including Best Picture. Two of those Oscars went to James Horner for his work on both the score and the song "My Heart Will Go On".

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at what is arguably the crowning achievement of Horner's career. We discuss our thoughts on Titanic on the whole, the score in particular, and, of course, that song. We also look at other highlights of Horner's career, including Aliens, Apollo 13, Braveheart, Willow, and his final film, Southpaw.

Running Time: 1 hour 1 minute 33 seconds 

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Titanic (00:01:17)

The Music (00:20:10)

Other Work (00:33:41)

Wrap-up (00:52:47)

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In an attempt to differentiate from Star Trek: The Motion Picture, and perhaps save a little money at the same time, the producers of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan hired a new composer. James Horner was a young talent just starting to make his name in the business. No one knew that he would go on to win two Oscars, leaving  his sonic stamp on the musical landscape.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by John Tenuto to discuss Horner's work in Star Trek. We look at what led him to The Wrath of Khan, why he stayed for The Search for Spock, and why he did not return for future installments. We also review the new Star Wars novel, Dark Disciple. Because why not?

Running Time: 1 hour 15 minutes 15 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guests

John Tenuto

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

James Horner (00:03:20)

Thoughts on The Wrath of Khan (00:17:55)

The Search for Spock (00:31:20)

Final Thoughts (00:46:33)

Wrap-up (00:52:42)

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Very few people have had a chance to talk to Maurice Hurley about his time on Star Trek: The Next Generation. One of them is Ben Robinson, the project manager for Star Trek: The Official Starships Collection.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John are joined by Ben to take a closer look at Hurley's work on Star Trek. We discuss How Hurley became the showrunner during Season One, what fell apart in Season Two, and his plans for the Borg were. We also recap our look at Hurley's last two movies, The Proposal and Groom Lake 

Running Time: 1 hour 20 minutes 30 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Guest

Ben Robinson

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Recap  (00:01:17)

Ben Robinson (00:07:15)

Season One (00:23:53)

Season Two (00:35:23)

The Borg (00:43:35)

Final Thoughts (00:58:56)

Wrap-Up (01:08:20)

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In 2002, Maurice Hurley teamed with director William Shatner to write the alien encounter movie, Groom Lake. The picture is about a dying woman, played by Amy Acker, who travels to an area famous for UFO sightings in an attempt to assure herself that there is more to the universe than life on Earth.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike discuss Hurley's final movie. We also touch on his television career, including Miami Vice. And in news, we take a look at the production team assembled by Justin Lin to make Star Trek Beyond.

Running Time: 1 hour 6 minutes 6 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Groom Lake (00:08:42)

Miami Vice (00:25:45)

Star Trek Beyond Production Team (00:49:00)

Wrap-up (00:55:34)

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In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John look at our first Maurice Hurley film, The Proposal. Directed by Richard Gale, the film stars Nick Moran and Jennifer Esposito as two cops who must pose undercover as husband and wife. We discuss the budgetary restrictions, the quality of the other filmmaking elements, and how the script is representative of Hurley's other work. We also chat about the release of William Shatner's new documentary, Chaos on the Bridge, and the casting of Idris Elba in Star Trek Beyond.

Running Time: 56 minutes 40 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Chaos on the Bridge (00:01:06)

Voicemail (00:14:38)

The Proposal (00:20:07)

Star Trek Beyond (00:40:00)

Wrap-up (00:46:55)

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Of all the contributors to Star Trek: The Next Generation's creation, none are as overlooked as Maurice Hurley. The writer and co-executive producer served and showrunner for the first two seasons of the series, helping to shape it into the show we know and love. And along the way, he also created the Borg.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike begin a new series looking at Hurley's work as a screenwriter. For the first part of the series, they are joined by the author of The Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion, Larry Nemecek, to break down Hurley's work on Star Trek. We discuss the behind-the-scenes climate of Season One, Hurley's contributions to the mythology, and his unused treatment for the film that would become Star Trek Generations. We also wonder when William Shatner's documentary, Chaos on the Bridge, will finally be released (spoilers, it came out this week).

Running Time: 1 hour 15 minutes 13 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guest

Larry Nemecek

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Maurice Hurley (00:01:56)

Season Two (00:12:25)

The Borg (00:32:19)

Hurley's Departure (00:41:52)

Star Trek VII Treatment (00:48:42)

Wrap-up (01:02:32)

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Some movies are based on books. Others, on comics. One or two (or twelve) draw their inspiration from television shows. And every so often, there's a movie adaption of a theme park.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John are joined by Darren of Earl Grey to discuss Tomorrowland, the new film co-written by Damon Lindelof. We discuss the movie on the whole, the writing in particular, and how the movie fits into Lindelof filmography. We also remember James Horner.

Running Time: 1 hour 2 minutes 48 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Guest

Darren Moser

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Tomorrowland (00:06:43)

The Writing (00:20:43)

Lindelof's Filmography (00:34:01)

James Horner (00:48:30)

Wrap-up (00:53:57)

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Harve Bennett's career as a television series creator spanned 30 years, from 1968 to 1998. In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike recap our look at five of Bennett's shows, including The Mod Squad, The Invisible Man, Time Trax, and Invasion America. We also discuss a George Takei movie we never knew existed.

Running Time: 53 minutes 37 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan  Jones

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

The Mod Squad (00:01:30)

The Invisible Man (00:07:02)

Time Trax (00:15:11)

Invasion America (00:27:57)

The Young Divorcees (00:34:03)

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Thirty years after the premiere of his first television series, Harve Bennett's last television series was released. Invasion America was a primetime animated series about a high school boy who finds himself in the middle of an intergalactic civil war.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at Bennett's final series. We discuss his ability to adapt to the times, the bold nature of serialized cartoons, and his collaboration with TNG writer Michael Reaves. We also ponder the extent of Steven Spielberg's involvement with the show.

Running Time: 55 minutes 46 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

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Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Invasion America (00:00:51)

Thoughts on the Show (00:11:52)

Trek Collaborators (00:22:21)

Final Thoughts (00:39:21)

Wrap-up (00:44:55)

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In the 1980s, Harve Bennett jumped to the big screen to write and produce Star Trek. After his run had ended, Bennett returned to television to create a new science fiction series, Time Trax. The show is about a police officer from the year 2193 who travels back in time to 1993 in an effort to catch future criminals hiding in the past.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at Bennett's fourth series. We discuss the television landscape at the time, the similarities to Quantum Leap, and the questionable use of CGI. We also learn who David McCallum is.

Running Time: 54 minutes 18 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

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Richard Marquez

Content Manager

Will Nguyen

Chapters

Time Trax (00:01:09)

Thoughts on the Show (00:16:29)

The Future World (00:29:47)

Listener Feedback (00:36:18)

Wrap-up (00:44:20)

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In 1975, Harve Bennett teamed with another future television legend, Steven Bochco, to create his second television show, The Invisible Man. Based on the book by H.G. Wells, the series was a modern retelling of the sci-fi classic, about a scientist who accidentally turns himself invisible.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John take a look at Bennett's second series. We discuss 

Running Time: 44 minutes 24 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Executive Producers

Norman C. Lao, Matthew Rushing, and C Bryan Jones

Associate Producer

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Chapters

The Invisible Man (00:08:18)

Changes to the series (00:21:30)

Final Thoughts (00:31:44)

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As Star Trek was entering its final season in 1968, another soon-to-be iconic series was just beginning. The Mod Squad, creator Harve Bennett's first television series, told the story of three young undercover police officers who were used to infiltrate criminal activity in an ever-changing world.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at The Mod Squad. We discuss the similarities and differences to other police shows at the time, how it reflected the changing television landscape, and the thematic parallels to Star Trek. We also try to figure out what's going on in the opening title sequence.

Running Time: 38 minutes 34 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

The Mod Squad (00:01:14)

Thoughts on the Show (00:12:53)

Social Themes (00:22:38)

Wrap-up (00:31:31)

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On February 25th, 2015, the Star Trek family lost one of its most significant members, Harve Bennett. Bennett is largely responsible for revitalizing the Star Trek film franchise after the creative and financial missteps of The Motion Picture. It is impossible to imagine what Star Trek would look like today, had it not been for the work of Harve Bennett.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John begin a new series on Bennett, looking the television shows he created over a career spanning three decades. In the first part of our series, we examine his work on Star Trek, looking at all of the movies he produced and wrote, including The Wrath of Khan, The Search for Spock, The Voyage Home, and The Final Frontier. We also remember Grace Lee Whitney.

Running Time: 49 minutes 28 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

The Wrath of Khan (00:02:57)

The Search for Spock (00:08:46)

The Voyage Home (00:17:14)

The Final Frontier (00:24:03)

Starfleet Academy (00:29:04)

Grace Lee Whitney (00:38:33)

Wrap-Up (00:41:18)

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In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike are joined by their very special guest, Star Trek: Voyager writer/producer James Kahn. We discuss Kahn's work on Voyager episodes such as "Critical Care" and "Lineage", as well as his Next Generation episode, "The Masterpiece Society".

We also discuss Kahn's non-Trek work, including books such as The New World Trilogy, novelizations of films like Poltergeist and Return of the Jedi, and television shows, including Melrose Place and All My Children. We also find out about his upcoming film, Wrongside Bob.

Running Time: 55 minutes 54 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Guest

James Kahn

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Breaking In (00:01:48)

The New World Trilogy (00:07:13)

Novelizations (00:13:08)

Star Trek (00:24:12)

The Writers' Room (00:34:34)

Wrongside Bob (00:42:14)

Wrap-up (00:45:57)

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Leonard Nimoy had an extremely diverse career. He was photographer, a writer, a director, a producer, and even a singer. But of course, he was best known as an actor. Specifically, a television star.

In the fifth season finale of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John recap their series on Nimoy's work as a television actor. We look at each of the shows he starred in, including Star Trek (TOS), Mission: Impossible, Star Trek (TAS), In Search of…, and Ancient Mysteries. We also remember the writer of "Court Martial," Don Mankiewicz

Running Time: 36 minutes 58 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Fiction (00:01:12)

Non-Fiction (00:14:25)

Wrap-up (00:23:35)

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More than a decade after the end of In Search of…, Leonard Nimoy returned to the world of television show hosting with a very similar series, Ancient Mysteries. This show also focused on topics such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and Atlantis, but with a modern-day 1990s slant.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max, John and Mike take a look at Leonard Nimoy's fifth television series. We discuss the similarities to In Search of…, the subtle differences in Nimoy's performance, and some of the reasons why Nimoy may have agreed to do such a show once again. We also read some listener mail and contemplate the supposed title of the new Star Trek movie

Running Time: 1 hour 56 seconds

Hosts

Max Hegel, John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Ancient Mysteries (00:01:25)

Nimoy's Involvement (00:15:33)

Final Thoughts (00:27:27)

Star Trek Beyond (00:40:58)

Wrap-up (00:48:44)

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In addition to his work as an actor, Leonard Nimoy has also hosted two television shows. The first of which was In Search of…. The pseudo-documentary series looked at unexplained phenomena throughout history, touching on everything from UFO cover-ups and the Loch Ness Monster to Marilyn Monroe and Lee Harvey Oswald.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look Nimoy's fourth television series. We discuss our nostalgic fondness for the show, the influence that it had on the television of the 80s and 90s, and speculate on why Nimoy chose to work on it. We also look at the recent additions to the crew of STAR TR3K.

Running Time: 45 minutes 28 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

In Search of... (00:01:17)

Nimoy's Involvement (00:17:35)

STAR TR3K News (00:28:07)

Wrap-up (00:38:29)

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When Star Trek was cancelled in 1969, Leonard Nimoy wasted no time jumping onto another television series. The very next season, he joined the cast of another Desilu production, Mission: Impossible as Paris, a master of disguise. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John look at Nimoy's second starring television role. We discuss Mission: Impossible as a series, why it was a perfect fit Nimoy after Star Trek, how the movies stack up to the show, and the series' life-long connection to Star Trek. We also explain why Ant-Man should be the more anticipated than The Avengers: Age of Ultron. 

Running Time: 1 hour 6 minutes 16 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Mission: Impossible (00:01:47)

Nimoy's Performance (00:12:58)

The Movies (00:24:13)

The Star Trek Connection (00:34:45)

Feedback (00:44:00)

Wrap-up (01:01:26)

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Few people have contributed more to Star Trek than Leonard Nimoy. As an actor, he co-created the character of Spock as we know him. And as a director, he made the first Star Trek film which crossed over into the main stream.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike begin a new series which examines Nimoy's career as a television star, in which we will look at his work on  Mission: Impossible, In Search of... and Ancient Mysteries. In the first part of the series, we look at Nimoy's work on Star Trek, looking at his contribution to the series as both an actor and a director. We also piece together the 50 Cent Cinematic Universe.

Running Time: 45 minutes 37 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

The TV Shows (00:02:17)

The Movies (00:18:34)

Directing (00:30:43)

Wrap-up (00:37:37)

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Many people have played themselves in movies. Cecil B. DeMille in Sunset Blvd. Will Smith in Jersey Girl. 65 different people in The Player. But no one has built a fictional mythology for their on-screen alter ego quite like William Shatner.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max, John and Mike recap their series on William Shatner, looking at each film in which he plays himself, including Free Enterprise, Festival in Cannes, Showtime, Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, and Fanboys. We also listen to some voicemail.

Running Time: 53 minutes 32 seconds

Hosts

Max Hegel, John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Free Enterprise (00:01:31)

Festival in Cannes (00:08:00)

Showtime (00:13:21)

Dodgeball (00:16:49)

Fanboys (00:23:44)

Final Thoughts (00:32:02)

Wrap-up (00:39:09)

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Many Trek.fm listeners may not know this, but there is another science fiction franchise which has gained a decent amount of popularity over the years. It's known as "Star Wars." The plot is insignificant. Basically, think Star Trek with magic. 

Regardless, from 1977 to 1983, three films were made as part of something which is now referred to as the "Original Trilogy." Then, the franchise disappeared for 16 years, before finally returning in 1999 with the first film in the "Prequel Trilogy."

During those 16 years, a small but devoted group of fans eagerly anticipated the return of their beloved space opera. These fans are the subject of this episode's movie, Fanboys.

In the film, four lifelong Star Wars fans travel across country to break into Skywalker Ranch and steal a print of Star Wars: Episode I--The Phantom Menace before it's released. Along the way, they are helped by many people, including William Shatner.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max take a look at the final film in the Shatner Cinematic Universe. We discuss the long, complicated history of Fanboys, Shatner's role in advancing the plot of the film, and how it fits into the Shatnerverse. We also debate how excited we should be for Star Wars: Episode VII--The Force Awakens.

Running Time: 48 minutes x40 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and Max Hegel

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Fanboys (00:05:15)

Cameos (00:17:25)

Shatner (00:29:12)

Wrap-up (00:41:58)

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In 2004, William Shatner returned to the big screen for the fourth as himself in Rawson Marshall Thurber's Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story. The film stars Vince Vaughn and Ben Stiller as competing gym owners who face off in the Dodgeball World Championship.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John, Mike and Max look at Shatner's portrayal of himself as the Dodgeball Chancellor. We discuss the merits of the film's comedy, Shatner's performance, and whether or not this technically counts as an entry into the Shatner Cinematic Universe. We also remember Star Trek movie producer Harve Bennett.

Running Time: 53 minutes 31 seconds

Hosts

John Mills, Mike Schindler and Max Hegel

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Dodgeball (00:01:10)

Shatner's Performance (00:16:46)

Does it Fit in the Shatnerverse? (00:27:44)

Harve Bennett (00:41:45)

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Last week, the Star Trek family lost two members whose contributions to the franchise were enormous, Maurice Hurley and Leonard Nimoy.

Hurley was a writer/producer who ran Star Trek: The Next Generation through its first two seasons. Amongst his many contributions was the creation of the Borg.

Nimoy was the face of Star Trek. His portrayal of Commander Spock on the original series set the tone for everything that has come since. Behind the camera, he directed two of the most popular TOS movies, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max, John and Mike take a look at the careers of Hurley and Nimoy both inside and out of Star Trek, and discuss how their art has impacted us personally.

Running Time: 1 hour 3 minutes 49 seconds

Hosts

Max Hegel, John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Hurley's Trek Work (00:02:15)

Hurley's Other Work (00:18:48)

Nimoy's Trek Work (00:23:27)

Nimoy's Other Work (00:38:12)

Final Thoughts (00:49:43)

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One week after the release of Festival in Cannes, the third film in the Shatner Cinematic Universe made its way to the silver screen. Showtime features Robert De Niro and Eddie Murphy as two cops are forced to work together as part of a reality television show. Along the way, they receive tips on how to become TV cops, by none other than T.J. Hooker himself, William Shatner. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike, Max and John look at William Shatner as himself in Showtime. We discuss the quality of the movie, how Shatner's performance elevates the entire picture, and what the film adds to the mythology of the Shatnerverse. We also reveal Mike and Max's unhealthy obsession with William Shatner in the workplace. 

Running Time: 39 minutes 57 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler, Max Hegel and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Showtime (00:04:15)

Shatner's Performance (00:17:49)

Final Thoughts  (00:30:27)

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In 1999, William Shatner attended the Cannes Film Festival to promote his work in Free Enterprise. While there, he ran into his old friend Maximillian Schell, who was filming the largely improvised film, Festival in Cannes. Their reunion appears in that film, making it a part of the Shatner Cinematic Universe.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Star, John and Mike take a look Festival in Cannes. We discuss the film on the whole, Shatner's performance, and how it fits into the Shatnerverse. We also wonder why Entrapment opened the festival in 1999.

Running Time: 43 minutes 14 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Festival in Cannes (00:01:00)

Shatner's Appearance (00:18:38)

Wrap-up (00:33:44)

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In 1999, the "Shatnerverse" was created with the release of Free Enterprise. The film is about two Star Trek fans who are struggling to make it in Hollywood. During a time of personal crisis, they meet their idol, William Shatner (played by William Shatner), who may not be all that he appears to be. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max, John and Mike look at the first film in which Shatner plays himself. We discuss our thoughts on the film, Shatner's performance, and whether or the movie successfully launches the "Shatnerverse". We also debate whether or not the film played at the Biograph Theater in Chicago.

Running Time: 44 minutes 39 seconds

Hosts

Max Hegel, John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Free Enterprise (00:00:57)

Shatner's Performance (00:15:33)

The Shatnerverse (00:22:49)

Wrap-up (00:32:06)

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William Shatner is excellent at what he does, which is everything. But one thing which he is the absolute best at is playing himself.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike, Max and John begin their new series which looks at the films of the "Shatnerverse," movies in which William Shatner plays himself. These include Free Enterprise, Festival in Cannes, Showtime, Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, and Fanboys. In the first part of the series, we look at Shatner's work in Star Trek, as both an actor and director. We also get Max and Mike's opinions on the hiring of Simon Pegg and Doug Jung as writers of STAR TR3K.

Running Time: 52 minutes 34 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler, Max Hegel and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

William Shatner (00:02:05)

Captain Kirk (00:12:36)

Directing Star Trek V (00:24:51)

Simon Pegg & Doug Jung (00:35:57)

Wrap-up (00:45:16)

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Up until recently, Kate Mulgrew was best known for her portrayal of Captain Janeway on Star Trek: Voyager. But in recent years, she has gained newfound popularity and acclaim for her role as Red on the hit series Orange is the New Black. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John is joined by Charlynn of To the Journey to look at Mulgrew's Emmy-nominated performance. We discuss the female-centric nature of the show, how Mulgrew's performance differs from that on Voyager, and the sympathetic nature of Red. We also discuss the new STAR TR3K writing team of Doug Jung and Simon Pegg.

Running Time: 52 minutes 9 seconds

Host

John Mills

Guest

Charlynn Schmiedt

Editor

John Mills

Producers

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Orange is the New Black (00:02:15) 

Mulgrew's Performance (00:13:58)

Sympathetic Red (00:23:21)  

Trek News (00:39:30) 

Wrap-Up (00:47:57)

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Twenty years ago, Star Trek: Voyager, the first (and only) Star Trek series to feature a female captain, debuted on the UPN. Captain Kathryn Janeway was brought to life on screen by Kate Mulgrew.

This week on Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John are joined by Charlynn of To the Journey! to look at Mulgrew's work on Trek. We discuss the choice to have a female captain, the character of Janeway, and Mulgrew's performance. We also listen to some voicemail!

Running Time: 59 minutes 58 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Guests

Charlynn Schmeidt

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Kate Mulgrew (00:01:03)

Kathryn Janeway (00:14:46)

Mulgrew's Performance (00:24:48)

Final Thoughts (00:41:39)

Wrap-up (00:52:14)

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It may be surprising to some, but LeVar Burton has been nominated for more Emmys than any other actor in Star Trek. Ten of those nominations resulted in wins. But what may be even more impressive is the diversity of the work for which those nominations were earned.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike recap their look at Burton's Emmy-nominated work. We discuss his performance in Roots, his active role in Reading Rainbow, and touch on some of his other work, both in front of and behind the camera. We also wonder whether or not Community and The Big Bang Theory take place in the same continuity.

Running Time: 43 minutes 19 seconds

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Roots (00:00:50)

Reading Rainbow (00:12:50)

Other Work (00:19:30)

Wrap-up (00:35:10)

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Years before barrel-rolling into our hearts as Geordi LaForge on Star Trek: The Next Generation, LeVar Burton was already very well established from years of work as the host and producer of Reading Rainbow. The PBS series encouraged children to read by offering book recommendations accompanied by filmed "field trips," which took a closer look at the real-world elements from the stories. Over the course of the show's sixteen seasons, Burton won twelve Emmy Awards.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike, Max and John take a look at Burton's work on Reading Rainbow. We discuss its impact on the youth of America, what it means to today's generation of kids, and how it has been relaunched as an interactive app.

Running Time: 39 minutes 34 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler, Max Hegel and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Reading Rainbow (00:00:45)

The TNG Episode (00:11:15)

The App (00:20:52)

Wrap-up (00:33:01)

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LeVar Burton's first on-screen performance is also the first to earn him an Emmy nomination. At the age of twenty, he burst onto the scene in the television miniseries, Roots. The show looks at the history of an African American family over the span of a century, from slavery through liberation. Burton leads a huge cast of critically-acclaimed veteran actors, and received a Best Lead Actor nomination for his efforts.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John, Mike and Max look at Burton's work on Roots. We discuss the cultural impact of the series, Burton's performance, and how his portrayal of Kunta Kinte influenced people's perceptions of history. We also remember TOS director Joseph Sargent, and take a look at who's writing STAR TR3K.

Running Time: 46 minutes 17 seconds

Hosts

John Mills, Mike Schindler and Max Hegel 

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Roots (00:00:53)  

Joseph Sargent (00:28:25)  

STAR TR3K Writers (00:30:48)  

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LeVar Burton is best known for his role as Geordi LaForge on Star Trek: The Next Generation. But his contribution to television on the whole goes well beyond that. In addition to a nomination for his performance in the acclaimed miniseries Roots, he has also won ten Emmy Awards for his work on the children's show, Reading Rainbow.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike begin a new series in which we look at Burton's Emmy-nominated work. In this introduction, we discuss his work on Star Trek as both an actor and a director. We also discuss the hiring of Justin Lin as director of STAR TR3K.

Running Time: 56 minutes 25 seconds

Hosts

Max Hegel and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

LeVar Burton (00:02:33)

Acting (00:03:32)

Directing (00:24:02)

Justin Lin (00:37:40)

Wrap-up (00:49:15)

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Audible is the premiere source for audiobooks with more than 150,000 titles to choose from, and new titles coming every week. From classics to current bestsellers, and even some of the most famous Star Trek books like Prime Directive, Federation, and Spock’s World, Audible has something for everyone.

As a Trek.fm listener you can get a free audiobook of your choice along with a 30-day trial to see just how great Audible is. So give it a try today, catch up on all those classic Star Trek books you’ve yet to read or that latest novel from you favorite author and support the network and our programming at the same time!

Over the course of 15 years, Jeri Taylor worked as a writing producer in television. In that time, a definite progression of thematic elements can be seen running through each of her shows. Timely social issues, procedural crimefighers, and strong women are present all the way back in her episodes of Quincy, M.E., and come to the forefront in her final television creation, Star Trek: Voyager.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike recap their series on Taylor's career. We look at her work on Quincy, M.E., Blue Thunder, Magnum, P.I., In the Heat of the Night, Jake and the Fat Man, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Star Trek: Voyager. We also discuss the latest candidates for the STAR TR3Kdirector's chair.

Running Time: 1 hour 4 minutes 47 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Taylor, Part 6: Recap.

Over the course of 15 years, Jeri Taylor worked as a writing producer in television. In that time, a definite progression of thematic elements can be seen running through each of her shows. Timely social issues, procedural crimefighers, and strong women are present all the way back in her episodes of Quincy, M.E., and come to the forefront in her final television creation, Star Trek: Voyager.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike recap their series on Taylor's career. We look at her work on Quincy, M.E., Blue Thunder, Magnum, P.I., In the Heat of the Night, Jake and the Fat Man, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Star Trek: Voyager. We also discuss the latest candidates for the STAR TR3Kdirector's chair.

Running Time: 1 hour 4 minutes 47 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

Become one! Support Trek.fm and Commentary: Trek Stars at the $25/month level or plus! Visit http://patreon.com/trekfm http://patreon.com/trekfm

Chapters

Jeri Taylor (00:01:20)  

STAR TR3K Director Shortlist (00:38:58)  

Warp-up (00:56:57)  

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Audible is the premiere source for audiobooks with more than 150,000 titles to choose from, and new titles coming every week. From classics to current bestsellers, and even some of the most famous Star Trek books like Prime Directive, Federation, and Spock’s World, Audible has something for everyone.

As a Trek.fm listener you can get a free audiobook of your choice along with a 30-day trial to see just how great Audible is. So give it a try today, catch up on all those classic Star Trek books you’ve yet to read or that latest novel from you favorite author and support the network and our programming at the same time!

After the completion of Magnum, P.I., Jeri Taylor joined the writing staff for the second season of In the Heat of the Night. The show, which was based on the Oscar-winning film and novel of the same name, looks at a small town in America's deep south, where a white police chief and a black detective try to put aside their differences and work as a team.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and John discuss Taylor's contribution to the show, the similarities and differences between the show and the movie, and how the show compares to its contemporary series, Star Trek: The Next Generation. We also speculate on who may or may not be directing the next Star Trek movie.

Running Time: 1 hour 4 minutes 27 seconds

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Associate Producer

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Chapters

In the Heat of the Night (00:01:00)  

Thoughts on the Show (00:16:15)  

STAR TR3K's Director (00:34:24)  

Our Picks (00:46:44)  

Wrap-up (00:56:35)  

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Sponsor

Audible is the premiere source for audiobooks with more than 150,000 titles to choose from, and new titles coming every week. From classics to current bestsellers, and even some of the most famous Star Trek books like Prime Directive, Federation, and Spock’s World, Audible has something for everyone.

As a Trek.fm listener you can get a free audiobook of your choice along with a 30-day trial to see just how great Audible is. So give it a try today, catch up on all those classic Star Trek books you’ve yet to read or that latest novel from you favorite author and support the network and our programming at the same time!

The three years following the cancellation of Blue Thunder were rather quiet in Jeri Taylor's career. Her sole credit was for a television movie entitled A Place to Call Home. But in 1987, Taylor returned to episodic television as a writing producer on the final season of Magnum, P.I.. In the show, Tom Selleck plays a Vietnam veteran who works as a private detective in Hawaii.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike take a look at Taylor's third series. We discuss the elements which make Magnum a quintessential example of 1980s television, the ways in which Taylor brought her style into the show, and the variety which is demonstrated in her episodes.

Hosts

John Mills and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Production Manager

Richard Marquez

Content Coordinator

Will Nguyen

Taylor, Part 3: Blue Thunder.

After the cancellation of Quincy, M.E., Jeri Taylor began work on the writing staff of a new television series in 1984. Blue Thunder is a spinoff of a popular action film from the previous year about a high-tech police helicopter which is used to fight crime in Los Angeles. The series stared James Farentino as the lead, American football legends Dick Butkus and Bubba Smith as, essentially, themselves, and a pre-SNL Dana Carvey as the young computer-wiz.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike is joined by Tysto to look atTaylor's second television production. We discuss the 1980s TV trend of military-grade law enforcement, the bizarre casting, and the possible similarities between Blue Thunder and Star Trek: Voyager.

Hosts

Mike Schindler

Guest

Tysto

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Associate Producers

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Chapters

The Movie (00:02:09)

The Series (00:07:02)

The Pilot (00:17:39)

The Cast (00:23:46)

Taylor's Influence (00:29:20)

Wrap-up (00:38:37)

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After three years of work as a writer, Jeri Taylor was promoted to producer for the final season of Quincy, M.E.. The series, which starred Jack Klugman as a medical examiner who uses forensic medicine to solve crimes, was a precursor to shows like C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation and House, M.D.. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, John and Mike discuss Taylor's work as a writer/producer on Quincy. We discuss how Taylor shaped the final season, how she was able to put her personal stamp on the show, and what her proposed  spin-off, The Cutting Edge, may have been like.

Hosts

Mike Schindler and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

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Chapters

Quincy, M.E. (00:01:29)

Baby Rattlesnakes (00:12:21)

A Cry for Help (00:21:00)

Quincy's Wedding (00:27:57)

The Cutting Edge (00:32:45)

Final Thoughts (00:43:33)

Closing (00:48:00)

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In 1992, Michael Piller turned his attention towards his new Star Trek series, Deep Space Nine. This left a void in the Next Generation writer's room. That void was filled by Jeri Taylor. Under her guidance, the last two season of TNG produced some the best Trek of all-time, and earned the series its only Emmy nomination for Outstanding Drama. On the strength of that work, Taylor was given the task of creating the next Star Trek series, Voyager, which she also ran for the first four seasons. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, we begin a new series which looks at Taylor's work as a television writer/producer. In our first part, Mike, Max, and John are joined by Charlynn Schmiedt of To The Journey to examine Taylor's work in Trek. We discuss her first episode, her TNG highlights, her work as a showrunner on TNG, and the creation of Voyager. 

Hosts

Mike Schindler, Max Hegel, and John Mills

Guest

Charlynn Schmiedt

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Associate Producers

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Chapters

Jeri Taylor (1:31)

The Next Generation (9:04)

Voyager (27:12)

Final Thoughts (54:53)

Closing (58:50)

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The Original Series had Chekov. Deep Space Nine had Worf. Voyager had Seven of Nine. Sometimes your favorite shows need a little help. Commentary: Trek Stars is no exception.

In our fifth season premiere, Mike and Max welcome John Mills from Words with Nerds as our third crew member. In his first episode as co-host, John tells us about his relationship with Star Trek, what he thinks about some of the creators we've already covered, and who he'd like to look at in the future.

Hosts

Mike Schindler, Max Hegel, and John Mills

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Associate Producers

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Chapters

John and Trek (4:07)

What John's Missed (10:43)

What John Wants to Cover (21:06)

Closing (28:30)

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In 2009, prolific Star Trek author David Mack published his first original novel. The Calling is a supernatural crime drama about a man who hears people's prayers. Before long, he is caught in a war between good and evil, with a young girl's life in the balance.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike are joined by Mack to look at his novel, the origins of the story, the challenges and benefits of working outside of Trek, and the differences between writing for the page and for the screen. We also ponder the possibility of Jack Bauer existing in the Mirror Universe.

Hosts

Mike Schindler and Max Hegel

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

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Chapters

The Calling (00:58)

Page vs. Screen (10:40)

Similarities and Differences to Trek (19:39)

New York (31:13)

Becoming a Novelist (37:10)

Upcoming Projects (55:23)

Closing (1:03:39)

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In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars , Mike and Max are joined by Matt of The Delta Quadrant and The Nerd Party to look at Mack's television work. We discuss "Starship Down," "It's Only a Paper Moon," and the original concept for that episode, "Everybody Goes to Quark's." We also preview Mack's original novel The Calling, which we will cover next week.

Hosts

When the decision was made to turn his successful novel The Seven-Per-Cent Solution into a movie, Nicholas Meyer took on the challenge of adapting it himself. The result was an Oscar nomination. The film, in which Sherlock Holmes meets Sigmund Freud, was as much of a critical success as the book which preceded it.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike look at Meyer's work on the film directed by Herbert Ross and starring Nicol Williamson, Robert Duvall and Alan Arkin. We discuss the unusual tone of the film, the changes which were made for the screen, and how this Sherlock Holmes compares to other screen versions of the character. We also hope for a Sherlock Holmes crossover in Meyer's upcoming Sigmund Freud television series.

Hosts

Mike Schindler and Max Hegel

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

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Chapters

The Seven-Per-Cent Solution (00:52)

Adaptation (12:36)

Final Thoughts (25:34)

Closing (34:36)

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In the years since Battlestar Galactica, Ronald D. Moore has struggled to find another hit on television. That search has ended with his latest series, Outlander. Based on the novel by Diana Gabaldon, the show tells the story of an English nurse from 1945 who is thrown back in time to 1743 Scotland.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max take a look at the first eight episodes of Moore's series. We discuss the strength of the characters, the use of time travel, and challenges of adapting a novel into a TV series. We also discuss the newest addition to the Star Trek family, Star Tr3k's cinematographer, Claudio Miranda.

Hosts

Mike Schindler and Max Hegel

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

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Chapters

The Premise (02:00)

Thoughts on the Show (09:42)

Time Travel (27:14)

Adaptation (30:38)

Final Thoughts (39:51)

Claudio Miranda (41:11)

Closing (45:46)

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In 1979, ten years after the cancellation of the original series, Star Trek made the jump to the big screen. In an effort to pull out all the stops, Paramount hired Oscar-winning director Robert Wise to helm Star Trek: The Motion Picture. The rest is history.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike are joined by Larry Nemecek to look at Wise's work on the film. We discuss Wise's place in film history, the atmosphere of fan culture leading up to the picture's release, and whether or not Wise was the right choice to direct the first Star Trek movie.

Hosts

Max Hegel and Mike Schindler

Editor and Producer

Mike Schindler

Associate Producer

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Chapters

Robert Wise (1:55)

TMP Fan Culture (8:20)

Fan Reaction to TMP (29:06)

Was Wise the Right Choice? (40:37)

Final Thoughts (1:00:44)

Wrap-up (1:11:26)

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Throughout his career, Nicholas Meyer has shown a fascination for the psychology behind larger-than-life historical figures. His new television mini-series, Houdini, is no exception.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike take a look at the show, which was scripted by Meyer and stars Adrian Brody as the title character. We discuss the surprisingly high-end production value, the unusual formal qualities, and the Arthur Conan Doyle subplot. We also touch on the involvement of two Star Trek movie directors' fathers.

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Chapters

Houdini (1:11)

The Style (09:00)

Doyle (25:20)

Wrap-Up (38:49)

Despite its enormous popularity, Damon Lindelof's television series, Lost, is often criticized for its ending. But that did not stop Marc Forster and his team from hiring Lindelof to rewrite the third act of the troubled Brad Pitt vehicle, World War Z. The movie went on to huge box office success, and much of the credit went to Lindelof and his co-writer, Drew Goddard.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max are joined by John Mills of Words with Nerds to look at Lindelof's most recent cinematic endeavor. We discuss the similarities between the movie and the novel upon which it was based, the structural issues associated with the film, and how Lindelof and Goddard wrote the best ending possible for the movie. We also marvel at the cast of the audiobook.

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Chapters

World War Z (1:45)

Thoughts on the Film (12:44)

The Ending (25:34)

Final Thoughts (37:56)

Wrap-Up (44:32)

Last year Max and Mike looked at the films that Damon Lindelof had written up to that point. Since then, Lindelof has written two more films. The first of these was Star Trek Into Darkness.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, we return to Lindelof's body of work to examine his work as a Star Trek writer. We discuss the concept of "spectacle creep" and how it applies to Into Darkness, the similarities and differences between Into Darkness and Wrath of Khan, and the challenges of telling a small story on a big scale. We also remember the work of Next Generation director Robert Wiemer.

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Chapters

The Parsec Awards (1:17)

Into Darkness (5:13)

Spock vs. Khan (15:57)

Kirk's Sacrifice (27:01)

Final Thoughts (32:29)

Robert Wiemer (39:31)

Wrap-Up (41:46)

For someone held in such high regard by the film industry, J.J. Abrams has a fairly short resume when it comes to directing. As of now, he has only directed four features, including Mission: Impossible III, Star Trek, Super 8, and Star Trek Into Darkness.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max recap their look at Abrams's directorial work. We also discuss his upcoming film, Star Wars: Episode VII, and answer a listener's questions about Max's opinion of Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.

In between Star Trek films, J.J. Abrams took a break from the franchise to direct his passion project, Super 8. The film, about a group of kids who accidentally film the wreck of a government train transporting an alien, is Abrams's homage to Spielberg-era sci-fi blockbusters.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike are joined by John Mills of Words with Nerds to look at Abrams's most personal movie to date. We discuss the motivations of alien, what's inside the mystery box, and of course, lens flares. Max also answers a listener's question about what movies he thinks are good.

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Chapters

Super 8 (3:40)

The Alien (12:11)

The Mystery Box (20:59)

Lens Flares (30:45)

Final Thoughts (40:28)

Listener Mail (50:15)

Closing (1:03:11)

Before relaunching Star Trek, J.J. Abrams adapted another Desilu television show for the big screen with Mission: Impossible III. 

In this episode Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max are joined by Tysto to look at Abrams's first feature. We discuss why Tom Cruise gave him the job, how it differs from the other Mission: Impossible films, and how it influenced his work in Trek. We also debate the merits of the script.

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Chapters

Mission: Impossible III (4:22)

The Show (10:21)

The Movies (14:13)

Similarities to Alias (23:43)

The Writing (28:07)

Final Thoughts (38:06)

Wrap-up (39:19)

In 2005, after eighteen consecutive seasons of television, Star Trek was suffering from "franchise fatigue." In an effort to revitalize the property, Paramount hired A-list filmmaker J.J. Abrams to direct a reboot of The Original Series.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike begin a new series looking at Abrams's career as a feature film director. In Part 1, we are joined by Matthew Rushing of The Orb and Literary Treks to examine Abrams's work on Star Trek. We discuss the reasons behind hiring Abrams, our initial thoughts concerning his involvement, and what exactly his contribution to the franchise has been. We also examine the similarities between the 2009 film and The Motion Picture.

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Chapters

Intro (02:00)

Initial Thoughts (10:18)

Continuity (22:18)

The Mystery Box (33:13)

Mainstream Trek (39:52)

Final Thoughts (54:37)

Closing (1:02:57)

Since his early days on Star Trek: The Next Generation, and all the way up to the present, Wil Wheaton has always been an entertainer, but he has never settled into one specific role. Instead, he has adapted to the changing media landscape and used whatever tools were best suited for the task at hand. And whether it has been acting, writing or blogging, he has always excelled. The same is true for his career as television producer/host.

In this episode, Mike and Max recap their look at Wheaton's current television work. We discuss both Tabletop and The Wil Wheaton Project, as well as touch on some of Wheaton's other projects from throughout his career. We also debate the merits of Monopoly.

Wil Wheaton's history in Star Trek and presence in online media has made him a favorite among the sci-fi/fantasy crowd. His love for the genre, as well his comedic talent, made him the ideal host for SyFy's new talk show, coincidentally named The Wil Wheaton Project.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike take a look at Wheaton's second series as a producer/host. We discuss the format of the show, the quality of the pre-produced segments, and Wheaton's talents as a comedian. We also fondly remember John Henson-era Talk Soup.

Chapters

The Wil Wheaton Project (1:24)

The pre-produced clips (10:53)

Thoughts on the show (21:35)

Wrap-up (28:15)

Wil Wheaton may have started his career as an actor, but he has since become a much larger creative force in the geek community. One outlet that he has used to express himself is through television production and hosting.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max are joined by Drew of Standard Orbit to look at Wheaton's first television series, Tabletop. We discuss the show's unusual premise, the importance of good chemistry between the guests, and how it shows that Wheaton is truly a geek. We also spoil "Journey's End" for Drew.

Chapters

Intro (1:09)

Tabletop (7:37)

Production Value (17:23)

Favorite Episodes (25:23)

Final Thoughts (32:46)

Wrap-up (36:38)

Few characters in Star Trek are as polarizing as Wesley Crusher. But love him or hate him, most fans are very fond of the actor behind the character, Wil Wheaton.

In this episode, Max and Mike begin a new series which look at Wheaton's career as a television show host. In the first installment, we cover Wheaton's work in Star Trek. We discuss his growth as an actor over the course of The Next Generation, the progression of the character from "Where No Man Has Gone Before" to "Journey's End," and Wheaton's work as a voice actor on the 2009 Star Trek film.

Over the past fifty years, from Gene Roddenberry to Damon Lindelof, 369 people have written for Star Trek. In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max talk to the 370th and 371st Star Trek writers, Patrick McKay and J.D. Payne.

In the interview, we discuss McKay and Payne's Trek fandom, their screenplays which led to Trek, working with Robert Orci, and responding to the criticisms fans have of the last film. We also try to convince them to watch Deep Space Nine.

In the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episode "Far Beyond the Stars," Ira Steven Behr and his team explored the possibility that the events of the series had been created by a science fiction writer in the 1950s named Benny Russell.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike are joined by Christopher Jones of The Orb to take a look at the character of Benny Russell. We discuss the quality of the episode on the whole, whether or not it's possible that Deep Space Nine was created by Russell, and what that would mean for the rest of the franchise. We also ponder whether or not the Prophets are Giants fans.

Despite having written dozens of hours of television, Gene Roddenberry is only responsible for writing one feature film. That film is Pretty Maids All In a Row, directed by Roger Vadim and starring Rock Hudson.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max are joined by film critic Todd Gilchrist to take a look at the film, which Roddenberry also produced. We discuss the social commentary present in an otherwise exploitational sex comedy, the simililarities between Roddenberry and Vadim as artists, and whether or not this film is the missing piece in understanding Roddenberry's personality. We also ponder why Quentin Tarantino calls it one of the best films of all time.

Over the past 50 years, there have been many successful comic book adaptations for both the big screen and small. But for some reason, the one marquee character which has failed to break through to the mainstream is Wonder Woman. Many writers have tried, with varying results. And the very first of these was Star Trek writer and producer, John D.F. Black.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike take a look at Black's 1974 Wonder Woman pilot, which starred Cathy Lee Crosby, and directly preceded the successful 1975 series starring Lynda Carter. We discuss the origins of the character, how Black's pilot rates among other adaptations, and whether or not current creators are on the cusp of a breakthrough with the character. We also ponder why comic book readers are generally unaccepting of the character.

Last year saw the return of author Larry Nemecek to the world of Star Trek non-fiction with his second book, Stellar Cartography. Featuring maps by Ian Fullwood, Ali Reis, and Geoffrey Mandel, Nemecek's companion essays offer a comprehensive look at the history of the future.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max are joined by Larry for the second part of their two-part interview. We discuss the genesis of the book, the challenges of completing such an ambitious project in a short period of time, and how Larry made sense of the Dominion War. We also ponder how big a sector is.

For over a decade, Larry Nemecek chronicled the making of Star Trek in the Next Generation era. But what about the making of the making of?

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike are joined Larry himself to discuss his career as an author. In the first part of a two-part interview, he discusses his work on The Next Generation Companion, as well as his Voyager episode, "Prophecy," and other episode pitches which he wrote for Voyager. He also blows Max and Mike's minds with the history of Voyager's development.

Last year, Larry Nemecek returned to the world of Star Trek book publishing with Star Trek: Stellar Cartography, a collection of maps which chronicle the geography of the Trek universe. While the maps, created by Ian Fullwood, Ali Ries and Geoffrey Mandel, are the centerpiece of the collection, Nemecek's accompanying text is the hidden gem. It becomes a sort of history of the future, giving us a large-scale look at the events which have played out on a more personal level on the TV screen.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max are joined by Steve Roberts of Tribbles in Ecstasy to look at Nemecek's book. We discuss the artistry of the maps, the dense knowledge contained in the text, and how Steve is using the collection to teach his six-year old about Star Trek. 

As we've said before, Larry Nemecek wrote the book on Star Trek: The Next Generation... literally. Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion is comprehensive episode guide which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the show.

This week, Max and Mike are joined by Phillip Gilfus of Earl Grey to talk about Nemecek's first Star Trek reference book. We discuss how we came to discover it, what makes it stand out from other books like it, and how it has impacted our lives on a personal level. We also discuss the hiring of Roberto Orci as the director of STAR TR3K.

One of the greatest documentarian's of Star Trek's history is Larry Nemecek. The Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion is one of best books of its kind. Each and every issue of The Star Trek Communicator was must-read for fans of the franchise. And his new book, Stellar Cartography, is work of art unto itself. But Nemecek is not just a fan and historian of Star Trek. He's also a creator. Along with his wife, Janet, Nemecek wrote the story which was the basis of the seventh season Voyager episode, "Prophecy." 

This week, Mike is joined by Charlynn of To the Journey! to take a look at Nemecek's episode. We discuss the fan-friendly nature of Klingons in the Delta Quadrant, how the plot device of the Klingon illness could have been handled more effectively, and how the storyline was continued in the novels. We also wonder what the difference is between a D7 and a K'Tinga.

Thousands of artists have helped to make Star Trek the thing it is today. But what if you had to pick just four of them to represent the franchise as a whole?

For our third season finale, the Trek.fm crew tries determine which four faces belong on the Mount Rushmore of Trek. Max and Mike are joined by five guests from around the network, including Drew Stewart of Standard Orbit, Jason Genser of Star Trek: Equinox, Daniel Proulx and Phillip Gilfus of Earl Grey, and Christopher Jones of everything else, to give their unique perspectives on who deserves to be immortalized in stone.

Brannon Braga is one of only five individuals in history who can claim to have created a Star Trek series. In the past, we have discussed that creation, Enterprise, as well as his other television series, Flashforward. Last Sunday saw the debut of Braga's third series, Salem, which he co-created with Adam Simon.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max return to their Brannon Braga series to discuss his work on Salem. We look at the political message of the film, the similar style of Game of Thrones, and how it compares to the other show that Braga runs, Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey. We also look back fondly on Adam Simon's portrayal of himself in The Player.

It could be argued that, with the exception of Gene Roddenberry, no one has played a bigger role in shaping the Star Trek franchise than Rick Berman. In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike take a look at the choices Berman made on a conceptual level, and how they influenced the direction of the franchise. We discuss how he balanced Roddenberry's vision with Michael Piller's creativity on The Next Generation, the choice to set Deep Space Nine on a station, whether or not Voyager was designed to replicate TNG, and the reason why Enterprise was always destined to take place on a starship. We also look at how the fans' view of Berman's contribution has changed with distance.

The Next Generation era of Star Trek is not exactly known for its breakthrough directorial choices. Rick Berman operated a very well-oiled machine which was manned by expert craftsmen who knew exactly what was expected of them, and delivered high-quality product week after week. Such is the nature of episodic television. Very few shows allow the director to stretch their legs creatively in such a way as to demonstrate their own personal style. One such show was The X-Files.

Cliff Bole is one of a very few directors to have worked on both franchises, and he is credited with creating some of the very best episodes of each.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max recap our look at Bole's work on The X-Files. We discuss all four of his episodes, including "Small Potatoes," "Bad Blood," "Chimera," and "Jump the Shark." We also discuss the talents of Vince Gilligan, and ponder how the producers knew that Bole would be the perfect choice to handle such iconic episodes.

From the beginning, The Lone Gunmen were fan favorites on The X-Files. The trio of characters, Byers, Langley, and Frohike, were conspiracy theorists who published a newspaper aimed at revealing the truth. In 2001, they received their own spinoff series. Also in 2001, that spinoff was cancelled.

Left on a cliffhanger, the story remained unresolved until midway through the following season, when the creators of the series gave it a proper resolution in an episode of The X-Files entitled "Jump the Shark". This was also the final X-File for Cliff Bole. 

This week, Max and Mike discuss The Lone Gunmen's role on The X-Files, how that roll changed on their own show, and how "Jump the Shark" acts as an episode of two series simultaneously.

Not every episode of your favorite television show can be a winner. After two outstanding efforts, Cliff Bole returned to The X-Files during its seventh season to direct "Chimera," a story about a mysterious creature that is killing people in a small community.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max take a look at Bole's third X-File. We discuss its "monster of the week" nature, Scully's promising B-story, and why Bole's contribution is not readily apparent. We also explain The Muppet Babies Syndrome.

After the success of his first X-Files episode, Cliff Bole returned to the series the following year to direct another comedic script by Vince Gilligan, "Bad Blood." This episode pushed the boundaries of the show even further than "Small Potatoes," and the end result may be the most critically-acclaimed hour in the show's history.  

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike take a look at Bole's second X-File. We discuss how the episode gets better with each viewing, how it departs from the tone of the series while still staying inside the basic formula, and how Bole's sense of comic timing is the key to the episode's success. We also take a look at the new Brannon Braga series, Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey.

Cliff Bole will always be known first and foremost for his contribution to Star Trek, but he also had a huge impact on another sci-fi series, The X-Files. Four episodes of the '90s cult classic were directed by Bole, including some of the very best. 

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max take a look at Bole's first X-Files episode, "Small Potatoes." We discuss the series as a whole, the difficulty of balancing grotesque crimes with humor, and the apparent freedom Bole was given in this series which may have been absent on Trek. We also examine the merits of The X-Files as an educational tool.

Last month, the world lost legendary Star Trek director Cliff Bole, who helmed 42 hours of Trek—including 25 episodes of The Next Generation—more than anyone else in the show's history. Among those 25 was "The Best of Both Worlds," commonly considered to be the best TNG episode, and one of the best television episodes, of all time.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max kick off a new series looking at the work that Bole did in another beloved franchise, The X-Files. But first, we are joined by TNG expert Larry Nemecek to discuss Bole's work in Trek, his industry origins, his hits and misses, and his blue-collar approach to filmmaking. Larry also gives us a taste of what Bole was like as a person.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Mike and Max recap their series on Wolfe, and also touch on his other works, including his two current shows, Star-Crossed and Elementary.

In this episode of Commentary: Trek Stars, Max and Mike examine the miniseries on the whole. We discuss the challenges of building an expansive mythology, the use of historical figures in a fantasy setting, and the unusual path the project took from script to screen.

This week, Mike and Max are joined by their Commentary Track Stars: Off Topic co-host Branden Myers to look at The Dresden Files. We discuss the magical noir sub genre, the curious case of the show's pilot, and the many Trek alumni who worked on the series. We also ponder the existence of Chicago accents.

This week, Mike and Max are joined by Colin Higgins of Melodic Treks to look at Wolfe's first full series. We discuss how the project came to be, what caused Wolfe to leave the show, and how one of the best episodes was originally intended for Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.

This week, Mike and Max are joined by their Commentary Track Stars: Off Topic co-host Branden Myers to look at Wolfe's first post-Trek effort. We discuss the film's Roddenberry-like optimism, the way it reflects today's society, and why it ultimately doesn't work. We also try to figure out what the theoretical series would have been like. 

This week, Max and Mike start a new series looking at Wolfe's work as a driving force behind television projects, including Futuresport, Andromeda, Riverworld, and The Dresden Files. 

In Part 1, we are joined by Matt Hansen of The Delta Quadrant to look at Wolfe's work on Star Trek. We discuss his Next Generation debut with “A Fistful of Datas,” his script for “Q-Less,” which led to a staff position on DS9, and his huge contribution to the series on the whole, including the co-creation of the Defiant. We also debate what metaphor best describes his place in the DS9 writing staff.

This week, Max and Mike are joined by their Commentary Track Stars: Off Topic co-host Branden Myers to take a look at Behr's sixth show. We discuss the similarities to The X-Men, how the tone differs from other SyFy Channel shows, and the Behr-less second season. We also touch on Ronald D. Moore's recent Twitter activity, and the passing of Trek producer Marty Hornstein.

This week, Mike and Max take a look at the second season of Crash. We discuss the changes that were made to the show, how the issue of racism is dealt with, and why we'll always give Behr the benefit of the doubt.

This Week, Max and Mike are joined by Trek.fm's very own Christopher Jones to talk about Behr's fourth show. We discuss the religious parallels of the story, the character development over time, and the moral ambiguity of the situations presented in the series.

This week, Mike and Max are joined by Tom Elliot of The Twilight Zone Network to look at Behr's third series, the 2002 incarnation of The Twilight Zone. We discuss how Behr's series compares to the original, the idea of a cohesive Twilight Zone multiverse, and what we can expect from future incarnations of the show.  We also debate whether or not the Steve Guttenberg vehicle Tower of Terror takes place in the Twilight Zone.

This week, we begin a new series looking at Behr's career as a showrunner. In Part 1, Max and Mike are joined by Larry Nemecek to look at Behr's work on Star Trek. We discuss his origins on The Next Generation, how Piller lured him back to work on Deep Space Nine, and how he predicted fans would appreciate the show in later years. We also talk about how baseball was responsible for the best of Trek.

This week, Max and Mike examine the pilot, which starred Robert Foxworth as Questor the android, and Mike Farrell as his trusty human sidekick, Jerry. We discuss how the show itself would have differed from the pilot, its similarities to “Assignment: Earth,” the main character’s similarities to Data, the recent attempt at resurrecting the series, how the director may or may not have been responsible for the failure of the Ferengi, and how the writer may or may not have been responsible for the success of Star Trek: The Original Series. We also touch briefly on the last of Roddenberry’s failed pilots, Spectre.

The first of these was “Soldier,” based on his own short story entitled “Soldier from Tomorrow.” As the title suggests, it tells the story of a soldier from a future war, played by Michael Ansara, who is thrown back in time to the strange land of America in the mid-20th century.

This week, Mike and Max take a look at both “Soldier” and the story upon which it's based. We discuss The Outer Limits in general, the episode in particular, and the allegations of plagiarism which Ellison brought against James Cameron's The Terminator. We also look back at the Shatner-starring, Esperanto-speaking opus which is Incubus.

Ellison's “The City On the Edge of Forever” is considered by many to be Star Trek's finest hour. The story of Kirk finally falling in love, only to have that love snatched away by the Universe is both epic in scale and personal in emotion. It is thought of by most to be a masterpiece. But not by Ellison.

The episode's road to the screen was undoubtedly the most troubled of any Trek episode. Ellison's original screenplay was thought to be unfilmable and uncharacteristic of Trek. As such, it was heavily rewritten by Gene Roddenberry and others, until it became something that Ellison despised. Three decades later, Ellison published his original screenplay along with an essay telling his side of the story. The book is almost as epic as the episode itself.

For the first part in our series on Ellison, we are joined by Drew Stewart of Standard Orbit and John Mills of Words with Nerds to look at both the finished episode and the original screenplay. We discuss whether or not it is the best episode of Trek, how the aired version differs from the first draft, whether or not the changes are for the better, and what Ellison's essay says about the creative process.

In our third season premiere, Mike and Max present the second half of their interview with Marc and Original Series veterans John D.F. & Mary Black. We talk about how television has changed since the sixties, what other movies and shows John has written, and what we can expect to see in the next two volumes of These are the Voyages. We also ponder what it would have been like if Spock had left after Season One.

These are the Voyages, TOS, Season One can be purchased now on Amazon.com, with Seasons Two and Three set for release in the coming months.

In the second season finale, Max and Mike are joined by the book's author and Next Generation writer Marc Cushman, Original Series writer and producer John D.F. Black, and his wife and Original Series assistant, Mary Black. We discuss what makes this book different from others, what it was like to work on The Original Series, and how the industry has changed over the years. We also try to figure out how you can tell when a writer is lying about missing a deadline.

These are the Voyages, TOS, Season One can be purchased now on Amazon.com, with Seasons Two and Three set for release in the coming months.

This week, Mike and Max recap their series on Moore's career, looking at all of the shows he ran, including Roswell, Carnivale, Battlestar Galactica, Caprica, and Virtuality. We also take a look at the future of Moore's career—with Helix and Outlander—as well as his unaired pilot, 17th Precinct.

Co-created by Trek writer Michael Taylor, Virtuality follows the crew of a spacecraft on a ten-year mission to find an alternative to life on Earth, which only has 100 years left. The crew, which is being filmed for a reality television show, relaxes with the help of a virtual reality program. However, the program has turned dangerous, and it may not be the result of a simple glitch.

This week, Max and Mike take a look at the pilot. We discuss wether or not the answers to the questions asked would have been satisfying, why Moore chose to develop two virtual reality shows simultaneously, and how Moore assembled his crew, made up of past collaborators. We also wonder why Jamiroquai wasn't hired to perform the theme song.

The prequel takes a look at the world of BSG fifty years prior to its destruction. It focuses on two families, the Graystones and the Adamas, at a critical time in the history of the world, when artificial intelligence is on the brink of sentience. 

This week, Mike and Max are joined by their Commentary Track Stars: Off Topic co-host, Branden Myers, to look at the ill-fated spinoff. We discuss the problems with creating a prequel, how to make something different, and why the decision was made to change showrunners mid-season. We also debate whether or not the series should have been more like Desperate Housewives.

With his 2003 reboot of Glen A. Larson's classic series, Moore pushed boundaries that he wasn't allowed anywhere near on Star Trek. The end result is a heavily continuity-driven show that takes a hard look at politics, religion, and the human condition. 

This week, Max and Mike are joined by their co-host on Commentary Track Stars: Off Topic, Branden Myers, to take a look at one of the most significant science fiction works of the new millennium. We discuss what makes BSG stand out from other shows, how it differs from the original series, and the debt it owes to Star Trek. We also try to figure out whether or not Branden's a Trekkie.

Set against the backdrop of a traveling carnival during the Great Depression, the show follows two people—Ben (played by Nick Stahl) and Justin (played by Clancy Brown)—who are unknowing pawns in a battle between good and evil.

This week, Mike and Max chat about Moore's first solo effort. We discuss how the series came to be, why Moore left after one season, and what the show's existence means for the future of television. We also debate whether or not the terms "good" and "evil" apply to the main characters.

After leaving Voyager, Ronald D. Moore was recruited by Jason Katims to work on the second season of Roswell. The series chronicles the lives of three teenaged aliens who are secretly living in the town where their spacecraft crash landed. 

Under Katims’s leadership, the first season of Roswell was primarily character driven, with the science fiction elements taking a back seat. But going forward, the network wanted the series to build upon its sci-fi mythology. And so, Moore was hired as a co-showrunner for the first time in his career. 

This week, Max and Mike are joined by Trek.fm’s Christopher Jones to take a look at the final two seasons of Moore’s first show. We discuss whether or not Moore’s contribution improved the show, how well the show holds up over time, and the strange connection the show has to Enterprise. We also fondly recall now-defunct ’90s television networks.

Many of the writers who began their careers on Star Trek have gone on to find great success outside of the franchise. But none have been more critically acclaimed than Ronald D. Moore. At the age of 25, Moore wrote his first teleplay, “The Bonding,” a spec script which was bought by Michael Piller for The Next Generation. He was quickly brought on staff, where he would write 60 more Trek adventures—including episodes for Deep Space Nine and Voyager, as well as the first two Next Generation movies.

This week, Mike and Max are joined by Matthew Rushing of The Orb to look at Moore’s work on Star Trek. We discuss his early work on The Next Generation, how his movies stack up to the others, what his contribution was to Deep Space Nine, and what led to his quick departure from Voyager. We also try to figure out who the Ringo of the DS9 writing staff was.

Richard Matheson’s influence on science fiction cannot be measured. Whether it’s I Am Legend or The Twilight Zone, Matheson’s impact on what has come since is massive.

This week, Max and Mike try to examine Matheson’s career by looking at a tiny cross-section of his work. Specifically, we recap our series on Matheson’s novels that have been adapted into movies. Starting at the beginning, we look at the books, Someone is Bleeding, I Am Legend, The Shrinking Man, A Stir of Echoes, Ride the Nightmare, Hell House, Bid Time Return, and What Dreams May Come, and their motion picture counterparts, Georges Lautner’s Icy Breasts, Sidney Salkow’s The Last Man on Earth, Boris Sagal’s The Omega Man, Francis Lawrence’s I Am Legend, Jack Arnold’s The Incredible Shrinking Man, Joel Schumacher’s The Incredible Shrinking Woman, David Koepp’s Stir of Echoes, Terence Young’s Cold Sweat, John Hough’s The Legend of Hell House, Jeannot Szwarc’s Somewhere in Time, and Vincent Ward’s What Dreams May Come. We also touch on our trip to the Parsec Awards.

Twenty years after the release of the book, Vincent Ward adapted What Dreams May Come into a film starring Robin Williams. It was met with mixed reviews, though often applauded for its visual depiction of the afterlife.

This week, Mike and Max are joined by John Mills of Words with Nerds to discuss both Matheson’s novel and Ward’s movie. We discuss the meticulous detail of the book, debate whether or not the changes made in the film were effective, and wonder if Matheson’s motivations for writing the book were domestic in nature.

In 1975, Richard Matheson published what he considered to be his best novel to date, Bid Time Return. It tells the story of a dying young man who sees a 75-year old picture of an actress, and falls instantly in love with her. He convinces himself that it is his destiny to travel back in time to meet her.

Five years later, Matheson adapted the book into a film entitled Somewhere in Time. It was directed by Jeannot Szwarc, and starred Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour. While largely ignored upon release, the film has since developed a large cult following which closely resembles Star Trek fandom in many ways.

This week, Max and Mike discuss the time travel device used in the book, whether or not the movie improves on its source material, and where this novel fits into Matheson’s career. We also take a look at INSITE, the International Network of Somewhere In Time Enthusiasts.