When it comes to some of the most captivating television programs of all time, it's difficult to deny the impact that the "Star Trek" franchise has had. Created by Gene Roddenberry, the original "Star Trek" series debuted on NBC in 1966 to critical acclaim. The sci-fi epic, which made an emphasis to highlight the diversity and optimism of the future, ran for a short three seasons, but managed to capture the hearts and minds of millions. After being canceled, Paramount quickly understood the viability of "Star Trek" as a franchise, allowing it to prosper in several mediums. Today, there are over a dozen "Star Trek" films, a number of television shows, countless video games, comics, and more. Each generation boasts its own unique love affair with "Star Trek," making the sci-fi franchise a true gift.
While it's no secret that "Star Trek" has had a major influence on sci-fi as a genre, it's important to highlight how much the franchise means to everyday people. "Please Stand By," a film starring Dakota Fanning does just that -- recognizing the power and purpose that "Star Trek" continues to give its fans. Dakota Fanning's 2018 film "Please Stand By" acknowledges how important Gene Roddenberry's franchise is, proving that there's more to "Star Trek" than just mindless sci-fi entertainment.
Those who have already seen "Please Stand By" will know just how much of a love letter the indie film is to the iconic franchise. While speaking with Collider, director Ben Lewin opened up about how it was important to be faithful to the Paramount franchise for the sake of accuracy. "Absolutely! We went to great lengths to reproduce the exact spacesuits from the episode called 'The Tholian Web.' We also went to Vasquez Rocks, where they shot," the director said, before revealing that the film's creative team consulted with Klingon experts to ensure that the language was portrayed correctly.
And while Dakota Fanning steals the show as Wendy, "Please Stand By" boasts several A-listers who help make the film stand out. Fanning is joined by the likes of Toni Collette, who plays her mother in the film, and Patton Oswalt, a Klingon-speaking police officer she encounters on her journey. The supporting cast is rounded out by "The Grand Budapest Hotel" star Tony Revolori and Alice Eve, who appears as Dr. Carol Marcus in 2013's "Star Trek Into Darkness."
Fans of "Star Trek" and Fanning should make it a point to watch "Please Stand By." It's currently available to stream on Hulu and Kanopy. Don't have either streaming service? "Please Stand By" is available for rent or purchase on digital storefronts like Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Apple TV.
