When interviewed recently by MTV, Mr. Spock himself (Zachary Quinto) said that things were very different on the set of ‘Star Trek Beyond‘ now that J.J. Abrams has departed for a Galaxy Far, Far away, though he is quick to say it is not a bad thing, just different:

“Invariably there’s going to be a different vibe when you remove someone as gregarious and outgoing and talented as J.J….But Justin has come in with this really interesting and confident energy that’s a little bit more reserved and a little bit quieter, but also very powerful and really sure-handed. He knows exactly what he wants this movie to look like and that’s really exciting.”

Which does sound like he is saying that Abrams was an extrovert on set, while new director Justin Lin is a bit more introverted, which in the grand scheme of things does not really matter all that much, as both Stanley Kubrick and Alfred Hitchcock were introverts and they were masters of their craft. Quinto also commented on his feelings on having Simon Pegg be so heavily involved in the script, something that he definitely feels is a plus for all the returning actors:

“It’s been incredible to have Simon be so integrally involved in the story because he knows us all so well and he knows our characters all so well…We don’t have to walk very far if we have any questions or concerns about stuff in the script!”

Hopefully, regardless of how he directs, ‘Star Trek Beyond’ will be able to pay homage to the 50 years of the franchise, and be able to continue on the legacy of the franchise. And with Abrams’ last ‘Trek’ outing (‘Star Trek Into Darkness‘) not faring as well with critics and fans, Lin’s new approach to the story might be just what the storied franchise needed to get their ship back on track.