Say what you will about the news that Roberto Orci is set to direct ‘Star Trek 3,’ but I have a soft place in my cold black heart for him. Since his work on ‘Xena: Warrior Princess,’ ‘Hercules: The Legendary Journey’s,’ ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Fringe‘ I’ve had respect for his obvious holding of the coveted “Geek Card.”

Orci had been been the lead in the race to direct the once untitled sequel to ‘Star Trek: Into Darkness‘  but according to Variety, Skydance and Paramount have apparently agreed to have Orci helm the new film- now titled simply ‘Star Trek 3’.  Orci will be replacing J.J. Abrams who is, of course, too busy with another project you might recognize… ‘Star Wars: Episode VII.’ I’m sure you’ve heard of it. 

Roberto Orci

Word is that Orci will also be writing the screenplay for the film but this time he’s pairing up with some new blood: J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay who are also currently working on the ‘Flash Gordon’ reboot. Abrams, I’m told, will be acting as producer on the new ‘Trek’ film and I shall assume will be but a phone call away in case Orci has any questions.

Being that this film is Orci’s first directorial project, I look forward to seeing how he decides to play it. It’s not like Orci has never worked closely with directors before, having worked alongside such folks as Michael Bay, Jon Favreau and Marc Webb.  So in my mind, Orci has the artillery he needs to make a successful go at it.

Orci’s longtime writing partner, Alex Kurtzman, will not be joining him on this or future film projects. They will, however, continue their partnership on the small screen. While Orci focuses on ‘Star Trek,’ Kurtzman will be tackling the ‘Amazing Spider-Man franchise and directing the spin-off film, ‘Venom.

The spectacular ‘Star Trek’ cast remains the same: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Simon Pegg, Karl Urban, Jon Cho and Anton Yelchin will return. 

No plot details or release date hase been revealed, but taking into consideration the saturated release schedule in 2015, it’s safe to say we may not see film before 2016. Rest assured, however, that once anything hits the wire, ScienceFiction.com will bring you the details.

So, Faithful Followers, let’s hear your thoughts on Roberto Orci’s chances of pulling off a highly successful ‘Star Trek’ film! Leave your comments below. We want to hear from you!