Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) Review in 2025
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is a classic sci-fi adventure film that follows the crew of the USS Enterprise as they face off against their arch-nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh. The movie is known for its intense action sequences, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for older children and adults due to its sci-fi violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and adventure films. It's a classic that holds up well even today, and its themes and characters continue to be relevant and engaging.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes place after the events of the first film and sees the Enterprise crew dealing with the aftermath of their encounter with Khan. As they try to uncover the truth about Khan's past, they realize that he is seeking revenge against Captain James T. Kirk and the crew. The movie culminates in an epic battle between the Enterprise and Khan's spaceship, the Reliant.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear and compelling narrative that explores the themes of revenge, redemption, and the consequences of playing with forces beyond human control.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the cast. William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy are particularly memorable, bringing depth and nuance to their iconic roles.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with memorable performances from the cast. Khan is a particularly compelling villain, bringing depth and nuance to the role.
direction9.80/10
Nicholas Meyer's direction is masterful, balancing action and drama with ease. The pacing is well-handled, and the film's themes are explored in a thoughtful and engaging way.
cinematography9.20/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a clear and crisp visual style that brings the futuristic world of Star Trek to life. The special effects are also impressive, particularly in the film's iconic final battle scene.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, memorable characters, excellent direction, and impressive cinematography make this movie a standout in the Star Trek franchise.
Cons
Some of the special effects may seem dated compared to modern standards, but this only adds to the film's retro charm.
Notable Quotes
"I will not be defeated. I will not be defeated."
"KHAAAAAN!"
"Space, the final frontier... these are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise."
