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Star Trek: First Contact (1996) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo

Last updated: 3 May 2026

Star Trek: First Contact (1996) Review

Star Trek: First Contact (1996) (Telugu action, adventure, drama) — directed by Jonathan Frakes. Starring Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner. The Borg, a relentless race of cyborgs, are on a direct course for Earth. Violating orders to stay away from the battle, Captain Picard and the crew of the newly-commissioned USS Enterprise E pursue the Borg back in time to prevent the invaders from changing Federation history and assimilating the g... Our Rating: 3.25/5. Verdict: HIT. Released: 22 Nov 1996. Runtime: 1h 51m.

Star Trek: First Contact
HIT

Star Trek: First Contact(1996)

Resistance is futile.

Telugu · Action, Adventure, Drama

1h 51m · 22 Nov 1996

Music: Jerry Goldsmith | DOP: Matthew F. Leonetti | Writer: Gene Roddenberry, Rick Berman, Brannon Braga

Science FictionActionAdventureThriller

Ratings

IMDbIMDb7.6
LetterboxdLetterboxd3.7
MetacriticMetacritic70
Metacritic UserMetacritic User8.1
RogerEbertRogerEbert3.5

Our Rating

3.25

📖 Story

Star Trek: First Contact follows the crew of the USS Enterprise-E as they travel back in time to stop the Borg, a cybernetic alien race, from preventing Earth's first contact with an alien species. The story intricately weaves elements of science fiction and action, focusing on themes of humanity, resistance, and hope. The narrative centers on Captain Picard's personal vendetta against the Borg, adding emotional depth to the high-stakes mission.

🔍 Analysis

Star Trek: First Contact delivers a compelling blend of action, suspense, and classic Star Trek philosophy. The screenplay is tightly written, balancing character development with thrilling sequences, especially in the second half where the tension escalates as the crew fights to preserve history. The pacing is well-managed, with the first half setting up the stakes and the second half delivering intense confrontations and emotional payoffs.

The film's music by Jerry Goldsmith significantly enhances the atmosphere, with a memorable score that complements both the epic space battles and quieter character moments. The background score (BGM) effectively underscores the suspense and drama without overwhelming the scenes. Although the film does not feature traditional songs, the musical composition supports the narrative flow seamlessly.

Visually, the cinematography by Matthew F. Leonetti captures the futuristic and ominous tone of the Borg threat, while the direction by Jonathan Frakes ensures a coherent and engaging storytelling experience. The film successfully appeals to both longtime Star Trek fans and newcomers by combining thoughtful science fiction themes with blockbuster action elements.

🎭 Performances

Patrick Stewart: Strong and nuanced portrayal of Captain Picard, effectively conveying his internal struggle and leadership.

Jonathan Frakes: Solid performance as Commander Riker, balancing command duties with action sequences.

Brent Spiner: Compelling dual role as Data and Lore, showcasing emotional range and complexity.

LeVar Burton: Consistent and reliable as Geordi La Forge, contributing to the technical and emotional aspects.

Michael Dorn: Strong presence as Worf, adding intensity to combat scenes.

Gates McFadden: Effective as Dr. Crusher, providing emotional support and medical expertise.

💪 Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Engaging and well-paced screenplay
  • Strong performances, especially by Patrick Stewart and Brent Spiner
  • Jerry Goldsmith's memorable and fitting musical score
  • Effective blend of action and thoughtful science fiction themes
  • High-quality visual effects and cinematography

Weaknesses

  • Limited appeal to audiences unfamiliar with Star Trek lore
  • Some secondary characters underdeveloped
  • Absence of traditional songs may affect viewers expecting musical elements

🎬 Direction & Writing

Jonathan Frakes delivers confident direction that balances character-driven moments with large-scale action sequences. His experience as a Star Trek actor enriches the storytelling, ensuring authenticity and respect for the franchise's legacy. The writing maintains a strong narrative arc, blending suspense, drama, and sci-fi concepts effectively.

📰 Ratings Sources

No rating sources available.

Our Rating

3.25/5

💰 Box Office Collection

No collection data available yet.

🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards

No centers data available.

AwardCategoryNotes
Academy AwardBest MakeupNominated for its outstanding makeup effects
Saturn AwardBest Science Fiction FilmWon for excellence in sci-fi filmmaking

🏆 Records & Box Office

  • - Grossed approximately $146 million worldwide

😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics

TypeValue
Positive75%
Neutral15%
Negative10%

Critics

The film received positive reviews for its thrilling plot and strong character work. Critics praised the direction and musical score, noting it as one of the best Star Trek films. However, some reviews pointed out that the film's reliance on franchise knowledge might limit its broader appeal.

Final Box-Office Result

HIT

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

When did Star Trek: First Contact release in theatres?

Star Trek: First Contact released on 22 November 1996 (1996).

Is Star Trek: First Contact a hit or flop?

Star Trek: First Contact is declared a HIT at the box office.

What is the budget of Star Trek: First Contact?

Budget of Star Trek: First Contact is approximately ₹45 Crore.

Where to watch Star Trek: First Contact online? OTT release date?

Star Trek: First Contact is available on Kanopy, fuboTV, Paramount+ Amazon Channel, Paramount+ Roku Premium Channel, Paramount Plus Premium, Paramount Plus Essential, Paramount Plus Essential. OTT date will be updated soon.

Who directed Star Trek: First Contact?

Star Trek: First Contact directed by Jonathan Frakes. Produced by Peter Lauritson, Rick Berman.

Who are the main cast members of Star Trek: First Contact?

Star Trek: First Contact stars Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn.

What is the Tollybo rating for Star Trek: First Contact?

Tollybo rates Star Trek: First Contact 3.25/5. Verdict: HIT.

Who composed the music for Star Trek: First Contact?

Music for Star Trek: First Contact composed by Jerry Goldsmith.

What is the genre and runtime of Star Trek: First Contact?

Star Trek: First Contact — Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Runtime: 111 minutes, Language: Telugu.

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