Graphic: A night with the editor blog series. Graphic created by The Signal Managing Editor Dave Silverio. — A night with the editor blog series. Graphic created by The Signal Managing Editor Dave Silverio.

‘Help me J.J. Abrams. You’re my only hope’

By Liz Davis Last updated Nov 11, 2015 194 0

With the upcoming release of the new “Star Wars” movie, “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens” and the ongoing release of the new “Star Trek” movies, the Trek vs Wars rivalry is back.

Ever since I was a young Padawon, I was raised on the original “Star Wars” movies, episodes 4-6. I saw episodes 1-3 in theaters and even though episode 1 was terrible, I was little at the time and didn’t notice. My bookshelves are covered with memorabilia and even my graduation cap stated a quote from the wisest alien I know, “do or do not, there is not try.” Needless to say, I am a devoted “Star Wars” fan.

Graphic Illustration: "Attack of the Franchises" – "Star Wars" vs. "Star Trek" – Luke Skywalker faces off against Captain Kirk. Graphic created by The Signal Managing Editor Dave Silverio. — *Graphic created by The Signal Managing Editor Dave Silverio.*

My freshmen year of college, I took a film course and I was forced to watch the new J.J. Abrams film “Star Trek”. I have never been a “Star Trek” fan and was appalled at my teacher for her blasphmeny. When I was younger, I would flip through the channels and the Klingons and Vulcans would literally give me nightmares. Also, as a Wars fan, you are bred to hate Trekkies.

I thought to myself, “Now that I’m older I should really broaden my horizons and try new things such as eating mushrooms, drinking water, working out and watching ‘Star Trek.’ I mean, Zachary Quinto and Chris Pine are great actors and Abrams did direct it.” So I gave it a shot.

Graphic: Captain Kirk and Luke Skywalker appear next to each other on a blue background. Captain Kirk is wearing a yellow shirt and black pants. Luke Skywalker is wearing a white uniform with a blue light saber. Graphic created by The Signal reporter Erin Crowley. — *Graphic created by The Signal reporter Erin Crowley*.

I curled up on the couch alone to watch the movie, because God forbid my Star Wars friends find out I was turning to the dark side. After the movie was over, I was in awe. I loved the set design (minus a few light glares), the direction was right on point, and the actors really reminded me of the original characters. Plus, I finally understood all of the cheesy lines.

Next thing I knew, there was a knock at the door. As I scrambled to eject the DVD and hide the box, I realized I forgot to lock the door. My Star Wars fanatic of a friend walked through the door and saw me cheating on “Star Wars” with “Star Trek.” We sat down and I tried to explain.

There has always been a rivalry between the two outer space films but they differ so much that it is wrong to compare the two. They take place in different timelines and they are in completely different universes. Both franchises have unique characters, consisting of their own species and languages. Any sci-fi fan should appreciate both of them because they both represent science fiction and all that it entails. On top of that, the movies (and TV show) were so successful that they paved the cinematic way for science fiction in Hollywood.

Abrams is directing “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens”and it is set to debut Dec. 17; the best Christmas present ever. I have heard nothing on the internet, in bars or in comic book stores about fans being mad that he has had a hand in both franchises. Personally, I think this just goes to show how much talent he possesses as a director.

I think if Abrams can direct both movies, I can enjoy both franchises. It doesn’t make anyone a traitor; people should be able to enjoy both Trek and Wars without discrimination.

Check out our column by Cindy Brady about ‘Star Wars!’

Check out our column by Hunter Lanier about ‘Star Trek!’

‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Trailer

Trailer courtesy of Disney.