Star Trek: First Contact
Star Trek: First Contact Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Movie Overview: Star Trek: First Contact
| Movie | Star Trek: First Contact |
| Release Year | 1996 |
| Director | Jonathan Frakes |
| Genre | Science Fiction / Action / Adventure / Thriller |
| Runtime | 111 minutes (1h 51m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Star Trek: First Contact (1996) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Science Fiction.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Star Trek: First Contact are led by Patrick Stewart . The supporting cast, including Jonathan Frakes and Brent Spiner , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Star Trek: First Contact stands out as a strong entry in the Science Fiction genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Science Fiction narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Star Trek: First Contact has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Science Fiction fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Star Trek: First Contact
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1996, Star Trek: First Contact is a Science Fiction, Action, Adventure, Thriller film directed by Jonathan Frakes, written by Brannon Braga. The narrative explores futuristic concepts and technological possibilities while examining humanity. As part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation Collection, it provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
What Is the Story of Star Trek: First Contact?
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. 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 galaxy. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
How Is Star Trek: First Contact Structured?
- Opening Hook: Star Trek: First Contact establishes its world and central conflict efficiently, with Jonathan Frakes introducing Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the opening act, and over its 111-minute runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Patrick Stewart's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings the narrative threads together, with Patrick Stewart's arc reaching resolution. Jonathan Frakes's handling of the finale provides adequate resolution.
Ending Explained: Star Trek: First Contact
Star Trek: First Contact Ending Explained: The Borg, a relentless race of cyborgs, are on a direct course for Earth. Directed by Jonathan Frakes, this 1996 science fiction film stars Patrick Stewart (Captain Jean-Luc Picard), alongside Jonathan Frakes as Commander William T. Riker, Brent Spiner as Lieutenant Commander Data, LeVar Burton as Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge. Rated 7.3/10 by audiences, the conclusion brings the story to a satisfying close.
What Happens at the End of Star Trek: First Contact?
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 galaxy.
Jonathan Frakes's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Patrick Stewart (Captain Jean-Luc Picard)'s journey. 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 galaxy.
As part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation Collection, the ending carries additional weight for fans following the franchise.
How Does Patrick Stewart (Captain Jean-Luc Picard)'s Story End?
- Patrick Stewart: Patrick Stewart's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with Jonathan Frakes delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 1h 51m runtime.
- Jonathan Frakes (Commander William T. Riker): Jonathan Frakes's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Brent Spiner (Lieutenant Commander Data): Brent Spiner's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Star Trek: First Contact Mean?
The ending of Star Trek: First Contact ties together the narrative threads involving Patrick Stewart. Jonathan Frakes chooses a conclusion that prioritizes thematic consistency over surprise, resulting in an ending that rewards viewers who engaged with the story's central themes. Based on 1,945 audience ratings, the consensus is that the ending is adequate but divisive.
Star Trek: First Contact Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Star Trek: First Contact Based on a True Story?
No, Star Trek: First Contact is a work of fiction. While the science fiction, action, adventure, thriller film directed by Jonathan Frakes and starring Patrick Stewart may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Star Trek: First Contact?
Age Advisory: Rated PG-13.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Science Fiction films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Patrick Stewart or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Star Trek: First Contact
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $46.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $146.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Star Trek: First Contact Budget
The estimated production budget for Star Trek: First Contact is $46.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Where to Watch Star Trek: First Contact Online?
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Google Play MoviesYouTubeStar Trek: First Contact Parents Guide & Age Rating
1996 AdvisoryWondering about Star Trek: First Contact age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Star Trek: First Contact (1996) is 111 minutes (1h 51m). Directed by Jonathan Frakes, the film runs for 111 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.3/10, and global performance metrics, Star Trek: First Contact is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1996 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Star Trek: First Contact worth watching?
Star Trek: First Contact is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Star Trek: First Contact parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Star Trek: First Contact identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Star Trek: First Contact (1996)?
The runtime of Star Trek: First Contact (1996) is 111 minutes (approximately 1h 51m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
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Part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation Collection
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