Star Trek: First Contact
Star Trek: First Contact Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 9, 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 Ronald D. Moore. 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.
Story Breakdown
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.
Narrative Structure
- 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: Directed by Jonathan Frakes, Star Trek: First Contact resolves its central conflicts in a coherent and engaging way. The ending highlights the core science fiction themes developed throughout the film.
The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving Patrick Stewart. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The main storyline reaches a clear conclusion.
- Character Development: The central characters complete meaningful arcs.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the science fiction themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of Star Trek: First Contact reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
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?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
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
More with Patrick Stewart
View full filmography
Part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise