Why Star Trek’s Next Film Needs a Heist Twist

Paramount has brought on board the duo behind a lesser-known Chris Pine caper to write, direct, and produce the upcoming instalment in the Star Trek film series. The film in question is Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, with Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley set to inject fresh energy into the long-running sci-fi saga. Their appointment signals a shift in direction, with many punters speculating that a heist-centred story could be just what the franchise needs.

Injecting New Life Into a Classic Franchise

It’s no secret that recent Star Trek outings haven’t exactly set the world alight. The much-hyped Section 31 film, for example, promised plenty but failed to deliver, leaving fans wanting more. Over-serialisation and a lack of standout moments have left the series feeling a bit tired, especially compared to its heyday. Even with attempts to shake things up, like the creative swings in Strange New Worlds, the buzz around Star Trek films has faded since the last trilogy wrapped up in 2016.

There’s a strong case for a heist thriller to break the mould. The genre’s proven track record at the box office speaks for itself—everyone loves a good, high-stakes yarn. While Star Trek has dabbled in heist territory before, such as the Deep Space Nine episode Badda-Bing, Badda-Bang, these moments have mostly flown under the radar for casual viewers. Section 31 tried to capture that energy but missed the mark, leaving room for a proper, well-executed heist adventure.

Goldstein and Daley: Masters of the Heist Formula

Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley have already shown they know how to handle a big, action-packed ensemble. Honor Among Thieves, led by Chris Pine, blended sharp humour, inventive set pieces, and a sense of fun that could translate perfectly to a Star Trek setting. The film follows a ragtag group of adventurers—Edgin Darvis, Holga Kilgore, Simon Aumar, Doric, and Xenk Yendar—as they attempt to recover a stolen relic, only to stumble onto a much bigger threat. The antagonists, Sofina and Forge Fitzwilliam, add plenty of tension to the mix, and the whole thing unfolds over a brisk 134 minutes.

The directors’ track record goes beyond D&D. They’ve helmed films like Game Night, Spider-Man: Homecoming, and Horrible Bosses, all of which balance action and comedy with a deft touch. Their knack for crafting engaging, fast-paced stories makes them a natural fit for a Star Trek film that’s keen to try something new.

What’s Next for Star Trek?

Goldstein and Daley’s upcoming project, Mayday, starring Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh, is already generating plenty of buzz—even before its release. Paramount’s decision to hand them the reins suggests the studio is serious about shaking things up. With their experience and flair for high-stakes storytelling, there’s every reason to be optimistic about what’s coming next.

For those keen to revisit their previous work, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is currently streaming on Paramount+ in Australia. Whether you’re a die-hard Trekkie or just after a cracking good time, the next chapter in the Star Trek saga could be the most exciting yet.