Michelle Yeoh leads 'Star Trek: Section 31' in action-packed tale

Michelle Yeoh leads Star Trek: Section 31, an action-packed exploration of espionage, rebellion, and morality in the shadows of the Federation.

Michelle Yeoh as Georgiou and Joe Pingue as Dada Noe in Star Trek: Section 31. © Jan Thijs/Paramount+

By Hayu Andini and Adila Ghina

Star Trek: Section 31, the highly anticipated 14th film in the iconic Star Trek franchise, marks a bold new chapter in the series. Released exclusively for streaming, it ventures into unexplored territory, both narratively and stylistically. Set in 2333 during the “Lost Era,” a time between the events of the original Star Trek films and Star Trek: The Next Generation, the movie delves deep into the clandestine world of Section 31, the Federation’s covert intelligence agency. Anchored by a commanding performance from Michelle Yeoh as Philippa Georgiou, the film explores themes of morality, redemption, and rebellion in the galaxy’s darker corners.

Unlike its predecessors, Star Trek: Section 31 eschews the polished optimism and structured hierarchy of Starfleet for a grittier, espionage-driven narrative. At its heart is Philippa Georgiou, a character introduced in Star Trek: Discovery who has become a fan favorite due to her complexity and moral ambiguity. Georgiou, a former ruler of the ruthless Terran Empire in a parallel universe, has a checkered past filled with power, violence, and betrayal. Now a fugitive on the run from Federation authorities, she finds herself at the center of a mission that threatens to upend the balance of power in the galaxy.

The film opens with a brief yet impactful prologue that provides insight into Georgiou’s tumultuous history. Her actions as a tyrant are juxtaposed with her current existence as a fugitive, offering a glimpse into the character’s internal struggle. Section 31, tasked with capturing her within 24 hours, is also pursuing an undefined yet grave threat to the Federation.

Georgiou’s hideout is far removed from Starfleet’s reach: a nightclub nestled within a bustling space station. Here, she appears in full force, her elaborate costumes and razor-sharp demeanor setting the tone for the film. Despite her past, Georgiou is a survivor who uses her cunning and combat skills to stay ahead of her enemies. Michelle Yeoh’s performance is a highlight, as she imbues the character with depth and charisma that command attention in every scene.

One of the film’s standout features is its eclectic cast of supporting characters, each bringing a unique dynamic to the story. Section 31’s operatives are far from the idealistic Starfleet officers familiar to fans. Instead, they are morally ambiguous figures who challenge traditional notions of heroism.

Among them is a Vulcan encased in a menacing exoskeleton, played by Sven Ruygrok, whose theatrical performance and unexpected Irish accent add a layer of eccentricity to the role. Sam Richardson provides a touch of levity as a nervous shape-shifter navigating the high-stakes mission. Omari Hardwick’s portrayal of a genetically enhanced human offers a glimpse into the Federation’s darker scientific pursuits, while Rob Kazinsky plays a body-modification enthusiast whose mechanical enhancements make him a literal weapon.

These characters reflect the moral complexity of Section 31 itself, an organization that operates in the shadows to protect the Federation at any cost. Their presence underscores the film’s central theme: the ethical compromises required to maintain peace in a vast and often hostile galaxy.

Unlike traditional Star Trek films, which focus on exploration and the pursuit of knowledge, Section 31 delves into the murky waters of espionage and covert operations. The absence of a Starship Enterprise or Starfleet’s familiar unitards and protocols further distinguishes the film from its predecessors.

The screenplay by Craig Sweeny, originally conceived as a spinoff series for Michelle Yeoh’s character in Star Trek: Discovery, condenses a wealth of narrative material into a two-hour runtime. This decision results in a fast-paced, action-packed film that prioritizes spectacle over introspection. While the rapid pacing keeps viewers engaged, it also leaves little room for the philosophical debates and character development that have long been hallmarks of the franchise.

Director Olatunde Osunsanmi, a veteran of Star Trek: Discovery, brings a cinematic flair to the film. His dynamic visuals and inventive action sequences elevate the material, making it one of the most visually striking entries in the series. However, the emphasis on style occasionally comes at the expense of substance, as the film struggles to balance its complex plot with meaningful character arcs.

At its core, Star Trek: Section 31 grapples with questions of morality and redemption. Georgiou’s journey from ruthless dictator to reluctant hero serves as a compelling narrative thread, challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of good and evil.

Section 31 itself embodies this moral ambiguity. While the organization’s actions are often ruthless and unethical, they are framed as necessary for the greater good. This tension is exemplified by Lt. Rachel Garrett, played by Kacey Rohl. A principled science officer and future starship captain, Garrett represents the traditional values of Starfleet, standing in stark contrast to her morally compromised colleagues. Her assertion that “Starfleet does not do assassinations” serves as a poignant reminder of the ideals that underpin the Federation, even as the film pushes the boundaries of those ideals.

Despite its potential for profound ethical exploration, the film often prioritizes action and exposition over deeper thematic inquiry. The result is a narrative that feels compelling but incomplete, leaving viewers with lingering questions about the implications of Section 31’s actions.

Star Trek: Section 31 represents a significant departure from the franchise’s established formula, embracing a darker, more action-oriented approach. While this shift may not resonate with all fans, it signals a willingness to take risks and expand the Star Trek universe in new directions.

Michelle Yeoh’s magnetic performance anchors the film, providing a strong foundation for its exploration of morality, redemption, and rebellion. The supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the story, while the dynamic direction and stunning visuals ensure that Section 31 is an engaging cinematic experience.

However, the film’s focus on spectacle over substance may leave some viewers yearning for the philosophical depth and optimism that have long defined the franchise. As a result, Section 31 feels like both a bold experiment and a work in progress, hinting at a future where the Star Trek universe continues to evolve and surprise.

The coda of Star Trek: Section 31 teases a sequel, promising further exploration of the characters and themes introduced in the film. This continuation presents an opportunity to address the narrative and thematic gaps left by its predecessor, offering a more nuanced examination of the ethical dilemmas and moral complexities that define Section 31.

For fans of Star Trek and newcomers alike, Section 31 serves as a compelling entry point into a darker, more complex vision of the franchise. By pushing the boundaries of what a Star Trek film can be, it lays the groundwork for future stories that challenge conventions and expand the universe in bold new ways.

As Captain Picard might say, “Make it so.”