I liked it. Took me a while after the movie to come to a view, and I’m sure I’ll have to watch it a couple more times for my final verdict.
I liked cast, humour, dialogue (many TWoK references) and the general revival of the positive and jolly spirit of the original series. I liked the deeper characterisations for the minor characters, and the slightly more realistic motivations of the main characters. The focus on the world’s best known bromance (I stole that from the Guardian review) between Kirk and Spock was good - and it sets very nicely the stage for the sequels. It’s a bit like X-Men I, which set the scene for so much more to come.
I’m ok with the canon changes, and I can live with the explanation - but I’ve got no idea how to fit them into my ongoing ST roleplaying campaign.
I didn’t like that Nero was just another mad man with an underwhelming plan, and that the importance of morals was underplayed (yes, I like my Star Trek slightly preachy). I thought they missed the opportunitiy to make it a proper drama, but I guess there can only be one Battlestar Galactica.
Overall, it’s lovely to see Star Trek back - I would prefer it on the small screen where it belongs, and where they can develop stories and characters in much more detail; but hey, I’m happy.
Makkun
PS: Checked this post 15 times - I’m convinced I haven’t included any spoilers.