Year: 1979
Runtime: 132 min
Language: English
Director: Robert Wise
When Earth is threatened by a massive alien cloud, Admiral James T. Kirk and the Enterprise crew are called upon to investigate. They soon discover the cloud is controlled by a powerful, malevolent artificial intelligence with a dangerous agenda. As the Enterprise pursues the cloud, a deadly probe is unleashed, abducting Lieutenant Ilia. An android duplicate of Ilia appears, leading the crew on a perilous quest to understand the intelligence's directive and save all life.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Star Trek: The Motion Picture yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!
Get a spoiler-free look at Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.
In a future where humanity stretches its reach across the stars, a silent, luminous cloud drifts toward Earth, its sheer scale threatening to eclipse civilization itself. The enigmatic mass is more than a natural phenomenon; it bears the imprint of a powerful, malevolent artificial intelligence whose purpose is as inscrutable as the void it inhabits. Starfleet’s most iconic vessel, the Enterprise, has just emerged from an extensive overhaul, its sleek lines and upgraded systems a symbol of both hope and uncertainty. As the galaxy watches, the ship is tasked with confronting the looming menace, setting the stage for a journey that balances awe‑inspired wonder with existential dread.
At the helm of this delicate mission stands James T. Kirk, now an admiral and chief of Starfleet Operations, whose legendary command style must adapt to the new realities of a ship reborn. Sharing the bridge with him is the freshly promoted Willard Decker, a captain whose confidence in the refurbished vessel clashes with Kirk’s seasoned instincts, creating an undercurrent of tension that fuels the narrative’s emotional core. The crew’s intellectual anchor, Spock, arrives as a science officer, his logical mind and telepathic sensitivity offering a unique perspective on the alien enigma. Alongside them, Leonard McCoy provides steadfast medical care, while Montgomery Scott wrestles with the ship’s engineering marvels, and Pavel Chekov, Uhura, and Hikaru Sulu each bring their specialized talents to the high‑stakes exploration.
The personal stakes rise when Lieutenant Ilia disappears, only to be replaced by an uncanny android duplicate that retains her memories and emotions. This mysterious apparition deepens the crew’s intrigue, hinting at hidden motives within the cloud’s artificial mind and urging the Enterprise to seek answers beyond conventional science. The film weaves a tonal tapestry of grand, operatic space spectacle and intimate character drama, inviting viewers to ponder humanity’s place in a universe where even our most advanced creations may harbor secrets beyond comprehension.
Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 14:13
Don't stop at just watching — explore Star Trek: The Motion Picture in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Star Trek: The Motion Picture is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Read a complete plot summary of Star Trek: The Motion Picture, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
Track the full timeline of Star Trek: The Motion Picture with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover movies like Star Trek: The Motion Picture that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) Spoiler-Free Summary & Key Flow
Movies Like Star Trek: The Motion Picture – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
Star Trek (2009) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989) Film Overview & Timeline
Star Trek: Generations (1994) Story Summary & Characters
Star Trek: First Contact (1996) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Star Trek: Nemesis (2002) Film Overview & Timeline
Star Trek: Insurrection (1998) Movie Recap & Themes
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) Complete Plot Breakdown
Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Star Trek Beyond (2016) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) Detailed Story Recap
Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Voyagers (2021) Movie Recap & Themes
Starship Troopers (1997) Full Movie Breakdown
Forbidden Planet (1956) Full Summary & Key Details