Trekkies 2 (2004)

A belated sequel whose late arrival can be easily forgiven due to the fact that it is at least as entertaining as its predecessor, Trekkies 2 finds the filmmakers trotting the globe in order to gain an international perspective of the Star Trek phenomenon. For those who may have thought that director Roger Nygard and crew had exhausted their resources when the credits rolled on Trekkies, the good news is that there is a wealth of equally enthusiastic Star Trek fans as far away as Serbia where the series served as something of a beacon of freedom during a particularly dark period of warfare in the Balkan region. In posing the question as to whether or not some fans take their obsession with the series "too far," the filmmakers also attempt to address accusations by some fans that Trekkies simply exploited them by focusing on the most extreme "Trekkers" (the preferred term of many Star Trek followers). The many thoughtful responses show that fans are not only well aware of their perceived "geekiness," but also have a great sense of humor regarding their love affair with the series. Though the filmmakers do offer compelling follow-up interviews with such notable fans as Whitewater juror Barbara Adams and Gabriel Koerner, they also expand their vision considerably, taking a look at such Star Trek tribute bands as Ni Kill I and Warp 11. They also speak with such fan-film producers as Brian Dellis and the aforementioned Koerner. Of course, there are plenty of new interviews and a talk with a crafty U.K.-based fan who modified his entire apartment to resemble the interior of the Enterprise is fascinating, and even somewhat touching. If it doesn't contain as many celebrity interviews as the original, Trekkies 2 certainly makes up for lack of recognizable Star Trek -related faces with some truly compelling fan interviews. Funny, thoughtful, and revealing, Trekkies 2 is a fascinating look into a continuing phenomenon that will likely be equally as entertaining -- if not more so -- to the casual Star Trek fan as it is to the true Trekker. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide