star trek wrath of khan fathom events

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 40th Anniversary

One of the most celebrated and essential adventures from the STAR TREK universe, STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN celebrates 40 years with the director’s cut on the big screen. On routine training maneuvers, Admiral James T. Kirk seems resigned that this may be the last space mission of his career. But an adversary from the past has returned with a vengeance. Aided by his exiled band of genetic supermen, Khan (Ricardo Montalban)—brilliant renegade of 20th century Earth—has raided Space Station Regula One, stolen the top-secret device called Project Genesis, wrested control of another Federation starship, and now schemes to set a most deadly trap for his old enemy Kirk… with the threat of a universal Armageddon.

This special 40th anniversary event includes exclusive insight from Turner Classic Movies. 

My Location

• The Original Series
• The Animated Series
• The Next Generation
• Deep Space Nine
• Strange New Worlds
• Lower Decks
• Star Trek Movies
• TrekCore on Twitter
• TrekCore on Facebook

Fathom Events, the came company who organized screenings of  Star Trek: The Next Generation’s  HD episodes in 2012 and 2013, the along with both the  Deep Space Nine documentary and a 40th anniversary screening of Star Trek: The Motion Picture in 2019, and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home in 2021 will be bringing the second Trek film to theaters this September — in association with Turner Classic Movies.

One of the most celebrated and essential adventures from the STAR TREK universe, STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN celebrates 40 years with the director’s cut on the big screen. On routine training maneuvers, Admiral James T. Kirk seems resigned that this may be the last space mission of his career. But an adversary from the past has returned with a vengeance. Aided by his exiled band of genetic supermen, Khan (Ricardo Montalban)—brilliant renegade of 20th century Earth—has raided Space Station Regula One, stolen the top-secret device called Project Genesis, wrested control of another Federation starship, and now schemes to set a most deadly trap for his old enemy Kirk… with the threat of a universal Armageddon. This special 40th anniversary event includes exclusive insight from Turner Classic Movies.

Scheduled for three dates —  September 4 and 5, and Thursday, September 8 — the nationwide event will allow  Star Trek fans to revisit the 1982 classic one more on the big screen; Fathom Events previously held  Wrath of Khan screenings for the films 35th anniversary in 2017.

Planned showtimes and local availability for the Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan screenings can be found at Fathom Events’ website, where tickets will become available later this year.

• Fathom Events
• Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
• Trek Events
• Trek Movies

Related Stories

New variety star trek feature shares secrets from section 31, starfleet academy, and strange new worlds, vice press unveils ‘remastered’ star trek ii: the wrath of khan one-sheet posters, paramount plans another new star trek film, set ‘decades’ before trek ’09, search news archives, new & upcoming releases, featured stories, our star trek: discovery season 5 spoiler-free review, star trek: discovery’s final adventure begins in april 2024, interview — star trek: lower decks’ mike mcmahan on moopsy, creating the orion homeworld, tuvix, and much more.

TrekCore.com is not endorsed, sponsored or affiliated with Paramount, CBS Studios, or the Star Trek franchise. All Star Trek images, trademarks and logos are owned by CBS Studios Inc. and/or Paramount. All original TrekCore.com content and the WeeklyTrek podcast (c) 2024 Trapezoid Media, LLC. · Terms & Conditions

‘Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’ coming to theaters in September for 40th anniversary

• Published: Aug. 10, 2022, 3:04 p.m.

Fathom Events and Turner Classic Movies are bringing "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" to movie theaters in September 2022 to celebrate the film's 40th anniversary.

• Deb Kiner | [email protected]

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the 1982 film “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” fans can again see it on the big screen.

Fathom Events and Turner Classic Movies will bring the classic with a special director’s cut to movie theaters Sept. 4-5 and 8, 2022.

The movie stars William Shatner as Admiral James T. Kirk and Ricardo Montalban as Khan.

“On routine training maneuvers, Admiral James T. Kirk seems resigned that this may be the last space mission of his career. But an adversary from the past has returned with a vengeance.

Aided by his exiled band of genetic supermen, Khan — brilliant renegade of 20th century Earth — has raided Space Station Regula One, stolen the top-secret device called Project Genesis, wrested control of another Federation starship, and now schemes to set a most deadly trap for his old enemy Kirk ... with the threat of a universal Armageddon.”

Fathom Events said the film is rated PG for violence and language.

Fans also will be able to see Nichelle Nichols as the franchise’s beloved Lt. Uhura.  Nichols passed away on July 30, 2022, at age 89. 

Here is where you can see it in central Pa.:

• AMC Camp Hill 12, 3432 Simpson Ferry Road, 7 p.m. Sept. 4, 7 p.m. Sept. 5 and 7 p.m. Sept. 8
• Regal Harrisburg Stadium 14, 1500 Caughey Drive, 4 p.m. Sept. 4, 7 p.m. Sept. 5 and 7 p.m. Sept. 8
• R/C Queensgate Movies 12 & IMAX, 2067 Spring Wood Road, York, 4 p.m. Sept. 4, 7 p.m. Sept. 5 and 7 p.m. Sept. 8

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 35th Anniversary Screenings Announced

By Max Evry

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , the epic science-fiction adventure that continues to captivate audiences, marks its 35th Anniversary with a two-day-only return to cinemas nationwide. The Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 35th Anniversary screenings will be presented in a digitally remastered Director’s Cut and, as an added bonus for Star Trek and movie fans, William Shatner will appear in a newly produced in-depth interview that will play before each screening.

Click here to purchase the Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan Director’s Cut on Blu-ray!

Fathom Events and Paramount Pictures will present Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan on Sunday, September 10, and Wednesday, September 13, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time each day.

Tickets for the  Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 35th Anniversary screenings can be purchased online by visiting FathomEvents.com or at participating theater box offices. Moviegoers throughout the U.S. will be able to enjoy this event in more than 600 select movie theaters. For a complete list of theater locations, visit the Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change).

“Making ‘Star Trek II’ seems like only yesterday,” Shatner said. “Even back then, we knew we were creating something really special, and to have ‘The Wrath of Khan’ back on the big screen 35 years later is a wonderful testament both to the film itself and to the incredible passion of Star Trek fans.”

Director Nicholas Meyer’s Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan  was a box-office hit upon its release – the sixth highest-grossing film of 1982 – and continues to be revered and quoted by fans. The film, a continuation of the original Star Trek series episode “The Space Seed,” finds longtime Starfleet nemesis Khan Noonien Singh (Ricardo Montalban) alive and well, marooned on a seemingly lifeless planet. When he’s discovered by Chekov (Walter Koenig), Khan will stop at nothing to exact revenge against the man who exiled him on the barren world: Admiral James T. Kirk.

RELATED: 11 Star Trek: Discovery Posters Revealed

Kirk must lead his loyal crew – including Spock (Leonard Nimoy), Bones (DeForest Kelley), Uhura (Nichelle Nichols), Sulu (George Takei), Scotty (James Doohan) – and an unprepared group of trainees led by half-human, half-Klingon Lt. Saavik (Kirstie Alley) in a race against time to stop Khan from deploying a device that threatens the entire universe. Bibi Besch, Paul Winfield and Merritt Butrick also star in the film, which features an unforgettable musical score by the late James Horner. The Director’s Cut of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is currently available on Blu-ray, with more than two hours of in-depth bonus features.

“’Star Trek II’ holds a special place in the hearts of Star Trek fans,” Tom Lucas, Fathom Events VP of Studio Relations, said. “Fathom is proud to work with Paramount Pictures to present it again on the big screen, with all of its excitement, action, drama and emotion.”

Share article

Thanksgiving 2 Update Given by Director Eli Roth

Godzilla x Kong: Kaylee Hottle Explains Importance of Humans in MonsterVerse

Game of Thrones Creators Discuss Scrapped Star Wars Trilogy Plans

Marvel and dc.

Iron Fist MCU Return Hinted at by Finn Jones

Kristen Stewart: ‘It Sounds Like a F—Ing Nightmare’ Doing a Marvel Movie

Lashana Lynch Gives Update on Binary’s MCU Future

RoboCop and Star Trek Movies Coming to Max in January 2024

Beetlejuice Will Head Back to Theaters in Dolby Cinema for Its 35th Anniversary

The Naked Gun 4K UHD Blu-ray Release Date Set for 35th Anniversary

Scrooged 35th Anniversary 4K Release Date, Special Features Revealed

William Shatner Shares Some Great Behind-the-Scenes Stories About Making 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan'

The original ‘Star Trek’ Captain reveals how he learned about Spock’s death, how they thought Khan could be their last movie, and so much more.

We live in a day and age where no one can agree on anything. People are divided on almost every subject imaginable and it’s incredibly rare when a group of people can come together on anything. But if you get a group of  Star Trek fans together, no matter their political background, no matter what they think is the best Star Trek show, I’d wager every person in the room would agree with this one statement: Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is the best Star Trek movie.

Released in the summer of 1982, The Wrath of Khan was made on a fraction of the budget compared to the first Trek movie ( Star Trek: The Motion Picture ) by using tons of cost-cutting techniques to keep the budget down including reusing models, sets, effects footage, and costumes from the first film.

But while the film might have done things on a tight budget, what sets it apart from the slow-moving first installment is director Nicholas Meyer's focus on action and a great villain. In addition, while Khan (played brilliantly by Ricardo Montalban ) is a fantastic antagonist, I think what many people overlook is the decision by Meyer and the creative team to not have a stereotypical fight scene in the third act. In most movies, you’d have the two main characters on a collision course towards the eventual fight scene, but that’s not The Wrath of Khan . While you might not realize it, all the stuff between Captain Kirk and Khan Noonien Singh is done on view-screens and communicators. It’s what a futuristic fight scene would actually be and it’s one of the many reasons I love The Wrath of Khan.

With the film celebrating its 35 th Anniversary, Fathom Events and Paramount Pictures are going to bring back the classic film to more than 600 theaters throughout the U.S. on Sunday, September 10th, and Wednesday, September 13th, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (local time) each day.

To help celebrate its Anniversary and also to promote its return to theaters, I recently landed an exclusive interview with William Shatner . During the wide-ranging conversation, he shared some great behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the film, how the film had the highest opening weekend of all time when it first opened, how they all thought it could be the last time making a Star Trek film while shooting, his friendship with Ricardo Montalbån, how he was first told about Spock’s death, and so much more. Check out what he had to say below.

Finally, if you’ve never seen The Wrath of Khan on a movie screen, I’d definitely recommend checking it out. You can buy tickets to Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan here: www.FathomEvents.com .

Collider: How are you doing today, sir?

WILLIAM SHATNER: So well. What about you?

Anytime I can talk to you about Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan is a great day.

SHATNER: Oh my gosh, that's great Steven.

I've been a fan of yours a very long time so I want to thank you for talking about the film with me.

SHATNER: Thank you.

A lot of people won't remember because it was 35 years ago, but when Wrath of Khan came out it had the biggest opening weekend of all time up to that point. Did you have any inkling that it was going to do that kind of business?

SHATNER: Nobody had any idea. We were holding our breath. It came on the heels of Star Trek: The Movie which today has made money and is looked on a little more fondly than it was when it was received. But because it was so rushed, I can remember we had the opening in Washington D.C., and the film, because they were carrying film around those days, the film hadn't arrived to be played in the theater in Washington til late that afternoon. It came handheld on a commercial airplane accompanied by the studio person.

That's crazy.

SHATNER: Yeah. So Star Trek: The Motion Picture was not well received because it was so rushed and didn't have the final editing time. So to all intents and purposes, that was it. The reviews weren't that great, business wasn't that great, that was going to be the end of it.

The owner of Paramount Studios at that time whose name I can't remember... his wife, so everybody said, "Okay, that's it, we've done it. We've made a movie of Star Trek ." That guy's wife said to her husband, "You've got to try again. It's such a great series," and she convinced him to bring in Harve Bennett who said, "I could make it for less," and then he hired Nicholas Meyer, who had written a really great segment, and it was done much more efficiently, much more like a TV show. Smaller, contained, and when it opened, we were thinking, hoping, that it wouldn't follow the same fate as the prior movie.

Well one of the things that I love about the film, and I think people won't realize, is that you and Khan never do the stereotypical fight scene. It's all done via view screen or a communicator. Did you ever want to do one of those fight scenes, or were you sort of like, "This is really cool that we're not going to just do what normally happens in a movie."

SHATNER: To the best of my recollection, I don't even remember being conscious of it. There was so much dialogue between us, it never occurred to me until after we had done it that I never set foot on the same set. I had known Ricardo [Montalbån] prior to working with him on the movie, but only slightly. In fact, the story is that as a teenager, I was from Montreal, and I'd come down with my parents every so often to New York City just to see New York City. And now I was in my late teens, and I was down in New York for the first time by myself and I went to see a musical. And I saw this dancer who really was good, a handsome man, dancing, and I thought, "Well, what a remarkable dancer, and you don't see good looking men dancing." And then I went to a movie and I saw the same guy and he was a good actor, a Latin lover, thought, "Wow, this guy is really terrific." So I noticed Ricardo Montalbån before I met him. I was aware of this guy who looked really good on film.

Then I met him, and then we worked together, and he had ridden horses and I was so interested in horses, and he was quite an athlete, and he had a sore hip. And then it just degenerated into, he totally became totally incapacitated. And the fact that I didn't do a scene with him together has only latter day been aware and sad about.

I think it's one of the reasons why the film is so good. Because normally, a film would build towards you guys having some sort of scene where you're fighting. That's what every movie does. And I think it's stronger that it's this futuristic kind of fight scene, where it's just via communicator and view screen.

SHATNER: I agree, there's a tension there that remains throughout the movie.

One of the things that I found fascinating when I was researching to talk to you is that the death of Spock actually leaked when you guys were making the movie. Which in that day and age, before the internet, is kind of shocking. So do you remember when you first heard that that sort of information had leaked, and what was the reaction from everyone?

SHATNER: Here's my memory of it. I'm sitting in a Harve Bennett's office, and he's describing the death of Spock and I'm shocked. "You mean we're going to kill Spock?" And "Yeah, and he goes into this room and this plastic door and he puts up his hand." And I said well, "Kirk would put up his hand to the door and they would touch and slide down." I acted out what the way I thought the scene would go, which they ultimately did the way I thought of it, so I was not only privy to the way it was going to go, I helped plot the outline of the way it would look.

That scene is obviously one of the most iconic in Star Trek history, but speaking of another iconic scene is, when you scream "Khan," it is one of these scenes that everyone knows that it's probably the most iconic Star Trek scene that's ever been done. At the time when you were making it, did you have any inkling that this was going to be such a memorable scene?

SHATNER: No. I was, nobody told me that there was some thought about bringing him back and that Leonard [Nimoy] leaned over, McCoy [DeForest Kelley], and whispered "remember." I said, "What's that all about? Why are we killing Spock? Why are we killing Spock?" And they said, "Well, Leonard doesn't want to do it anymore. I was thinking god, if Leonard doesn't want to do it anymore, what's going to happen to Star Trek ? If we were to make another film? Well, that's the way that went. They never told me.

At the time when you guys were making Khan , a lot of people felt that that should've been the first movie because the critical reaction to the first one wasn't there. Do you think that Khan should've been the first Star Trek movie, or do you think Khan's success is directly as a result of the first film you guys made?

SHATNER: Well I think you could that way. Who knew? The people heading up Paramount said, "Let's get Robert Wise, the great director, the great editor," he'd done so many movies for them. All those big musicals and ... So then Robert Wise says, "Yes, well my goodness what a coup that is, we're going to make a great motion picture." Well it didn't turn out to be a great motion picture because it lacked a humanity. It was special effects. Doug Trumbull wasn't edited because there wasn't time to edit the special effects. So the special effects went on too long and dragged a little here and there.

But the basic story lacked a humanity, because it was dealing with technology. Everybody fell in love with technology, which is a temptation in science fiction. You forget the human story, which is the most important thing.

No absolutely, and also the sequel, Wrath of Khan , has more of a swashbuckling type feel you know, and it's...

SHATNER: And a humanity. So the lesson that was learned, and we were given the opportunity to apply that lesson, was don't forget what Star Trek was originally, which was a good story.

Well speaking of technology, one of the things that Wrath of Khan did, which again I don't think a lot of people might realize, it was the first film to use an entirely computer generated sequence. But you guys used it effectively, because it used technology around the human story. Which you know the first film did, Douglas Trumbull as you said, do you remember your reaction when you first saw what computers could when you first saw the visual effects on Khan ?

SHATNER: Well, the evolution of special effects, I've got to imagine people have written books and articles. I don't believe I've read any, but from those beginning primitive, you know, filming the Enterprise was done in a little studio closet and they would move, sometimes by hand, the Enterprise and the camera would pick it up and somebody would be flicking the lights, and it was so primitive. And I've got to imagine that unless there was some geniuses who could look into the future and say, "This is primitive and we've got good stuff coming down the pipe," I thought, well that's the way it is, that's the way we'll do things.

Nobody that I spoke to over the many years had any inkling of what computer graphics could do, and that goes for everybody up til recently, until Avatar , there were ... “It's nice, these are great explosions and little animals,” but until Avatar which is a milestone of what you could do with interaction of humans and the computer graphics, nobody knew. All this is new. We're just, all of us humans on earth are just beginning to, it's just beginning to dawn on us what this technology can do for us and against us. We're just, we're all staggered by learning this. And that was the same way it was with the computer graphics in films. Oh my god, you mean you don't need a green screen?

I'm always curious about how involved have you ever been with the editing room. For example on Khan , did you ever go to the editing room and see how Nicholas was working and see what takes he was using, or are you sort of the type of person that like, "Show me the finished film."

SHATNER: Well, to answer that, I would have no authority to say "use that." That would be awful. That just isn't done. I mean, as I said, you have no authority to do it, so it would be senseless. Not only that, I was in the editing room on Star Trek five, but it's an anathema to me to look at myself, so I chose the easy way out which is not to pay any attention, hope that these really good, that these fine talents would come up with the right combination. Which of course they did.

Yeah, I read a thing with Nicholas Meyer and he said that as an actor, you seemed to get better after doing a few takes. Do you agree with that assessment, and typically speaking, how many takes do you like to do?

SHATNER: You can't put a number on it. I'm sure that he wouldn't have said, those words don't sound like Nick, but of course if you rehearse something and "oh, that’s how it workd, but I'm going to do this," and you rehears a few times on camera because you never know what's going to happen, after a number of takes it gets better because you know what's working, what's not working.

By the same token, you might be able to do something simple in one take, do something complicated in 12.

When you guys were making the sequel, do you remember an atmosphere on set thinking you know, "If this doesn't work this might be our last adventure."

SHATNER: Everybody thought that each movie was the last time. They burned the sets. Every movie, they burned the sets because that was the last movie. There was no point in storing it because nothing else was going to happen.

It's so crazy.

SHATNER: It was crazy. It was expensive.

I'm still amazed as a film fan that more of these sets actually don't get saved or put somewhere. Even though I guess they're not really made to last.

SHATNER: They aren't made to last, so they couldn't ... You know, there was talk about making a ride using the original sets, but they were made to, they were plywood. They were backed up, something was holding a piece of plywood up.

My last thing for you because I'm running out of time, when you think back on the making of Khan , is there a day or two that you will always remember?

SHATNER: Well, long time ago, my acquaintanceship, burgeoning friendship, with Ricardo Montalbån, although we never were in the same scene, I saw him frequently at his home or we'd eat someplace together. He was a lovely man, I cherish my memory of him.

I guess I have time for one last question, which is do you remember with Nicholas Meyer, were there a lot of changes onset with the script, or do you remember if it was one of those productions that kind of stuck closely to it? Because I know he did a rewrite in a very limited time frame to get this film green lit.

SHATNER: Right. No, he wrote extremely well and best of my recollection, there was very little adjustment.

Cool. Sir, I have to tell you sincerely, it is an absolute pleasure to talk to you about this and have a fantastic day.

SHATNER: You too, the pleasure is mine.

SHATNER: Bye bye.

FATHOM EVENTS AND TURNER CLASSIC MOVIES CELEBRATE THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF "STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN"

Special Director's Cut of The Second Installment in the Star Trek Movie Franchise Comes to Theatres Nationwide September 4 , 5 & 8 ONLY

DENVER , Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --

WHAT:  One of the most celebrated and essential adventures from the STAR TREK universe, STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN celebrates 40 years with the director's cut on the big screen! 

On routine training maneuvers, Admiral James T. Kirk ( William Shatner ) seems resigned that this may be the last space mission of his career. But an adversary from the past has returned with a vengeance. Aided by his exiled band of genetic supermen, Khan ( Ricardo Montalban )—brilliant renegade of 20th century Earth—has raided Space Station Regula One, stolen the top-secret device called Project Genesis, wrested control of another Federation starship, and now schemes to set a most deadly trap for his old enemy Kirk... with the threat of a universal Armageddon.  The film is rated PG in U.S. for violence and language. 

Fans will also be able to see Nichelle Nichols as the franchise's beloved Lt. Uhura.  Nichols passed away on July 30, 2022 at age 89.  The radiant, ebullient actress embraced  Star Trek , her role and the fans. Her legacy will outlive her for centuries.

WHO: Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies and Paramount Pictures

WHEN: September 4 , 5 & 8 ONLY

WHERE: Tickets for the event can be purchased at www.FathomEvents.com  or at participating theatre box offices. Fans throughout the U.S. will be able to enjoy the event in select movie theatres; for a complete list of theatre locations visit the Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change) . Please contact your local theatre for individual safety precautions.

ASSETS: For artwork/photos, visit the Fathom Events press site .

SOURCE Fathom Events

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan Director’s Cut Available now on Blu-ray Written by Jack B. Sowards (Uncredited: Nicholas Meyer) Directed by Nicholas Meyer Starring William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Walter Koenig, George Takei, Nichelle Nichols, Bibi Besch, Paul Winfield, Kirstie Alley, Ricardo Montalbán Paramount Pictures Original release date: June 4, 1982 Fathom Events screenings: September 10 & 13, 2017

In honor of the 35th anniversary of the theatrical release of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , Paramount Pictures and Fathom Events are bringing the Director’s Cut version of the film to theaters for two days only this month (9/10 & 9/13). I got the chance to see the film at my local theater at the Sunday afternoon screening, and even though I’ve seen this movie — which is one of my favorites of all time — countless times, getting to see it on the big screen again was elating.

The screenings all include a new interview with the film’s star William Shatner , who played the iconic role of James T. Kirk. In the interview, which begins about 15 minutes prior to the screening times (2pm and 7pm local time), the actor talked about making the sequel and how it reinvigorated the Star Trek franchise.

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is one of those unique sequels that far surpassed its predecessor, which was not a common feat back in 1982. In the 1980s, sequels were actually looked down on, so films like Khan and beloved Star Wars follow-up The Empire Strikes Back were anomalies. In 1979, Paramount took the 1960s television franchise and gave it new life on the big screen with Star Trek: The Motion Picture , directed by Robert Wise. But even with the returning original TV cast — William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Walter Koenig, George Takei, Nichelle Nichols — and a $139 million worldwide box office that exceeded its massive $46 million budget, the film failed to meet the studio’s expectations. Paramount was aiming for a Star Wars -level reception, but Star Trek: The Motion Picture didn’t captivate audiences the way George Lucas’s scifi blockbuster did (basically, it was boring ). So once again, Star Trek was dead.

But, in 1982, Paramount resurrected the franchise once more, this time with a much smaller budget — $11.2 million — and a stronger focus on characters and story, thanks in part to new producer Harve Bennett and director Nicholas Meyer, both of whom contributed to the story. Bennett, who’d never seen the television series, binge-watched (another anomaly for that time) Star Trek: The Original Series in an effort find a villain for the film. And oh man did he find one in Ricardo Montalbán ‘s Khan Noonien Singh, a genetically engineered human who tries to take over Kirk’s ship, the U.S.S. Enterprise , in the episode “Space Seed.”

Star Trek II would not only see the return of Khan as he seeks revenge on Kirk for marooning him on a planet that soon after became uninhabitable, it also brought back the Enterprise crew for a tale of friendship, loss, regret, and coming to terms with growing old.

The events of the film unfold on James T. Kirk’s birthday. Now an Admiral, his days of flying around the cosmos boldly going where no man has gone before are now behind him. Instead, the former Enterprise captain is tasked with doing dreaded inspections and overseeing simulations for Starfleet trainees, all of which contribute to his general feeling of being “old.” While out on a routine training mission aboard the Enterprise with the senior crew and trainees, Kirk gets an incoherent distress call from his former love Dr. Carol Marcus, who tells him that someone is trying to take “Genesis,” a device that can create new life that she and her team of scientists have been working on, from her. The transmission is jammed at the source, which can only mean trouble. After conferring with Starfleet, the Enterprise gets new orders — since, of course, they’re the only ship in the quadrant, they must head to Dr. Marcus’s space station Regula I to find out what’s going on.

And what’s going on is that after 15 years, Khan has finally escaped exile and wants to get his hands on the Genesis device, as well as exact revenge on Kirk in a most theatrical way.

Montalban’s Khan was certainly a standout in the television series, but in the film, he is truly extraordinary. His thirst for vengeance is so intense that when he paraphrases Moby-Dick , proclaiming that he’ll chase Kirk “round Perdition’s flames” before he gives him up, you know he means it, whatever the cost. And while Kirk and Khan never actually have any scenes where they are physically together (they only talk via audio and video communications), the intensity between the characters never waivers. This is a fight to the death.

Though Khan has superhuman intelligence thanks to his genetic engineering, Kirk is no slouch when it comes to brains. We’re used to seeing Kirk always come out on top, whether it be besting a no-win scenario or battling the Gorn in hand-to-hand combat. In Wrath Of Khan , we see a Kirk who’s let his discontentment knock his guard down. So when he’s caught, as he says, with his britches down when Khan attacks, he must use his brains and experience to combat his old foe, and it makes for one helluva bout.

Kirk and Khan’s respective issues – Kirk’s discontent and Khan’s quest for vengeance — and their eventually dual take the spotlight in Star Trek II , but Leonard Nimoy’s Spock has his own arch, that concludes heroically in one of the most memorable moments not only in the franchise’s run, but in the annals of movie history period. It’s fitting that during the final conflict, Spock quietly sneaks off to face a no-win scenario of his own. Kirk and Spock’s friendship was always a great one, but with Wrath Of Khan , we see they are really like brothers.

The film took everything we loved about the original Enterprise crew and focused on that, doing away with most of the camp from the TV show, along with the over-seriousness from the first movie. Everything about Star Trek II: Wrath Of Khan was perfectly crafted, starting with the storyline and subplots that provide a revenge tale in space with nods to classic literature; to the return of the charismatic villainous Khan; to Kirk’s inner conflicts and Spock’s heroic feat; the memorable and oft-quoted dialogue, accompanied by the beautiful musical score by James Horner; and of course, it’s amazing ending.

As I mentioned, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is one of my favorite movies of all time; I own several digital, DVD, and Blu-ray editions (and video cassette!), so I don’t ever have to leave my house to see this film. But getting to see it in the theater again was a great experience, so I can wholeheartedly, honestly, sincerely, and truthfully recommend seeing it on the big screen while you can this Wednesday, September 13, 2017. For anyone who’s never seen the movie, this would be a nice first viewing! Like I mentioned, the interview footage with Shatner begins about 15 minutes prior to the screening time, but be warned, there are spoilers in it.

You can get your tickets to Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan online at www.FathomEvents.com , and search the over 600 participating U.S. theaters listings for screenings in your area.

Fathom Events and Paramount Pictures will present “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” on Sunday, September 10, and Wednesday, September 13, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time each day. Director Nicholas Meyer’s “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” was a box-office hit upon its release – the sixth highest-grossing film of 1982 – and continues to be revered and quoted by fans. The film, a continuation of the original Star Trek series episode “The Space Seed,” finds longtime Starfleet nemesis Khan Noonien Singh (Ricardo Montalban) alive and well, marooned on a seemingly lifeless planet. When he’s discovered by Chekov (Walter Koenig), Khan will stop at nothing to exact revenge against the man who exiled him on the barren world: Admiral James T. Kirk. Kirk must lead his loyal crew – including Spock (Leonard Nimoy), Bones (DeForest Kelley), Uhura (Nichelle Nichols), Sulu (George Takei), Scotty (James Doohan) – and an unprepared group of trainees led by half-human, half-Klingon Lt. Saavik (Kirstie Alley) in a race against time to stop Khan from deploying a device that threatens the entire universe. Bibi Besch, Paul Winfield and Merritt Butrick also star in the film, which features an unforgettable musical score by the late James Horner. The Director’s Cut of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” is currently available on Blu-rayâ„¢ , with more than two hours of in-depth bonus features.

Image Gallery

[Image credit: Paramount Pictures. Provided by Fathom Events. Used with permission.]

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram !

• More to Explore
• Series & Movies

Published Jun 3, 2022

The Wrath of P'Khan Welcomes Fans to the Summer of Sweet Revenge

Celebrate the film's 40th anniversary with collaborations with Coolhaus and Funko

StarTrek.com

Paramount’s Star Trek Franchise Group presents a “Summer of Sweet Revenge,” in celebration of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan ’s 40th anniversary on June 4th, to fans across the country and beyond. They are teaming up with various brands to commemorate the film’s birthday with a suite of activities that include pop-ups in New York City, Los Angeles, and at San Diego Comic-Con, as well as screenings of the film and activations in select cities. Fans are also able to find out how they can join in on the celebration by visiting WrathOfPKhan.com , a specially curated online hub with details on the activations, digital engagements, and more.

Throughout the years, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan has continued to be such a compelling and iconic film so much so that it has been referenced in many popular titles such as Seinfeld , South Park , Saturday Night Live, and The Big Bang Theory , to name a few. The portrayal of the film’s antagonist Khan Noonien Singh by Ricardo Montalbán inspired the most infamous moment: William Shatner’s scream of the name "KHAAAN!"

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 's 40th anniversary Summer of Sweet Revenge will include collaborations with household name brands like Funko, Coolhaus, and more. Additional details on each of these activations can be found below.

SUMMER OF SWEET REVENGE ON PARAMOUNT+

Bringing the celebration to viewers at home, Paramount+ is curating a special selection of Khan-centric and “revenge” themed Star Trek episodes and movies to incorporate even more fans into the fun.

The episodes and movies will be featured in special carousels on Paramount+ on June 4 and the curated list will also be shared on Star Trek ’s official social channels (@StarTrek and @StarTrekOnPPlus).

To learn more about the 40th anniversary celebration, please visit WrathOfPKhan.com or Star Trek ’s official social channels and stream your favorite Star Trek episodes and movies on Paramount+, the home of the Star Trek universe.

WRATH OF KHAN FUNKO

In collaboration with collectibles brand Funko, the media franchise will be incorporating fans into the celebration by having them pick their favorite design of a Funko inspired by Khan on the official Star Trek shop . From May 31st to June 3rd, Star Trek lovers around the world will be able to vote on whether the Funko should exhibit “Battle Ready Khan” or “Post-Battle Khan.” The winning design will then be announced to all participants on June 4th, the film’s anniversary, and the Khan Funko will be available for pre-order on June 6th.

WRATH OF P’KHAN COOLHAUS ICE CREAM TRUCK

To further celebrate the 40th anniversary of the film, women-owned ice cream brand Coolhaus will be bringing consumers in New York City limited-edition Wrath of P’Khan ice cream sandwiches via a branded truck. The film-inspired wrapped truck will be visiting fans in SoHo at Prince & Green Streets on June 4th.

Ringing in National Ice Cream Day on July 17th, the Coolhaus vehicle will make its way to Los Angeles’ busiest spot, Santa Monica at 2nd Street and Santa Monica Boulevard, in the peak of summer to bring the celebration and custom ice cream to Star Trek lovers in the city of Angels.

The ice cream truck will also be heading to San Diego Comic-Con this year with streaming service Paramount+. They will be handing out Wrath of P’Khan ice cream sandwiches and celebrating the anniversary with fans of the franchise at the largest convention of its kind in the world.

WRATH OF KHAN FATHOM FILM SCREENINGS

To provide added honor on the momentous occasion, Paramount Home Entertainment and Fathom Events are partnering to bring The Wrath of Khan to the big screen during the TCM Big Screen Classics series on September 4th, 5th, and 8th. This will include over 2,500 screenings of the film across the three-day event.

Let us know what moment of sweet revenge you're most looking forward to on social! #WrathOfPKhan

Get Updates By Email

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan 40th Anniversary p at Horizon Fallston

Star trek ii: the wrath of khan 40th anniversary p.

130 mins | Rated PG

Directed by Nicholas Meyer

Starring Leonard Nimoy, George Takei, Walter Koenig, Nichelle Nichols, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Kirstie Alley, Paul Winfield, Ricardo Montalban, Merritt Butrick, Bibi Besch, William Shatner

130 mins | Rated PG | Adventure

Directed by Nicholas Meyer | Starring Leonard Nimoy, George Takei, Walter Koenig, Nichelle Nichols, DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Kirstie Alley, Paul Winfield, Ricardo Montalban, Merritt Butrick, Bibi Besch, William Shatner

Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies and Paramount Pictures are bringing Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan to select cinemas on September 4, 5 and 8, including exclusive insights from TCM. One of the most celebrated and essential adventures from the STAR TREK universe, STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN celebrates 40 years with the director’s cut on the big screen. On routine training maneuvers, Admiral James T. Kirk seems resigned that this may be the last space mission of his career. But an adversary from the past has returned with a vengeance. Aided by his exiled band of genetic supermen, Khan (Ricardo Montalban)—brilliant renegade of 20th century Earth—has raided Space Station Regula One, stolen the top-secret device called Project Genesis, wrested control of another Federation starship, and now schemes to set a most deadly trap for his old enemy Kirk… with the threat of a universal Armageddon.

Hi, what are you looking for?

TREKNEWS.NET | Your daily dose of Star Trek news and opinion

First Photo from Star Trek: Section 31 revealed, legacy character confirmed

New Star Trek: Discovery posters revealed ahead of final season premiere

Revisiting “The Lost Era: Serpent Among the Ruins” Retro Review

Star Trek: Discovery’s final season begins April 4

Star Trek: Section 31 production begins, cast revealed

Revisiting “Star Trek: Legacies – Captain to Captain” Retro Review

‘U.S.S. Cerritos Crew Handbook’ Review: A must-read Star Trek: Lower Decks fans

‘Making It So’ Review: Patrick Stewart’s journey from stage to starship

The Wrath of Khan – The Making of the Classic Film Review: A gem for your Star Trek reference collection

Strange New Worlds director Jordan Canning talks “Charades,” the versatility of the series & Star Trek fandom

‘Star Trek Online’ lead designer talks the game’s longevity, honoring the franchise, and seeing his work come to life in ‘Picard’

Gates McFadden talks Star Trek: Picard, reuniting with her TNG castmates, InvestiGates, and the Human Condition

Connor Trinneer and Dominic Keating talk ‘Enterprise’, their relationship with Star Trek in 2023 and their first live ‘Shuttlepod Show’

John Billingsley discusses what he’d want in a fifth season of Enterprise, playing Phlox and this weekend’s Trek Talks 2 event

57-Year Mission set to beam 160+ Star Trek guests down to Las Vegas

Veteran Star Trek director David Livingston looks back on his legendary career ahead of Trek Talks 2 event

ReedPop’s Star Trek: Mission Seattle convention has been cancelled

56-Year Mission Preview: More than 130 Star Trek guests set to beam down to Las Vegas convention

Star Trek: Discovery Season 5 trailer teases Burnham & crew’s final mission

2023: A banner year for Star Trek — here’s why [Op-Ed]

Star Trek: Discovery Season 5 to premiere in April + watch a brand new clip from CCXP

54-Disc Picard Legacy Collection, Star Trek: Picard Season 3, Complete Series Blu-ray box sets announced

Star Trek: Picard series finale “The Last Generation” Review: A perfect sendoff to an unforgettable crew

‘The Next Generation’ cast is back on the bridge of the Enterprise-D in new ‘Star Trek: Picard’ photo gallery

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds arrives on Blu-ray, 4K UHD and DVD this December

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds “Hegemony” Review: An underwhelming end to the series’ sophomore season

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 finale “Hegemony” preview + new photos

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds 209 “Subspace Rhapsody” Review: All systems stable… but why are we singing?

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds “Subspace Rhapsody” preview + new photos

Star Trek Day 2021 to Celebrate 55th Anniversary of the Franchise on September 8 with Live Panels and Reveals

Paramount+ Launches with 1-Month Free Trial, Streaming Every Star Trek Episode

Paramount+ to Officially Launch March 4, Taking Place of CBS All Access

STAR TREK: SHORT TREKS Season 2 Now Streaming For Free (in the U.S.)

[REVIEW] STAR TREK: SHORT TREKS “Children of Mars”: All Hands… Battle Stations

New photos from this week’s Star Trek: Lower Decks season 4 finale

Star Trek: Lower Decks “The Inner Fight” Review: Lost stars and hidden battles

New photos from this week’s episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks

Star Trek: Prodigy begins streaming December 25th on Netflix

Star Trek: Prodigy lands at Netflix, season 2 coming in 2024

Star Trek: Prodigy Season 2 sneak peek reveals the surprise return of a Voyager castmember

Star Trek: Prodigy canceled, first season to be removed from Paramount+

The events of Star Trek: The Motion Picture to continue in new IDW miniseries “Echoes”

Star Trek: The Original Series “Harm’s Way” Book Review

William Shatner’s New Book ‘Boldly Go: Reflections on a Life of Awe and Wonder’ Review: More of a good thing

Star Trek: Infinite release date + details on Lower Decks­-themed pre-order bonuses

‘Star Trek: Infinite’ strategy game revealed, set to be released this fall

Hero Collector Revisits The Classics in New Starfleet Starships Essentials Collection

New Star Trek Docuseries ‘The Center Seat’ Announced, Coming This Fall

Star Trek Designing Starships: Deep Space Nine & Beyond Review: a Deep Dive Into Shuttlecraft of the Gamma Quadrant

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Illustrated Handbook Review: Terok Nor Deconstructed in Amazing Detail

Robert Beltran Is Officially Returning to Star Trek as Chakotay on ‘Prodigy’ + More Casting News

Robert Beltran Says He’s Returning to Star Trek in ‘Prodigy’

John Billingsley Talks Life Since Star Trek: Enterprise, Going to Space and Turning Down Lunch with Shatner and Nimoy

Star Trek: Enterprise Star John Billingsley Talks Charity Work, Upcoming TREK*Talks Event

Conventions and Events

‘wrath of khan’ returning to theaters for 35th anniversary.

Wrath of Khan to be shown in theaters this September

In honor of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan ‘s 35th anniversary, Fathom Events is showing the film on the big screen on September 10 and 13 .

UPDATE : The 35th-anniversary screenings will be accompanied by a newly produced, in-depth interview with William Shatner that will play before prior to the film. The interview will be hosted by Access Hollywood critic (and mega Trekkie)  Scott Mantz .

The film is presumably the extended director’s cut released in June 2016, as Fathom Events is showing the version with a running time of 130 minutes, compared to the original’s 113-minute runtime. Check out Treknews.net’s glowing review of the director’s cut if you haven’t seen that version yet. We said this classic Star Trek movie “has never looked better.” The film first hit theaters in the U.S. on June 4, 1982.

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan – The Director’s Cut on Blu-ray is on sale at Amazon .

Tickets are now available at Fathom Events website .

Stay tuned to TrekNews.net for more on The Wrath of Khan ‘s 35th anniversary.

[amazon_link asins=’B01AI7QPM6,B01CJW334Q,B01N47VPJG,B01BP06ENA’ template=’ProductGrid’ store=’treknenet-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’297d1f2b-6d4b-11e7-92fe-bd143379393c’]

Kyle Hadyniak has been a lifelong Star Trek fan, and isn't ashamed to admit that Star Trek V: The Final Frontier and Star Trek: Nemesis are his favorite Star Trek movies. You can follow Kyle on Twitter @khady93 .

Unknown Stuntman

July 20, 2017 at 9:22 am

This is still my favorite Trek movie! I can’t wait to take my kids to see this on the big screen.

E. Lee Zimmerman

July 20, 2017 at 9:09 pm

July 20, 2017 at 6:04 pm

Some movies NEED to be seen on the big screen and this is one of them

Amen. It works so well up there, even though the Genesis Planet stuff toward the end is a bit sketchy …

July 21, 2017 at 12:02 am

I saw it at Mission 50. Great except of one scene with Scotty’s nephew

Brian Biedugnis

July 21, 2017 at 1:47 pm

The only one I didn’t get to see in the theater. No AMC nearby. :^(

July 21, 2017 at 3:23 pm

I’d rather have the original release.

HardyGirl66

July 21, 2017 at 9:55 pm

I’m SO there! (wherever “there” happens to be!) I love this movie!

The Amazing Pumpkinhead

July 22, 2017 at 1:09 pm

This is my all time favorite movie, but when it was in theaters my parents were toddlers so i cant wait to finally see it on the big screen

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending Articles

An article celebrating the longevity of the Star Trek franchise has given us our first look at Michelle Yeoh’s upcoming Star Trek: Section 31...

With the launch of the final season of Star Trek: Discovery right around the corner, Paramount+ has released an official trailer for the series’...

Back to the Stars: Rediscovering Star Trek’s Legacy with Captain to Captain – A Retro-Review There are near-countless Star Trek novels out there. Unlike...

Rediscovering The Lost Era: Serpent Among the Ruins – A Retro-Review Captain John Harriman, seen only for a brief period in Star Trek: Generations,...

We didn't find any showtimes. Try picking another date or location.

Showtimes & Tickets

Star trek ii: the wrath of khan (1982), favorite theaters, movies near you ( 9 ), recently viewed.

Wrath of Khan Creates Star Trek's Biggest Plot Hole, and the Real-Life Explanation Is Hilarious

• Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan saved the franchise by bringing back a villain from The Original Series and taking the story back to its roots.
• The Wrath of Khan featured a continuity error with how Khan recognized Chekov, sparking a fan-favorite question.
• Walter Koenig crafted a hilarious story explaining how Khan knew Chekov, showcasing his creativity and wit.

Despite the unlikely accomplishment of bringing a canceled television series to the big screen, it was actually Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan that "saved" the franchise. Ricardo Montalban reprised his role as Khan Noonien Singh, the "perfect" man that was created via eugenics, and who became a horrific tyrant. In the Star Trek: The Original Series episode "Space Seed," Captain Kirk and company find Khan and his genetically engineered acolytes in stasis drifting through space in a ship called the SS Botany Bay.

When the character is reintroduced in the film, Walter Koenig's Pavel Chekov is there along with Paul Winfield's Captain Clark Terrell. Khan, of course, recognizes the former crewman of the USS Enterprise. There's just one problem: Walter Koenig wasn't cast in the series until Season 2. The adventure that follows is so thrilling, fans forgot to care about that continuity error until the credits rolled. Yet, the question comes up often enough that Walter Koenig crafted a story to explain how Khan knew Chekov, and it's hilarious.

The Real-Life Reason Khan 'Recognized' Chekov in Star Trek II

Strange new worlds fixed star trek's biggest history problem.

The original script for "Space Seed" didn't feature a man named Khan but, rather, a Nordic character. Yet, Star Trek was a progressive show, and the producers liked the idea of making the "perfect" man a person of color. Casting played a role, too. Actor Ricardo Montalban was simply the only actor they could find with a physique worthy of the super-man. Roddenberry also named the character Khan Noonien Singh, according to various Star Trek legends, as a way to try to find a similarly named friend from his time in World War II flying missions off the deck of the USS Yorktown, ( the original name of the USS Enterprise ).

Chekov was added as a character in Season 2 in a similarly subversive way. NBC issued the requirement for the young heartthrob, but producers decided to make him Russian. The biggest "enemy" of the US at the time was the Soviet Union, and there was a proud Russian man serving on the bridge with the All-American Captain Kirk. When crafting the film, producer Harve Bennett knew he needed a "Trekkie run" on the script to look for continuity errors. An accomplished screenwriter by this time, Koenig was asked to do it.

The producer "had given me a copy of the script…based on some comments I made on an earlier draft where they had Spock dying in the first act , and I said this was absolutely unconscionable…. [T]here was a line saying 'Mr. Chekov I remember the face' -- which he couldn't possibly have since I wasn't on the series when [they] did that episode. I was faced with the ethical dilemma of mentioning it to Bennett or letting it go. I chose survival as opposed to ethics...," Koenig said in The Fifty-Year Mission: The First 25 Years by Edward Gross and Mark A. Altman.

How Khan Knew Chekov Became Koenig's Most-Asked Fan Question

Why did paramount remove the star trek movies.

Naturally, the other Trekkies noticed the slip-up, and as if penance for his desire to save one of Chekov's best parts, Koenig has been asked this question for 40 years. Along with being a storyteller himself, Walter Koenig is a genuine character. Not only did he craft a sensible reason for why Khan knew Chekov, it's appropriately hilarious. Simply put, just because Chekov wasn't yet stationed on the bridge, it didn't mean he wasn't on the USS Enterprise.

"I came up with a story I would tell at conventions," Koenig said during 2023's Virtual Trek Con. "Khan did recognize Chekov, [who] was working on the third deck behind the boiler room and was very ill with a condition called Malapropski's Malady. And he was ensconced in the bathroom…for hours and hours when poor Mr. Khan's genetically engineered kidneys are about to explode. He pounded pitifully on the bathroom door begging for admittance until, finally, the door swung open, and Chekov stepped out. Khan grabbed him and said, 'Your face. I will never forget your face!'"

He's told this story countless times before, but this telling happened during the only Star Trek awards show: The LLAPys . He was given a Lifetime Achievement Award by the group for his many years representing Star Trek on-screen and in the fan community. In fact, Koenig last appeared in the universe during the series finale of Star Trek: Picard . He lent his voice to the series as Anton Chekov, the son of Pavel and President of the Federation. The character was so named to honor the second Chekov actor, Anton Yelchin who tragically passed away in an accident.

Koenig's Story About Chekov Meeting Khan Makes Sense

The star trek ii director's cut needs a proper re-release.

Putting aside the made-up gastrointestinal malady, Koenig's rationale that Chekov was on the ship makes perfect sense. In the early days of Star Trek: The Original Series the Stardate system had little consistency. In "Space Seed," the Stardate is 3141.9. However, in the first episode aired in Season 2, "Catspaw" the Stardate is given as 3018.2, which sets these events before the USS Enterprise stumbled across the Botany Bay. While there is no real consistency with these early dates, it at least creates the argument that Chekov was already aboard the ship when they encountered Khan.

The expanded universe of Star Trek novels and comics aren't officially canon in the universe, but they are often used to try to fill in notorious plot holes. Published in 2005, Greg Cox's To Reign In Hell primarily deals with Khan and company's time on Ceti Alpha V before being rediscovered. The book also explains what happens to Marla McGivers, the USS Enterprise crewmember who fell for Khan and was sent to the planet with him but dies before The Wrath of Khan . In that novel, Chekov is part of the landing party helping Khan and his fellow augments set up their camp before the ship departs.

Was There Time in 'Space Seed' for Khan to Meet Chekov?

Along with the Stardates, time in Star Trek episodes is vague, but it's clear that the events of "Space Seed" take place over at least a few days. Khan spends time in sick bay, unconscious from a botched revival from stasis. He also spends time fully studying and memorizing the USS Enterprise's technical manuals. Even with his advanced intelligence, that would take time.

There is a banquet to welcome him. After his attempt to take control of the USS Enterprise is thwarted, he is subject to a Starfleet tribunal proceeding. It's probably safe to assume this took some time to assemble and execute. Thus, it's quite possible that Khan was able to meet Chekov during his off-screen time on the ship.

Whether he met Chekov in the bathroom or with the landing party as his crew was being resettled is up to each individual fan. So, Star Trek 's most famous plot hole doesn't really fit that description as there is no clear evidence to say that Chekov wasn't on the ship at that time. Even though Walter Koenig wouldn't be cast until the next season, the character could've been stationed on the ship long before fans ever met him on screen.

Star Trek: The Wrath of Kahn is currently streaming on Max, and Walter Koenig can be seen reviewing episodes of Star Trek: The Original Series on The 7th Rule YouTube channel .

Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan

With the assistance of the Enterprise crew, Admiral Kirk must stop an old nemesis, Khan Noonien Singh, from using the life-generating Genesis Device as the ultimate weapon.

Director Nicholas Meyer

Release Date June 4, 1982

Runtime 1 hour 53 minutes

Genres Action, Science Fiction, Adventure