If you like Star Trek, but can't understand why anyone would attend one of those Trekkie conventions, you will probably enjoy Galaxy Quest.

Jason Nesmith (Tim Allen) hasn't had much acting work since Galaxy Quest the TV series was canceled close to twenty years ago. Now in his typecast role as Commander Taggart of the starship Protector, he and the rest of the Protector's crew are the main attraction at sci-fi conventions. With thousands of fans dressed in the garb that goes with the part, these dead-end actors make their living by dutifully signing autographs and reciting Galaxy Quest trivia.

A legend in his own mind, Nesmith still leads the group by handling bookings for these conventions. But he is at odds with the others due to poor punctuality and an egotistical nature. When he overhears a negative conversation about his "has-been" performance, even he realizes that his quest may be over - until he meets his biggest fans.

A group of aliens have seen Nesmith's show and consider his work an "historical document". They need a pilot for their starship and a hero to save them from their enemies. Having no comprehension of dramatic television, they assume Commander Taggart and his crew are real. Things get off to a rocky start when Taggart tells helmsman Laredo (Daryl Mitchell) to take the ship out of space-dock. Of course he hasn't a clue how to steer the ship. "Go right! Go right!" the crew shouts. Things aren't much better with the"digital conveyor" (read transporter). Their practice try results in an inside out creature (this somewhat gory scene and other comedic violence may be disturbing to young children).

Except for a female crew member (played by Sigourney Weaver) wearing a ripped top (we see her bra) and a couple of minor sexual innuendoes, I found this well written spoof full of subtle humor that's surprisingly inoffensive. There are certain questions you just can't ask if you want to be a true trekkie. This movie boldly asks the questions no man ever dared to ask before.

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This film pokes fun at obsessive fans. Can these obsessions be dangerous? Celebrities may risk ruining their careers if they are strongly typecast in a particular role. Is this price for fame fair?

Rod Gustafson

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