Direct to DVD?.....

[Temis the Vorta]

why doesn't CBS test the waters and see what part of TREK lore really garners that much attention?

Because it's not part of CBS' corporate strategy. They are doing great with their police procedurals and sitcoms. Why should they divert energy and resources from their successful projects to dabble in sci fi, which CBS doesn't understand and has no interest in? One big reason why CBS is the most successful of the major networks is their discipline and relentless focus on what they know works. They don't experiment.

And although Paramount wouldn't have any control over this, direct to DVD Star Trek would erode the premium brand that Paramount has spent large amounts of money building back up, after being badly damaged through mis-management. I'm not sure if Paramount could put a stop to CBS's DVDs, but I'm sure they'd try.

Overall, though, the general perception of direct-to-DVD is as AviTrek and I pointed out above: second-tier material, cheaply produced knock-offs and sequels... typical B-movie fare in a world that no longer has theaters which show B-movies. Maybe the success of the Family Guy and Futurama releases, and however this SG-1 movie does will change the perception, but it's a long, uphill climb.

Would Family Guy, Futurama or SG-1 movies have a hope in hell of cracking the top ten in annual box office? Of course not. So none of those are even close to being top-tier. And don't think of top-tier as being "quality" so much as in perception that it's a "big deal." There are plenty of brands that are based on crappy products, and plenty of great products that aren't strong brands.

McDonald's is a huge brand. Are their burgers any good? No. But the McDonald's name is a big deal that commands everyone's attention. It's really a perception game.

DVDs aren't bad because DVD movies are usually crap. They're bad because it makes you look like you're a loser who can't get your movie into theaters. Then if there's a movie with the same brand that you're trying to get into theaters, it's not going to be afforded the same respect, and then you've damaged the chances for your cash cow - the top ten box office champ - to make money, and for what? For the piddly amount you'd get from DVD? Not a good business proposition.

 

[SPCTRE]

Okay, I know it would be complete and utter fanwank, but a Titan and/or Aventine mini-series or movie would really, really do it for me.

Other than that, just stick with TNG and DS9. Heck, I'd even enjoy some more ENT.

 

[SheliakBob]

Hey, ANYTHING Prime Universe would get my money and the best word of mouth I could honestly give it.
I really don't care much if the production is "second-tier"--as long as the end result is enjoyable.

Frankly, the best option in my opinion would be to take a couple of stars of previous series, whoever is available at the budget price, and then hire a new crew on a new ship. Preferably named "Enterprise"--set after Voyager's end.

Speaking of the DC direct to dvd animated movies, I'd also go for an animated feature, with or without familiar voices.
Fanwank? Hey, I'm feelin' no shame. Would actually rather look forward to it. Relaxing, after The Abomination, is what it would be.

 

[Python Trek]

I'll give any new Trek a try, if it's set in the Prime Universe---direct-to-DVD, TV mini, comics, cave paintings, mime......just no more Abramverse!

 

[SheliakBob]

*snrk* *giggle* MIME Trek!

In a follow up to the classic TOS episode, "The Empath", Star Fleet sends an expedition to make contact with Gem's people--who are, of course, entirely mute.
Unbenownst to the Federation crew, aliens have set up an elaborate but totally invisible labyrinth of force fields as a prelude to an invasion. The alien attack has triggered indigenous defense measures, specifically horrific flying monstrosities that home in on any spoken sounds.
The landing party must work their way through an invisible maze, using only hand gestures for communication, and find a way to overcome the invasion with their keen improvisational skills!!

I particularly like the "cavalry charge" on supposed invisible horses used to break through the alien guards at the field generator. Genius!