I've been reading the responses on this board and also another Trek board, and I have to be honest; in some ways, it's a bit embarrassing to be a Trek fan right now.
I say that for one reason: I've read a lot of complaining from some fans who are so disappointed that (according to this story, whether true or not) Shatner will not be in the next Trek film. For that reason alone, these fans are now not only no longer interested in the film, but are also hoping that it bombs more than NEM did! How can you be a fan of a franchise if you want it to fail? I really just don't get it. Maybe there's something in the fan handbook that I've missed, but I thought fans would hope that something would succeed, even if they don't entirely like it so that there can be more! Am I not right about that? If Trek XI fails, it'll be years before we get another Trek incarnation, if ever!
I'm just really a bit disappointed in some of what I've read, but thankfully this board has mostly been clear. You should check out trekweb.com because I was disgusted by what I saw there! This film could be the best Trek film ever, and there's part of the fanbase that is already disowning because one man is not appearing in it. And this is based upon something is really just a rumor right now!
For me, I'm trying to see the good in this story over the bad. Shatner's not appearing? Okay. It would have been nice, but it's not necessary. But, look at what's been said about Nimoy. Not only is he appearing, but he says that the script is good! That right there is very comforting! Think about it. Nimoy was offered the chance to appear in and direct GEN a couple years after TUC. He turned it down because he didn't like the script, and wouldn't be given the power to make changes. Nimoy has basically retired from Hollywood life, but is agreeing to "come out of retirement" for this one project, even if it's small. He says the script is good. So doesn't that mean that it's good enough to prompt him to do that? Nimoy's not just looking for a paycheck. He wants to make something that is quality or that he can feel good about. If he feels good about doing Trek XI, that right there says a lot for me. He directed Star Trek III and IV and helped craft the stories for both IV & VI. That says something there about the quality work he can bring to the Trek universe.
I wish all Trek fans would be able to look at this story and say, "Ah well, Shat isn't appearing, but Nimoy is and look, he says it's a good script, yiay!" and be excited about this film! Cuz guess what? I am!
And because of that, I'm also happy to be a Trek fan, because Christmas next year is gonna be great!