![Controversy Surrounding Star Trek: Generations’ Pre-Release 2 l intro 1709783875](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/l-intro-1709783875.jpg?w=1170)
Reshoots are a norm in the movie industry, particularly in large-scale productions. However, it was concerning when “Generations” received poor test screenings, compelling Rick Berman to consider reshooting the film’s last quarter-hour. While this is a standard practice to ensure quality, the incident drew unwanted attention to “Generations”.
A narrative began to emerge from the press that “Generations” could be a disaster in the making. According to the account in “The Fifty-Year Mission,” Universal Studios may have been the instigator of this negative press. A group of former Paramount employees, now working for Universal, reportedly fueled these detrimental leaks, potentially out of spite towards their previous employer and possibly even against Rick Berman, who held considerable sway over the Star Trek franchise.
Amidst their own production woes with the financially draining “Waterworld,” Universal found it opportune to shift the spotlight to Paramount’s “Generations.” The motive seemed clear: as “Waterworld’s” cost was ballooning due to various production setbacks, any diversion of press scrutiny was likely a relief to Universal.
In the end, “Generations” was released without significant delays and incurred a reasonable budget of $35 million, while “Waterworld” left a lasting impression as a $175 million cinematic cautionary tale.
FAQs
What were the problems with “Star Trek: Generations” before it was released?
“Star Trek: Generations” faced unfavorable test screenings which led to Rick Berman’s decision to reshoot the final 15 minutes of the film. The media coverage portrayed this as a sign the film would be a flop.
How did Universal Studios allegedly influence the negative press about “Generations”?
According to “The Fifty-Year Mission”, former Paramount employees now at Universal might have leaked detrimental information driven by personal vendettas, aiming to overshadow the challenges of their own production, “Waterworld”.
How much did “Star Trek: Generations” and “Waterworld” cost to produce?
“Star Trek: Generations” cost about $35 million, while “Waterworld” had a production budget of $175 million.
Was “Star Trek: Generations” a success?
The film was completed without major delays and adhered to its budget. Despite the controversy, the ‘scandal’ surrounding its production has largely been forgotten.
Why was “Waterworld” considered notorious at the time?
“Waterworld” was infamous for its overblown budget, expensive set reconstructions due to sinking sets, costly shoot locations, and lavish spending on accommodations.
Conclusion
The story of how Universal Studios could have attempted to tarnish the pre-release reputation of “Star Trek: Generations” serves as a fascinating footnote in the annals of Hollywood. While reshoots and adjustments are part and parcel of blockbuster filmmaking, the machinations behind the press can weave a far more complex narrative, one that involves corporate rivalry, personal grudges, and strategic diversions. Ultimately, “Generations” managed to navigate through these tumultuous waters. However, the echoes of these events in industry lore underline how, in Hollywood, the drama behind the camera can be as compelling as the stories on the screen.