In reflecting on the progression from television series to feature film format, DeForest Kelley discussed the evolution of character development, specifically the character arcs that needed compression from the extensive timeline of 79 episodes into a few movies. Kelley explained that in a weekly television show, characters do not change drastically within short spans, whereas films spaced out over years provide an opportunity for notable developments. Consequently, Kelley recognized the need for Dr. McCoy’s relationship with the Vulcan Spock (portrayed by Leonard Nimoy) to undergo such a transformation. Kelley elaborated:
“It’s very difficult to expand or flesh a character out in a motion picture, so to speak. When we’re doing them, it takes a couple of years to get one out. If we were still doing the series, why, it would be a lot of fun to see how these characters change during the aging process. So what I tried to do in [‘The Voyage Home’] is kind of … not soften McCoy, but he’s become a little more attuned to Spock and he’s looking at him more or less with a bit of amusement, as opposed to becoming so irritated with him.”
Kelley`s approach in altering Dr. McCoy’s interaction with Spock was justified particularly after their shared experiences in “Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.” In this earlier movie, McCoy’s character had inadvertently become a host for Spock’s consciousness, an ordeal that paved the way for Spock’s mind to be rescued and restored. Furthermore, McCoy had been complicit in a mutiny led by Captain Kirk (William Shatner). Their actions led to both the commandeering and the subsequent destruction of the U.S.S. Enterprise, demonstrating the lengths the crew would go for one another. These events were pivotal in reshaping the dynamic between McCoy and Spock, leading to a more harmonious and mildly amused perspective from the doctor’s viewpoint towards Spock.
FAQ about DeForest Kelley’s Alteration to Dr. McCoy’s Character
- Why did DeForest Kelley feel the need to change Dr. McCoy’s character for the movies?
Kelley felt that the transition from the television series to the feature films provided an opportunity for the characters to evolve, especially given the time elapsed between the films. He recognized that after two decades of working alongside Spock, Dr. McCoy’s relationship with him should reflect that history and growth. - How did Dr. McCoy change in ‘The Voyage Home’?
Rather than consistently being irritated with Spock’s logic as he was in the series, Kelley portrayed a Dr. McCoy who had grown more amused by and attuned to the Vulcan’s ways. - What events in prior films influenced this character change?
“Star Trek III: The Search for Spock” featured significant experiences that affected Dr. McCoy, including harboring Spock’s consciousness and engaging in mutiny, which would naturally impact his outlook and interactions with Spock moving forward. - What does DeForest Kelley mean when he says it’s difficult to expand a character in a motion picture?
Kelley means that within the limited timeframe and structure of a film, compared to a television series with many episodes, there is less opportunity to explore and develop a character’s nuances and growth gradually.
Conclusion
DeForest Kelley’s thoughtful interpretation of his character’s transformation from the “Star Trek” television series to “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home” illustrates the depth and consideration actors contribute to their roles. Kelley’s decision to adjust Dr. McCoy’s attitude towards Spock, transitioning from irritation to amusement, is a testament to the dynamic nature of character development, especially in a beloved and long-standing franchise such as “Star Trek.” It exemplifies how characters must evolve to remain authentic and compelling within the context of their narrative universe.