Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Review – Young Cadets, Classic Trek, and a Fresh Frontier
- Je-Ree
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve been craving some interstellar adventure, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy drops at just the right time. After a nostalgic rewatch of The Orville, I was itching for that mix of space exploration and character drama only Star Trek can deliver. Paramount+ has delivered a series that manages to honor decades of Trek history while introducing a new generation of cadets to the galaxy. I had the chance to screen the first six episodes early and let me tell you, it was an interesting ride.
Set roughly 125 years after “The Burn” from Star Trek: Discovery, Starfleet is in a rebuilding phase. The shiny new Starfleet Academy becomes the playground for a brand-new class of cadets, with all the ambition, rivalry and drama you’d expect from a college drama… in space. The series cleverly weaves continuity into its storytelling, paying tribute to legacy characters while acknowledging those who have long since passed in this future timeline. It’s subtle, respectful and, honestly, chef’s kiss from a long-time Trekkie.
Holly Hunter commands the screen as Chancellor Nahla Ake, a quirky and captivating leader of the Academy. She forms a compelling dynamic with the show’s central cadet, Caleb Mir, played by newcomer Sandro Rosta. Sandro has that rare quality of commanding attention with every scene, effortlessly shifting from action-hero swagger to heartthrob to emotionally scarred young man in the blink of an eye. His Caleb is the kind of character you root for, cringe with and occasionally shake your head at, especially when navigating the messy interpersonal drama that defines the series.
And yes, Starfleet Academy is being sold as a “young adult” Star Trek. Think Degrassi in space: messy love triangles, overhyped cadets, rivalries and the occasional teenage meltdown. There are moments that might make seasoned Trekkies roll their eyes, wondering if they’re “too old” for this brand of space soap opera. But sprinkle in classic Trek moments like starship simulations, moral dilemmas and shout-outs to Kirk and suddenly, the formula works, kind of. The series finds a sweet spot where nostalgia meets teen angst. Some of it had me wanting to hit stop, but I have to keep going, not just to see where this story is going but you guys trust me to bring you the truth about these shows.
Paul Giamatti’s turn as the villainous Nus Braka is an absolute win. He’s a “love to hate” character, adding tension, gravitas, and a touch of menace to the Academy’s otherwise bright corridors. Meanwhile, longtime Trek fans will rejoice at the return of favorites like Tig Notaro, Oded Fehr, and Voyager’s Robert Picardo. Their appearances feel earned and integrated, not just gimmicks for fan service. The supporting cadets and faculty are solid, if not individually show-stopping, but they serve as a strong ensemble that supports the story’s YA sensibilities.
What I didn’t fully grasp going in was just how much this series leans into young adult drama. There are moments of annoyance and moments inducing angst, but they’re balanced by clever storytelling, genuine character growth and the occasional classic Star Trek wow moment. Anytime a legacy character or ship name pops up, it’s a thrill, my ears practically twitched every time someone said “Kirk.” And the universe-building is top-notch, giving new fans a jumping-on point while rewarding long-time trekkies with callbacks, continuity and subtle lore expansion.
So, should you torch it or tomb it? Star Trek: Starfleet Academy earns a solid torch. It’s a fresh, energetic addition to the Star Trek universe that introduces new cadets, new adventures and a shiny new frontier for Paramount+ to explore. New viewers can follow along easily and longtime fans will appreciate the nostalgic touches, clever continuity and the sheer joy of discovering the next generation of Starfleet heroes. However, it isn't perfect and has it flaws. I mean those of us that have teenagers, we love them to death, but sometimes just stay in your room quietly and this series will absolutely have you fighting the urge to open Netflix but, stick with it and give it a chance. Until Strange New Worlds returns, this series offers a welcome, if slightly messy, detour into the cosmos.
If you’re ready to dive back into the Trek universe with cadets who argue over roommate assignments and starship protocols in equal measure, strap in — Starfleet Academy awaits.