It’s been three decades since Captain James T. Kirk, played by William Shatner, made his final bow in Star Trek: Generations. For fans of the legendary Starfleet officer, his death saving a planet in the Nexus felt noble but incomplete. The absence of Leonard Nimoy’s Spock at his side left a gap that no amount of sci-fi heroics could fill.
Now, thirty years later, that story finds closure. The Roddenberry Archive, in collaboration with OTOY, has unveiled 765874 – Unification, a short film that reimagines the end of Kirk’s journey, giving fans the emotional farewell they’ve long dreamed of. Directed by Spanish filmmaker Carlos Baena, this moving project enlists William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy’s estate, and an impressive roster of Star Trek talent to craft a tale that’s part nostalgia, part tribute, and wholly unforgettable.
Kirk and Spock’s Final Goodbye
The short film uses a combination of live-action footage and cutting-edge CGI to tell a poignant “what if” story. In this alternate timeline, Kirk leaves the Nexus—a pocket dimension where he had existed in a suspended state for 80 years—to reunite with Spock in the latter’s dying moments. Lawrence Selleck portrays Spock with CGI enhancements to mirror Nimoy’s iconic appearance. The film’s emotional weight stems from its acknowledgment of Spock’s canonical death in Star Trek Beyond, which took place in a parallel Kelvin Universe.
The reunion wouldn’t have been possible without divine intervention. Enter Gary Mitchell, Kirk’s old friend who ascended to godhood in Star Trek’s second pilot episode, “Where No Man Has Gone Before.” Played once again by Gary Lockwood, Mitchell uses his godlike powers to help Kirk reach Spock across time, space, and universes.
A Cast and Crew of Trek Luminaries
765874 – Unification is more than a tribute—it’s a love letter to Star Trek’s legacy. Robin Curtis returns as Lt. Saavik from The Search for Spock. Sam Witwer, a fan-favorite actor known as Darth Maul’s voice in Star Wars animations, serves as the body double for Kirk’s younger self. Meanwhile, Michael Giacchino, composer of the Kelvin Universe Star Trek films, and Picard production designer David Blass lend their talents to the project.
The film also pays homage to Star Trek’s rich history. The title “Unification” is a nod to a Next Generation episode where Spock played a central role. Eagle-eyed fans will spot references to the Kelvin Universe, such as the character Yor, who crossed into the Prime Universe in Star Trek: Discovery.
A Fan Dream Come True
For longtime fans, 765874 – Unification is a balm for a decades-old wound. The emotional resonance of Kirk and Spock finally sharing a farewell transcends nostalgia, making it a cathartic experience for those who grew up with their adventures. It’s a testament to the enduring bond between these two characters and the fans who have kept their legacy alive.
Kirk and Spock’s goodbye may not have graced the silver screen, but this short film stands as a heartfelt and definitive next-best thing.
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