J J Abrams Discusses Differences Between ‘Star Trek’ And ‘Star Wars’

J.J Abrams has given a long and in depth interview with Playboy about working on both the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises and how the films differ.

“The worlds are vastly different,” says Abrams. “Honestly, that was why I passed on Star Wars to begin with. I couldn’t imagine doing both. But when I said that my loyalty was to Star Trek I was literally working on finishing this cut.”

Abrams then added, “I couldn’t even entertain another though. It was like being on the most beautiful beach in the world and someone saying,’There’s this amazing mountain over here. Come take a look.’ I couldn’t balance the two, so I passed on Star Wars.”

Abrams then revealed what changed his mind, stating, “I was near the light at the end of the tunnel with my work on Star Trek. I felt I needed a bit of a breather, actually. But then Kathleen Kennedy called again. I’ve known her for years.”

The director then added, “We had a great conversation, and the idea of working with her on this suddenly went from being theoretical and easy to deny to being a real, tangible, thrilling possibility. In the end it was my wife, Katie, who said if it was something that really interested me, I had to consider it.”

Abrams then discussed the differences between the sci-fi movies, stating, “As with anything, because these are very different worlds, they shouldn’t feel the same aesthetically. They can’t. You’re right. But again, I don’t apply aesthetics first and fit a movie into that aesthetic. If I had come into Star Trek with those eyes, I would probably have been paralysed.”

Abrams feels confident about working on Star Wars though, due to the influence of his predecessor. “The advantage here is that we still have George Lucas with us to go to and ask questions and get his feedback on things, which I certainly will do.”

Do you think Abrams should ask for Lucas’ advice?