I have not seen the 'Star Trek' 2009 film, and I intend to go to see 'Into Darkness' next week, is it critical to watch the first one before 'Darkness,' or can I get away without it?
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Absolutely, this takes place in an alternate timeline spawned by some time travel shit.
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Yes, you will need time for your eyes to adjust to the lens flares.
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Yes It is a complete departure from anything you knew about Star Trek previously. So to get any nuances between the characters now, I would say it's imperative that you see that other one first.