J.J. Abrams, who will produce and possibly direct the eleventh movie in the Star Trek franchise, said that he is delighted to have the approval of original series stars William Shatner (Kirk) and Leonard Nimoy (Spock).

"The involvement of William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy means a great deal to us on many levels, not the least of which is just the respect of who they are and what they do," Abrams told Dreamwatch (via Sci Fi Pulse). "They are the carriers of this torch and, without being too reverential...we want to show them the kind of appreciation and admiration they deserve."

Abrams still refuses to discuss details of the upcoming movie but it is widely believed to be a prequel to the original series about Captain Kirk's younger days. "I jumped at the chance to be involved with Star Trek XI," the producer said. "We don’t want to say anything about the specifics of this movie...I would say that wherever it goes, it goes and hopefully boldly."

Asked whether he would be interested in being involved in subsequent Star Trek projects, Abrams said that for now, "I want to tell a great story and make sure that the movie works as well as it possibly can, and that it’s as thoughtful and entertaining as it can possibly be." If it is successful and the studio plans another movie, "I would love to have that option when the time comes. But I’m not looking at Star Trek XII yet."

The full interview is in Dreamwatch. Thanks to Sci Fi Pulse for these excerpts.

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