Star Trek: First Contact Is The Only TNG Movie That Still Matters

When considering the legacy of Star Trek movies, one title consistently stands above the rest as the one true TNG film that still holds real consequence — Star Trek: First Contact. It's the second of four films in the TNG series, released after Star Trek Generations and before Star Trek: Insurrection and Star Trek: Nemesis​​​​​​.

First Contact received positive reviews when it came out in 1996. It's always difficult to know how a movie will hold up over time, but out of the four TNG films, First Contact is the one that remains relevant in the Star Trek universe, and it's easy to see why.

Why Star Trek: First Contact Is The Only TNG Movie That Still Matters

Its Place In Star Trek History Remains Secure

While the other TNG-era films have faded into obscurity, Star Trek: First Contact remains a touchstone for fans and creators alike, thanks to its deep connections to Star Trek’s lore, its compelling narrative, and its influence on the franchise’s future direction. First Contact continues to resonate while Generations, Insurrection, and Nemesis have faded into the background.

First Contact doesn’t merely tell an entertaining story; it delivers a foundational moment for the entire Star Trek universe. Centered on humanity’s first contact with the Vulcans, the movie represents a key milestone in lore—a bridge between the fractured, warlike Earth of the 21st century and the utopian Federation of the future. This moment has never been undermined or overshadowed in the franchise, solidifying First Contact’s enduring relevance.

A large part of what makes First Contact timeless is its treatment of the Borg. The introduction of the Borg Queen gave a face and voice to one of Star Trek’s most iconic antagonists, adding layers of complexity to the relentless hive mind. While the Borg Queen was finally defeated in Picard season 3, the concept remains very much alive with the introduction of the Jurati Borg Queen. First Contact’s portrayal of the Borg ensured their place as enduring villains and expanded their lore in ways the franchise continues to explore.

Additionally, Lily Sloane, the civilian guide to humanity's leap into the stars, remains a compelling character within the Star Trek multiverse. Her impact as Zefram Cochrane’s anchor and moral guide gives First Contact a profound human element often absent in high-concept sci-fi. Lily's presence underscores the emotional stakes and ensures that the story resonates beyond its technical achievements.

From a cinematic standpoint, First Contact also stands out as the most polished and focused of the TNG films. Directed by Jonathan Frakes, the movie artfully balances action, drama, and humor while staying true to the spirit of Star Trek. Offering Patrick Stewart one of his most compelling performances as Picard, the pacing is tight, the stakes are clear, and the resolution is satisfying—qualities that the other TNG films often struggled to achieve.

Star Trek Has Moved Beyond TNG’s Other Movies

Only First Contact Has Endured The Test Of Time

At first glance, the other TNG movies seemed pivotal. Star Trek Generations gave us the memorable death of Captain James T. Kirk, a bold choice that symbolized the passing of the torch to Jean-Luc Picard and his crew. But in the years since, Kirk’s death feels increasingly irrelevant. Star Trek Picard season 3 and the recent wildly beloved OTOY short film Unification hinted that Kirk could potentially be resurrected, offering little permanence to his sacrifice. Meanwhile, the movie’s plot about the Nexus has been largely forgotten by modern Star Trek storytellers.

Star Trek Insurrection, with its story centered on the Ba’ku and the Briar Patch, has slipped into near-complete obscurity. It's as though the events of the film never happened, overshadowed by more significant stories in the series.

Then there’s Star Trek Nemesis, a movie that aimed for emotional impact but has since been effectively overwritten by later franchise developments. Data’s dramatic death, which was intended to mirror the gravity of Spock’s sacrifice in The Wrath of Khan, was undone in a way by Star Trek: Picard. Data’s resurrection as a synthetic being and the subsequent evolution of his character rendered his death in Nemesis far less meaningful. Additionally, the film’s exploration of the Romulan Empire was largely negated by the events of the 2009 Star Trek reboot and storylines in Picard.

Star Trek: First Contact Will Always Be TNG’s Best Movie

Its Storyline Still Resonates Today

First Contact, however, stands apart. While the others have been diminished or overwritten by modern Star Trek, First Contact retains its place as a pivotal piece of the universe’s history. While certain elements of the movie will undoubtedly age over time, its core themes and narrative significance ensure that it will always be more than just a great TNG film. It continues to be a touchstone for Star Trek creators, influencing storylines and character arcs, and it’s a go-to recommendation for introducing new fans to the franchise.

When placed alongside the other TNG films, First Contact is the one that still matters. The heart and soul of the movie — the hope it offers for humanity’s future and the lessons it provides about our past — means it transcends its TNG contemporaries.

For both longtime Star Trek fans and newcomers curious to explore the franchise, First Contact is the one true must-watch. It captures the sense of wonder, a belief in the potential of humanity, and, most importantly, a compelling story that makes Star Trek special.