Robert Kazinsky, now a Star Trek movie star, traces his love for the franchise back to his childhood. A trip to Butlins holiday camp with his "Trekker" mother introduced him to Star Trek: Generations, sparking a lifelong passion. This initial exposure led him to explore other Star Trek films, with Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home holding a special place in his heart for its compelling storytelling that transcended the sci-fi genre. He then delved into Star Trek: The Motion Picture and the subsequent films, eventually expanding his horizons to include Star Trek: The Next Generation. For the next three decades, Star Trek became a cornerstone of his personality and worldview, influencing his perspective on life.
Kazinsky’s journey culminated in his role as Zeph in Star Trek: Section 31, a film centered around Emperor Philippa Georgiou, played by Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh. Initially conceived as a spin-off series from Star Trek: Discovery, Section 31 evolved into a full-length feature, marking the franchise’s first movie made for streaming. The film explores Georgiou’s involvement with the clandestine Section 31, a secretive organization tasked with protecting the Federation, forcing her to confront her past actions. Kazinsky joins a cast that includes Omari Hardwick and Sam Richardson, portraying Zeph, a Section 31 operative equipped with a distinctive mechanical exoskeleton. This transition to streaming, Kazinsky believes, allows for a return to the franchise’s roots, prioritizing character-driven narratives over extravagant special effects.
Kazinsky argues that Star Trek thrived in its early days due to budget constraints. The lack of resources for elaborate set pieces forced writers to focus on strong characters and thought-provoking storylines, leading to the creation of memorable moral and intellectual parables. He contrasts this with some modern films and shows, where spectacle often overshadows substance. The smaller scale of streaming productions, in his view, allows for a return to this character-centric approach, reminiscent of the classic Star Trek formula that resonated with audiences. He posits that the move to streaming aligns with the evolving landscape of film consumption, where home viewing increasingly rivals the theatrical experience.
Despite being a lifelong Trekker, Kazinsky didn’t shy away from the possibility of his character, Zeph, meeting the fate of many a redshirt. He embraces the trope of the short-lived crew member, acknowledging the inherent humor in their predictable demise. However, his desire to be part of the Star Trek universe superseded any concerns about screen time or survival, considering even a brief appearance a significant achievement. Zeph, described as wisecracking, confident, and slightly cocky, was shaped through collaboration with the writers, director, and fellow cast members. The character evolved organically, finding his place within the ensemble and embodying the fundamental optimism and goodness at the heart of Star Trek.
The portrayal of Zeph, however, came with its physical challenges. Kazinsky’s mechanical exoskeleton, while visually striking, proved to be a cumbersome burden. Weighing around 50 pounds and accumulating sweat throughout filming, the suit became a source of discomfort. Its delicate construction, held together by tape and glue, led to frequent malfunctions and interrupted shots. Despite these practical difficulties, Kazinsky appreciated the suit’s artistic contribution to the character and its unique design, which avoided resembling the Borg aesthetic. He regards it as a "masterpiece" despite the on-set tribulations.
Beyond the physical demands, Kazinsky expresses hope for Zeph’s potential return, drawing on Star Trek’s established narrative flexibility regarding character deaths. He hints at an "Easter egg" in the film suggesting Zeph’s survival, leaving the door open for future appearances. This desire to revisit the character mirrors his fondness for Sean Slater, a role he played in the British soap opera EastEnders. He expresses a longing to reprise both roles, emphasizing his attachment to these characters and the worlds they inhabit. For Kazinsky, the journey into the Star Trek universe represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, one he hopes will continue beyond Section 31.
