Dundee-made Star Trek fan film explores time-travel mystery with local locations
- Andrew Batchelor
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
A new Star Trek fan film created in Dundee is gaining attention for its ambitious story and striking local backdrops.
The independently produced project, "Echoes: A Star Trek Fan Production", directed by Laura Barnes, follows the crew of the Starship Intrepid as they respond to a mysterious distress call from another era, leading them into a tense confrontation with the Venkari Solidarity and the discovery of a long-lost Starfleet officer.
The film blends classic Star Trek themes of exploration and time travel with a grounded, cinematic approach. Viewers are taken through a narrative that moves between timelines, building tension as the crew attempts to unravel the origins of the distress signal while navigating a volatile and unfamiliar threat.
Much of the production was filmed in recognisable locations across the east coast of Scotland.
Exterior scenes were shot at Tentsmuir, whose wide beaches and natural landscapes double as alien worlds, while interior scenes were filmed at the Abbey Theatre in Arbroath and at the Queen’s Hotel in Dundee.
The combination of these locations helps give the film a sense of scale despite its independent roots.
Writer Nick Cook said the project is part of a much longer creative journey, with similar productions taking place over the past two decades.
He explained that most of their films have been shot in and around Dundee, highlighting the area’s versatility for science fiction storytelling.
One exception saw the team film in San Francisco while on holiday, adding an international touch to their portfolio.
The latest release stands out not only for its story but also for the level of commitment behind it.
Creating a Star Trek-style production outside of a major studio comes with challenges, from costumes and effects to finding suitable locations, yet the Dundee-based team has continued to develop its work over many years.
Projects like this reflect a growing creative scene in Dundee and the local area, where independent filmmakers are using local spaces to tell ambitious stories.
