Star Trek Into Darkness has released an extended trailer that appears to contain a homage to Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.

From 0:56 onwards, the Japanese trailer contains footage not included in the US and UK versions, in which Kirk (Chris Pine) and Spock (Zachary Quinto) appear to re-enact a scene from Nicholas Meyer's beloved 1982 film.

youtubeView full post on Youtube

"Is there anything you would not do for your family?" Cumberbatch's villain asks in voiceover, as Kirk and Spock's hands touch through a pane of glass, recalling the pair's iconic farewell scene from The Wrath of Khan.

Ever since Cumberbatch was announced as the film's villain, speculation has been rife regarding the identity of his character, with many fans suggesting that he would play Khan.

However, a number of sources close to the film including Simon Pegg denied the rumour, insisting that Cumberbatch would not take on the role made famous by Ricardo Montalban.

Another report suggested that Cumberbatch would play Gary Mitchell, a former friend of Kirk's who was transformed into a ruthless megalomaniac by an encounter with a galactic barrier.

The identity of Cumberbatch's character has still not been revealed, but the Sherlock star has described the role as "iconic", and explained that the character is morally grey rather than black or white.

Star Trek Into Darkness will be released on May 17, 2013.

Gallery - Star Trek Into Darkness trailer:
Movies: Star Trek: Into Darkness trailer stills

Headshot of Emma Dibdin
Emma Dibdin

Emma Dibdin is a freelance writer based in Los Angeles who writes about culture, mental health, and true crime. She loves owls, hates cilantro, and can find the queer subtext in literally anything.