Matt Damon in 'Star Trek' or Not?

Hit filmmaker JJ Abrams just finished his latest box-office smash, 'Mission Impossible III' and publicly manifested his intention to sign Matt Damon for the next 'Star Trek' movie.

Damon, if he were to accept the offer, would have to play the role of Kirk, to tread were other men have also trod before and to fill in the shoes of the exceptional William Shatner, who was the most memorable captain in the TV series.

Kevin Smith, director and close friend of the star, who has worked with him previously in the comedy 'Dogma', confesses that he has serious doubts as to Matt's willingness to accept a part that lacks so much originality. Smith acclaims Damon's unconventionality and desire to play controversial and breaking-through parts and believes that Kirk doesn't quite fit in this picture.

Nevertheless, knowing JJ's power to convince people to do as he bids, he states that, should Matt accept to be the younger Kirk, then Spock should be played by Ben Affleck. The pre-Enterprise on-screen couple should find its counterpart in real life, too, Smith's opinion on the subject is, adding that the choice is actually, quote, 'like a no-brainer!'

The actor or his PRs have made no comment yet on the upcoming movie role.