[RedShirtWalking]

Well, it wouldn't necessarily explain the budget. I think we'd have heard if they were shooting two movies at once. The cast has signed a 3 picture deal, so I'm inclined to think they're doing one film at a time.

[sir num nums]

With this being Part 1 of a possible trilogy, they more than likely would not film any other parts of a sequel until they know this one is a hit.

Once it is a hit, AND IT WILL BE , and they then decide to shoot the next film, they may go ahead and film ST:12 and ST:13 at one time.

[RedShirtWalking]

I think that would probably depend on things like Zachary Quinto's schedule on Heroes and whether or not he could get enough time off to shoot back-to-back features. After a writers' strike, Heroes will likely want to come back with a full season and in a big way. Given the ending of the last chapter (and without giving anything away), I think it's safe to say that Quinto will be a pretty busy guy.

[RATEDNCC1701]

Nero may be linked with the sequels, if they are to come. If he pops in at the end of the move, which isn't neccessarily the case as movies are shot out of order according to the scenes, then he will most likely be the link to the next movie, unless he is killed in the movie, which I doubt.

[Legend]

I think the budget says more than anything that Paramount has a lot of faith in the project rather than suggesting sequels. They've allocated a larger budget for a single picture rather than to allow filming back-to-back on sequels.

Plus, Bana has been known to spout total twaddle in interviews, so a pinch of salt is needed there until anything is confirmed!