Filmmaker Roberto Orci has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to directRoberto worked as one of the writers on filmmaker JJ Abrams's original 2009 reboot and last year's sequel, reported Deadline. (Also read: Star Trek Into Darkness to release in India first Abrams has stepped away from the franchise in a directorial capacity due to his commitments toRoberto has become the top candidate to replace JJ Abrams due to his extensive work on the franchise, despite the fact that this would be his first time directing a feature film.Roberto is currently working on the screenplay foralong with JD Payne and Patrick McKay. (Also read: Star Trek sequel titled Star Trek Into Darkness Benedict Cumberbatch has also hinted that he could return as the villainous Khan Noonien Singh in the next movie.