He is an actors director, thats why he got Star Trek to work. I think when you look at his stuff theres plenty of character focus.....character focus in Lost (despite the ending) Super 8 and so on, all character based, so I beg to differ on that one....

He isnt anything like George 'cant write' Lucas or Michael 'lets rename it and blow the shit out it' Bay regardless of working with him.

People are singing his tune because they know he can and will deliver. I wouldn't really call lens flare a visual style LOL, just overuse of a filter in comp LOL or correctly place lights over lens on set. he knows how to deliver a narrative and knows how to draw you in.

J