5/21/14

To Be Takei

This entertaining documentary was submitted by the USA for the 2014 Seattle International Film Festival. This review was first published 05-21-14. Directed by Jennifer Kroot, it follows the life and times of George Takei, better known as Sulu in the classic "Star Trek" television and movie series.

These times are roughly divided into:
  • Childhood and the Japanese Relocation during WWII: George was born a happy little ham, ready to entertain guests at the drop of a hat: "Hey! I just learned Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star! Do you want me to sing it for you?"
  • College, acting and realizing he was homosexual: Sometimes camp counselors teach about more than just building fires.
  • Launching a career in Hollywood movies and television: A continuing character on "Hawaiian Eye," countless guest shots on other TV shows, then "Star Trek," television AND the movies.
  • Becoming a gay activist and well-known celebrity: After coming out of the closet, he became a good-natured and humorous spokesman for gay issues.
  • Developing a musical "Allegiance" which he hopes to move to Broadway this year (2014). This is a way for him to apologize to his long-dead father for some words spoken in anger.
For the last 40 years, he has been with Brad Altman, who has finally become his husband when California made gay marriages legal. Both men are charming, witty and completely at ease with themselves.

By the way, he reminds us that his name is pronounced "Tah kay'," like in "Toupee." We enjoyed this one very much.
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Here is the preview:
http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi4092898329
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