The Captains

The Captains is an intriguing documentary released in 2011, directed by and starring William Shatner, who originated the role of Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek series. Not only is this a film about intriguing characters, but it also provides an intimate understanding of the people who brought these famous Star Trek captains to life.

As the protagonist, Shatner utilizes his unique insight into these captains' roles, embarking on a personal and deeply meaningful journey. The documentary style showcases Shatner's natural storytelling talent, with personal, unscripted moments and anecdotes from the industry.

Joining Shatner are four of the other actors who played the Star Trek commanders in subsequent series — Patrick Stewart of Star Trek: The Next Generation, Avery Brooks of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Kate Mulgrew of Star Trek: Voyager, and Scott Bakula of Star Trek: Enterprise. The conversations amongst these legends presents a deeply encompassing view of how Star Trek has touched these individuals and left a lasting impact on them.

Patrick Stewart, who played Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, shares his journey from a classically trained Shakespearean actor to embracing the character of an iconic Starfleet captain. The trajectory of his career and life were altered by this treasured role, and the magnitude of its influence is fully emphasized during his conversation with Shatner.

Similarly, Avery Brooks, who portrayed Captain Benjamin Sisko in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, discusses his role's complexities while delving into his deep-rooted love for jazz and teaching. The intersections of Star Trek and his personal passions and beliefs open up profound conversations around fame, race, and culture.

The Captains is not just a series of interviews, though. Shatner takes a global trek to meet his fellow Captains in-person, culminating in a thoughtful exploration of each actor's life journey before, during, and after their stint in Starfleet. It makes the audience realize the depth and range these actors possessed and how they used their distinct personalities and life experiences to create their individual captain personas.

Woven into the documentary is the palpable love the actors have for their characters and the Star Trek franchise, which resonates with the journey of Shatner himself. Each actor has dealt with the fame and adoration that comes with being a part of this massive franchise in their way, and their resultant careers and lives are a testament to the power of this iconic series.

The Captains' engaging narrative is a blend of warm humor, thoughtful introspection, and emotional revelation that forms an engrossing viewing experience. You don't only see the close bond among the captains but also the shared experience of being part of a legendary phenomenon. It's a glimpse into the lives and minds of these artists, offering viewers an understanding of their individual struggles, victories, and the legacy they carry forward.

Directed by Shatner, the film also uses archival footages, fan events, and behind-the-scenes snippets. It demonstrates how the role of a Starfleet captain—while set in a fictional universe—has had a very real, lifelong impact on these actors. Their personal stories are unmistakably affecting and often surprising, but entirely authentic.

In conclusion, The Captains offer a unique, backstage pass to the world of Star Trek, told by the individuals who know it best. It's a must-see, not only for Star Trek enthusiasts but for anyone interested in fascinating biographical stories, the culture around popular series, or understanding the indelible influence of characters on the actors who portray them. It's fun, entirely human, and filled with the spirit of the series: boldly going where no one has gone before.