To Be Takei

To Be Takei is a charming and insightful 2014 documentary directed by Jennifer M. Kroot. The film offers an intimate look at the life and career of the actor George Takei, an iconic figure renowned for his role as Mr. Sulu on the legendary Star Trek series. Far from a standard Hollywood exposition, To Be Takei delves deep into the multifaceted layers of Takei's personal life, his civil rights advocacy, and his ground-breaking role as one of the most recognizable Asian-American actors in television history. To Be Takei effectively sheds light on the man behind the Sulu character, demonstrating just how he transformed from a Hollywood actor into a celebrated idol of popular culture.

The documentary opens by introducing George Takei as he navigates his 70s with extraordinary energy and vitality. His everyday life is beautifully captured, including his interactions with his husband, Brad Takei. Together, they have been vocal advocates for LGBT rights, human rights, and of course, Star Trek fanatics. They are openly seen as a loving and committed couple, and their genuine chemistry acts as a heartwarming axis to the film.

Yet, To Be Takei doesn't solely focus on the highs of Takei's life. The film meticulously explores the hardships he encountered in his earlier years, when he and his family were taken to a Japanese-American internment camp during World War II. The horrors he experienced reflect the terrible history of civil rights violations in the United States, shifting the tone of the documentary from lighthearted to profound and impactful.

Not only does the documentary delve into Takei's time spent in the internment camp, but it also documents his continuous efforts to make this tragic chapter of American history widely known. His advocacy for the remembrance and understanding of the internment camps helps frame him as not just an actor, but also a significant figure in civil rights history. As the documentary skilfully juxtaposes these specific moments of Takei's life, viewers gain an appreciation for the strength and resilience that fueled his course in life, enabling him to turn adversity into advocacy.

From the personal exploration, the documentary pivots towards Takei's professional life again, capturing the defining moment when he is cast as Hikaru Sulu in Star Trek in the 1960s, a landmark role that marked a departure from the stereotypical roles given to Asian actors at the time. With this, To Be Takei paints a picture of the progress made across worlds, both real and fictional, emphasizing how George Takei helped to break barriers and shatter stereotypes within the industry.

Moreover, the film explores his broader role within the Star Trek franchise, his relationships with his fellow cast members, and the enduring cultural phenomenon driven by a loyal fan base that has elevated him to his status as a beloved icon. Co-star Walter Koenig makes an appearance, sharing insider-tidbits about their time on Star Trek.

In spite of the exploration of important themes, To Be Takei carries a sense of humor and lightness throughout. Takei's infectious laugh and charismatic personality are evidently tied to every scene, capturing his undeniable charm. Moreover, his unique ability to champion serious issues while maintaining his infectious sense of humor leaves the audience laughing, crying, and critically thinking all at once.

In essence, To Be Takei is a captivating journey of a man whose personal life, career trajectory, and civil rights activism have all intersected in compelling and significant ways. It is a joyous experience for fans and non-fans alike who are interested to see the breadth and depth of George Takei—beyond the captain's chair and into the world where he continues to boldly go.