I live in Massachusetts, one of the more progressive states in the Union and also known for its love of indie movies. I could not find To Be Takei in any local theaters though the promotions hit my doorstep, which is why I had to wait until To Be Takei was available on Netflix’s streaming service. To Be Takei is a captivating documentary about the life of George Takei, who is known as an acting pioneer, an icon, a gay rights activist and an online personality. To Be Takei traces his current pursuits as a living memorial of America’s historical sins of WWII and intersperses it with tales of his life as a child to now.
To Be Takei isn’t simply some documentary made by an uncritical, adoring fan, but shows Takei at his lower points as well: when he fails to advocate for his husband then partner’s presence at a ceremony, when he denies who he is on Howard Stern’s show and when he makes a fellow actor who clearly loves Takei crestfallen at a casual remark on the actor’s appearance. To Be Takei also does an amazing job of not overlooking and devoting a considerable amount of time to Brad Takei.
To Be Takei has something for everyone who has loved Takei at some point in his decades long career. There is plenty of gossip for the Trekkies. I would have happily paid money to see To Be Takei so now that it is available on Netflix, nothing should stand in your way.