George Takei will be joining the Gold Coast Film Festival this Saturday for a special one-off Q&A session following the screening of his documentary film, 'To Be Takei'.
The documentary focuses on the extraordinary life story of actor/ activist George Takei, best known for his portrayal of Lt. Hikaru Sulu in Gene Roddenberry's original 'Star Trek'. Directed by Jennifer M. Croot, the film touches on all aspects of Takei's life, including some of his earliest memories behind barbed-wire fences at an internment camp.
After the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbour in 1941, the American government rounded up Japanese-Americans and forced them into interment camps for the remainder of the War World II. With machine guns being pointed at people from guard towers and search lights constantly following them throughout the night, Takei's earliest memories stem from one of the darkest chapters of American history.
The film also covers his time on 'Star Trek', as well as his difficulties with lead actor William Shatner. Takei appeared on Comedy Central's roast of William, with the two mocking each other in good humour. Takei ended his set saying he was honoured to be there, despite their past tensions before hugging Shatner.
Takei is also a regular guest announcer on 'The Howard Stern Show' since it moved to satellite radio back in 2006. In 2007, iconic broadcaster and self-proclaimed 'King Of All Media', Howard Stern said the response to George Takei's contributions on his show were universally loved by all his listeners. In combination with his rich, theatrical voice and his willingness to open up on any subject, Takei remains a valuable asset to the show to this day. The documentary covers Takei's time on 'The Howard Stern Show' with an appearance of Howard himself, mainly to complain about the collection of footage taking place in his studio.
Although closeted to the public for many years, Takei came out as gay in 2005 in response to attempts to block same-sex marriage in California. He has since been an outspoken activist in regards to LGBTI rights. He is currently the spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign 'Coming Out Project'.
In 2011, he created a YouTube video called 'It's OK To Be Takei', launching a campaign in response a law passing in Tennessee that would prevent teachers from using the word 'gay' in effort to dissuade them from talking about gay rights and marriage. He offered his last name, Takei (which rhymes with gay) to be substituted in place of the term, offering phrases like, 'Takei Marriage', 'Takei Pride Parade' and 'that's so Takei'.
Takei's husband whom he marries in 2008, Brad Takei is featured throughout the film. The couple have been together for over 18 years and their loving bond is on full display in 'To Be Takei'. Brad also helps manage Takei's Facebook fan page, which currently has over 8 million people followers. Through the use of his social media presence, Takei is relevant with people of all ages.
George and Brad Takei With a career spanning over several decades, George Takei is an iconic figure of our times. Through his undeniable charm, warmth and compassion, it's almost impossible to dislike the man. 'To Be Takei' is certified fresh with a 91percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This along with a special Q&A with the man himself following the film at the Gold Coast Film Festival, 'To Be Takei' is a must-see experience.
'To Be Takei' screens at the Arts Centre Gold Coast on April 18 as part of the Gold Coast Film Festival.
