I just realized this past weekend that William Shatner is a genius! I love him!
I mentioned in my last post that I watched one of Chris Pine's previous movies after seeing the new Star Trek movie (again!).
Well, I also went back and watched about a dozen episodes of the 1966-1969 Star Trek series, available virtually ad-free on www.imdb.com. (No 10-minute YouTube segments to cope with.)
Now I know why all the fans are fanatics! The show is absolutely addictive. And yes, the contrived adventures are all interesting (I mean, fascinating) and speak their lessons, but by far it is the acting of William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy that made the whole thing worthwhile!
William Shatner's Captain Kirk is totally charming. He usually looks ready to smile (that is, of course, when he's not being threatened or tortured), and he's always honorable, trusting, and kind. I love his sense of humor. And also, of course, very handsome.
And all the stars so fit and trim! They were hot!
William Shatner looks like he loved the role. Some of the scenes - I swear - are written just so one or the other (or both) of he or Leonard Nimoy had the opportunity to act. Act in character, act totally out of character, act with all kinds of histrionics, or act with inanimate objects and other silly props. (Devil in the Dark monster, anyone?) It's amazing! They are both so wonderful to watch. (Although, admittedly, Captain Kirk never seemed to have learned to fight so well.)
I'll definitely be watching additional episodes over the next few weeks. I can't get enough of them!
But back to William Shatner... When you look at his list of works on www.imdb.com, it's totally impressive how much he has worked over the past 40+ years. And he's still acting! I haven't seen Boston Legal, but I trust the show and Shatner deserved their Emmy nominations over the years!
And www.imdb.com also lists Mr. Shatner's other interests and contributions. According to IMDB, he, "Produces and hosts the annual Hollywood Charity Horse Show which he founded in 1990. Over $1.25 million has been raised for children's charities, such as Ahead With Horses, L.A.'s BEST and Children's Museum of Los Angeles."
Finally, I walked in to Barnes & Noble the other day and picked up Mr. Shatner's book to browse through. It's FUNNY! And that's when I was certain - the man is a comedic genius! His best, best quality is he doesn't take himself too seriously. I'm hooked!
Oh wait! Finally, finally - I loved learning that William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy are old friends. Doesnt' that just warm your heart?!
