For the Love of Spock

Directed by Adam Nimoy, this documentary began as a collaborative project with his father Leonard to examine the phenomenon of Mr. Spock in and out of the Star Trek universe. When the elder Nimoy died in 2015, Adam expanded the film to also embrace his father's life and career. Mr. Spock, the half-Vulcan, half-human science officer on the USS Enterprise in Star Trek, grew from being a pop culture figure into an international icon. Nimoy had been an actor for over a decade—appearing in bit parts and supporting roles in movies and on TV—when he took on the role written for him by Gene Roddenberry. Although Nimoy went on to enjoy a successful career in movies, TV, theater, and even as a director, he was forever identified with the iconic role of Spock. The film explores Nimoy's roots (he drew from his childhood growing up Jewish in Boston for Spock), life, career, and troubled relationship with his family, ultimately coming across as a loving portrait of the actor by his son. But it is most illuminating when exploring Nimoy's love-hate relationship with the character of Spock, which he finally embraced after reviving the role in a series of Star Trek movies. Featuring interviews with Nimoy's colleagues, friends, family, and fans (including renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson), this is recommended. (S. Axmaker)