The Captains (2011)

In the heart-stirring documentary film, "Star Trek: The Captains", pop culture icon William Shatner embarks on an engrossing odyssey, engaging in profound dialogues with the esteemed actors who have captained Starships within the beloved science-fiction franchise. Shatner, the original Captain James T. Kirk, candidly interviews Sir Patrick Stewart, Avery Brooks, Kate Mulgrew, Scott Bakula, and Chris Pine, each renowned for their commanding roles in the Star Trek universe. Interweaving intimate revelations and vibrant storytelling, Shatner delves into the pressures and pitfalls each actor faced while donning the Starfleet uniform. For the first time, he uncloaks his own insecurities about the role that propelled him to stardom, painting an honest portrayal of the human struggle behind the screen. The film takes a deep dive into the actors' lives and careers before they took the helm of their respective Starships. It pays homage to Shatner's journey from his humble beginnings at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival and CBC Radio, through to his Broadway triumphs and finally to Hollywood, where he steered Gene Roddenberry's audacious vision to fruition. In a delightful detour to Stratford, Ontario, Shatner reunites with his old friend, the legendary Christopher Plummer. Their friendship, rooted in the early days of Shatner's career, came full circle on the Star Trek stage, further deepening the emotional resonance of this documentary. "Star Trek: The Captains" is a captivating exploration of more than just acting and the iconic shows. It reveals the raw, human emotions of individuals striving for perfection in their craft, making the sacrifices worthwhile. Guided by Shatner's charming and soulful presence, the film leaves an enduring footprint on the viewer's heart, offering a fresh perspective on life, death, and the legacy left behind.

The Captains is a documentary movie featuring William Shatner.

The Captains is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Freevee, Peacock, Peacock Premium, Pluto TV, Redbox, Shout! Factory TV, The Roku Channel and Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy The Captains on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.