Celebrating the Legacy of William Shatner: A Cultural Journey
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Chapter 1: An Icon's Enduring Influence
Have you come to terms with the legacy of William Shatner? At 93, his time with us is limited, which will undoubtedly be a shock. Shatner has woven himself into the fabric of our culture, much like Superman and Batman. Even those who don't delve into comic books recognize Superman's presence across generations. None of us experienced a time before Superman, just as we can't recall moments without William Shatner.
This sentiment differs from the passing of Stan Lee in 2018, who was known for his playful cameos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. By that point, many had a vague understanding of his role in creating the Marvel Universe.
What an extraordinary journey: Shatner could have retired after his iconic roles in Twilight Zone and Star Trek, both of which continue to resonate in popular culture. By choosing to persist, he has crafted a dynamic legacy that benefits both himself and his audience.
Following a successful limited theatrical release, the documentary William Shatner: You Can Call Me Bill is now accessible for online purchase or rental. (#SetTheVCR: It's also available for streaming through Hoopla with a library card.)
This inspiring documentary serves as a heartfelt tribute, allowing fans to express gratitude for the numerous adventures he has brought into our lives. It encourages us to celebrate the joy and laughter he has shared with us (Airplane II: The Sequel remains a classic).
For an enriching experience, check out this interview with Alexandre O. Philippe, the director of the documentary, on My Summer Lair. During our conversation, Alex shared his insights.
Chapter 2: The Overview Effect
William Shatner's efforts to articulate the experience of seeing Earth from space highlight what is known as The Overview Effect.
"The Overview Effect refers to a shift in awareness experienced by some astronauts during spaceflight, particularly when observing Earth from beyond its atmosphere."
This profound realization is heart-wrenching as one contemplates our beautiful blue planet and recognizes the unnecessary suffering stemming from environmental decline and social injustice. It’s a perspective that transcends the local, revealing the broader human experience.
Perspective indeed transforms everything. We all understand this when we ascend to the heights of the Space Needle, CN Tower, or Empire State Building.
After his Blue Origin sub-orbital flight on October 13, 2021, Shatner reflected on the experience, stating to ABC News: "I hope I never recover from this."
Star Trek is approaching its 60th anniversary, and we've yet to truly recover from our initial encounter with Captain Kirk and his eclectic crew in 1966. What began as a five-year mission has evolved into decades of exploring the cosmos and reveling in the wonders of this vast universe.
"In the 58 years since, the Star Trek galaxy has amassed 900 television episodes and 13 feature films, equating to an impressive 668 hours — nearly 28 days — of content."
Shatner graced two episodes of The Twilight Zone: "Nick of Time" (1960) and "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet" (1963). The latter remains one of my all-time favorite episodes. Shatner portrays a man grappling with a nervous breakdown, haunted by the creature on the wing. "I hope I never recover from this." Indeed.
I was struck by the grim and profound opening narration of "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet": "the darkest corner of The Twilight Zone."
Farewell, William Shatner. Here’s the full Rod Serling narration:
William Shatner has always been part of our lives, akin to the sun and moon; he has never not been there. From T. J. Hooker to Boston Legal, he has been a constant presence.
But time is fleeting… he is 93.
You Can Call Me Bill is a testament to hope and creativity… showcasing the journey of a boy from Montreal who ventured into space.
Chapter 3: Reflections on Life
You Can Call Me Bill, directed by Alexandre Philippe, who has previously created insightful documentaries on the Xenomorph and Psycho, presents a powerful moment. Shatner reflects on the death of Kirk in Star Trek: Generations, a 1994 sci-fi film.
"There was a closeup of me as Kirk dies. I wanted Kirk to die the way he lived… with courage. I always portrayed Kirk with curiosity. I wanted that to be his death. And… I wish I'd had another take at it."
~ William Shatner
This statement from a 93-year-old actor contemplating his character's demise reveals a longing for one more opportunity.
In life, however, second chances are not always available. This is the only life we have—there are no dress rehearsals.
Shatner shares similarities with the Beastie Boys, as explored in their documentary Beastie Boys Story: fame brings its challenges, and it takes time to grow into a version of oneself that is comfortable in their own skin.
Once you find your footing: life can be fulfilling. People either embrace you, remain indifferent, or reject you.
Now, let’s dive deeper: I have Star Trek sentiments to express and emotions to unravel.
Chapter 4: The Future of Star Trek
On March 27th, Variety published an intriguing report card on the future of Star Trek: "From 'Starfleet Academy' to New Movies and Michelle Yeoh, How the 58-Year-Old Franchise Is Planning for the Next Generation of Fans."
Having been a fan since the days of Captain Kirk, I didn’t always grasp the intricate social commentary or political subtleties—like how Klingons symbolized American fears during the Cold War.
I was just a curious child. It was a spaceship, science fiction, exploration, and peril. Not every episode was a must-watch; I didn't always #SetTheVCR. But whenever I stumbled upon it on television, I was captivated.
I had a similar experience with Doctor Who in the '80s, particularly with Tom Baker episodes. TVO aired Doctor Who starting with The Three Doctors in 1976, and I would randomly discover episodes without knowing what was happening. It was British, time travel, scarves, and aliens—pure intrigue.
When Star Trek: The Next Generation premiered on September 28, 1987, I became a devoted viewer, tuning in every week. The early seasons had their struggles, trying to balance old-school charm with new storytelling.
However, the glimpse of what was to come emerged in the 16th episode of the second season, "Q Who," where Q flings the Enterprise 7,000 light-years into conflict with the formidable Borg.
Q and the Borg in a single episode? Consider my interest piqued. This was a thrilling yet terrifying first encounter.
The episode also holds significance: 42 is famously known as the Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, The Universe, and Everything, according to Douglas Adams in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. The Borg and Q would become pivotal to our enjoyment in the following decades.
After Next Gen concluded, I wrestled with Deep Space Nine. While "Far Beyond the Stars" is a stunning episode, I found Deep Space Nine to be a poor fit for my tastes.
Then came Voyager, which resonated deeply with me. I’ve watched the entire series five times, evangelizing its brilliance to anyone who would listen.
However, following the series finale on May 23, 2001, we were left without weekly visits. Truthfully, I miss Star Trek; it feels like an old flame.
Next Gen was exhilarating, and Voyager was a treasure. We shared memorable moments, but then I felt abandoned.
Currently, I refuse to engage with any pre-Kirk Star Trek.
There’s little to gain from that. My concern lies in the potential dilution of continuity, aimed at attracting a less knowledgeable audience. While I understand the economic motivations behind this approach, I do not accept it.
The comic industry often falls into similar traps, with cheap renumbering that undermines dedicated fans.
If you're new to the fandom: welcome! Here’s your nerd homework:
"In the 58 years since, the Star Trek galaxy has logged 900 television episodes and 13 feature films, amounting to 668 hours — nearly 28 days — of content to date."
Put in the effort. Open your mind.
This is a universal standard across all beloved franchises: it's 2024; roll up your sleeves.
I know a 12-year-old currently on Season 3 of The Simpsons. Fantastic; keep going—there are over 30 seasons left. Better grab some strong coffee or a Red Bull!
Thus, my personal policy is clear: no to Enterprise, Discovery, J.J. Abrams' Star Wrecked, and Strange New Worlds.
However, I did watch all three seasons of Picard as it advanced the story. Despite its unevenness, I pondered the purpose of Season 1—how did it enrich the character's depth?
Nostalgia can dilute quality. What’s our aim here?
Variety aptly points out that our fandom is not getting younger. Observations from conventions confirm this. Jonathan Frakes notes: "Star Trek fans are very, very, very loyal — and not very young."
How do we attract new fans while preserving the core continuity that has defined this franchise?
How do we avoid compromises that stifle hope and diminish joy?
Ultimately, this journey is meant to be a thrilling adventure.
As much as I miss Star Trek, I also yearn for that sense of fun and unexpected surprises. Each week, my crew and I had one simple request: show me something incredible. Thankfully, our universe is vast and never fails to amaze.
Here’s to boldly going… once more, soon.
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Sammy Younan is the engaging host of My Summer Lair: think NPR's Fresh Air meets Kevin Smith—interviews & insights on pop culture.