Television icon Leonard Nimoy died at age 83 today, but there's no questioning whether his work will live on for eternity. Spock is the thinking man's Fonz, a source of gravitas and cool wisdom whose appearances are deceiving. To celebrate, let's enjoy a Leonard Nimoy film fest that's entirely available to stream online riiiiight now. Here are some prime picks.
“Star Trek II-VI” (Netflix)
Something tells me you haven't indulged in Khan's wrath recently. It takes just a quick viewing of (gasp) Spock's funeral scene in the second film to make you remember how easy it is to get attached to these characters. Did you read Obama's small tribute to Spock? I was weeping in my car like Nicole Kidman in “Rabbit Hole” over that one.
“TJ Hooker” (Crackle)
You do realize that Nimoy and Shatner faced off on a pair of “TJ Hooker” episodes, don't you? It's elementary to point out, but Shatner has really enjoyed one of the top ten TV careers ever. And so has Ted Danson. Can you name a three-year stretch where Ted Danson wasn't owning television? I cannot.
“To Be Takei” (Netflix)
It always feels good to learn more about George Takei. His appearances on Stern are always revelatory, but this adorable and quietly insightful film (featuring Nimoy, of course) puts into perspective the man who found himself owning social media as a septuagenarian.
“Atlantis: The Lost Empire” (Netflix)
Remember this Disney jam from 2001? Maybe you don't. It's an adult-oriented animated movie that is crafted beautifully and stars Michael J. Fox as a linguist and cartographer who directs an excursion to Atlantis. Sure it's a little dull, but Leonard Nimoy shines in his role as Kashekim Nedakh, the King of Atlantis whose voice is richer than the profits of the studio.
“The Colbert Report” (Comedy Central)
Here's Leonard Nimoy advocating on behalf on female self-image issues. It is impossible not to fall in love with him here.