For the Love of Spock (2016)

Good story, Not enough for a whole film

Fresh and Exciting

Funny, strange, confrontational and subversive, this is one of the most interesting experiences you'll have at the cinema this year.

Actress is magnificent and exudes a hypnotic screen presence in this affecting drama.

(*Memorable "Spock" quote*) - "Live long and prosper."If you l-o-v-e Spock (aka. Leonard Nimoy) - Then - You really gotta see "For the Love of Spock".Nimoy had played the Spock character for 50 years - And, I think that you will agree with me - He portrayed his beloved alter-ego perfectly.Through stills, rare film-footage, and interviews with both Nimoy family members and those who had worked around him - Nimoy is unanimously looked upon, by one and all, with the greatest of admiration and respect.This intriguing and informative documentary is, indeed, a labour of love that was directed by Adam Nimoy, Leonard's grown son (who clearly shows a striking resemblance to his father).*Note* - In 2015 - Leonard Nimoy (83 at the time) died from incurable lung disease.

Despite the fact that William Shatner's Captain Kirk was the ostensible lead of "Star Trek: The Original Series", it was ultimately Leonard Nimoy's Mr. Spock that often stole the show. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Trek, Leonard's son Adam Nimoy decided to make a documentary somewhat focusing on his father's time as Spock. When Leonard unexpectedly passed from COPD, however, Adam decided that the documentary must take on a more personal, emotional tone. "For the Love of Spock" was the end result, an emotional piece that thrives on its ability to show Mr. Nimoy the husband and father.Because Nimoy (and his alter-ego Spock) had become such a luminous figure in the entertainment community, it is very interesting to get "insider" glimpses into what his life was like when the cameras stopped rolling. That is the heart and soul of "For The Love Of Spock". Thoughts about Leonard/Spock from fellow actors and family members are quite poignant, while Adam's composure and dignity in hearing all this about his father is interesting to take in as well.The reason I can't give this the full five stars is because the parts dealing with Trek/Spock in general are rather generic, using footage I had seen before and not really giving me any new information. Without the shift in focus towards the familial side of Nimoy, I think this may have been a rather middle-of-the-road documentary.Overall, though, I very much enjoyed watching "For the Love of Spock", as it provided me with new insight into the personality of Leonard Nimoy and how not only his peers but also his family viewed him. Adam Nimoy does a good job of getting the most out of the experience, and many emotional moments are present. Highly recommend for those who still can't quite believe that Mr. Nimoy has left this mortal coil, and want to get a peek into his life both on and off camera.

As I watched, I started to realize that this was no ordinary fan film but was instead one of the most incredibly well made biographical documentaries I'd ever seen. The closest thing to it was the amazing documentary on Roger Ebert, Life Itself (2014). And, because of that, the film has appeal for everyone…not just Trekkers, Trekkies and the like.The driving force behind this film is Leonard Nimoy's son, Adam. Adam had envisioned making a film about just the Spock character but later decided to also make it about his father as well…particularly since Leonard had just died. However, Adam didn't have the money to make the film and did what many indie filmmakers do today—he started a Kickstarter campaign. Now considering this, you would expect the resulting film to be cheap…really, really cheap. And this is what really shocked me about the film, as it was anything but cheap. In fact, it looked as if the documentary cost many millions to make. All the clips from the original Star Trek show were gorgeously remastered and vividly colored and it's obvious that Adam was able to get the studio to give him access to these clips. But, more importantly, the number of stars from the Trek franchise in the film was incredible— and not just from the original show but the new movies as well. It also helped that the film features much of the narration by Leonard as well as some nice clips of the man as he talks about his life, his family and legacy.As far as the film goes, it's part biography of Leonard Nimoy, part the history of the Spock character as well as healthy doses of the family life of Nimoy…a family life that was, sadly, rather rocky until his later years. But, and this is what I really enjoyed, there was redemption for him and his estranged children and grandchildren… which leads to the part of the film where you really do need to brace yourself and have some Kleenex handy. I found myself shedding a few tears as Adam and his sister revealed how estranged this relationship had been as well as the efforts made to repair it…as well as Adam's sad second marriage. As I said, this part is tough to watch—but ultimately very satisfying.I score this movie a 10, something I almost never do. This is because like the Ebert film I mentioned, it was not just some superficial biography but a deep look into who the person was. It also features absolutely amazing special effects and is a quality production throughout. Clearly it's a must-see for Trek fans but anyone could enjoy and learn from this slickly produced film. One of the best films of the year and a movie that just debuted with Netflix's streaming service.

A touching and well made tribute to an entertainment icon. Adam Nimoy has truly reached deep into his father's, and his own, past experiences to bring to life this crowd funded portrait of the man who gave us the immortal Mr. Spock. Littered with cameos from fellow cast members, directors, fans, conventioneers, and fellow actors, For The Love of Spock is one of the best biographical documentaries I've ever seen, and an essential for the Trek faithful. Not limited to the professional, the younger Nimoy also relates his own experiences at home both as a child and later in their lives. You'll laugh, you'll cry... and perhaps relive some of what made Nimoy beloved to millions.