Behind George Takei’s self-effacing humour, positive outlook, suave composure, and fierce advocacy lies a painful past.

Director Jennifer M. Kroot delves into the formative experiences of the Star Trek icon, from growing up in a Japanese-American internment camp and coming to terms with his sexual orientation to his struggles as an Asian-American actor.

His often amusing relationship with his husband, Brad, provides levity, and the documentary also captures his knack for transcending differences through universal appeal—something essential to his unexpected resurgence in the age of the Internet.

Playhouse, May 8 (7:30 p.m.)