LEXINGTON, Kentucky – The Kentucky Theatre came alive with the glamour of Hollywood on October 10, 2024, as it hosted a special screening of the documentary “William Shatner: You Can Call Me Bill.” The event saw 93-year-old actor William Shatner gracing the red carpet alongside his wife, Elizabeth Shatner, Legion M Co-Founder Paul Scanlan, and director Alexandre O. Philippe.
The documentary chronicles Shatner’s life journey from his childhood to becoming a Hollywood icon. Described as a project that “strips away all the masks (Shatner) has worn,” the film reveals the man behind the many characters he has played throughout his illustrious career.
Following the screening, Shatner and Philippe engaged in a Q&A session, where they shared insights about their experiences during the making of the film.
When asked about the most surprising lesson learned throughout his diverse career, Shatner reflected on the essence of storytelling: “When you make up a story like when you were kids … you make up things that don’t exist. … You conceive the idea, write it, direct it, hire the people, edit it … and then you got to sell it.”
Philippe elaborated on the interview process he utilized for the documentary, stating, “An interview is a process of discovery for you and for me. I think anytime I’m talking to someone at length … my job is to pay attention to what you want to tell me and to follow that.”
Shatner also shared some of his personal highlights from the past year, mentioning his endeavors in releasing two albums, writing a book titled “Boldly Go,” and spending quality time with his family and their dog.
“William Shatner: You Can Call Me Bill” is currently available for rent or purchase on various streaming platforms.
This event not only showcased Shatner’s enduring legacy but also highlighted the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. The documentarian and subject have crafted a narrative that resonates with audiences wishing to discover the man behind the legendary performances.
As Shatner continues to inspire fans and aspiring artists alike, his journey remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the art of cinema.
