Related story: Review of “Star Trek: Into Darkness”
Taking on one of the most popular and iconic roles in science fiction history can be a rather daunting prospect, but John Cho said he’s had plenty of encouragement from the man who matters most.
“He’s said, ‘You’re doing great,’ and that’s important,” Cho said of the support he has received from George Takei, the original Mr. Sulu from the “Star Trek” television series.
“He’s a real pat-on-the-back kind of guy, which is a relief, because I desperately seek his approval,” Cho said.
Cho, who has made his own indelible mark with roles in such films as the “Harold and Kumar” series, said he fully understands the importance as well as the fanaticism of lifelong Trekkies. He explained that since those fans are known for being extraordinarily familiar with the minutiae of “Trek,” he has to take care when discussing the films.
“Well, you never want to put your foot in your mouth.That’s why George is better than me,” he explained. “He’s a real [series creator Gene] Roddenberry devotee, and he just knows a lot about everything.”
In “Star Trek: Into Darkness,” Cho again plays helmsman Hikaru Sulu, and at one point in the film, is made acting skipper of the legendary starship Enterprise. Settling into the captain’s chair – a feat that has been played infinite times in the imaginations of generations of fans – was a crowning moment for Cho.
“I actually tried to avoid it, until we shot the scene, just so it would feel new. On the first one [2009’s “Star Trek”], everyone tried to sit in the chair (laughs), and it was a little like musical chairs, because there weren’t enough seats for all the bottoms. Definitely wish fulfillment of the highest order.”
–Mikey Hirano Culross