“Coroner to the Stars” is playing at Laemmle’s Glendale, 207 N. Maryland Ave., Glendale, from June 26 to July 2.
Directed by Ben Hethcoat and Keita Ideno, the documentary chronicles the extraordinary journey of Dr. Thomas Noguchi, now 99, the former Los Angeles County chief medical examiner-coroner whose groundbreaking autopsies forever shaped American culture.
From Marilyn Monroe and Robert Kennedy to Sharon Tate and Natalie Wood to William Holden and John Belushi, Noguchi’s outspoken expertise pushed forensic science into the spotlight — even as Hollywood elites and political adversaries sought to silence him.
A Japanese immigrant who unwittingly rose to fame in a city driven by stardom, Noguchi’s fearless pursuit of truth often placed him in the crosshairs of controversy.
Interviewees include actor George Takei, who was among members of the Japanese American community who came to Noguchi’s defense when he was fired.
The film was named best documentary feature at the Slamdance Film Festival, Tallgrass International Film Festival and Mammoth Lakes Film Festival.
Christopher Reed of Hammer and Nail said of Noguchi, “Both he and the film prove thoroughly engaging.”
Showtimes:
Friday, June 26: 3 and 10 p.m.
Saturday, June 27: 10 a.m., 3 p.m., 10 p.m.
Sunday, June 28: 10 a.m., 3 p.m.
Monday, June 29: 3 p.m.
Tuesday, June 30: 3 p.m.
Wednesday, July 1: 3 p.m.
Thursday, July 2: 3 p.m.
Tickets: www.laemmle.com/film/coroner-stars