Zachary Quinto has nothing but kind words to share on the topic of James Franco. The "Star Trek" actor recently spoke to HuffPost Live's Ricky Camilleri about his new co-star, who he praises for encouraging public discussions on issues such as gay rights.

"My feeling about James, in particular, is that he's someone who is really interested in generating a dialogue, and his personal position or perspective on something is almost less important to him than in what that position he adopts will generate in other people. And I think he's a provocateur in that way," said Quinto, who is currently filming "Michael" with Franco.

In the drama, Franco stars as real-life ex-gay activist Michael Glatze, who claimed to be saved from his homosexuality when he found God. Quinto portrays Franco's lover in the film.

Further discussing Franco, Quinto explained why he feels that his straight co-star's penchant for openly sharing his support for gay rights is important.

"I think it's certainly an issue in society today that warrants provocative discussion," said Quinto. "I think its like political issues, like social issues, like spiritual or religious issues-people are probably more comfortable not talking about them, right?

"So I feel like putting it out there, and putting it out there in different ways, is something that's interesting and something that I don't think people should shy away from. I have respect for that. I think it's what you do with the dialogue once it's generated that becomes important to our culture," added the actor.

Franco and Quinto, friends as well as colleagues, have also put their supportive affection for one another on display. Franco posted a sweet picture of the pair and a canine friend on Instagram.

"Family Portrait with Dog. @zacharyquinto," Franco captioned the photo.