Ep 9. Jeff Bridges: The Dude Abides

Jeff Bridges: The Dude Abides is an episode of the popular PBS series American Masters, which explores the lives and careers of iconic figures in American culture. In this episode, viewers are given a behind-the-scenes look at the life and work of one of Hollywood's most beloved and unconventional actors, Jeff Bridges.

Bridges, who is known for his laid-back demeanor and candid personality, opens up about his personal life, his creative process, and his long and illustrious career in show business. Through candid interviews with friends, family members, and colleagues, as well as archival footage and clips from some of his most famous roles, viewers are given a comprehensive and fascinating portrait of this iconic actor.

The episode begins by delving into Bridges' early life, growing up in a family of actors with his father, Lloyd Bridges, and his brother, Beau Bridges. We learn about his early experiences on stage and screen, and how he gradually gravitated towards more challenging and unconventional roles. From there, we are taken on a journey through some of his most iconic films, including The Last Picture Show, Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, and Starman.

One of the highlights of the episode is a discussion of Bridges' most iconic role, that of Jeff Lebowski, aka The Dude, in the cult classic film The Big Lebowski. The actor speaks candidly about how the character came to define him in the eyes of audiences, and how he's come to embrace his status as a pop culture icon.

Throughout the episode, Bridges discusses his creative process in depth, sharing tips and insights on how he approaches his roles and how he prepares for each new project. We also learn about his work as a photographer, musician, and philanthropist, as well as his experiences working with some of the greatest filmmakers of our time, including the Coen Brothers, Terry Gilliam, and John Huston.

One of the most touching moments of the episode comes towards the end, when Bridges discusses his family life and the loss of his dear friend and fellow actor, Robin Williams. He speaks candidly about how these experiences have shaped his perspective on life and work, and how he continues to find joy and inspiration in his work as an actor and an artist.

Overall, Jeff Bridges: The Dude Abides is a compelling and insightful portrait of one of Hollywood's most beloved figures. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Bridges' work, or simply interested in learning more about this iconic actor and his creative process, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves movies and wants to get a glimpse behind the scenes of the film industry.