Watch American Experience: War of the Worlds

American Experience: War of the Worlds is a documentary film that explores the events surrounding Orson Welles' infamous radio broadcast of H.G. Wells' science fiction novel, "The War of the Worlds," which aired on CBS Radio on October 30, 1938. Through interviews with historians, journalists, and eyewitnesses, the film provides a fascinating look into the broadcast that sent America into a frenzy of panic and mass hysteria.

The film opens with a brief history of the science fiction genre, including the popularity of authors like H.G. Wells in the early 20th century. We are also introduced to Orson Welles, who gained fame in the theater before branching out to radio and film. The film acknowledges the impact both Welles and Wells had on American culture and sets the stage for the events to come.

At this point, the film shifts to October 30, 1938, and the broadcast of "The War of the Worlds." The filmmakers use archival footage and interviews with eyewitnesses to recreate the panic that ensued as listeners tuned in to the show. The film explores the reasons why the broadcast caused such a strong reaction, including the fact that it was presented in a news bulletin format and aired during a time of heightened tensions around the world.

The film goes on to examine the aftermath of the broadcast, including the national outcry and public reaction. We learn how CBS and Orson Welles responded to the criticism, with Welles insisting that he never intended to cause panic and CBS taking steps to ensure that such a situation would not happen again.

Throughout the film, the filmmakers use a combination of interviews, archival footage, and dramatizations to bring the story to life. We hear from historians and journalists who provide context and analysis, as well as individuals who experienced the panic firsthand. The filmmakers also include clips from the original broadcast and other media coverage from the time.

One of the strengths of American Experience: War of the Worlds is the way it explores the broader context of the broadcast. The film goes beyond simply recounting the events of that night and instead situates the broadcast within the larger cultural and political landscape of the time. We learn about the rise of mass media, the tensions leading up to World War II, and the role of fear in American society.

Another strength of the film is the way it handles the issue of truth and fiction. The broadcast of "The War of the Worlds" blurred the lines between reality and fantasy, and the film does an excellent job of exploring the gray area between the two. We see how different individuals interpreted the broadcast in different ways, and how some listeners were more susceptible to panic than others.

Overall, American Experience: War of the Worlds is a fascinating look at one of the most notorious moments in American media history. The film offers a poignant reminder of the power of the media to shape public perception and the importance of separating fact from fiction. Through a combination of expert analysis and firsthand accounts, the film creates a compelling and immersive look at a moment that continues to captivate audiences nearly a century later.

American Experience: War of the Worlds is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes.