America in Color

Watch America in Color

  • TV-PG
  • 2017
  • 3 Seasons
  • 8.3  (460)

America in Color is a historical documentary series that takes viewers on a journey through American history, showcasing iconic moments and cultural shifts in a refreshing way. The series uses modern colorization techniques to transform black-and-white footage into vivid, lifelike visuals, giving viewers a fresh perspective on some of the country's most monumental moments.

Narrated by Eric Meyers, the show covers various stages of American history, starting with the early 20th century and ending with the 1960s. Episodes are divided thematically, rather than chronologically, and focus on a handful of key events or cultural movements per episode. Each episode is introduced by British actor Max Beesley, who sets up the context and themes of the upcoming section.

Throughout the series, viewers are transported back in time and given an inside look into moments of history that are often only remembered in black and white. For example, in one episode, viewers get to witness the excitement of the jazz age, complete with vibrant costume and intricate dance moves. They see the rise of Hollywood and the glamour of the film industry, as well as the lives of working-class Americans throughout the Great Depression.

The show doesn't shy away from controversial or difficult subjects, either. In an episode centered around the Civil Rights Movement, viewers get to see the bravery and defiance of the Freedom Riders as they face violence and arrest for fighting for their rights. The show also delves into the dark history of segregation and the Ku Klux Klan, giving voice to those who lived through those turbulent times and providing a stark reminder of how far the country has come.

One of the most impressive aspects of America in Color is how it manages to bring a fresh and captivating energy to subjects that might otherwise feel tired or overdone. For example, an episode on the Dust Bowl problem of the 1930s uses animation and compelling storytelling to bring the environmental issue to life in a way that feels both educational and engaging.

Anchoring it all is Stephen Mangan, whose voiceover provides additional insights and information for each episode. Whether he's explaining the economic and political factors that led to the Great Depression or breaking down the intricate details of Hollywood costuming, his thoughtful narration provides an extra layer of depth and understanding.

Overall, America in Color is a stunning series that uses cutting-edge technology to breathe new life into moments of American history that might otherwise feel distant or unapproachable. The show's combination of top-notch visual effects, powerful storytelling, and insightful narration make it a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the country's history or simply looking for an engaging and enlightening viewing experience.

America in Color is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (17 episodes). The series first aired on July 2, 2017.

America in Color
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Seasons
Small Town Life
6. Small Town Life
December 22, 2019
At the turn of the 20th century, two-thirds of Americans live in small towns, but by the 1960s, only a third remain. Some are lured to cities by the promise of opportunity and money, while others move there to escape racism and intolerance. Through it all, the myth of these quaint, harmonious communities continues to burn powerfully in the minds of many. This is the story of small town America, from soap box derbies and Will Rogers' charm to postwar poverty and the Great Migration, presented in color.
Crimes of the Century
5. Crimes of the Century
December 15, 2019
Colourised film provides a vivid look at America's shocking history.
Made in the USA
4. Made in the USA
December 8, 2019
At the turn of the 20th century, 29 million Americans are working and 40% of them are farmers. Over the decades, factories expand like never before, two world wars speed up technological change, and by the 1950s, American workers have the highest wages and consumer power of any country in the world. This is the story of the men and women who built the American Dream, presented entirely in color through digitally remastered archival footage and home movies.
Alaska
3. Alaska
December 1, 2019
At the dawn of the 20th century, most Americans think of Alaska as an icy unpopulated wilderness, but one event will change everything: the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896. Through remastered and colorized news footage and home movies, witness Alaska's evolution from a frozen wasteland at the edge of the world to the 49th state to join the Union in 1959. From boomtowns to volcanic blasts to Japanese invasions, this is the story of America's last frontier as you have never seen it before.
Disasters
2. Disasters
November 24, 2019
The Hindenburg crash, the San Francisco earthquake, the Galveston hurricane, and the tri-state tornado are just a handful of disasters that slammed America during the first half of the 20th century. After each calamity struck, scientists and engineers raced to analyze the damage and collect data to better protect the public from future catastrophes. Witness these historic disasters in vivid color, and see how they shaped the nation and fostered better understanding of the world's geology.
Coming to America
1. Coming to America
November 17, 2019
From Einstein-mania to Sicilian pizza, see how immigrants changed America's identity, culture, and tastes.
Description
Where to Watch America in Color
America in Color is available for streaming on the Smithsonian CHANNEL website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch America in Color on demand at Paramount+, Amazon Prime, Philo, Amazon, Vudu, FuboTV, Google Play and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    July 2, 2017
  • IMDB Rating
    8.3  (460)