Ep 6. Hollywood's Golden Age

America in Color is a documentary series that brings the history of the United States to life through the use of colorized footage. Season 2 episode 6, titled Hollywood's Golden Age, takes a look back at the era when Hollywood was at its pinnacle of glamour and fame, and how it shaped American society and culture.

The episode opens with footage of the early days of Hollywood, when the film industry was still in its infancy. We see clips of the first movie theaters and vaudeville acts, where actors and actresses would perform live on stage before the feature presentation. As the industry evolved, so did the stars of the time, many of whom became household names. From Mary Pickford to Charlie Chaplin, Greta Garbo to Clark Gable, Hollywood's Golden Age produced some of the most iconic stars of all time.

The episode explores how these stars became cultural touchstones, influencing everything from fashion to politics. We see how Hollywood's image of the American Dream became a reality for many, and how it shaped perceptions of success and glamour in the United States.

At the same time, we see how Hollywood was also a deeply flawed industry, with issues of racism and sexism running rampant behind the scenes. The episode takes an unflinching look at the experiences of non-white actors and actresses during this time, including the limited roles they were allowed to play and the discrimination they faced.

Despite these challenges, Hollywood continued to be a major force in American culture throughout the 1930s and 1940s. The episode examines some of the most popular films of the era, from the romantic comedies of Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant to the epic dramas of John Ford and Orson Welles.

We also explore the impact of World War II on Hollywood and the film industry. With many of the industry's biggest stars drafted into military service, the film industry turned to patriotic themes and propaganda to support the war effort. We see how movies like Casablanca and Yankee Doodle Dandy became symbols of American resilience during this time.

Despite the many challenges faced by the industry, Hollywood continued to thrive into the 1950s and beyond. The episode examines the rise of television and how it impacted the film industry, as well as the emergence of new stars like Marilyn Monroe and Marlon Brando.

Overall, America in Color season 2 episode 6, Hollywood's Golden Age, is a fascinating look at a time when Hollywood was at the height of its power and influence. Through the use of colorized footage and insightful commentary, the episode offers a comprehensive overview of the era, including its successes, its challenges, and its enduring impact on American culture.