Ep 6. Woody Allen (1)

American Masters is an award-winning documentary series that explores the lives and careers of some of the most influential artists in American culture. In season 24, episode 6, titled "Woody Allen (1)", viewers are given an intimate look into the early life and career of the renowned filmmaker, writer, actor, and comedian.

The episode begins with Allen's childhood in Brooklyn, New York, and how he became interested in the arts at an early age. We hear from family members and childhood friends about his love for movies, comedy, and music, and how he would spend hours at the local movie theater watching films. We also see how his love for New York City had a profound impact on his work, with the city's streets, neighborhoods, and people becoming recurring themes in his movies.

As Allen's career starts to take off, we delve into his early work as a writer and comedian, and the influence of greats such as Bob Hope and Lenny Bruce on his comedic style. We also hear from his early collaborators, including Marshall Brickman and Mickey Rose, who discuss how they developed their unique comic voice together.

The episode then explores Allen's landmark film, Annie Hall, which became a critical and box office success, and won four Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Picture. We see how the film's blend of humor, romance, and personal introspection set the stage for Allen's later films, which often explored similar themes.

Throughout the episode, we hear from a range of cultural commentators, including film critics, journalists, and other filmmakers, who discuss Allen's impact on American cinema and culture. They touch on his influence on generations of comedians, his iconic status as a New York filmmaker, and his unique ability to blend humor and pathos in his work.

Overall, "Woody Allen (1)" provides a fascinating and insightful look into the life and early career of one of America's greatest filmmakers. Through interviews with family members, friends, and colleagues, along with clips from Allen's films and performances, viewers are given a deep understanding of his artistic vision and the factors that have shaped it. For anyone who is a fan of Woody Allen or American cinema, this episode is not to be missed.