American Masters Season 5 Episode 1 Preston Sturges: the Rise and Fall of an American Dreamer

Preston Sturges was one of the most legendary figures in Hollywood's Golden Age, with a career in film and theater that made a lasting impact on American culture. In the first episode of the fifth season of American Masters, viewers are taken on a journey through the life and work of this visionary artist.

The episode begins with Sturges' early life, growing up in a wealthy family in New York City and attending a prestigious boarding school. He showed an early interest in theater and writing, but his parents strongly disapproved of pursuing a career in the arts. Despite this, Sturges began writing plays and eventually made his way to Hollywood, where his unique combination of comedy and wit quickly made him a sought-after writer and director.

Viewers learn how Sturges earned a reputation for being one of the most talented and innovative filmmakers of his time, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions with his work. He had a knack for creating quirky, fast-paced comedies that touched on social issues and human foibles. He also insisted on creative control over his films, which was rare in an industry that was heavily controlled by the studios.

However, despite his early success, Sturges' career began to falter in the mid-1940s. His films were not performing as well at the box office, and he struggled to get new projects off the ground. As the episode explores, this decline was due to many factors, including Sturges' own self-destructive tendencies. He was a heavy drinker, prone to outbursts and erratic behavior on set. His personal life was also tumultuous, with multiple marriages and affairs.

Despite these setbacks, Sturges continued to work in the film industry until his death in 1959. American Masters takes a closer look at Sturges' final years, when he struggled to find work and suffered from health problems. The episode also highlights some of Sturges' lesser-known projects, such as his work with the US Army during World War II to create propaganda films.

Overall, Preston Sturges: the Rise and Fall of an American Dreamer is a fascinating exploration of one of Hollywood's greatest talents. It delves into the complexities of Sturges' life and career, showing both the highs and lows of his journey. Through interviews with film historians, actors, and Sturges' own family members, viewers gain a deeper insight into the man behind the movies. The episode is a must-see for anyone interested in classic Hollywood and the history of American cinema.