Experiencing America: A Smithsonian Tour through American History Season 1 Episode 20 Hollywood - The American Myth Machine

Experiencing America: A Smithsonian Tour through American History season 1 takes viewers on a journey through the most iconic parts of America's history. In episode 20 titled "Hollywood - The American Myth Machine", viewers are taken on a tour of Hollywood, the epicenter of America's film industry. The episode delves deep into the relationships between Hollywood and America's broader culture, as well as the ways in which Hollywood both reflects and shapes American culture.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sneak peek behind the scenes of some of the most famous studios, from Universal to Warner Bros. They'll learn about the history of Hollywood, from its origins in the silent era to its heyday in the Golden Age of the 1930s and 40s. They'll get a sense of how Hollywood has evolved over time, and how it has adapted to new technologies and shifts in cultural norms.

But "Hollywood - The American Myth Machine" isn't just a history lesson. It's also an exploration of the ways in which Hollywood perpetuates certain myths about America, from the rugged individualism of the Western genre to the idealized version of the American family that appears in so many films. The episode also explores the darker side of Hollywood, including the ways in which the industry has perpetuated negative stereotypes about minority groups and marginalized communities.

As the episode progresses, viewers will get to meet some of the people who make Hollywood what it is, from actors and directors to make-up artists and set designers. They'll learn about the processes that go into making a film, from writing the screenplay to shooting and editing the final product. And they'll get a sense of the incredible amount of work and collaboration that goes into bringing a film to life.

But perhaps most importantly, "Hollywood - The American Myth Machine" is an exploration of the power of storytelling. Through interviews with filmmakers and writers, viewers will learn about the many ways in which Hollywood has used its platform to tell stories that inspire and engage audiences. They'll see how films have the ability to shape our perceptions of the world around us and to spark important conversations about social justice, politics, and everything in between.

Overall, "Hollywood - The American Myth Machine" is a fascinating look at one of America's most iconic industries. Whether you're a film buff or simply curious about the way Hollywood has influenced American culture, this episode is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of storytelling. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to experience all the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown on this exciting journey through American history.