Watch Hollywood

Hollywood is a 2020 American miniseries that aired on Netflix. The show is a period piece set in 1940s' Hollywood, amidst the post-World War II era. The series depicts an alternate history where a group of aspiring actors, writers, and directors navigate their way through the film industry, trying to make it big in the world of showbiz.

The show's main character is Jack Castello (played by David Corenswet), a WWII veteran who is trying to make ends meet by working as a gas station attendant. He jumps at the chance of a lifetime when he is recruited by a film production company, Ace Studios, as an extra. Despite being told that he is "not traditionally handsome," Jack quickly becomes a rising star in Hollywood and attracts attention from several industry bigwigs.

One of the people who notice Jack is Ernie West (played by Dylan McDermott), a charismatic and shady owner of a gas station that doubles as a front for a male prostitution ring. Ernie takes Jack under his wing and guides him through the treacherous waters of Hollywood, teaching him the ropes and introducing him to powerful executives, including Dick Samuels (played by Joe Mantello), the studio's savvy head of marketing.

Another character who plays a significant role in the show is Raymond Ainsley (played by Darren Criss), a half-Filipino, half-American director who is trying to make a name for himself in a town that is notoriously hostile to minorities. He partners with an African-American writer named Archie Coleman (played by Jeremy Pope) to create a script that challenges Hollywood's prejudices and conservatism.

In addition to the screenwriters and directors, Hollywood also focuses on the struggles and triumphs of female actors of color, particularly Camille Washington (played by Laura Harrier), who auditions for a role in a movie but is told that it is designed for a white actress. Despite this setback, Camille goes on to become one of the brightest stars in Hollywood, and her success inspires other actors of color to dream big and aim high.

The show has a star-studded cast, with Jim Parsons playing the role of a powerful talent agent named Henry Willson, who is known for his machinations and manipulations. Patti LuPone plays Avis Amberg, the formidable wife of Ace Studios founder Ace Amberg (played by Rob Reiner), who takes it upon herself to keep the studio afloat during challenging times. Holland Taylor plays Ellen Kincaid, the studio's loyal and sharp-tongued executive who has seen it all.

The show does not shy away from the darker aspects of Hollywood in the 1940s, including rampant racism, homophobia, and sexism. Nonetheless, it ultimately emphasizes the power of perseverance, hope, and the human spirit.

Overall, Hollywood is a gripping and engaging look at Hollywood's golden age, with a talented cast that delivers captivating performances. The show's depiction of a Hollywood that could have been is both exhilarating and thought-provoking, leaving viewers pondering what could have changed if only things had been different.

Hollywood is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (7 episodes). The series first aired on May 1, 2020.