The American Film Institute Salute to ... Season 21 Episode 1 The American Film Institute Salute to Elizabeth Taylor

The American Film Institute Salute to Elizabeth Taylor is the first episode of the 21st season of the show, which is dedicated to celebrating the greatest achievements in American film history. In this episode, the American Film Institute pays tribute to the iconic actor, Elizabeth Taylor, recognizing her contributions to cinema and her lasting impact on American film culture.

The episode features interviews with friends and colleagues of Elizabeth Taylor, who discuss her life and career in the film industry. Viewers will hear from actors like Angela Lansbury, Shirley MacLaine and Liza Minnelli, who reflect on their personal experiences working with Taylor and share stories from behind the scenes. Additionally, film historians and critics contribute their expertise, placing Taylor's body of work in historical context and highlighting her most notable performances.

Of course, the episode also includes plenty of footage from Taylor's most famous films, offering viewers a chance to see clips from classics like Cleopatra, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf. The program covers Taylor's career from her earliest films as a child star, such as Lassie Come Home, through her emergence as a leading lady in the 1950s, including her role in Giant, and up to her later work in the 1980s and 1990s.

Throughout the episode, the audience is presented with a portrait of Elizabeth Taylor that illuminates the many facets of her life and career. The focus is not only on her remarkable screen presence and talent, but also on her status as a cultural icon and activist for social causes. The program explores her philanthropic work, including her founding of the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, which has raised millions of dollars to fight the disease.

In addition to the interviews with friends and colleagues, the episode includes rare archival footage and candid interviews with Taylor herself. These glimpses of Taylor's life off-screen add depth and richness to the portrait of the woman and the performer. The program also features performances of songs from Taylor's films, performed by contemporary artists to celebrate her legacy.

Overall, The American Film Institute Salute to Elizabeth Taylor is a moving tribute to one of the most iconic figures in American film history. The episode honors Taylor's life and contributions, while also showcasing the power of film to inspire and move audiences. Whether you are a devoted fan of Elizabeth Taylor's work or a casual viewer interested in American film culture, this episode is an illuminating and unforgettable experience.