The Colbert Report Season 1 Episode 10 Ken Burns

In season 1 episode 10 of The Colbert Report, host Stephen Colbert welcomes documentary filmmaker Ken Burns as his guest. The hour-long show is filled with witty banter and playful jabs, as Colbert and Burns discuss a range of topics including the role of documentaries in American culture, the challenges of crafting a compelling narrative, and the power of media to shape public opinion.

Throughout the episode, Colbert and Burns engage in a lively debate about the role of the documentarian in shaping public opinion. Burns argues that documentaries should strive for objectivity and avoid overt political bias, while Colbert playfully suggests that the best documentaries are the ones that make a clear political statement.

The conversation turns to Burns' own work, including his acclaimed documentaries on the Civil War, the Roosevelts, and Vietnam. Burns discusses his approach to research and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of interviewing ordinary people and including multiple perspectives in his films.

Despite their differences in opinion, Colbert and Burns share a deep respect for the power of storytelling. Colbert praises Burns for his ability to bring history alive, while Burns cites Colbert's satirical commentary as an example of how media can engage audiences in important issues.

In addition to their discussion of documentary filmmaking, Colbert and Burns engage in a bit of friendly competition. Burns challenges Colbert to a trivia contest about American history, and the host responds by challenging Burns to a race up a flight of stairs.

Overall, season 1 episode 10 of The Colbert Report is a lively and engaging conversation between two masters of their craft. Colbert's quick wit and Burns' insightful commentary make for a fascinating hour of television that is sure to entertain and inform viewers.