The Downshift Season 1 Episode 9 Hot Rod Legends: The Alexander Brothers

The Downshift season 1 episode 9, titled "Hot Rod Legends: The Alexander Brothers," is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for car enthusiasts. The episode revolves around the iconic Hot Rod builders, the Alexander Brothers, who dominated the custom car scene from the 1950s to 1970s.

The episode begins by providing a brief background on the Alexander Brothers, specifically the founders, Mike, and Larry. The duo's passion for building customized cars spurred them to create some of the most memorable Hot Rods in history, including the '30s-inspired Deuces, Bubble Tops, and iconic Mercs.

To give viewers a glimpse into the Alexander brother's lives, the episode features interviews with their close associates, family members, and a few legends from the custom car scene. These interviews provide a unique perspective on how the brothers revolutionized the Hot Rod industry.

The next segment highlights some of the Alexander Brother's most notable creations, starting with the "VooDoo Priest," a 1955 Mercury Montclair. The car was a huge hit at the 1961 Detroit Autorama and set the standard for custom-built Hot Rods. The episode then showcases the "Venturian," another fantastical creation by the brothers. The 1956 Oldsmobile was known for its clean lines, perfect paint job, and intricate details.

The Alexander Brothers were also known for their love of Ford's Model T, which they transformed into the "Grasshopper" and "Honey Bee." These cars featured a crouching frog-like stance and were famous for their speed and innovation. The episode also features the "Gold Rush," a 1940 Ford Coupe that was supposedly built in just 6 months.

The following segment covers the Alexander Brother's impact on the custom car industry. The brothers' preference for clean lines, exceptional paint jobs, and detail-oriented restoration started a trend that other customizers followed. Their work soon became known for the high standard of quality they set.

Throughout the episode, we’re given a glimpse of the Alexander Brother's personal lives. They were born in a tough neighborhood near Detroit and spent most of their childhood playing with cars. Later, they started working as mechanics, and eventually, they used their skillset to build custom cars. The episode shows how the brothers' upbringing and experiences shaped their views on car design and culminated in some of the most breathtaking Hot Rods ever built.

The episode wraps up by discussing the Alexander Brother's legacy. They inspired many people and changed the way custom cars were built. Their style heavily influenced other customizers, and their designs are still being replicated today. Although Mike and Larry are no longer alive, their impact on the industry continues to live on.

Overall, The Downshift season 1 episode 9, titled "Hot Rod Legends: The Alexander Brothers," is a tribute to two of the most innovative and talented Hot Rod builders in history. The episode showcases the brothers' life, their influences, and their creations, providing viewers with a comprehensive understanding of their impact on the custom car industry.