Ep 1. The Eighties

The Movies is a documentary series that explores the history of cinema and the cultural impact it has had on society. In episode 1, "The Eighties", viewers are taken on a journey through some of the most iconic films of the decade.

The episode begins by setting the stage with a brief overview of the political and social climate in the United States during the 1980s. The show notes that Ronald Reagan was president, the Cold War was ongoing, and the country was experiencing significant changes in technology, music, and fashion.

The episode then dives into the films that defined the era, starting with the blockbuster hits like Ghostbusters and Back to the Future. Viewers are transported back in time with clips from these films, allowing them to relive the excitement that audiences felt when they were first released.

The documentary then moves on to discuss the impact of the indie film movement during the 1980s. Small, independent films like Sex, Lies, and Videotape and Stranger Than Paradise broke new ground in storytelling and cinematography. The Movies explores how these films challenged the dominance of the Hollywood system and inspired a new generation of filmmakers.

The show also takes a closer look at some of the most iconic moments in 80s cinema, such as the eerie opening scene of The Shining and the explosive finale of Die Hard. Viewers are treated to behind-the-scenes stories and interviews with the actors and filmmakers who made these moments come to life on the big screen.

Throughout the episode, The Movies also touches on the important cultural issues of the time that were reflected in film, such as the rise of feminism and the AIDS epidemic. The documentary delves into how films like Thelma & Louise and Philadelphia helped raise awareness and spark conversations around these important issues.

One of the highlights of "The Eighties" is the segment on the impact of Steven Spielberg on 80s cinema. The Movies explores how films like E.T. and Raiders of the Lost Ark captured the imagination of audiences young and old, and how Spielberg's style of storytelling paved the way for generations to come.

Overall, "The Eighties" is a fascinating look back at a decade that produced some of the most beloved and influential films in history. The Movies does an excellent job of contextualizing these films within the larger cultural and political context of the time, allowing viewers to gain a deeper appreciation for the impact that cinema can have on shaping our world.