Ep 2. The Nineties

The Movies is a docuseries that explores the evolution of Hollywood cinema throughout the years. In the second episode of its first season, titled "The Nineties," the show delves into the revolutionary changes that occurred in film during the decade.

The episode begins by laying out the cultural landscape of the early 1990s, a time when the economy was booming and popular culture was being transformed by new technologies like the internet. The show then moves on to explore some of the most iconic films of the era, including "Goodfellas," "Pulp Fiction," and "The Lion King."

One of the key themes of the episode is the rise of independent cinema during the 1990s. The show explores how indie filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Steven Soderbergh broke through with critically acclaimed films that defied conventional Hollywood formulas. This rise of independent cinema paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers who would challenge traditional notions of what a Hollywood blockbuster should be.

Another important aspect of the episode is the emergence of new voices in the film industry. The show profiles directors like Spike Lee and Julie Dash, who used their films to tell stories that had previously been ignored by mainstream Hollywood. The episode also explores the growing influence of women in the film industry, both behind the camera and in front of it.

The episode also touches on the impact of technology on film during the 1990s. Advances in special effects and computer-generated imagery allowed filmmakers to create breathtaking visuals in films like "Terminator 2" and "Jurassic Park." The show also explores how the rise of home video and DVD sales transformed the way that movies were distributed and consumed.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a rich tapestry of movie clips and interviews with actors, directors, and other film industry insiders. The show does an excellent job of placing these films within their historical context, showing how they reflected the cultural and political climate of the 1990s.

Overall, "The Nineties" is another excellent installment of The Movies, a docuseries that continues to offer a fascinating and insightful exploration of the history of Hollywood cinema.