This 1961 television documentary is a unique look at early Hollywood through the use of early film clips, rare backstage footage and the perfect storytelling style of legend Gene Kelly. The doc moves right along at a fast but thorough pace and covers the birth and early development of the film industry.
It's very interesting to see how classic Hollywood was perceived in 1961 ("DW Griffith's 1916 classic Intolerance came on nearly 50 years ago" Gene Kelly says) but remains honest by telling the real stories of these classic films. Birth of a Nation's portrayal of the KKK is revealed to be shrouded in controversy with it's racist approach. Most of the real issues are glossed over or committed though-hey this was 1961 broadcast television. There really is though some great information here and much footage that is not available elsewhere.
A fun trip through truly the golden age of Hollywood!
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