America in Primetime
- Synopsis
- Four programmes in a series analysing the evolution of programmes filling the primetime slot on US television. Each episode focuses on one character archetype that has remained a staple of primetime through the generations - the Man of the House, the Crusader, the Independent Woman, and the Misfit - capturing both the continuity of the character, and the evolution.
At the heart of the series are more than one hundred in-depth interviews with leading programme creators, writers and actors who given an insight into the creative process.
Programme 1 - The Independent Woman reveals how women have transformed from model housewives to complex, and sometimes controversial, characters. It features: I Love Lucy; Murphy Brown; and Sex in the City.
2 - Man of the House showcases the evolution of men from the kings of their castles in classic family sitcoms to more intricate, conflicted figures in modern shows. It features: Father Knows Best; All in the Family; and The Cosby Show.
3 - The Misfit celebrates the unique characters who defied comic stereotypes and societal expectations to reflect America’s diverse personalities. It features: The Beverly Hillbillies; Seinfeld; and Heroes.
4 - The Crusader delves into the increasingly grey area between right and wrong as television heroes confront internal demons while seeking their own forms of justice. It features: Have Gun Will Travel; Mission Impossible; and 24.
DVD extras include: bonus interviews with Rob Reiner, Norman Lear, David Chase, Shonda Rhimes, Mary-Louise Parker, Marc Cherry, Felicity Huffman, James L. Brooks, Bryan Cranston, David Lynch, Alan Alda, Phil Rosenthal, Larry Wilmore, Marilu Henner, Mike Judge, Larry David, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Judd Apatow, David Simon, and Jeffrey Tambor. - Language
- English
- Country
- United States
- Year of release
- 2012
- Year of production
- 2011
- Subjects
- Media studies
- Keywords
- popular culture; television drama; United States of America; popular television shows; American Studies
Distribution Formats
- Type
- DVD
- Format
- Region 1 NTSC
- Price
- $29.99
- Availability
- Sale
- Duration/Size
- 240 minutes
- Year
- 2012
Production Company
- Name
PBS
- Web
- http://www.pbs.org External site opens in new window
Distributor
- Name
PBS Shop
- Web
- http://www.shoppbs.org External site opens in new window
Record Stats
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