American Masters is thrilled and honored to celebrate their 2017 Emmy®-nominated season. Congratulations to all of the incredible filmmakers, producers, directors and team members who have brought us inspirational documentaries each year. Keep reading to learn more about the films in our nominated series.
Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You
With unprecedented access to Norman Lear, his work and his massive personal archives, Academy Award-nominated filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady combine stories from his turbulent childhood and early career with his groundbreaking TV success (All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Good Times, Maude) and social activism in “Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You.” Bringing provocative subjects like war, poverty, and prejudice to 120 million viewers every week, Lear proved that social change was possible via an unlikely vehicle – laughter – and created some of the greatest moments in television history.
Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future
In “Eero Saarinen: The Architect Who Saw the Future,” we travel with his son, director of photography Eric Saarinen, ASC, as he visits the sites of his father’s work on a cathartic journey. Shot in 6K with the latest drone technology, the documentary showcases the modernist architect’s body of timeless work for the first time. Eero’s visionary buildings include National Historic Landmarks such as St. Louis’ iconic Gateway Arch and Michigan’s General Motors Technical Center, as well as New York’s TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport and pedestal furniture like the Tulip chair. Peter Franzén and Blythe Danner are the voices of Eero and Aline Saarinen. Produced and directed by Emmy-, Peabody- and DGA Award-winner Peter Rosen.
In a never-before-seen interview filmed a few years before his death, Sidney Lumet guides us through his life and his work – the powerfully dramatic and wildly entertaining movies (Serpico, Dog Day Afternoon, 12 Angry Men, Network, The Verdict) that make up the canon of one of the most socially conscious directors in the history of cinema. Directed and produced by Peabody- and Emmy Award-winner Nancy Buirski, “By Sidney Lumet” reveals what matters to the late director as an artist and as a human being.
American Masters celebrates our arts and culture.. “Patsy Cline: American Masters” explores the life and legacy of the groundbreaking “Crazy” singer who defined modern country music. Narrated by Rosanne Cash, the film features rare performances and new interviews with LeAnn Rimes, Kacey Musgraves, Reba McEntire, Beverly D’Angelo, Wanda Jackson, and others. Directed and produced by Emmy-nominee Barbara J. Hall.
James Beard: America’s First Foodie
Written and directed by Elizabeth Federici, “James Beard: America’s First Foodie” reintroduces us to the iconic chef, a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement who hosted the first cooking show on television in 1946, helped to create the menu at the legendary Four Seasons Restaurant and introduced Julia Child to New York. Produced by Elizabeth Federici and Kathleen Squires.
Jacques Pépin: The Art of Craft
Ushering in a new era in American food culture, Chef Jacques Pépin elevated essential kitchen techniques to an art form. Discover how a young immigrant with movie-star looks and a charming Gallic accent turned down a chance to work in the Kennedy White House and became one of America’s most beloved food icons through his landmark cookbooks and television shows. “Jacques Pépin: The Art of Craft,” is narrated by Stanley Tucci, and produced and directed by Peter L. Stein.