About this season
American Masters is a PBS television series which produces biographies on enduring writers, musicians, visual and performing artists, dramatists, filmmakers, and others who have left an indelible impression on the cultural landscape of the United States.
Episodes (10)
1. Isaac in America: A Journey with Isaac Bashevis Singer
Aired 6 July 1987 • 90 min
A profile of the literary work of Isaac Bashevis Singer and his influence on preserving Jewish culture and the Yiddish language.
2. Directed by William Wyler
7.7Aired 13 July 1987 • 90 min
A retrospective on the rich legacy of cinema directed by Wyler with clips and commentary.
3. Rubinstein Remembered
9.0Aired 20 July 1987 • 90 min
A trip through the life and works of the piano virtuoso Arthur Rubinstein conducted by his son John.
4. Nik and Murray
7.0Aired 27 July 1987 • 90 min
A story of two talented personalities, Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis, and their collaborations in the world of dance.
5. George Gershwin Remembered
9.0Aired 24 August 1987 • 90 min
The music of the unique American master composer (as well as his brother Ira) with insights from his collaborators and friends.
6. Maurice Sendak: Mon Cher Papa
Aired 31 August 1987 • 90 min
An installment that shows the author and illustrator at work staging a production of a Mozart opera.
7. The Negro Ensemble Company
Aired 14 September 1987 • 90 min
An ode to the work of the African American theater group founded in the late 60s and its impact on the performing arts.
8. Unanswered Prayers: The Life and Times of Truman Capote
Aired 21 September 1987 • 90 min
The evolution of the novelist and his impact on other artists and American culture.
9. The Ten-Year Lunch: The Wit and Legend of the Algonquin Round Table
Aired 28 September 1987 • 90 min
A history of the famed social gathering of leaders, intellectuals, writers, and artists.
10. Buster Keaton: Hard Act to Follow
Aired 18 November 1987 • 90 min
The story of the silent-era star who brought brilliance and originality to physical comedy.