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. Harold Clurman: A Life of Theatre
Aired 3 July 1989 • 90 min
The life of the renowned Broadway director and arts critic, as well as co-founder of New York's Group Theatre.
2. Stella Adler: Awake and Dream!
8.0Aired 10 July 1989 • 90 min
A retrospective on the career of one of America's finest teachers of acting technique.
3. Satchmo: The Life of Louis Armstrong
Aired 31 July 1989 • 90 min
The evolution and extraordinary musical creations of the nation's best-known jazz musician.
4. James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket
Aired 14 August 1989 • 90 min
The noted author, his battles against racism, and its expression in his books.
5. Celebrating Bird: The Triumph of Charlie Parker
Aired 17 August 1989 • 90 min
A biographical documentary on the short-lived career of brilliant jazz musician Charlie Parker. Features his only television appearance and rare concert footage. Includes cameos by such greats as Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonius Monk, and Charles Mingus.
6. Jasper Johns: Ideas in Paint
10.0Aired 11 September 1989 • 90 min
The mind of a famed neo-abstractionist painter as it expresses itself on canvas.
7. Mort Sahl: The Loyal Opposition
8.0Aired 18 September 1989 • 90 min
The biting comedic satire of Mort Sahl and his rise to prominence in the 1960s.
8. W. Eugene Smith: Photography Made Difficult
9.0Aired 25 September 1989 • 90 min
The work of the provacative photographer for Life magazine.
9. Harold Lloyd: The Third Genius
6.8Aired 15 November 1989 • 90 min
Profile of the comedy standout from the silent era who is often mentioned third behind Chaplin and Keaton.
10. Milos Forman: Portrait
Aired 20 December 1989 • 90 min
The movies of the Academy Award-winning motion picture maker.