American Masters: Season 18
Season 18 Lore Primer
Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.
- Directly follows the overarching narrative developments of American Masters Season 17.
- Faction dynamics and core character alliances shift under escalating external stakes.
- Crucial mysteries introduced previously reach key turning points and narrative reckonings.
- Sets up serialized story arcs that build directly toward the climactic season finale.
Episode Guide
Season 18 Progress Shield
Arthur Miller, Elia Kazan and the Blacklist
Sep 3, 2003 · 90 min
The dispute between one of America's most influential playwrights and a respected movie director over actions taken during the "red scare" of the 1950s.
James Brown: Soul Survivor
Oct 29, 2003 · 90 min
The highs and lows of the life of James Brown, the colorful and controversial "Godfather of Soul".
Cary Grant: A Class Apart
Jan 7, 2004 · 90 min
“Eternally elegant” screen superstar Cary Grant (1904-86) is profiled. Included are clips from his films and interviews with ex-wife Betsy Drake and widow Barbara Grant. There are
Balanchine
Jan 14, 2004 · 90 min
A retrospective on the life and work of George Balanchine, a founder of American ballet.
Judy Garland: By Myself
Feb 25, 2004 · 90 min
A detailed examination of the celebrated vocalist's career, from her amazing successes to her self-doubts and personal problems.
Hank Williams: Honky Tonk Blues
Jun 23, 2004 · 90 min
The brief but impressive career of the man most responsible for defining what is modern "country music".
Julia! America's Favorite Chef
Aug 18, 2004 · 57 min
Through an interview with Julia herself, filmed in her fabled kitchen, and rare images from the photo collection of Paul Child and from family photo albums, Julia Child is revealed