American Masters: Season 5
Season 5 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 4.
- 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 5 Progress Shield
Preston Sturges: The Rise and Fall of an American Dreamer
Jul 2, 1990
The life of the famous director and scriptwriter, from his writings for the stage to his Hollywood acclaim.
John Cassavetes
Jul 9, 1990
A documentary that follows the varied career of the noted film director.
Martin Scorsese Directs
Jul 16, 1990
Interviews and film clips document the hard-hitting film work of Scorsese.
You're the Top: The Cole Porter Story
Jul 23, 1990
The career of Porter as seen through filmed versions of his work and commentary from performance stars.
Edward R. Murrow: This Reporter
Jul 30, 1990
The fascinating life of the model for the "hard-boiled" radio and television journalist.
John Hammond: From Bessie Smith to Bruce Springsteen
Aug 20, 1990
A documentary on the 50 year career of a legendary producer of recording artists and musicians.
Sanford Meisner: The American Theatre's Best Kept Secret
Aug 27, 1990
The work of an acting coach and instructor who had a profound impact on the American stage.
John Cage: I Have Nothing to Say and I Am Saying It
Sep 17, 1990
The outrageously odd and original compositions of an avant-garde musician.