Life Goes to the Movies (TV 1976)

A look at the history of film from 1936-1972, with a special emphasis on the social impact of the medium and the way it both reflected and influenced American life.

Director:

Mel Stuart

Writer:

Richard Schickel

Stars:

Henry Fonda, Shirley MacLaine, Liza Minnelli

Nominated for 2 Primetime Emmys. Another 1 win.

Cast

Credited cast:
Henry Fonda	...	Himself / Host
Shirley MacLaine	...	Herself - Hostess
Liza Minnelli	...	Herself

Storyline

A look at the history of film from 1936-1972, with a special emphasis on the social impact of the medium and the way it both reflected and influenced American life.

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Plot Keywords:

film industry | film history

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Genres:

Documentary | History

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Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

31 October 1976 (USA)

Company Credits

Production Co:

20th Century Fox Television

Technical Specs

Runtime:

180 min

Sound Mix:

Mono

Color:

Black and White Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1

User Reviews

A lost gem

I saw this three-part series on TV when it first aired, with Henry Fonda, Shirley MacLaine, and Liza Minnelli as hosts. Occasionally PBS would re-run it, but it hasn't appeared in years. It's an insightful, poignant, affectionate look at America's love affair with the movies. From Frank Capra to Woody Allen, it spans the decades when some of our greatest actors, directors, and writers were turning out films that would become classics. A shame that you don't see it on cable somewhere -- perhaps Turner Classic Movies or American Movie Classics. More's the pity that it's not available on DVD. If you love movies, cast a vote to bring this documentary back to life.