While I enjoy the "American Masters" shows, one problem I have noticed is that the shows focus mostly on the craft and not the individual. In other words, when talking about actors, singers, artists and the like the show emphasizes what they do...but not in their private lives. However, this installment is one of the few warts and all biographies I've seen on the show. While it naturally focuses on Bing Crosby's craft, it doesn't whitewash his personal life and talks of the tragic lives of his wife and sons. I appreciate that and it makes this a more complete picture of the man.
As for the show, it's about as good a biography of Bing Crosby that you can find. It celebrates his amazing musical and acting gifts, gives inside information that might surprise you (such as he and Bob Hope barely knowing or spending time with each other when they weren't on camera or at some function) and gives you an idea of who the man was. Exceptionally well done and fortunately Crosby left a lot of letters, films and audiotapes so, at times, he narrates this show made long after his death.
As for the show, it's about as good a biography of Bing Crosby that you can find. It celebrates his amazing musical and acting gifts, gives inside information that might surprise you (such as he and Bob Hope barely knowing or spending time with each other when they weren't on camera or at some function) and gives you an idea of who the man was. Exceptionally well done and fortunately Crosby left a lot of letters, films and audiotapes so, at times, he narrates this show made long after his death.