Watch A Note of Triumph: The Golden Age of Norman Corwin

A Note of Triumph: The Golden Age of Norman Corwin is a 2005 documentary film that chronicles the life and accomplishments of the prolific writer and producer Norman Corwin. Directed by Eric Simonson, the documentary features Corwin himself, along with a host of famous personalities, including filmmaker Robert Altman and news anchor Walter Cronkite.

The film opens with a brief overview of Corwin's life, from his humble beginnings in Boston to his rise to prominence in the world of radio and literature. As the documentary unfolds, we learn about Corwin's early writings for the Boston Herald and his eventual move to New York, where he began writing for CBS radio. It was here that Corwin would produce some of his most famous works, including "We Hold These Truths," a radio tribute to the 150th anniversary of the Bill of Rights.

The film effectively captures the mood of the times in which Corwin was working, with a focus on World War II and the transformative power of radio. As the war raged on, Corwin became an important voice of hope and inspiration, using the airwaves to broadcast messages of unity and perseverance to a beleaguered nation.

Corwin's writing also caught the attention of Hollywood, and the documentary examines his work on films such as Lust for Life and The Naked City. Throughout his career, Corwin remained committed to using his platform as a writer and producer to promote social justice and human rights, and the film reflects his lifelong passion for activism.

One of the standout features of A Note of Triumph is its use of archival footage and audio recordings. The filmmakers have incorporated a wealth of material from Corwin's personal archives, including never-before-seen interviews and recordings of his radio broadcasts. These elements help to bring Corwin's voice to life and give the audience a deeper appreciation for his creative legacy.

The documentary also features interviews with a number of Corwin's admirers and collaborators, including Altman and Cronkite. It's clear from these discussions that Corwin was a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, with a keen wit and passion for storytelling that inspired his colleagues and friends.

Overall, A Note of Triumph: The Golden Age of Norman Corwin is a fitting tribute to a writer and producer whose impact on American culture cannot be overstated. Through its use of archival material and insightful interviews, the film gives viewers a deeper understanding of the man behind the microphone, and a newfound appreciation for the nobility of his art.

A Note of Triumph: The Golden Age of Norman Corwin is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.