Watch Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street

Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street is a fascinating documentary that takes viewers back to the beginnings of one of the most beloved children's television shows of all time. Directed by Marilyn Agrelo, the film chronicles the early years of Sesame Street, from its inception in 1969 to its rise as a cultural phenomenon. The movie features interviews with the show's creators, including Joan Ganz Cooney and Jim Henson, who talk about the challenges and joys of making a show that would educate and entertain children of all backgrounds. Through archival footage, viewers get a glimpse of the show's early days, including its groundbreaking use of multiculturalism, music, and puppets.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it highlights the social and political context that influenced the creation of Sesame Street. The show was developed in response to the growing concern about the educational disparities between children from low-income families and their wealthier peers. By using media as a tool to educate young children, the creators of Sesame Street hoped to level the playing field and give all children a chance to succeed.

The documentary delves into the show's impressive array of characters, from Big Bird and Elmo to Cookie Monster and Oscar the Grouch. Viewers learn about the creative process that went into designing each character and creating their unique personalities. The film also reveals some surprising facts about the show's early years, including the fact that some of the original cast members were actually former convicts hired to play the role of lovable misfits.

Key figures in the creation of Sesame Street are profiled, including the show's first director, Jon Stone, who fought tirelessly to make sure the show gained traction and stayed true to its vision. Through interviews with Stone and his colleagues, viewers learn about the hurdles they faced in trying to create a show that would appeal to both children and adults.

The movie also explores the impact that Sesame Street had on popular culture. With its memorable characters, catchy music, and innovative approach to education, the show quickly became a phenomenon. Through interviews with celebrities such as Rosie Perez and Questlove, viewers get a sense of how Sesame Street influenced their own lives and careers.

One of the most touching aspects of Street Gang is the way it showcases the show's impact on children from all walks of life. The movie features heartwarming stories of children who were inspired by the show to learn how to read, to embrace diversity, and to believe in their own potential. These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the important role that media can play in shaping children's lives.

Overall, Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street is a delightful and informative documentary that celebrates the power of educational media to make a difference in the world. Highly recommended for fans of Sesame Street, as well as anyone interested in the history of children's television.

Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street is a 2021 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0 and a MetaScore of 82.