Ep 1. Hollywood

In the season 2 premiere of Adam Ruins Everything, titled "Hollywood," Adam Conover takes on the entertainment industry's biggest myths and misconceptions. The episode begins with Adam walking through a red carpet event and explaining that Hollywood is not only a place, but a pervasive idea about fame, fortune, and creative expression that has influenced American culture for over a century.

As Adam explores the inner workings of Tinseltown, he exposes numerous industry secrets and highlights the many ways that Hollywood falls short of its glamorous image. He explains how the studio system of the early 20th century was built on exploitation and oppression, with many actors and crew members enduring grueling working conditions and low wages in order to produce films that would make their bosses rich.

Adam also delves into the history of how Hollywood has betrayed various groups throughout its history, from blacklisting communist sympathizers to perpetuating harmful stereotypes of people of color and the LGBTQ+ community. He highlights individual stories of actors who were unfairly mistreated or underrepresented in the industry, from Hattie McDaniel's struggle to be recognized for her role in Gone with the Wind to the limited opportunities available to Asian and Latino performers in contemporary Hollywood.

At the same time, Adam also emphasizes the profound cultural impact of Hollywood, from its ability to shape social attitudes and values to its power to inspire and entertain audiences all over the world. He sheds light on the lesser-known figures behind classic Hollywood films, such as the stuntmen and screenwriters whose contributions are often overlooked, and shows how Hollywood has been able to adapt and innovate over time in response to changing trends and social movements.

Throughout the episode, Adam employs his signature blend of humor and research to both entertain and enlighten viewers. He interviews industry insiders, historians, and critics to get a more nuanced picture of Hollywood's influence and limitations. He also uses animation, archival footage, and visual aids to illustrate his points and make the information more accessible to audiences of all ages.

Ultimately, "Hollywood" is a fascinating exploration of one of America's most iconic institutions. While it doesn't shy away from confronting the darker aspects of Hollywood's history, it also celebrates the creativity, passion, and innovation that have driven the industry forward. By the end of the episode, viewers are left with a more complex, nuanced understanding of what Hollywood means and how it shapes our culture and consciousness.