Ep 3. On Cukor

On Cukor is the third episode of the 15th season of American Masters, a documentary series that explores the lives and works of some of America's most important cultural figures. This episode focuses on the life and career of legendary Hollywood filmmaker George Cukor.

George Cukor was a prolific director who worked in Hollywood from the 1930s up until his death in 1983. He directed some of the most iconic films of the Golden Age of Hollywood, including The Philadelphia Story, A Star is Born, and My Fair Lady. Cukor is known for his mastery of the art of directing actors, his ability to handle complex melodramas, and his distinctive style, which combined wit, sophistication, and a keen sense of social observation.

The episode begins by exploring Cukor's early life and career. Born in New York in 1899, Cukor moved to Hollywood in the 1920s and quickly became a highly sought-after director of sophisticated comedies and dramas. He earned critical and commercial success with films such as Little Women, David Copperfield, and Holiday, which showcased his skill at handling large ensemble casts.

The episode then traces Cukor's evolution as a director during the 1930s and 1940s. Cukor worked with some of the biggest stars of the era, including Katharine Hepburn, Bette Davis, and Ingrid Bergman, and helped to shape their performances in some of their most iconic roles. The episode includes interviews with actors and filmmakers who worked with Cukor, such as Angela Lansbury and Martin Scorsese, who reflect on Cukor's innovative directing style and his influence on their own work.

The episode also examines Cukor's personal life, including his close relationships with his mother and his longtime companion, the costume designer Travis Banton. Cukor's gay identity was well-known in Hollywood circles, but he was never publicly out during his lifetime. The episode explores the challenges that Cukor faced as a gay man working in Hollywood during a time when homosexuality was largely taboo in American society.

Finally, the episode delves into Cukor's later career, including his work on the classic musical My Fair Lady. Cukor took over the directing duties from original director William Wyler, and his energy and enthusiasm helped to breathe new life into the film. The episode includes rare behind-the-scenes footage of Cukor working with Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison on some of the film's most iconic scenes.

Overall, On Cukor is a fascinating exploration of one of Hollywood's most talented and influential filmmakers. Through interviews with Cukor's friends, colleagues, and collaborators, the episode offers a unique insight into his life, his work, and his legacy. Whether you are a fan of classic Hollywood movies or simply interested in the history of American cinema, this episode of American Masters is a must-watch.