Ep 14. Gary Cooper: The Face of a Hero

Gary Cooper: The Face of a Hero is the 14th episode of the first season of the documentary series Hollywood Idols. This episode focuses on the life and career of Hollywood icon Gary Cooper, who is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential actors of his generation.

The episode begins by exploring Cooper's early life, including his upbringing in Montana and his initiation into the world of acting. We learn about the challenges that Cooper faced in his early years, including his struggle to find steady work and his reluctance to embrace the Hollywood lifestyle. Despite these obstacles, Cooper persevered, earning his first major role in the 1929 film The Virginian. From there, his career took off, with breakthrough performances in films like Morocco, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, and The Pride of the Yankees.

Throughout the episode, we see how Cooper's on-screen persona - the stoic, heroic figure who always played by his own rules - came to define his public image. We learn about his collaborations with directors like Frank Capra and Howard Hawks, who both recognized Cooper's unique blend of strength, vulnerability, and unassuming charm. We also discover how Cooper's personal life influenced his work, particularly his relationships with women like Clara Bow, Lupe Velez, and Patricia Neal.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this episode is its exploration of Cooper's political beliefs, which were often at odds with those of his Hollywood colleagues. We see how Cooper's strong sense of patriotism and his conservative values put him at odds with the Hollywood left, especially during the Red Scare of the late 1940s and early 1950s. Despite this, Cooper remained true to his convictions, even testifying before the House Un-American Activities Committee and earning the ire of many of his fellow actors.

Overall, Gary Cooper: The Face of a Hero offers a comprehensive and insightful look at one of Hollywood's greatest stars. Through interviews with film historians, writers, and Cooper's own family members, we gain a new appreciation for the man behind the myth, and the enduring legacy that he left on American cinema. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gary Cooper or simply curious about the Golden Age of Hollywood, this episode is well worth watching.