Ep 7. Hollywood vs. Nazis

In season 9 episode 7 of Mysteries of the Abandoned, titled Hollywood vs. Nazis, viewers are taken on a journey back in time to the peak of Hollywood's golden age and the role it played during World War II. During this era, Hollywood was not only producing movies but also played a crucial role in producing propaganda films for the Allied forces.

The episode explores a number of locations across the United States that played significant roles in this era of Hollywood history. These locations are now abandoned and offer clues about the industry's involvement in the war effort. From former film studios where propaganda films were produced to abandoned anti-aircraft defense sites, the investigation involved in bringing these locations to life offers a glimpse into the sacrifices made in the name of patriotism.

One of the key locations explored in this episode is Deer Lick Springs located in the rural outskirts of Kentucky. The site was a crucial location during World War II as it was used by Hollywood as a training site for filmmakers who wanted to join the war effort. The training site was also used to create propaganda films that were shown to soldiers before they were sent off to war.

Another location explored in this episode is Topanga Lookout located in the Santa Monica Mountains of Los Angeles. During World War II, the lookout was used as a surveillance center by Hollywood producers who were looking for potential bombing targets. It was located in an isolated area but had access to the Pacific Ocean by an unpaved road that connected it to the mainland.

The episode also investigates abandoned defense sites such as the Nike Hercules Missile Site located in the San Francisco Bay Area. During World War II, the US government created a nationwide anti-aircraft defense system to safeguard American cities from Luftwaffe bombing. This particular missile site was believed to have been used as a testing facility to develop missiles that could be deployed against Nazi bombers.

Throughout the episode, the show delves into the role that Hollywood played during World War II and how it was vital in shaping America's wartime propaganda narrative. The episode also highlights the sacrifices made by Hollywood industry professionals and the contributions of those who served in the war effort.

Overall, season 9 episode 7 of Mysteries of the Abandoned is a fascinating exploration of the history of Hollywood during World War II. The episode offers viewers an insight into how Hollywood played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the war effort and highlights the sacrifices made by those who served both on and off the frontline.