The Netflix documentary series The American Experiment, executive produced by Tom Hanks, is a five-episode exploration of the creation of the United States, marking the nation's 250th anniversary. The series features interviews with prominent political figures from both parties, including Kamala Harris, Hillary Clinton, Mike Pence, Ted Cruz, and Nancy Pelosi.
A Sincere and Informative Approach
The Netflix homepage describes the series as 'Sincere. Informative. Documentary series,' and it delivers on all fronts. Each episode runs over an hour, delving into the founding of the United States. The tone is carefully bipartisan, acknowledging historical stains while maintaining a wholesome, educational feel. Some viewers may find it overly earnest, akin to 'consuming a kale smoothie on a wellness retreat,' as the review notes.
Director Brian Knappenberger moves quickly through history, starting in 1753 when the 13 British colonies began questioning monarchical rule. By the end of the first two episodes, the series covers the war of independence, featuring re-enactments of protests ('No taxation without representation!') and battles with musket balls and cries of 'Urgh.'
Big Names and Balanced Commentary
The series includes commentary from a range of political heavyweights. On the Republican side: Mike Pence, Ted Cruz, and Rand Paul. On the Democratic side: Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, Nancy Pelosi, and Kamala Harris. The review notes that Harris's contribution—'There is freedom to, and freedom from'—is less impactful. Despite this, the series offers thorough analysis of politics and sociocultural mores.
The series also features voice actors reading historical letters, including Martin Sheen as George Washington. Familiar names and phrases are explained, such as General Dunwoody, Fort Necessity, and 'the shot heard round the world'—the first shot at the Battles of Lexington and Concord that sparked the revolutionary war.
Educational Value and Historical Context
While the five-plus hours may not fly by for casual viewers, the series provides a solid education on US history. It gives time to the horrors and hypocrisies of various chapters, but also highlights the founding fathers' work in uncharted territory, creating a constitution and building unity among 13 states. The review concludes that over the last 250 years, the US has generally bent its moral arc towards justice, though it notes a current 'kink.'
The American Experiment is available on Netflix now.
