The American Experiment, a five-episode Netflix documentary series executive produced by Tom Hanks, is a meticulously bipartisan and informative look at the creation of the United States, coinciding with the nation's 250th anniversary. The series features interviews with prominent Democrats and Republicans, including Kamala Harris, Hillary Clinton, Mike Pence, Ted Cruz, and Nancy Pelosi, among others.
A Sincere and Informative Journey
The Netflix homepage describes the series as “Sincere. Informative. Documentary series,” and it lives up to that billing. Each episode runs over an hour, covering the founding of the US from 1753 through the War of Independence. Director Brian Knappenberger moves at a brisk pace, examining the reasons for the revolution with input from a host of experts. Re-enactments of protests and battles, including the “shot heard round the world” at Lexington and Concord, bring history to life.
The series is so balanced that it feels like consuming a kale smoothie on a wellness retreat, according to the review. It is carefully bipartisan, acknowledging the country’s historical stains while aiming for a wholesome tone. By the end of episode two, viewers may feel mentally and morally enriched, though the dense information can be exhausting.
Big Names Weigh In
The series includes commentary from a range of political figures. On the Republican side, former Vice President Mike Pence, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, and Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky appear. On the Democratic side, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former Vice President Al Gore, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Vice President Kamala Harris are featured. The review notes that Harris’s contribution, where she states “There is freedom to, and freedom from,” is less impactful than intended.
The series also uses actors to voice historical figures, with Martin Sheen voicing George Washington, though the review notes that it can be hard to distinguish who is voicing whom due to the dignified casting.
Impact and Reception
The American Experiment is designed for a broad audience, not just US history enthusiasts. While the five-plus hours may not fly by, the series effectively conveys the challenges faced by the founding fathers in creating a constitution and unifying 13 colonies into a nation. The review concludes that over 250 years, the US has generally bent its moral arc toward justice, despite current kinks. The series is now streaming on Netflix.
