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How the rise of the superhero parallels the rise of the United States as a superpower; clips from movies combined with comic book artwork tells the story of the modern era; creators, artists, filmmakers, actors, and fans provide commentary.
Kevin Conroy
Narrator
KaBlam!
1996
B.King
2026
My Nightmare Stalker: The Eva LaRue Story
2025
Tiffany Haddish Goes Off
2025
Floor Survival
2025
Game of Wool: Britain's Best Knitter
2025
Eighties
2012
Ab in die Ruine!
2011
Herbstresidenz mit Tim Mälzer und André Dietz
2025
盐的故事
2023
2017
Superman, Batman, Captain America, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man and beyond are the foundation of the modern superhero. Since their creation, these all-American icons have endured through decades of war, triumph and scandal, constantly evolving to reflect the country’s changing values in a tumultuous world. From World War II and Vietnam, to Watergate and the tragedy of 9/11, these mythic heroes embody America’s deepest fears and greatest aspirations. This two-part special reveals how superheroes have evolved through decades of history to become a uniquely American mythology.
In America, sometimes being a hero means breaking the rules. From the beginning, superheroes like The Hulk, Black Panther, Iron Man, Luke Cage, Wolverine and The X-Men have challenged authority and fought for outsiders, in battles that reflect the country's most profound real-world divisions and struggles. From their often controversial origins to recent resurgence in today's blockbuster movies, these rebels continue to redefine heroism for new generations.
