The Eighties

Produced by Emmy award winning producers Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman and Mark Herzog, The Eighties is the third series in the acclaimed documentary strand chronicling American society and popular culture in the later twentieth century.As the Cold War ended, the world learned of a mysterious virus that defied a cure and triggered a global pandemic. Wall Street brokers became the new rock stars but the economic boom led to a material excess and corruption. The personal computer signalled a technological revolution. The music world discovered hip-hop, MTV, Prince and U2, but lost John Lennon. Hill Street Blues, St. Elsewhere and Cheers brought new sophistication to televised storytelling. And throughout the decade, Ronald Reagan left his mark as few public figures do, enjoying unprecedented popularity but also enduring a scandal that nearly derailed his presidency.This epic series uses rare archival footage and interviews with renowned journalists, historians, musicians and television artists to paint a vivid and compelling portrait of a decade of lasting consequence.Raised on TelevisionAn explosion of new channels and the advent of the VCR transform our viewing habits.Video Killed the Radio StarThe digital revolution hits the music world, and MTV is born.The Fight Against AIDSA mysterious illness develops into a pandemic with huge political and cultural consequences.The Reagan RevolutionA look at Ronald Reagan's landmark legislative achievements and political setbacks.Greed Is GoodJunk bonds, bailouts and Wall Street corruption set the tone for a decade of excess.Tear Down This WallThe appointment of Mikhail Gorbachev triggers an astounding chain of events.Technology Gets PersonalThe innovations and inventions of the Digital Revolution change life forever.