MGM: When the Lion Roars

Miniseries

1992 · 3 episodes · 6h 0m in all · 9.7/10

On April 24, 1924, the movies changed forever: The Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio opened and soon assembled “more stars than there are in the heavens.” Patrick Stewart hosts this enthralling Emmy® winner as Outstanding Informational Series, a three-part story of M-G-M’s reign as Hollywood’s class act and legendary entertainment empire. Bursting with memorable film clips, rare interviews, behind-the-scenes footage and insider info, this is a mother lode for film fans, profiling perfectionist moguls, glamorous and charismatic actors, innovative filmmakers and landmark movies.

Episodes

1. 

   1. The Lion's Roar

   22 Mar 1992 · 120 min · 9.0/10

   Part 1 traces the studio's creation and rise under the guidance of Louis B. Mayer and Irving J. Thalberg, from 1924 to 1936. Featured: film clips, interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. Also: stories about Jean Harlow, Johnny Weissmuller and Greta Garbo.

2. 

   2. The Lion Reigns Supreme

   23 Mar 1992 · 120 min · 10.0/10

   Part 2 of the MGM studio's history focuses on the post-Thalberg period and the productions of 1936-46. Included: clips from "The Wizard of Oz" and "The Philadelphia Story." Featured: Judy Garland, Clark Gable, Myrna Loy, Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn.

3. 

   3. The Lion in Winter

   24 Mar 1992 · 120 min · 10.0/10

   The conclusion traces the studio's decline in the late 1940s; and the struggle for control of the company by Louis B. Mayer and new production chief Dore Schary. Featured: clips of Gene Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly.