Whether to escape from the Great Depression, marvel at a world far, far away or be transported to a world filled with Muggles and magic, movies are an inescapable part of our culture. Through the lens of cinema, we can look back on decades of our society’s culture and beliefs and possibly catch a glimpse of where we are going.

The CNN Original Series The Movies is an extension of the very successful “Decades” series produced by Tom Hanks’ Playtone Pictures and Herzog & Co. Over its 6 episode run, The Movies will give new insights and behind the scenes glimpses into some of the most beloved and influential films from the dawn of cinema to present day.