Watch The Toys That Made Us

TV-14
2017
2 Seasons
7.9 (5,930)

The Toys That Made Us is a captivating, informative and nostalgic documentary series that explores the history and impact of some of the most popular and beloved toys from the 20th century. The show takes viewers on a journey through the fascinating stories of the toy industry, and how some of the most iconic toys, ranging from Barbie dolls to Star Wars action figures, came to be. Each episode of the series focuses on a different toy line, and provides an in-depth look at the origins, development, marketing strategies and cultural significance of the toy. The series features interviews with an impressive array of toy makers, insiders and collectors, including Donald Ian Black, Kirk Bozigian, and Mark Bellomo, among many others. Throughout the series, viewers get to learn about the fascinating stories behind some of the most popular and influential toys of all time. In the episode about the Star Wars toy line, for example, fans of the franchise get to see how George Lucas' revolutionary idea for a sci-fi epic sparked a merchandising frenzy, and how the toy line helped to create a new industry standard for film and TV tie-in products that is still in place today. Meanwhile, the episode about Barbie explores the fascinating story of how the iconic doll came to be, and how Mattel masterfully marketed her to become one of the most successful toys of all time. The show also delves into the controversies and criticisms that have surrounded Barbie over the years, and how the toy has remained relevant and iconic despite these challenges. Other episodes of the show focus on such classic toys as G.I. Joe, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, and Lego, providing viewers with a wealth of interesting and surprising stories about these beloved childhood staples. The show also explores how some of these toys have been adapted and updated for modern audiences, and how they continue to inspire new generations of fans and collectors. One of the unique strengths of The Toys That Made Us is its ability to provide truly insider perspectives on the toy industry. Many of the interviews featured in the show are with people who were actually involved in making and marketing these iconic toys, and who provide first-hand insights into the creative and business decisions that went into their development. This insider perspective helps to bring the show to life, and provides a deep and engaging understanding of the cultural impact of these toys. Viewers get to see how toys are more than just playthings; they are reflections of society, culture, and the zeitgeist of their time. Overall, The Toys That Made Us is a must-watch for toy lovers and fans of the history of pop culture. The show is thoroughly entertaining, and provides a wealth of fascinating insights into some of the most beloved and iconic toys of all time. Whether you are a collector, a nostalgic fan, or simply curious about the stories behind these toys, The Toys That Made Us is a series that is not to be missed.

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Seasons

2 1

4. Hello Kitty

May 25, 2018

With the motto "small gift, big smile" as its business philosophy, Sanrio founder Shintaro Tsuji turned a "kawaii" kitty into a global phenomenon.

3. LEGO

May 25, 2018

From humble beginnings in the Danish countryside, this maker of interlocking plastic bricks has become the largest toy manufacturer in the world.

2. Transformers

May 25, 2018

Combining ingenious Japanese toys with a creative backstory written by Marvel Comics, Hasbro introduced a line that changed the toy landscape forever.

1. Star Trek

May 25, 2018

Plagued by years of brand mismanagement and product inconsistency, a popular space franchise must overcome its past in a competitive toy market.

Description

Each episode of the series focuses on a different toy line, and provides an in-depth look at the origins, development, marketing strategies and cultural significance of the toy. The series features interviews with an impressive array of toy makers, insiders and collectors, including Donald Ian Black, Kirk Bozigian, and Mark Bellomo, among many others.

Throughout the series, viewers get to learn about the fascinating stories behind some of the most popular and influential toys of all time. In the episode about the Star Wars toy line, for example, fans of the franchise get to see how George Lucas' revolutionary idea for a sci-fi epic sparked a merchandising frenzy, and how the toy line helped to create a new industry standard for film and TV tie-in products that is still in place today.

Meanwhile, the episode about Barbie explores the fascinating story of how the iconic doll came to be, and how Mattel masterfully marketed her to become one of the most successful toys of all time. The show also delves into the controversies and criticisms that have surrounded Barbie over the years, and how the toy has remained relevant and iconic despite these challenges.

Other episodes of the show focus on such classic toys as G.I. Joe, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, and Lego, providing viewers with a wealth of interesting and surprising stories about these beloved childhood staples. The show also explores how some of these toys have been adapted and updated for modern audiences, and how they continue to inspire new generations of fans and collectors.

One of the unique strengths of The Toys That Made Us is its ability to provide truly insider perspectives on the toy industry. Many of the interviews featured in the show are with people who were actually involved in making and marketing these iconic toys, and who provide first-hand insights into the creative and business decisions that went into their development.

This insider perspective helps to bring the show to life, and provides a deep and engaging understanding of the cultural impact of these toys. Viewers get to see how toys are more than just playthings; they are reflections of society, culture, and the zeitgeist of their time.

Overall, The Toys That Made Us is a must-watch for toy lovers and fans of the history of pop culture. The show is thoroughly entertaining, and provides a wealth of fascinating insights into some of the most beloved and iconic toys of all time. Whether you are a collector, a nostalgic fan, or simply curious about the stories behind these toys, The Toys That Made Us is a series that is not to be missed.