Trump: An American Dream

Trump: An American Dream is a compelling four-part docuseries released on Netflix in 2017. It offers an in-depth look at Donald Trump’s journey, from his childhood right up to his stunning election as the 45th President of the United States.

By harnessing the power of hindsight and an extensive collection of archival materials, the producers compile a comprehensive portrait of the iconic businessman turned political leader. The series delves into Trump's early life, his introduction to the real estate sector, his rise to prominence, the expansion of his empire and his eventual transition into politics. It gives viewers a chance to understand the experiences and influences that shaped the man who would become one of the most controversial figures in contemporary American political history.

Produced by British production company 72 Films and directed by Dylan Howitt, Trump: An American Dream chronicles Trump's life from his birth in 1946. It explores his childhood and formative years growing up in Queens, New York. The young Trump is seen witnessing his father make a fortune in the post-war housing boom, breeding an ambition that would persist throughout his life.

The series then delves into the 1970s, highlighting Trump's entry into Manhattan’s real estate market. This is where his aspiration materialized into performance with the successful development of the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Trump Tower. These achievements set the stage for his eventual branding as a symbol of luxury and the American dream. Not everything came easy for Trump as the series charts the many ups and downs of his business career, from record-breaking high-rise constructions, controversial business practices to multiple bankruptcies.

Viewers also get a glimpse into Trump's personal life, his marriages, and his much-publicized affairs. His astute and aggressive media strategies that played a significant role in his recognition as a household name inside, and beyond, America are touched upon as well. He leveraged television appearances, most notably in 'The Apprentice', to build a broader public persona. This show was a key element in cultivating the image of a tough decision-maker, an angle that would significantly impact his political career later on.

In the final chapters, the docuseries explores Trump's controversial entry into the political arena. Starting with the birther movement questioning President Obama's citizenship, navigating through his surprise Republican nomination and ending at his astonishing victory in the 2016 Presidential Election, the series offers a somewhat prophetic look at Trump’s political transformation.

While Trump: An American Dream obviously revolves around the man himself, the supporting cast of characters cannot be overlooked. The series includes interviews from a variety of perspectives, including family members, former employees, journalists, and even adversaries. These interviews provide a multidimensional perspective on the man, adding layers to the social, cultural, and political dynamics that influenced Trump’s unique trajectory.

One of the great strengths of Trump: An American Dream is its ability to provide context for Trump's rise. It skillfully embeds his story within the larger narrative of late 20th-century America. From the fall of Nixon and the popularity of Reagan's conservative politics to the rise of Wall Street and the influence of reality television, the series showcases how the elements conspired to create an environment ripe for someone like Trump to seize power.

Despite its name, this documentary is not just a biography of one individual, but also a study of the American society that produced such a figure. Trump: An American Dream holds up a mirror not only to Trump but America as well. This retrospect provides insight into what shaped his persona and how his journey is indicative of the changes in American society, culture, media, and politics during his lifetime.

While the docuseries was shot prior to Trump's presidency, it nonetheless presents a fascinating preface to it. Regardless of one's political affiliations or opinions about Trump, this series offers an enlightening discourse on the man and the era that shaped him. Trump: An American Dream does not seek to pass judgment but rather explores how Trump’s personal ambitions converged with a particular moment in American history to yield unexpected—and unprecedented—results. It leaves it up to the viewer to draw their own conclusions about this complex and constantly evolving narrative.