This Is Bob Hope...

This Is Bob Hope... is a poignant and insightful television documentary, part of the American Masters series, that delves into the extraordinary life and career of the incomparable Bob Hope. Narrated with warmth and humor by Hope himself, the film weaves together a rich tapestry of memories, anecdotes, and rare archival footage to capture the essence of this entertainment icon. Born Elsie Hope on May 29, 1903, in Eltham, London, England, Bob Hope was the fourth of seven children to William and Avis Hope. The family immigrated to the United States when Hope was four years old and settled in Cleveland, Ohio. Hope's early life was marked by hardship and tragedy, with his father's untimely death in 1908 and his mother's struggles to provide for their family. Despite these challenges, Hope's love for the performing arts was nurtured from a young age. He began performing in local vaudeville shows as a child, singing, dancing, and telling jokes to audience delight. This early exposure to the spotlight helped shape Hope's confident stage presence and irrepressible wit, qualities that would become hallmarks of his future success. As the film showcases, Hope's career spanned multiple mediums, including vaudeville, radio, film, television, and live performances. He rose to stardom in the 1920s, making his West End debut in London before embarking on a world tour that brought him to the United States. His breakthrough role came in the 1930s, when he began appearing in a series of successful "Road" movies with Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour. These films solidified Hope's reputation as a charismatic comedian and cemented his status as a Hollywood A-lister. Throughout World War II and the Korean War, Hope became a beloved entertainer of the armed forces. Traveling to more than 50 countries, Hope brought laughter and morale-boosting entertainment to troops stationed around the world. This selfless dedication earned him the honorary title of "Ambassador of Cheer" and a place in the hearts of millions of American servicemen. In addition to his work in the armed forces, Hope continued to thrive on stage, becoming a regular performer at the famous Hollywood Bowl and Carnegie Hall. He also expanded his creative horizons, making several appearances in television and Broadway productions. The film highlights his iconic performances, showcasing his quick wit, clever wordplay, and ability to think on his feet. One of the most fascinating aspects of Hope's career is his remarkable ability to adapt and reinvent himself. Throughout the decades, he evolved from a youthful comedy ingenue to a seasoned entertainer, effortlessly juggling film, television, and live performance roles. His iconic "Personality" persona, a confident, charming, and irrepressible on-screen presence, captivated audiences worldwide. The documentary also delves into Hope's personal life, revealing a complex individual with a rich inner world. The viewer is introduced to Hope's first wife, Grace, whom he married in 1934 and divorced in 1939, and his subsequent marriage to Dolores Reade in 1939, which lasted until his death in 2003. The film touches on Hope's close friendships with fellow entertainers, including Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin, and his enduring love for his family and his legacy. Shot on location at the Bob Hope Museum in Malibu and the US Library of Congress, This Is Bob Hope... brings the audience face-to-face with a stunning array of memorabilia and artifacts from the Hope archives. The film's meticulously curated selection of rare archival footage includes clips from his films, television appearances, and historic live performances. This rich visual tapestry offers a glimpse into a life marked by incredible highs and a commitment to spreading joy and laughter to millions of people around the globe. Throughout the documentary, Hope's legacy is contextualized within the broader sweep of American history, highlighting his impact on the entertainment industry and his pivotal role in shaping popular culture. A true pioneer in every sense, Hope's remarkable career left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape, inspiring generations of comedians and entertainers to follow in his footsteps. This Is Bob Hope... is a vibrant tribute to the life, work, and enduring spirit of a Hollywood legend. With its thoughtful narrative, captivating interviews, and stunning visual archives, the film provides a richly nuanced portrait of a gifted performer who transcended his craft to become an ambassador of laughter, a champion of the brave, and a timeless icon of American entertainment.