Backroads USA
No nation is more famous for its roads than the USA. Endless highways wind through endless landscapes like vital arteries. Those in a hurry take the four-lane interstates. But what is there to discover when you take your time and travel the legendary old backroads? Academy Award ®nominated filmmaker Katja Esson ("Skydancer", "Ferry Tales") takes an affectionate and unconventional look at the backrooms of the American Dream - where it once thrived, where it is still preserved, and where it died a long time ago. Along the historical roads, in the real heartland of the nation, she searches for stories like a gold-digger searching for nuggets. By capturing the spirit of the old America she allows us to understand the modern USA: on the Mohawk Trail, the Oregon Trail, on America's' Loneliest Road' Highway 50, on the Blues Highway and the famous Route 66.
- 2013-2013
- 1 season
- Questar Entertainment
- Documentary
No nation is more famous for its roads than the USA. Endless highways wind through endless landscapes like vital arteries. Those in a hurry take the four-lane interstates. But what is there to discover when you take your time and travel the legendary old backroads? Academy Award ®nominated filmmaker Katja Esson ("Skydancer", "Ferry Tales") takes an affectionate and unconventional look at the backrooms of the American Dream - where it once thrived, where it is still preserved, and where it died a long time ago. Along the historical roads, in the real heartland of the nation, she searches for stories like a gold-digger searching for nuggets. By capturing the spirit of the old America she allows us to understand the modern USA: on the Mohawk Trail, the Oregon Trail, on America's' Loneliest Road' Highway 50, on the Blues Highway and the famous Route 66.
Season 1 Episode Guide
5 Episodes 2013
Episode 1
The Mohawk Trail Across New England
43 mins
Many believe that the true roots of America can best be experienced by traveling along the country's older trails, paths, and roadways, many of which eventually paved the way for the modern transportation network. Leave the main roads behind for those less traveled and witness how the backroads can leave a lasting impression on you that a trip down the interstate just cannot match.
Episode 2
The Blues Highway Through the Deep South
43 mins
To this day, the resonance of music born of and inspired by the Mississippi Delta still clings thickly to the air like dew on morning leaves as you travel along and experience Highway 61, otherwise known as "The Blues Highway." Travel north from New Orleans to Memphis and unwind time back to a day where Americas' roots were still taking shape, and where music spoke for the hearts of many people.
Episode 3
The Oregon Trail to the North West
43 mins
Beginning along the Missouri River, the trek west along the Oregon Trail was no easy task for the pioneers of early America. As the boundaries of the country broadened during the nineteenth century, hundreds of thousands of Americans fixed their gaze westward with dreams of a fresh start. Hitch up your wagon and travel along one of the most unique historic trails of the American experience.
Episode 4
The Loneliest Road in America
43 mins
Highway 50 tells the story of America's Wild West. Many of America's classic western films were filmed along this road due to the region's wide-open spaces and rugged elemental characteristics. Once dubbed "The Loneliest Road of America," meet the people who have found all the comforts of home along Highway 50, and listen as the region's fascinating history is brought to life.
Episode 5
Route 66 Through the South West
43 mins
Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, iconic Route 66 is a part of American legend and lore. Countless people have traveled along this historic roadway, celebrating the spirit of America, and the freedom of the open road. The beating heart of America can be felt as you glide along Route 66, and if you pay attention, you just might catch a fleeting glimpse of The American Dream.