Ken Burns: Empire of the Air: The Men Who Made Radio DVD

As a broadcast engineer and consultant, I find this film to be of special interest. I have purchased multiple copies and given them as gifts to some of my radio clients (owners, General Managers, etc.) and theyve also enjoyed learning more about the history of the business we all love and are involved in every day.

On March 11, 2013, the late Philo Farnsworth___a native of the eastern Idaho town of Rigby___ was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame as the inventor of the first fully functional, all-electronic television system, demonstrating it to the public in 1928. Too bad this documentary doesnt go into the drama surrounding Farnsworths television invention and how it was pirated by David Sarnoff, the president of RCA (which would later become NBC), as dramatized in the Broadway play, The Farnsworth Invention, written by Aaron Sorkin. An on-line follow-up from Ken Burns would go far in telling the truth. Moreover, with little if any discuion of Teslas significant contribution to radio (and electronics), including the invention of radio (radio-controlled boat in 1898) THREE YEARS ahead of Marconis transmiion in 1901.

This documentary gives the viewer an insight to the development of radio never before seen! Three distinct individuals, with contrasting character, take you through the development of AM radio and the turn of the 19th to the 20th century.

I share Victor Heards review; he described this Burns special perfectly. I am not a techie and probably challenged more than most but found this to be both intriguing and fascinating. Its not just telling you the story but putting you into the era at the same time. Recommended this for your geek friends.

On March 11, 2013, the late Philo FarnsworthEURa native of the eastern Idaho town of RigbyEUR was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame as the inventor of the first fully functional, all-electronic television system, demonstrating it to the public in 1928. Too bad this documentary doesnt go into the drama surrounding Farnsworths television invention and how it was pirated by David Sarnoff, the president of RCA (which would later become NBC), as dramatized in the Broadway play, The Farnsworth Invention, written by Aaron Sorkin. An on-line follow-up from Ken Burns would go far in telling the truth. Moreover, with little if any discuion of Teslas significant contribution to radio (and electronics), including the invention of radio (radio-controlled boat in 1898) THREE YEARS ahead of Marconis transmiion in 1901.

On March 11, 2013, the late Philo Farnswortha native of the eastern Idaho town of Rigby was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Hall of Fame as the inventor of the first fully functional, all-electronic television system, demonstrating it to the public in 1928. Too bad this documentary doesnt go into the drama surrounding Farnsworths television invention and how it was pirated by David Sarnoff, the president of RCA (which would later become NBC), as dramatized in the Broadway play, The Farnsworth Invention, written by Aaron Sorkin. An on-line follow-up from Ken Burns would go far in telling the truth. Moreover, with little if any discuion of Teslas significant contribution to radio (and electronics), including the invention of radio (radio-controlled boat in 1898) THREE YEARS ahead of Marconis transmiion in 1901.

I grew up in a Broadcast Family. Radio (WINS) (WABC) and TV, (WNEW) (WABC) WRCA) WABW and print, NY Times as well as the ESJ. My family owned several stations and I was charged to learn from my elders. So General Sarnoff was one you always listend to and respected for his vision, syamina and wisdom. I also looked up to J, Elroy McCaw, His son Craig McCaw,Rick Sklar, Don Ingram, Soupy Sales and anyone who would teach me to master this trade and teach my sons and grandsons as well. One son works for Turner (CNN) his wife for HLN and my husband was a video engineer for WTTG in DC. Communications and quality broadcasting is critical for an informed America, which makes us stronger and better. I salute all of you where ever you maybe in your lifes work and ambitions. It couldnt have been better for me. Eileen Gallo Fry retired from TV but always ready to help the next generations in whatever area of broadcast they choose.

Only a geek like me could praise this film so highly. Kids interested in tech (high or low) should see this film, and write a report on it. Check its facts, read other sources about radio, television, science and engineering. But this film is a great place to start. Its got some tech in it (Id like much more...). Its got the people. Its got the personal, and public battles. All the inspiration, frustration, elation, and desperation, surrounding one of the most fundamental technologies human kind has ever produced. Kudos to all those involved in the film. And a big thanks to Jason Robards for the narration, hes perfect. This film is epic...

Riveting documentary. Ken Burns found and incredible story, stranger than fiction. A must see.

Anyone who works in broadcasting should watch this great documentary! Interesting and and at the same time very sad!