Synopsis

This feature-length historical, educational documentary shows how the TV LAB at Thirteen/WNET, New York 1972-84 changed the way we see television and the world.  Artists explored television as an art form: they established a global video art movement and influenced the beginnings of MTV.  Novice journalists with portable video cameras gained intimate access to events: they revolutionized television documentary content, affected the look of TV drama, and foreshadowed reality television.  Choreographers and dramatists innovated and built extraordinary careers. Exploring the collaborative collisions of the TV LAB, we imagine endless possiblities for television today as we confront its digital future.