American Masters

A closer look at Edward Hopper's "Automat" and "Chop Suey"

Edward Hopper displayed a preference for quieter social commentary with his art. In "Automat," he paints a woman alone in an empty automat, conveying a sense of loneliness and isolation. In "Chop Suey," two women are depicted at lunch without male chaperones, reflecting the newfound independence many women were experiencing at the time.

A closer look at Edward Hopper's "Automat" and "Chop Suey"

1m 59s

  • How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics

    11m 35s

    On September 19, 2007, Phyllis Diller reflected on how her comedy was a response to years of “take my wife” jokes. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

  • Jeff Foxworthy on how every American might be a "redneck": asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Jeff Foxworthy on how every American might be a "redneck"

    15m 41s

    On November 16, 2006, Jeff Foxworthy discussed how comedians need to be able to connect with their audiences and shared his definition of a redneck. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

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