Story of Cool

Story of Cool is a captivating documentary series that aired on MSNBC from 2018. The three-part series, which is produced by Nutopia and helmed by Emmy-award-winning actress and comedienne, LL Cool J, takes an in-depth dive into what defines "cool," the origins of cool, how it has evolved over time, and how it continues to impact and shape our culture today. In this exploration, the documentary provides an immersive and enlightening journey through various elements of society and culture that we associate with 'coolness.'

As an exploration of a concept that has infiltrated every facet of our lives, Story of Cool delves into an array of significant touchstones from the past and present. From groundbreaking music and iconic fashion trends to revolutionary technology and impactful advertising, the series dissects these integral components to understand more about our perception of ‘cool.' The narration from LL Cool J examines the concept both culturally and historically, underscoring the complex nature of 'cool,' which transcends beyond mere popularity or trendiness, associating more with innovation, rebellion, uniqueness, and authenticity.

Each of the three hour-long episodes focuses on different aspects and eras of cool, capturing the evolution of this loaded term across decades. One episode explores the roots of cool, journeying back to the mid-20th century, exploring how changes in societal norms and classic figures in pop culture and film set the stage for cool. In one such episode, viewers learn about the charismatic movie stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age and explore how their effortless swag and undeniable charm became the embodiment of cool for that era.

Another episode highlights the explosion of coolness in the advertisement industry since the mid-90s, spotlighting how corporations harnessed this coveted attribute to make their products and brands more appealing to consumers. Major brands, marketing gurus, and pop culture influencers make appearances in these episodes, giving viewers a peek into the deliberate marketing strategies that utilized 'cool' as a unique selling point.

The third episode brings audiences to the current digital age, where the definition and understanding of 'cool' continue to evolve with advancements in technology and changes in cultural trends. This episode discusses the prominence of social media as the latest frontier for 'cool', exploring how viral Internet trends, influencers and tech innovations have changed the game.

Story of Cool benefits from a variety of voices providing insights and commentary throughout. Beyond LL Cool J’s engaging narration, the series features celebrity interviews and expert opinions, including philosophers, historians, and social commentators. Also part of the discussion are artists, musicians, tech innovators, and pop culture personalities, ranging from prominent figures like Geena Davis, Ice Cube, and Shepard Fairey to advertising trailblazers like Jim Riswold and industry insiders like Anthony DeCurtis and Dave Stewart. Through their perspectives, the series paints a vibrant picture of how 'coolness' has infused and influenced different areas of our society.

The series is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It provides thoughtful and engaging content, adding depth to what might easily be dismissed as a simple colloquial term. Through expert narration, detailed explorations, and thought-provoking conversations, the series encourages viewers to ponder their own understanding and interpretation of what 'cool' truly represents.

Overall, Story of Cool offers viewers a compelling exploration into the fascinating journey of 'cool,' from its origins to its contemporary manifestations. With its wide array of subjects, compelling narratives, and rich cultural insights, the series promises to be an enjoyable, educational, and, indeed, 'cool' experience for all.