Great show.
From a historical standpoint, it's...interesting. I have not read River of Doubt, but I am familiar with what it has to say (I do plan to, and will update this if I remember xD ). It's actually been surprisingly difficult to find out how historically accurate this show is, which usually isn't a good sign...
But this show at least gets timelines, names, and key events more or less correct. And for US history especially, these things matter. However it adds its own flair of drama to key conversations/speeches/moments that, quite cleverly, show its bias...but also wears it as badge.
Here's the facts, as any objective history lover knows to be true: He was racist. This is not an opinion, nor is it a secret. It is objectively documented in countless resources. He is very much a man of his time.
If showing his very well known racism and disrespect of other cultures is something you think is some sort of propaganda, then you are not a true lover of history, and will be extremely triggered throughout American Guest.
The show, which primarily takes place in Brazil, is intermingled with flashbacks to relevant moments of his life that help him overcome the more...logistical problems of traversing the Amazon.
It's actually quite brilliant. The way the show is shot and edited is a masterclass of directorship and filmography. I doubt this aspect will get nearly as much credit as it deserves.
Teddy Roosevelt was a very flawed man. He made some serious mistakes. But he is also one of the most unique individuals in the history of humanity...yes, humanity...and it takes a VERY unique person to walk the VERY unique, fine line America was forced to walk at the turn of the 19th century. Unfortunately his handling of Panama canceled out much of the good he did do. But he also did some REALLY good things that I don't think other men of his time would have done, and for that we should all be grateful.
So if you aren't triggered by anti-colonialist sentiments, you'll find an EXTREMELY well acted historical drama that does a great job capturing the tenseness and nuance of the overall situation, while making it relatable and almost humorous. I highly recommend it.
