We don’t need a documentary to tell us how much of an impact Sesame Streethas made on the lives of viewers around the world, but Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street still comes as an inspiring story about the show’s legacy. The compelling film offers insights into exactly how the Sesame Streetcreators have been striving toward a diverse cast and storyline since its inception in the 1960s, and how the inclusive messaging and no-nonsense approach to children’s entertainment has positively affected the US — and the world.
Thinking about checking it out? Here’s what you need to know:
Street Gang: How We Got to Sesame Streetwas originally released in cinemas across the country but can now be streamed on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and Vudu. Note that the documentary will run you about $14.99 to rent (or $15.99 on Vudu.)
Hoping to watch a couple of Sesame Street reruns before checking out the documentary? Happily, Sesame Street is available to stream on a myriad of platforms, including PBS Kids, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime, and HBO Max.
We’ve all grown up on Sesame Street, so it should come as no surprise that many viewers and critics are keen to experience a walk down nostalgia avenue. The smart and heartwarming documentary is generally well-received by all. See what the critics are saying below:
“What is most endearing about the film is the palpable message throughout that Sesame Streetwas brought to us by the letters LOVE.”—Nell Minnow, Roger Ebert
“This is a perfectly executed documentary. No matter what street you grew up on, if you were born in the United States in the '60s or later, chances are you grew up on Sesame Street.”—Tara McNamara, Common Sense Media