"THE STUDIO SYSTEM DROVE HOLLYWOOD'S GOLDEN ERA"
hollywood's golden eraThe silent era of the movies effectively ended in 1927 when the first 'talkie' was released: The Jazz Singer. The period following the silent era is commonly known as the Golden Era of Hollywood; between 1927 and 1948. During the Golden Era, the movies emerged as a popular form of entertainment worldwide. Hollywood quickly became the center for motion picture productions, and of the entertainment industry. During this era, Hollywood produced some of the most classical, and recognizable films of the 20th century. So, how did Hollywood get to be so 'golden'? By incorporating the Studio System as a standard practice in Hollywood.
THE STUDIO SYSTEMThe Studio System was a method of film production and distribution dominated by Hollywood's top bosses and Studios. The idea was; to make more money, the Studio's had to basically own, and control, every aspect of the movie industry. Essentially, Studios used methods such as vertical integration; a fancy word for owning everything from the top down. Also, Hollywood bosses were not above using manipulative methods so as to ensure their Studio's success. In sum, the "System" was beneficial to Hollywood Studios; it allowed for the mass production of films, and almost guaranteed to maximize Studios profits, during the Golden Era of Hollywood.
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a timeline:The Studio System
emerged during the teens, took its distinctive shape during the twenties, reached maturity during the thirties, peaked in the war years and went into a steady decline as of the fifties. THE Studios involved:There were 8 major studios involved:
"The Big Five": MGM, RKO, PARAMOUNT, FOX AND WB "The Little Three": COLUMBIA, UNIVERSAL, UNITED ARTISTS. |
EXPLORing the studio system:
For a further look at the inner-workings of the Studio System
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For a further look at the Studio's individual use of the System, as well as the system's impact on the Stars
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Thoughts and discussions on the Studio System;
Then & Now. |