Question 1

What is the difference between Classical Hollywood and New Hollywood?

Accepted Answer

Classical Hollywood (1930s-1950s) was dominated by the studio system, where films followed strict genre conventions, had happy endings, and used invisible editing to maintain realism. New Hollywood (1960s-1970s) emerged as studios declined and directors gained more control. Films became more realistic, with anti-heroes, ambiguous endings, and stylistic experimentation influenced by European cinema. For example, 'Casablanca' (1942) represents Classical Hollywood with its clear hero and romantic closure, while 'Bonnie and Clyde' (1967) breaks conventions with its violent, morally complex protagonists.

Question 2

How did the Paramount Decree change Hollywood?

Accepted Answer

The Paramount Decree (1948) forced major studios to sell their theatre chains, ending vertical integration. This meant studios could no longer guarantee exhibition for their films, leading to a decline in the studio system. Independent producers and stars gained power, and studios shifted to financing and distributing films rather than producing them in-house. This opened the door for New Hollywood, as directors could now make more personal films without studio interference.

Question 3

Why is 'Jaws' considered the first blockbuster?

Accepted Answer

'Jaws' (1975) is considered the first summer blockbuster because of its innovative marketing and release strategy. It was released in over 400 theatres simultaneously (saturation booking) with a massive TV advertising campaign, creating nationwide hype. It also became the highest-grossing film of its time, proving that a single film could generate huge profits through wide release and merchandising. This model was later perfected by 'Star Wars' (1977).

Question 4

What role did technology play in the development of US film?

Accepted Answer

Technology drove major changes in US film. The introduction of sound (1927) ended the silent era and changed acting styles. Colour (Technicolor in the 1930s) made films more visually spectacular. Widescreen formats like CinemaScope (1953) were developed to compete with television, offering a more immersive experience. Later, digital effects (CGI) in films like 'Jurassic Park' (1993) allowed for new kinds of storytelling and spectacle. Each innovation influenced genre cycles and audience expectations.

Question 5

How should I structure an essay on the development of US film?

Accepted Answer

Start with a clear introduction that outlines the period or films you'll discuss. Then, organise your paragraphs around key themes: industrial context (studio system vs. independent production), technological innovations (sound, colour, CGI), and stylistic/ideological shifts (genre conventions, representation). Always use specific film examples to support your points. Conclude by summarising how these changes reflect broader cultural and economic trends. For top marks, compare two films from different periods, showing how each represents its era.

Question 6

What is the significance of the auteur theory in New Hollywood?

Accepted Answer

Auteur theory, which argues that the director is the primary creative force behind a film, became influential in New Hollywood. Directors like Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and Stanley Kubrick were seen as auteurs, with distinctive styles and recurring themes. This contrasted with the studio system, where producers often had more control. The rise of the auteur allowed for more personal, artistic films, but also led to tensions when directors' visions clashed with commercial demands (e.g., 'Heaven's Gate' ending United Artists).

Content of Development of US Film (02)

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE Film Studies

3D film

Aesthetics

Characters

Cinematography (including lighting)

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