Question 1

Why did Hollywood become the centre of the American film industry?

Accepted Answer

Hollywood became the centre due to a combination of factors: the sunny climate and diverse landscapes allowed year-round filming; the distance from New York helped filmmakers avoid Thomas Edison's patent enforcement; and the availability of cheap land and labour made it economically attractive. By the 1920s, the major studios had established their headquarters there, creating a cluster of talent and infrastructure that reinforced its dominance.

Question 2

What was the studio system and how did it work?

Accepted Answer

The studio system was a business model where a few major studios controlled every aspect of film production, distribution, and exhibition. They owned their own studios, contracted actors and directors long-term, and often owned cinema chains. This vertical integration allowed them to dictate what films were made, how they were marketed, and where they were shown. It created a factory-like approach to filmmaking, with strict genre formulas and assembly-line production.

Question 3

How did the star system contribute to Hollywood's success?

Accepted Answer

The star system created a direct link between actors and audience loyalty. Studios carefully crafted stars' public images through publicity, fan magazines, and controlled media appearances. Fans would go to see any film starring their favourite actor, regardless of the plot or director. This guaranteed box office returns and allowed studios to market films around personalities rather than content, reducing financial risk.

Question 4

What impact did the introduction of sound have on Hollywood?

Accepted Answer

The introduction of sound revolutionised Hollywood. It ended the careers of many silent film stars whose voices didn't suit the new medium, while creating new stars like Al Jolson. It also increased production costs, as studios had to invest in sound equipment and soundproof stages. However, it boosted cinema attendance as audiences flocked to hear dialogue and music, and it allowed for new genres like the musical. The transition was gradual, with many films using a mix of silent and sound sequences.

Question 5

How did the rise of Hollywood affect other film industries, like Britain's?

Accepted Answer

Hollywood's dominance posed a major challenge to other national cinemas. In Britain, for example, American films captured up to 80% of the market by the 1920s, leading to concerns about cultural imperialism. The British government responded with the Cinematograph Films Act 1927, which imposed quotas for British-made films in cinemas. This forced the British industry to modernise and produce more films, though it struggled to compete with Hollywood's budgets and star power.

Question 6

What is classical Hollywood narrative and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Classical Hollywood narrative is a storytelling style that emphasises clear cause-and-effect, goal-oriented protagonists, and a linear plot leading to a satisfying resolution. It became the dominant mode of mainstream cinema because it was easy for audiences to follow and emotionally engaging. This style is important because it set the template for most commercial films worldwide and is still influential today. Understanding it helps students analyse how Hollywood films construct meaning and appeal to mass audiences.

The rise of Hollywood

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Related Topics in OCR GCSE Film Studies

3D film

Aesthetics

Characters

Cinematography (including lighting)

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