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Academic Year 2004/2005

The History of the American Film Industry in the Studio Era
FILM 343 FA

This course explores the history of the Hollywood studio system, from the beginnings of cinema through the end of the studio era in the 1950s and 1960s. We will trace the evolution of the production, distribution, and exhibition of films within the changing structure of the industry, paying particular attention to how economic, industrial, and technological changes impacted the form and content of the films themselves. In class discussions, we will explore special topics in film history and historiography, including production control, independent production, audience reception, censorship, advertising, exhibition, and film criticism.

MAJOR READINGS

Tino Balio, THE AMERICAN FILM INDUSTRY
Tino Balio, GRAND DESIGN
Thomas Schatz, THE GENIUS OF THE SYSTEM
Reading packet.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Three exams, a historiography paper, and a research paper.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Course fee of $45.00 to help cover the film rentals and projection costs. Attendance required.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NONE    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: FILM304 OR FILM310 Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-21-2005

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