COMM376

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THE HOLLYWOOD STUDIO SYSTEM 1927-1967

Communications (COMM) Contemporary Arts

Course Description

Far from the director’s medium it was once rumored to be, or a simple star-driven autocracy, American film from the 1930s to the 1960s was a unique art and business — it was, in the words of famous film critic Andre Bazin, a “genius” system. This course will explore the many facets of the studio system, by tracing the history of two “major” studios (MGM and Warners), one “major-minor" (Universal), and one independent studio (Disney). It will delve
into why this system was able to have such sustained success, and will also highlight the many inequities and injustices perpetuated by the systems rigid control of creative content. In so doing, students will gain a deeper understanding of how art and commerce intersect, and how mass media shapes mass opinion.

Course Attributes

WRITING INTENSIVE (WRIT)