Paul Monaco Flashcards
Profile: Paul Monaco
Paul Monaco is a film historian and professor at Montana State University, specializing in the history of American cinema and media.
He holds a Ph.D. in Communication from the University of Illinois.
Chapter 1: Establishing Hollywood 20th century 1927-1948
Main Points
The influence of Griffith’s “The Birth of a Nation” on filmmaking techniques.
Early production companies like Polyscope and their migration to California
Q: How did D.W. Griffith’s “The Birth of a Nation” (1915) influence the film industry?
A: It introduced new filmmaking techniques such as close-ups, fade-outs, and complex narratives.
Q: What were the reasons for early filmmakers relocating to Southern California?
A: The favorable climate, diverse scenery, and distance from Edison’s patents monopoly.
Q: How did the establishment of major studios shape Hollywood?
A: It created a system of standardized production, distribution, and exhibition.
Chapter 2: Early Synchronous Sound
Main Points:The transition from silent films to sound films.
“The Jazz Singer” (1927) as the first feature-length film with synchronized dialogue.
Warner Bros.’s innovation with the Vitaphone sound system.
Q: What was the significance of “The Jazz Singer” in film history?
A: It was the first feature-length film with synchronized dialogue, marking the transition to sound films.
Q: How did the introduction of sound affect the film industry?
A: It required:
New technology,
New acting styles,
New production processes.
Q: What role did Warner Bros. play in the sound revolution?
A: by introducing the Vitaphone system and producing: “The Jazz Singer.”
Chapter 3: Classic Hollywood Takes Form
Main Points:
Hollywood took form by: establishing genres: westerns, musicals, and comedies.
The rise of talent: like Clark Gable Est.Directors: like John Ford shaping film styles
Q: How did the studio system influence film production?
A: the studio system influenced film by: standardizing production , controlling talent, and created consistent output.
Q: What are some examples of genre films from the classic Hollywood era?
A: Westerns, musicals, and comedies, such as “Stagecoach”, “Singin’ in the Rain.” , “It happened one night”
Q:Classic Hollywood 1927-48
Who were some of the influential stars and directors during this period?
A: Classic Hollywood Stars like Clark Gable (it happened one night) and directors like John Ford. (Stagecoach)
Chapter 4: Banner Years
The peak of Hollywood’s golden age: 1939-1941
Successes like “Gone with the Wind” and “Casablanca.”
WW2 impact:
Wartime propaganda films and their influence on public morale.
Q: How did World War II impact Hollywood?
A: It led to the production of propaganda films and changes in film content to boost morale.
Q: Can you name some notable films from Hollywood’s golden age?
A: “Gone with the Wind” Gable(Fleming) and “Casablanca.” Bogart(CURTIZ)
Q: What characterized the peak of Hollywood’s golden age?
A: High-quality productions, iconic films, and significant box office revenues.
Chapter 5: Red, White, Blue, and Noir
The emergence of Noir: Dark Cynical Films, innovative Lighting/Flashbacks “Double Indemnity” and “The Maltese Falcon.”
Post-war cultural shifts reflected:
Hays Code impact and censorship:No W.slavery, lustful kiss
Q: What are the defining characteristics of film noir?
A: Dark, cynical themes, complex characters, and stylistic visual elements like shadows and high contrast.
Q: How did post-war cultural shifts influence Hollywood films?
A: Films began to explore more complex and darker themes reflecting societal changes.
Q: What are some examples of classic film noirs?
A: “Double Indemnity”(Wilder) and “The Maltese Falcon.”(Huston)
Chapter 6: Postwar Triumphs and Reversals
1.The breakup of studio monopolies due to antitrust laws.
2. The competition between film and television for audiences.
Q: What challenges did Hollywood face post-WWII?
A: The breakup of studio monopolies and the rise of television.
Q: How did antitrust laws affect the major studios?
A: They were forced to divest their theater chains, reducing their control over film exhibition.
Q: What impact did television have on the film industry?
A: It diverted audiences away from theaters and led to changes in film production and distribution strategies.
Chapter 7: Postwar Unravelings
Main Points:
The decline of the studio system.
The rise of independent producers and new filmmaking techniques.
films like “Marty.” 1955/Mann
The shift towards method acting and location shooting.
Q: What factors contributed to the decline of the studio system?
A: Changes in audience preferences, competition from television, and antitrust regulations.
Q: How did independent producers influence Hollywood in the postwar era?
A: 1.fresh perspectives
2.new storytelling tech.
3.a focus on realism.
Q: What are some examples of successful independent films from this period?
A: “Marty” and other films that emphasized character-driven stories and realistic settings.
Chapter 8: Declining Audiences and the Response
The introduction of widescreen formats like CinemaScope.
The production of epic films and musicals to lure audiences
Q: How did Hollywood respond to declining theater attendance in the 1950s?
A: By introducing widescreen formats and producing epic films and musicals.
Q: What technological innovations were used to attract audiences?
A: Widescreen formats like CinemaScope and advancements in sound technology.
Q: Can you name some epic films produced to lure audiences back to theaters?
A: “The Ten Commandments” and “Ben-Hur.”
Chapter 9: Hollywood on the Ropes
MPts:Continued challenges in the 1960s and the rise of new Hollywood.
The cultural revolution’s impact on filmmaking.
Examples:
The influence of European cinema and the French New Wave.
The success of films like “Bonnie and Clyde” and “Easy Rider.
Q: What were the major challenges faced by Hollywood in the 1960s?
1.Competition from television
2.cultural shifts,
3. changing audience tastes.
Q: How did the cultural revolution of the 1960s influence Hollywood films?
A: It led to more experimental and unconventional filmmaking, influenced by European cinema.
Q: What are some examples of films that reflect the new Hollywood movement?
A: “Bonnie and Clyde” and “Easy Rider.”