20th Century Fox

Definition

20th Century Fox was one of the major film studios in Hollywood, established in 1935, known for producing a wide array of films and playing a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American cinema. As a key player in the studio system, it exemplified the practices of vertical integration and was influential in both film production and distribution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 20th Century Fox was formed through the merger of Fox Film Corporation and Twentieth Century Pictures, making it one of the largest film studios in America.
2. The studio is known for producing classic films such as 'The Sound of Music,' 'Star Wars,' and 'Avatar,' contributing significantly to box office success.
3. It played a crucial role in advancing cinematic technology, notably through innovations in sound and color filmmaking during the mid-20th century.
4. The studio's marketing strategies were often groundbreaking, employing extensive advertising campaigns that set new standards in the industry.
5. In 2019, 20th Century Fox was acquired by The Walt Disney Company, marking a significant change in the landscape of Hollywood studios.

Review Questions

• How did 20th Century Fox exemplify the characteristics of the studio system in its operations?
  • 20th Century Fox operated under the studio system by maintaining control over all aspects of film production, from development to distribution. This integrated model allowed the studio to produce high-quality films efficiently while also managing talent contracts and exhibition strategies. The studio’s ability to create a stable of stars and its investment in marketing campaigns showcased how it capitalized on its resources to dominate box office returns.
• Evaluate the impact of vertical integration on 20th Century Fox's success in American cinema during its peak years.
  • Vertical integration significantly contributed to 20th Century Fox's success by allowing it to manage not just film production but also distribution and exhibition. This control enabled the studio to maximize profits by ensuring that its films reached audiences effectively and efficiently. By owning theaters and controlling release schedules, Fox could strategically position its films to dominate market share, leading to consistent box office hits throughout its history.
• Synthesize how 20th Century Fox's legacy continues to influence modern filmmaking practices within today's studio system.
  • 20th Century Fox's legacy can be seen in modern filmmaking practices as its successful strategies set benchmarks for production quality and marketing tactics that are still utilized today. The studio pioneered blockbuster filmmaking, combining high production values with extensive promotional campaigns that have become standard in contemporary cinema. Additionally, its experience with vertical integration informs current studio models where large conglomerates control multiple media platforms, thereby shaping how films are produced, marketed, and distributed in an increasingly globalized market.

Related terms

Vertical Integration: A business model where a company controls multiple stages of production, distribution, and exhibition within the same industry.

Studio System: The organizational structure of Hollywood from the 1920s to the 1960s, where major studios controlled all aspects of film production and distribution.

Blockbuster: A film that achieves great commercial success, often characterized by high production values, extensive marketing campaigns, and wide release.