20th Century Fox

Definition

20th Century Fox, now known as 20th Century Studios, is a major American film studio that was established in 1935. The studio became a significant player in the Hollywood studio system, producing numerous iconic films and contributing to the development of the industry during its rise and eventual decline. Its influence spanned various genres and it was known for both blockbusters and critically acclaimed works, embodying the essence of Hollywood's golden age.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 20th Century Fox was formed from a merger between Fox Film Corporation and 20th Century Pictures in 1935, becoming one of the Big Six major film studios.
2. The studio produced many classic films such as 'Star Wars', 'The Sound of Music', and 'Titanic', which solidified its place in cinematic history.
3. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, 20th Century Fox faced challenges due to the Paramount Consent Decrees, which dismantled the monopoly power of major studios over theaters.
4. The studio's influence waned in the 1970s as new filmmaking techniques and independent studios emerged, changing the landscape of Hollywood.
5. In 2019, Disney acquired 21st Century Fox, including its film division, effectively ending 20th Century Fox's era as an independent studio.

Review Questions

• How did 20th Century Fox contribute to the evolution of film during the rise of the Hollywood studio system?
  • 20th Century Fox played a pivotal role in shaping Hollywood's identity by producing iconic films that defined genres and set box office records. The studio was known for its grand productions and innovative marketing strategies, which helped elevate the film industry into a dominant entertainment medium. Their success with films like 'Star Wars' illustrated how effective storytelling combined with advanced technology could create cultural phenomena that captivated audiences.
• What challenges did 20th Century Fox face during the decline of the Hollywood studio system, particularly in relation to the Paramount Consent Decrees?
  • During the decline of the Hollywood studio system, 20th Century Fox encountered significant challenges due to the Paramount Consent Decrees. These legal rulings required major studios to divest their ownership of theaters and altered their control over film distribution. As a result, Fox had to adapt its business model and navigate a more competitive landscape where independent films and new distribution methods began to flourish, impacting its ability to maintain dominance.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Disney's acquisition of 21st Century Fox on the legacy and future direction of 20th Century Fox's film division.
  • Disney's acquisition of 21st Century Fox marked a significant turning point for 20th Century Fox's film division, leading to both opportunities and challenges. The merger allowed for greater resources and distribution power under Disney's expansive umbrella, potentially revitalizing some aspects of the brand. However, it also meant that many beloved franchises and original projects were subject to Disney's overarching strategy, which focuses heavily on franchise-driven content. This shift raises questions about how much creative independence remains for what was once an iconic studio with a diverse slate of films.

Related terms

Hollywood Studio System: A system of production and distribution of films in the early to mid-20th century where major studios controlled all aspects of filmmaking, from talent contracts to distribution.

Blockbuster: A term used to describe a film that is highly successful in terms of box office revenue, often characterized by large budgets, extensive marketing, and widespread audience appeal.

Paramount Consent Decrees: Legal rulings in the 1940s that led to the breakup of the vertically integrated studio system, forcing studios like 20th Century Fox to divest their theater chains and change their business practices.