Media context

How does free market capitalism shape the film industry for Snow White and Shang-Chi?

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Hollywood operated within free market capitalism, meaning films were produced primarily to generate profit. Studios aimed to sell films to audiences and create commercially successful entertainment. The industry avoided government regulation by establishing its own systems, such as classification and self-censorship. Walt Disney worked within this commercial system but succeeded by producing a unique product – the first feature-length animated film – which attracted audiences and generated significant profit.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
The modern film industry still operates under commercial imperatives, but at a global scale. Large conglomerates like Disney produce blockbuster films designed to maximise revenue through cinema tickets, merchandising, streaming services and partnerships. However, economic systems vary globally. For example, China has a state-controlled film market, meaning foreign films must be approved by the China Film Group Corporation, which controls the import of international films. This shows how global economic systems can influence where and how films are distributed.

How does globalisation influence Snow White and Shang-Chi?

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Even in the early 20th century, Hollywood films were distributed internationally, showing that the film industry was already becoming globalised. Walt Disney benefited from working within the economically dominant Hollywood industry, which allowed his films to reach audiences worldwide despite Disney being a relatively small studio at the time.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
Globalisation is far more advanced today. Shang-Chi represents a global media product: an American Marvel film inspired by Chinese culture and filmed partly in Australia. Modern blockbusters are designed to appeal to international audiences, reflecting global cultural influences and aiming for worldwide box office success.

How do historical contexts influence Snow White?

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
The film reflects the social attitudes of the 1930s. Hollywood was dominated by white male producers and largely targeted a white American audience. Representations in the film reflect these historical contexts, including traditional gender roles and a somewhat patronising portrayal of characters with dwarfism.

The film was also influenced by the Hays Code, which restricted depictions of sexuality, crime and controversial social issues. These rules encouraged films to present clear moral narratives and family-friendly values.

How did historical events influence the themes of Snow White?

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
The film was produced during the Great Depression, when many audiences were experiencing economic hardship. As a result, Hollywood films often focused on escapism, offering fantasy worlds and uplifting stories rather than realistic depictions of social problems. Snow White reflects this approach through its magical setting, romantic storyline and optimistic resolution.

How did wider historical developments influence the style of Snow White?

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Some visual elements in the film were influenced by European cinema. During the 1930s, many German filmmakers fled to Hollywood due to the rise of fascism in Germany. Their work introduced elements of German Expressionism, characterised by darker imagery and dramatic visual design. These influences can be seen in the film’s darker sequences, such as scenes involving the Evil Queen and the forest.