Classical Hollywood Cinema: Production, Narration, and Style

What historical period did Classical Hollywood Cinema develop?

It developed in the 1910s.

What is the time frame during which Classical Hollywood Cinema was standardized?

It was standardized in Hollywood through the 1960s.

What are the key components that define Classical Hollywood Cinema?

The studio system, star system, Production Code, and a set of conventions.

What does the studio system in Classical Hollywood Cinema refer to?

An oligopoly of vertically integrated companies that controlled film production.

How did the star system influence Hollywood?

It established stars as Hollywood's most important product, with actors under contract to studios.

What was the purpose of the Production Code established in 1930?

To regulate film content, prohibiting certain themes and representations.

Name three types of content prohibited by the Production Code.

Crimes against law, sex acts, and vulgarity.

How did filmmakers work around the restrictions of the Production Code?

They used visual strategies, innuendo, and sophisticated language to imply rather than explicitly state content.

What narrative structure is commonly found in Classical Hollywood Cinema?

A clear narrative arc consisting of equilibrium, disturbance, struggle, and resolution.

What is the significance of the 'male gaze' in Classical Hollywood Cinema?

It refers to the perspective that positions men as viewers and women as objects to be looked at.

What is meant by 'invisible style' in Classical Hollywood Cinema?

A style that is self-effacing, transparent, and serves the story rather than drawing attention to itself.

What is continuity editing?

A technique that creates a continuous sense of space and time between shots.

What is the 180º rule in continuity editing?

A guideline that establishes a center line or axis of action that should not be crossed.

What are some common transitions used in film editing?

Cuts, dissolves, wipes, and fades.

What is a match cut in film editing?

A cut that connects two shots by matching the action or visual elements.

What is an eyeline match in continuity editing?

Aligning the camera with the characters' gaze to maintain spatial continuity.

What role does redundancy play in Classical Hollywood narratives?

It reinforces plot points by representing the same story event multiple times through various means.

How does Classical Hollywood Cinema prioritize whiteness?

It often depicts characters and narratives that center on white experiences and perspectives.

What is the significance of deadlines in Classical Hollywood narratives?

Deadlines help structure the linearity of the plot and create tension.