The Political Economy of Hollywood: Capitalist Power and Cultural Production

Hollywood's film business is analyzed in this book to understand how the largest firms try to control social creativity to reduce financial risks. It argues that capitalist power is the foundation of capital accumulation and that Hollywood's goals have clashed with the aesthetic potentials of cinema, stifling creativity in the pursuit of limiting risk.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the realm of Hollywood, the intertwining of art and business creates a complex tapestry of aspirations and challenges. Directors, writers, actors, and idealistic producers strive to create the finest films imaginable, driven by a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. However, their ambitions often collide with the dominant forces that control Hollywood's film distribution. This control, wielded by large firms and other influential entities such as banks that provide financing, assumes paramount importance as it establishes a crucial barrier between film production and the ever-evolving market. This book delves into the intricate power structure of the Hollywood film business, exploring its various modes of operation. It specifically focuses on the strategies employed by the largest Hollywood firms to exert control over social creativity, aiming to mitigate the financial risks inherent in the art of filmmaking.

Capitalist power, the ability to control, modify, and sometimes limit social creation through ownership rights, forms the bedrock of Hollywood's power dynamics. Within this realm, the Hollywood film business revolves around the ability of business concerns to shape the future of cinema. This includes determining the types of films that will be distributed, the volume of films released, and the range of cinematic alternatives available to moviegoers. The book employs a combination of theoretical analysis and comprehensive empirical research to examine how Hollywood's capitalist goals clash with the aesthetic potential of cinema, ultimately stifling creativity in the pursuit of risk management.

This critical examination of the Hollywood machine offers valuable insights for students and scholars alike. It sheds light on the intricate interplay between artistic expression and economic imperatives, raising important questions about the role of big businesses in shaping the cultural landscape. By examining the power dynamics at play in Hollywood, this book provides a valuable framework for understanding the complex dynamics that govern the film industry and its impact on society.

Weight: 438g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367552633