This episode marks the beginning of a series dedicated to exploring the film industry’s history and its constantly shifting business models. The podcast aims to uncover the lesser-known aspects of Hollywood’s development, starting with its surprising East Coast origins.
From New Jersey to California
The episode challenges the common assumption that Hollywood has always been synonymous with Los Angeles. Instead, it highlights how the American film industry first took shape in New Jersey before eventually migrating west to become the entertainment capital we know today.
This geographical shift represents one of the first major business model transformations in the industry’s history – a theme the podcast series intends to explore throughout the week. The move from New Jersey to California wasn’t merely a change in location but signified fundamental shifts in how films were produced, distributed, and consumed.
Related Content and Industry Evolution
The podcast mentions a connection to a previous episode titled “The Origin Of The Oscars,” suggesting the series will cover not only the physical development of Hollywood but also the establishment of its prestigious institutions and award systems.
The Indicator’s focus on “ever-changing business models” indicates that the series will examine how the film industry has continuously reinvented itself throughout its history – from silent films to talkies, from studio systems to streaming platforms.
“Hollywood, baby! The glitz! The glamour! The ever-changing business models!”
This enthusiastic introduction sets the tone for what promises to be an informative exploration of cinema’s economic and cultural impact over the decades.
Podcast Details
The episode features fact-checking by Sierra Juarez and music by Drop Electric. Listeners interested in sponsor-free versions of the podcast can subscribe to Planet Money+ through Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.
The Indicator maintains a social media presence across multiple platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, where audiences can engage with additional content related to the series.
As the film industry continues to face significant disruptions and transformations in the streaming era, this historical perspective offers valuable context for understanding current challenges. By examining how Hollywood evolved from its New Jersey origins to become a global entertainment powerhouse, listeners may gain insights into the industry’s remarkable adaptability and potential future directions.
The podcast series arrives at a time when Hollywood is navigating complex changes in production methods, distribution channels, and audience expectations – making this historical exploration particularly relevant to contemporary discussions about the future of filmmaking.
