week one reading response

1. According to Bazin, 1939 marked the end of the "classic" period of Hollywood because he believes that at that time Hollywood had reached classical perfection. It marked the end of the "common form of cinematic language" and the beginning of a "cinematic revolution". In other words, he felt that since Hollywood could no longer improve on its standard, "classic" fare, it was time for new improvements.

2. Seldes' main critique of Hollywood was that it was geared towards too young an audience. Due to declining ticket sales in the age groups of 19-29 and 30 and over, most film goers were between the ages of 10 and 19. This forced Hollywood to produce films that would be most appealing to this age group, hence his critique that all other ages were being left out.

3. Kael predicted that Hollywood would loose audiences because of its huge productions. Kael felt Hollywood relied too much on having large budgets, long films and manufactured, unrealistic sets. If it kept presenting a spectacle, eventually audiences would get bored.

Goodman declared the end of Hollywood in 1961 because television was becoming so much more popular, and with the studios selling rights to movies to be broadcast on tv, people could save a theatre ticket and stay at home to watch them. 

4.MacCan, on the other hand, was optimistic for the future of Hollywood. He saw in the changing system potential for a new approach to filmmaking, influenced by European styles.