studio system

Studio system refers to the all-powerful control the monopolistic film studios had over all aspects of assembly-line filmmaking and film production from the 1920s until the late 1950s, when chiefs and moguls (Mayer, Selznick and Zukor) ruled. Tactics included the ownership of property, control of publicity and marketing, and iron-clad contracts with star actors, directors, composers, camera operators, costume designers, writers, and producers.