Movies began with the sequential action photographs of Eadweard Muybridge in 1877. Narrative films were introduced around the turn of the century. Film soon became a large, studio-controlled business on the West Coast. The introduction of television forced the studios to remake themselves, and the two forms of media now often work together.

The film industry today is moving toward conglomeration and internationalization. Rather than take chances, the blockbuster mentality of the big studios leads them to rely on such strategies as concept films, sequels and remakes, and movies based on television shows.

Movies today attract an increasingly young audience, which causes some observers to worry that the traditional, elevated role movies have played in our culture is in danger. Another concern is the prevalence of product placement, which increases the need for media literacy.

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