The Coming of Sound

by Douglas Gomery

The coming of sound to film was an event whose importance can hardly be overestimated; sound transformed not only the Hollywood film industry but all of world cinema as well. As economic and film historian Douglas Gomery explains, the business of film became not only bigger but much more complex. As sound spread its power, the talkies became an agent of economic and social change through the globe, extending America's reach in ways that had never before been imaginable.

This is an essential work for anyone interested in early film, film history and economics, and the history of the American media.

Genres: Film, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Liz Samson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Comprehensive revisiting of the economics surrounding the coming of sound

Gomery addresses many ‘myths’ surrounding the introduction of synchronised sound to film. His focus on the economics and industry form a vital part of the understanding of this period and add key knowledge to the era. It is impossible to understand this period without accepting that industry had a role to play. I would argue, not the ONLY role, but nonetheless a key one. Comprehensive with an astonishing amount of effort and research. An absolute essential if studying this period.

[Andygibbons · Rating 5 out of 5]

What were the forces that caused movies to migrate from silent to sound? How did it happen? How long did it take?