General

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General refers to General Film Company, a historic film studio in the early 20th century that played a significant role in the development of the American film industry. General Film Company was founded in 1912 and was one of the many film distribution companies that emerged during the silent film era.

Here are some key points about General Film Company:

  1. Formation and Purpose: General Film Company was formed as a response to the chaotic and unregulated film industry of the early 1900s.It was created by a group of film producers, including Thomas Edison, in an effort to bring some order to the distribution and exhibition of films.

  2. Film Distribution: General Film Company, often referred to as the "Edison Trust," aimed to control the distribution of films by licensing them to theaters across the United States. This allowed the company to exert control over the industry and standardize film production and exhibition practices.

  3. Antitrust Issues: General Film Company faced legal challenges due to its monopoly-like control over the film industry. In 1915, the U.S. government initiated antitrust proceedings against the company, leading to its dissolution in 1918.

  4. Impact on Film History: Despite its relatively short existence, General Film Company played a significant role in shaping the early film industry. Its efforts to establish distribution standards and protect the rights of filmmakers and studios contributed to the development of the modern Hollywood studio system.

  5. Legacy: While General Film Company no longer exists, its influence can be seen in the development of the modern film industry, including the establishment of major film studios, distribution networks, and industry regulations.

It's important to note that General Film Company is a historical entity, and its relevance to 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, movies, and TV studios may be limited. 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment, now part of The Walt Disney Company, is a separate and distinct entity within the entertainment industry, primarily involved in the distribution of movies and TV shows on home video and digital platforms.