A film history video examines how Thomas Edison, George Eastman, and the major film companies formed the Motion Picture Patents company (MPPC) and created a monopoly that controlled the production, distribution, exhibition of films. In addition, the narrator discusses the development of feature-length films and the mixed legacy of D.W. Griffin.

Concepts

film, film making, patents, racism, monopolies

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Additional Tags

visual and performing arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Show the captions and pause the video frequently so viewers can keep up with the narrator's rapid pace
• Have groups investigate Oscar Micheaux and the Chicago underground film industry

Classroom Considerations

• The episode examines W.D. Griffiths' legacy in a forthright manner

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Film clips are used to illustrate the techniques examined

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2