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Vertical integration (production → distribution → exhibition

Star system & franchise-oriented business model

Modern strategy: streaming, VFX, global audiences

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Efficiency & standardized production

Long-term talent contracts

Factory-like creative departments

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Strong genres: drama, noir, thriller, comedy

Big production values

Director-driven but market-focused

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Merger of RCA, FBO, and Keith-Albee-Orpheum

One of the “Big Five” studios

Vertical integration

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Early adopter of sound films

Musicals, comedies, prestige pictures

1933: King Kong

Astaire–Rogers musicals

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Early global expansion

Subtitles for wide export

Localized marketing & global partnerships

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Star-centered promotion

Iconic posters, trailers, merchandise

Modern social media + global tours

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Followed the Hays Code (1930–1960s)

Self-censorship for politics/religion

MPA rating system today

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Citizen Kane (1941) by Orson Welles

Expressionistic lighting, film noir classics

Launching careers: Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant

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Strategy: Vertical integration, mix of B-movies & prestige films

Filmmaking: Innovative visuals, director freedom, strong storytelling

Foreign Distribution: Europe, Latin America; post-WWII revenue crucial

Publicity: Radio, magazines, star-building campaigns

Censorship: Operated under the Hays Code; sometimes pushed boundaries

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1948: US Supreme Court forces studios to sell theaters

Howard Hughes ownership (1948–1955)

1957: Production stops

1959: Original RKO shuts down

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1928: RKO founded
1930s: Sound films, King Kong, musicals
1940s: Citizen Kane, film noir peak
1950s: Decline → shutdown
1980s–2000s: Brand revived
2025: Concord acquires RKO, still active in development

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Classic films still influential

Innovation in sound, visuals, and storytelling

Launched major stars

Modern RKO continues development