The Origins of the Film Star System

This book examines the rise of film stardom, detailing the economic and narrative shifts that shaped the star system in early cinema. The Origins of the Film Star System provides a thorough analysis.

In The Origins of the Film Star System, Andrew Shail delves into the intricate history of film stardom, focusing on its emergence in Europe and North America during the early 20th century. By utilizing a diverse array of archival sources, he builds upon Richard deCordova’s foundational work on the US star system, offering a nuanced understanding of the economic factors that propelled both studios and actors to embrace this new model of celebrity. Shail meticulously details the evolution of the film industry, particularly from 1908 onwards, highlighting the shift towards character-based series films and how these narratives laid the groundwork for the star system we recognize today.

The author argues that the characters created in these series films were not merely precursors to film stars but were integral to the development of stardom itself. He illustrates how the dynamics of fictional characters and the emerging star system were intertwined, demonstrating that the crafted personas of series characters served as prototypes for the 'real' film stars that audiences would come to idolize. This connection between character and celebrity reveals the complexities of identity in the film industry.

Through a rich analysis of the cultural economy surrounding film stardom, The Origins of the Film Star System offers fresh insights into how early cinema shaped the concept of celebrity. Shail's work is a valuable contribution to film studies, shedding light on the economic and narrative structures that continue to influence the industry today.