Watch How Hollywood Does It - Film History & Techniques of Genre

How Hollywood Does It - Film History & Techniques of Genre is a comprehensive documentary that explores the intricate and fascinating world of filmmaking. The documentary is hosted by Jeffrey Hill, who is a professor of film studies at DePaul University in Chicago. The movie is a detailed look into the history and techniques of film genres that have become commonplace in Hollywood. It covers a wide range of genres, including action-adventure, horror, romantic-comedy, and many others. The goal of the movie is to inform viewers about the different elements that are used to create compelling stories and characters within each genre.

Throughout the movie, Hill delves deeply into the techniques used by directors, writers, and actors to bring their visions to life. He explains how different directors have their unique approaches to telling stories and how these approaches often inform their stylistic choices.

The documentary also features interviews with renowned filmmakers and actors, including Rob Reiner, John Carpenter, and Jonathan Lynn. These interviews offer insights into the creative process of making a great movie, as well as anecdotes from behind the scenes.

One of the most interesting aspects of the movie is the way it shows how filmmaking has evolved over the years. Hill goes back in time and examines how film techniques such as lighting, color, and sound have changed the way we tell stories on the big screen. He also explores how the influence of other forms of storytelling, such as literature and theater, have influenced the way movies are made.

The movie also highlights the importance of the screenplay in the filmmaking process. Hill goes through the process of writing a screenplay, from the initial idea to the final draft. He explains how screenplays are not merely blueprints for movies but are themselves works of art that require a great deal of time and effort to create.

Another aspect covered in the documentary is the role of the actor in the filmmaking process. Hill explains that actors aren't just performers but are artists who help bring characters to life. He also touches upon the importance of casting and the impact that the right actor can have on a movie.

Overall, How Hollywood Does It - Film History & Techniques of Genre is an informative and engaging documentary that offers insights into the world of filmmaking. It covers a wide range of topics and examines them in great detail, making it a great resource for anyone interested in becoming a filmmaker or a fan of the art of cinema.