Formation of Edison Trust revolutionized early cinema, creating monopoly and driving independents to Hollywood.

Thomas Edison, a key figure in early cinema, spearheaded the formation of the Motion Picture Patents Company (MPPC). The MPPC, commonly known as the Edison Trust, was formed as a conglomerate comprising the nine major film studios of the time: Edison, Biograph, Vitagraph, Essanay, Selig Polyscope, Lubin, Kalem, American Star Film, and Méliès. The primary objective of this alliance was to control the burgeoning film industry by bringing together leading film production companies under a single umbrella organization. The creation of the MPPC marked a pivotal shift in the film industry's dynamics. Through a series of agreements, the MPPC sought to dominate every aspect of filmmaking, from production to distribution and exhibition. They pooled their patents to enforce exclusive rights over key film equipment and projection technologies. By doing so, they aimed to establish a monopoly, limiting competition and controlling the market. Among its significant moves, the MPPC standardized film lengths and formats, which facilitated easier distribution and exhibition. It also imposed licensing fees on theaters, requiring them to use MPPC-approved equipment and films. Independent filmmakers and exhibitors who were not part of the trust faced numerous legal and operational challenges. Consequently, many independent studios moved to Hollywood, California, seeking to escape the restrictive practices enforced by the MPPC. The MPPC's influence on the film industry was considerable. It played a crucial role in formalizing the industry's infrastructure and setting standards that continued to influence filmmaking practices. However, its monopolistic practices eventually led to various legal battles. The independent filmmakers' resistance, coupled with antitrust laws, led to the gradual dissolution of the MPPC's power. #FilmIndustry #ThomasEdison #MPPC #Monopoly #HollywoodMigration #PatentWars #CinemaHistory #MoofLife