From Horse Stalls to Streaming Wars: How Hollywood’s Humble Beginnings Foreshadow Its Future
The Oscars are moving to YouTube. A seemingly seismic shift, it’s sparked debate about the future of awards shows and the industry itself. But amidst the breathless prognostication, it’s crucial to remember that Hollywood’s entire narrative – from global dominance to current anxieties – began not in a glitzy premiere, but in a rented barn. That barn, the Lasky-DeMille Barn, still stands today, preserved by the Hollywood Heritage Museum, and offers a surprisingly potent lens through which to view the industry’s evolving story.
The Barn: A Blueprint for Disruption
In 1913, Cecil B. DeMille and his partners chose a humble barn near Selma and Vine because Flagstaff, Arizona, was simply too dark and cold for early filmmaking. This pragmatic decision, born of necessity, embodies a core tenet of Hollywood’s success: adaptability. The industry has consistently reinvented itself, embracing new technologies and distribution methods. From silent films to talkies, from television to streaming, Hollywood has always found a way to survive and thrive. The move to YouTube, while jarring to some, is simply the latest iteration of this disruptive spirit. It’s a bet on reaching a wider, younger audience where they already are, mirroring the early days when movies were a novel form of entertainment accessible to the masses.
Preserving the Past, Predicting the Future
The Hollywood Heritage Museum isn’t just a repository of artifacts; it’s a living reminder of this history of reinvention. Unlike the more polished Academy Museum, which celebrates Hollywood’s achievements, the Heritage Museum is Old Hollywood, a tangible connection to the industry’s scrappy origins. It’s a place where you can stand in the stalls that once housed actors’ horses and imagine DeMille setting up his tiny office. This grounding in the past is vital as the industry navigates an increasingly uncertain future.
The Enduring Power of Storytelling
What hasn’t changed since those early days is the fundamental power of storytelling. The barn wasn’t about fancy equipment or elaborate sets; it was about a group of people with a vision and the determination to bring it to life. Today, that spirit persists, even as the tools and platforms evolve. The rise of AI in filmmaking, for example, isn’t necessarily a threat to creativity, but rather a new tool that can be used to enhance and expand storytelling possibilities. As film scholar Henry Jenkins argues in his work on convergence culture, media technologies are never neutral; they are always shaped by the creative forces that use them. Henry Jenkins’ website
Beyond the Blockbuster: The Importance of Local Preservation
The preservation efforts of Hollywood Heritage also highlight a crucial point: the importance of protecting cultural landmarks. Los Angeles has a notorious history of demolishing its past, but organizations like Hollywood Heritage are fighting to preserve the physical spaces that shaped the industry. This isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about maintaining a sense of place and identity. As Hollywood faces increasing competition from global production hubs, preserving its unique history and character will be essential to attracting talent and investment. The “Come Back to Hollywood” advocacy plan, focusing on revitalizing historic buildings, is a testament to this commitment.
The Streaming Era and the New “Barns” of Production
The streaming wars have democratized content creation, leading to a proliferation of new “barns” – independent production companies, digital studios, and creator-led initiatives. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon are empowering a new generation of filmmakers and storytellers, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. This echoes the early days of Hollywood, when independent producers like DeMille and Lasky challenged the established theater monopolies. The Oscars’ move to YouTube isn’t just about reaching a new audience; it’s about acknowledging the shifting power dynamics within the industry.
However, this democratization also presents challenges. The sheer volume of content can make it difficult to stand out, and the economic models for independent creators are often precarious. The lessons from Hollywood’s past – the importance of collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to take risks – are more relevant than ever.
Ultimately, the story of the Lasky-DeMille Barn is a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring power of the human imagination. As Hollywood continues to navigate a period of profound change, remembering its humble beginnings can provide valuable perspective and inspiration. What will the next “barn” look like? And who will be the DeMilles and Lasks of the streaming age? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
