MA dissertation : Networked Media Environments

Hollywood has a long history of resistance towards technological change, and more recently, faces the proliferation of peer-to-peer file-sharing networks. The aim of this investigation is to explore the impact of these challenges upon the industry, and in particular, its dominance of distribution networks. In order to appreciate Hollywood's operations, this research incorporates networks, film distribution, intellectual property specific to copyright law, piracy, and film business economics. Specific to this inquiry is the ongoing success, and business opportunities, of the movie industry, particularly the UK independent producers or small production outfits that produce feature films and struggle to compete with the Hollywood majors for survival. Key to this study's authenticity is the interviews and conversations conducted with UK independent film producers, and persons directly involved in the movie business.