The Major Studios

The Major Studios

The so-called major studios dominate the world of film. It all started with the 'Big Five' - a brief journey into the early days of Hollywood.

Paramount Pictures Corporation, share from 1961. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

Paramount Pictures Corporation, share from 1961. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

Paramount Pictures

A name inseparably linked to the history of cinema: Paramount Pictures. Founded in 1912, this studio has an impressive success story behind it. With iconic films like "The Godfather," "Forrest Gump," or the "Star Trek" series, Paramount has proven its commitment to high-quality entertainment. As one of the oldest surviving film studios, Paramount can look back on a rich tradition and a multitude of award-winning films.


AOL Time Warner, share from 2001. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

AOL Time Warner, share from 2001. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

Warner Bros. Entertainment

Warner Bros., founded in 1923, is a name synonymous with quality and innovation. With an impressive portfolio of film series such as "Harry Potter," "Matrix," and "The Lord of the Rings," Warner Bros. has secured a firm place in the hearts of film fans around the world. The studio also has a strong presence in television and is responsible for some of the most beloved series, including "Friends" and "Game of Thrones."


Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corporation, share - not issued. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corporation, share - not issued. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

20th Century Studios (ehemals 20th Century Fox)

Originally known as 20th Century Fox, the studio later rebranded as 20th Century Studios. Since its inception in 1935, this studio has produced a series of groundbreaking films, including the "Star Wars," "Avatar," and "X-Men" series. With a focus on major blockbusters and artistically challenging films, 20th Century Studios has made a lasting impression on film history.



Samuel Goldwyn Studios, share from 1942. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

Samuel Goldwyn Studios, share from 1942. Source: Stiftung Sammlung historischer Wertpapiere

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, or MGM for short, is another giant in the world of film. Since its founding in 1924, MGM has produced some of the most memorable films in cinema history. From timeless classics like "Ben-Hur" and "The Wizard of Oz" to modern blockbusters like the "James Bond" series starting in 1981 and "The Hobbit," MGM has created a wide spectrum of films that have delighted generations of audiences.


RKO Radio Pictures Logo, Source: Wikimedia Commons

RKO Radio Pictures Logo, Source: Wikimedia Commons

RKO Pictures

RKO Pictures (Radio-Keith-Orpheum), founded in 1928, was once a major player in the golden era of Hollywood. With films like "King Kong" and "Citizen Kane," RKO shaped the film industry and set standards for innovation and creativity. Although the studio no longer exists, its legacy persists in the form of its groundbreaking films and its influence on the industry.