What are the three interrelated factors that are central to the development of the US media industry? We define three factors as follows:
1) Cost of production, which reflects the cost of producing a magazine, book, film, or other cultural product.
2) Audience reach, which is the total number of people who have a direct line to the product (e.g., newspaper, magazine, or television show) and/or to the speaker (e.g., comedian, actor, or producer).
3) Product placement, which involves using a common, recognizable name or image in a manner that furthers the message of a publication or specific brand.
In terms of media production costs, in the mid-1990s, the major studios and networks began to rely more heavily on production companies (primarily 20th-century classics) for most of the movies and television shows produced. The result was a steady stream of blockbusters that collectively sold well beyond the initial receipts. In recent years, however, the financial success of a few films has led to the departure of their directors or producers, limiting the number of movies produced that remain relevant and entertaining.
The industry has experienced several business failures, including the cancellation of several series, including The Office, The West Wing, and Boardwalk Empire. In addition, series have been pulled from the schedule or reshot.
The three major networks (ABC, CBS, and NBC) have a well-established catalog of successful comedies and dramas (with or without an associated film) that have achieved critical acclaim. The shows have recurring characters and themes (e.g., high school wrestling, cheating, and prom), and sometimes involve social issues or themes of identity and self-worth. The shows often feature characters who are aware of their fame but are not particularly enamored of it (Cox, 2010).
The networks (ABC, CBS, and NBC) have produced, adapted, and/or distributed a large array of successful children’s programs (including The Muppets, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and Winnie the Pooh) that have achieved critical acclaim and widespread audience appeal. The shows often feature memorable characters (e.g., Winnie the Pooh, Donald Duck, and Tigger), humorous situations (e.g.
