The Star System

Definition: A system by which Hollywood studios created and managed movie stars from the
late 1920s to the early 1960s. The system emphacized idealistic personas over acting, which
studios publicized and which actors were contractually obligated to promote and protect..
The star system was the method of creating, promoting and exploiting stars in Hollywood
films. Movie studios would select promising young actors andglamorise and create personas for
them, often inventing new names and even new backgrounds. Examples of stars who went
through the star system include Cary Grant , Joan Crawford and Rock Hudson .
The star system put an emphasis on the image rather than the acting, although discreet acting,
voice, and dancing lessons were a common part of the regimen. Women were expected to behave
like ladies, and were never to leave the house without makeup and stylish clothes. Men were
expected to be seen in public as gentlemen. Morality clauses were a common part of actors'
studio contracts.
Just as studio executives, public relations staffs, and agents worked together with the actor to
create a star persona, so they would work together to cover up incidents or lifestyles that would
damage the star's public image. It was common, for example, to arrange sham dates between
single (male) stars and starlets to generate publicity. Tabloids and gossip columnists would be
tipped off, and photographers would appear to capture the romantic moment.
Another important aspect of the Hollywood star system is the stars' ability to convey the myths
and dreams of their society, such as the myth of the "self made man", which for many viewers
represents the belief that everyone has a chance of happiness in America.
For a consumer of the star system, looking at these stars is a way to continue believing that
anything is possible, regardless of class or money. Thus, the star system creates hopes and
preserves the ideals of a still young country. The film industry is more than aware of this, and
puts all of its power into the stars.