Los Angeles: The Dream Factory of Hollywood
Los Angeles: The Dream Factory of Hollywood
Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis in Southern California, is renowned worldwide as the epicenter of the American film and television industry. Each year, thousands of ambitious young talents flock to this city, aspiring to reach the pinnacle of cinematic success. However, the journey is arduous, and only a few manage to climb to the top. The rest often find themselves working as waiters or street performers, hoping that a chance encounter with a renowned producer, director, or fashion photographer will catapult them into the world of wealth and fame. It’s worth noting that the chances of such a life-changing encounter in Los Angeles are relatively high, given that the city and its surroundings are home to legendary Hollywood studios responsible for over 70% of the films released worldwide. Even if you’re not chasing a film career but simply love cinema, including studio tours in your itinerary is a must for an unforgettable experience.
Universal Pictures
Founded in 1912 by German immigrant Carl Laemmle, Universal Pictures is the oldest Hollywood studio and remains one of the most influential in the world. Initially specializing in horror films, Universal produced classics like “Dracula” (1931), “Murders in the Rue Morgue” (1932), and “The Invisible Man” (1933). Over time, the studio shifted its focus to family-friendly films.
Today, Universal Studios Hollywood is not just a film studio but also a popular theme park with numerous attractions. The studio tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how movies are made, featuring sets from some of Universal’s most famous films and TV shows. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides based on beloved movies, from flying on a broom with Harry Potter to transforming into Optimus Prime from “Transformers.” A one-day ticket starts at $109.
Carl Laemmle is credited with creating the “star system,” a method of promoting and managing actors that focused on creating memorable personas rather than showcasing acting skills. This system involved studio executives and agents working closely with actors to maintain public interest and manage their image.
Some notable films from Universal Pictures include “Jaws” (1975), “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982), the “Back to the Future” trilogy (1985–1990), “Scent of a Woman” (1992), “Jurassic Park” (1993), “Schindler’s List” (1993), “Meet Joe Black” (1998), “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” (1998), “Gladiator” (2000), “Hannibal” (2001), “Bruce Almighty” (2003), and “Despicable Me” (2010).
Paramount Pictures
Founded in 1912 by Adolf Zukor, Paramount Pictures has a rich history and is the only studio located directly on the Hollywood hills. Despite facing numerous challenges, Paramount has remained a significant player in the film industry.
Visitors to Paramount Studios can take a two-hour tour that includes a look at how special effects are created, a visit to the soundstages of iconic films, and a walk through street sets where famous movies were filmed. The tour costs $60 and is suitable for visitors over 10 years old. For a more in-depth experience, a VIP tour is available for $189 per person.
The logo of Paramount Pictures is inspired by Ben Lomond Peak, a snowy peak in Utah.
Some notable films from Paramount Pictures include “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961), “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968), “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971), “The Godfather” (1972), “The Naked Gun” (1988), “Ghost” (1990), “Forrest Gump” (1994), “Mission: Impossible” (1996), “The Truman Show” (1998), “Transformers” (2007), “Interstellar” (2014), and “A Quiet Place” (2018).
Columbia Pictures
Founded in 1919 by brothers Harry and Jack Cohn, Columbia Pictures initially struggled and was jokingly referred to as “Corned Beef and Cabbage.” After a name change to Columbia Pictures in 1924, the studio’s fortunes improved. In 1989, Sony acquired Columbia Pictures, and in 2005, Sony Pictures purchased Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, becoming one of the largest corporations in the film industry.
Today, visitors can take a two-hour walking tour of Sony Pictures Studios, offering a glimpse into the filmmaking process and a visit to the soundstages where cinematic magic happens. The tour costs $50 and is suitable for visitors over 12 years old.
Some notable films from Columbia Pictures include “Kramer vs. Kramer” (1979), “Ghostbusters” (1984), “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” (1992), “Groundhog Day” (1993), “Little Women” (1994), the “Men in Black” trilogy (1997–2012), “Cruel Intentions” (1999), “Snatch” (2000), “The Legend of Zorro” (2005), “Hitch” (2005), “Eat Pray Love” (2010), and “Django Unchained” (2012).
For more information, you can visit the Universal Pictures Wikipedia page.
