Founded in 1923 by Walt and Roy Disney as single animation studio. Renamed to Walt Disney Company in 1986 after major restructuring. Michael Eisner and Frank Wells took over in 1984. Company split into Disney and Disney Feature Animation divisions
First major studio was Universal in 1912 after Laemmle's merger with IMP. Warner Bros. founded in 1918, pioneered sound film with The Jazz Singer. Disney started as independent in 1923, became major studio in 1984
Star Wars: The Force Awakens became third highest-grossing film worldwide. Universal Pictures set industry records for highest-grossing year. Minions became first non-Disney animated film to reach $1 billion. Jurassic World set opening weekend record at $524.4 million
MCU is a shared universe based on Marvel Comics characters. Studios releases films in phases: Infinity Saga (2008-2019) and Multiverse Saga (2021-2027). Kevin Feige serves as studio chief since 2007. Disney acquired Marvel Entertainment in 2009 for $4 billion
Hollywood was incorporated in 1903 as a municipality. Name chosen by Daeida Wilcox for its sound and good luck association. Hollywood Hotel opened in 1902 by developer H.J. Whitley. Area consolidated with Los Angeles in 1910
Universal Pictures leads with $1.62 billion in 2023 box office revenue. Warner Bros. follows with $39.57 billion in 2024. Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group ranks third with $3.74 billion. Walt Disney Pictures generates $34.1 billion in 2024