Media > Change > Silent to sound

When sound arrived, it happened quickly. In 1928 the seven Hollywood majors released 220 silent films and 74 sound films, of which 41 had only synchronised music and sound effects, 23 were part talkie and only 10, all from Warner Bros, were all talkie. Universal and Paramount in particular were still heavily committed to silent productions.

Majors' film releases in 1928

In 1929 the balance had shifted radically. By now there were 166 all talkie releases, 50 part talkie and 36 with only music and effects. Silent releases had dwindled to only 38 out of a total of 290.

Majors' film releases in 1929

Source of data: Joel W Finler: The Hollywood Story, 1988

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Page created 19 January 2001
© David Fisher