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An extensive background in the entertainment business, initially working as a journalist for British publications, and later completing an MA in International Film Production to gain experience of working in the film industry. Many studies and exposes developed during this period focused on the operational and financial values of film companies, and the strategy behind their decision making. These interests inspired further PhD research. Currently working in online learning and education.

Cinema and Television History Institute (CATHI)

The Hollywood Film Industry, Film Economics, Business Strategy, Digital Platforms in the Film Industry, European Cinema, Adaptations

BA (Hons) English and Film Studies, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ 
MA International Film Production, ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ and Creative Media Skills
AFHEA Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Postgraduate Award in Technology Enhanced Learning, The University of Warwick)

Title

Disney, Dominance and Disruption: Examining the impact of Disney's Strategic Advantage on The Hollywood Film Industry

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to explore and document the impact of Disney’s strategic competitive advantage on interdependent companies within the Hollywood Film Industry. To a certain extent, many of the key authors and scholars in this field neglect to explore the role that film companies must now play in an increasingly digitalised environment. Using a culmination of contextual evidence, economic reports, and case studies, we can examine indicators that Disney’s growing dominance in the film industry is not only disrupting Hollywood’s function as an operation for profit and value, but also disrupting its key competitors by pushing the boundaries on Antitrust Monopoly laws. The significance of this study is that it informs our practical understanding of the impact and mechanics behind a media conglomerates strategy, dominance, and brand loyalty. This allows businesses and film scholars to better understand Hollywood as a saturated and competitive market and addresses key gaps in the literature in regards to a company’s strategy and its direct impact on consumers and competitors.

Dr James Russell and Dr Stuart Hanson