Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Rachael Camp

Date

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Communication

Committee Chair

Amanda Edgar

Committee Member

Marina Levina

Committee Member

David Goodman

Committee Member

Beverly Bond

Abstract

This study examines the pioneering film editor May Brotherton as a case study to explore how studio industrialization in pre and early Hollywood influenced the contributions of women post-production workers. It considers why film editing, once categorized as a feminized sector, was recategorized after its creative power and financial implications were realized. As a result, we may become aware of the systematic gender discrimination in studio film, as well as an extremely important but unrecognized editor. Incorporating evidence from primary and secondary sources on early film industry development, including testimony, archival artifacts, and interviews with Brotherton’s descendants. The methodology is rooted in cultural studies, intersectionality, and revisionist historiography methods. This study argues for the creativity and agency early women cutters exercised, highlights the significance of Brotherton as an industry pioneer, and explains why women were eventually removed from cutting rooms. Understanding the history of women in cutting rooms can provide crucial background for examining the craft today and how it is represented.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest

Notes

Open Access

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