Final answer:
Trusts in the film industry historically manipulated distribution and influence, similar to the way Rockefeller's Standard Oil Trust controlled independent oil companies' profits and decision-making. Political pressures, such as the blacklist during the Cold War, also shaped the industry, impacting independent filmmakers by limiting their opportunities. Today, digital distribution is changing how independent films reach audiences, offering more direct paths to viewers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The "trust" refers to a form of corporate management/ownership that was designed to circumvent certain legal restrictions on business operations by pooling resources and coordinating practices without formally merging companies. For example, John D. Rockefeller's Standard Oil Trust controlled various independent oil companies through stock ownership, allowing the trust to reap profits and influence decision-making. Similarly, in the film industry, trusts and other agreements have been employed to control the distribution and influence of films.
Also relevant is the historical context, such as Hollywood's response to political pressure about communism. During the Cold War, the Hollywood blacklist effectively barred individuals with perceived Communist ties from working in the industry, thus impacting artists and filmmakers, including independent ones. This kind of concerted action by industry leaders limited opportunities and influenced the types of films that were made. Over time, digital distribution has transformed the landscape for independent filmmakers, allowing companies like Snag Films to distribute content directly to viewers, circumventing traditional barriers to entry that once existed due to such trusts and agreements.