How did the 1980s film industry change?

The 1980s film industry experienced significant transformation, with one of the most notable changes being the popularization of home video and the surge in franchises. During this decade, the introduction and widespread adoption of VCRs allowed audiences to watch movies at home, fundamentally altering how films were consumed. This shift not only expanded the audience base but also created new revenue streams for studios through the sale and rental of tapes.

In addition to home video, the 1980s marked the rise of blockbuster franchises, such as "Star Wars," "Indiana Jones," and "Batman." These high-grossing films became the cornerstone of studio strategies, leading to sequels and merchandise that built ongoing engagement and financial success. The combination of these two factors—the popularity of home video and the focus on creating franchises—not only changed the types of films being produced but also how they were marketed and distributed.

This period laid the groundwork for the modern film industry, integrating mass entertainment with home consumption in a way that is still evident today.