Hollywood, Los Angeles

El Cabrillo Courtyard

Glen-Holly-Hotel-1890

HJWhitley Hollywood Hotel ca 1904

Charles Toberman Estate, Hollywood

Error creating thumbnail:

Hollywood&Highland-1907

Hollywood, Los Angeles is a neighborhood in the central region of Los Angeles, California, known worldwide as the home of the U.S. film industry, including several of its historic studios. Its name has come to be a shorthand reference for the industry and the people associated with it. Hollywood was incorporated as a municipality in 1903 but was consolidated with the city of Los Angeles in 1910, at which time its film industry was already beginning to move west. The intersection of Hollywood and Vine was the "heart" of Hollywood, where the industry first took root in the early 20th century.

History

Hollywood's history is as dynamic as the entertainment industry it hosts. Initially, it was established as a community in 1887 by Harvey Wilcox, and it eventually became a thriving agricultural community. The motion picture industry arrived in Hollywood in the early 1910s, with the establishment of the first film studio by David Horsley's Nestor Company in 1911. The favorable climate, diverse landscapes, and the lack of strict regulations made Hollywood an attractive place for the burgeoning film industry. By the 1920s, Hollywood had become the film capital of the world.

Geography

Hollywood is bordered by the Hollywood Hills to the north, Los Feliz to the northeast, Koreatown and West Hollywood to the west, and Silver Lake to the southeast. The neighborhood is notable for its rolling hills and cultural landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign, Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame, and the Dolby Theatre, where the Academy Awards are held annually.

Economy

The economy of Hollywood is predominantly based on the entertainment industry. Major film studios, television networks, and music companies are headquartered here. The neighborhood also has a robust nightlife, tourism, and retail sectors, supporting a diverse array of businesses.

Culture

Hollywood's culture is deeply intertwined with the entertainment industry, hosting numerous film premieres, award shows, and celebrity events. It is also home to many historic theaters, museums, and cultural institutions that celebrate the history and art of filmmaking. The Hollywood Bowl and the Grauman's Chinese Theatre are among its most iconic cultural venues.

Transportation

Hollywood is served by the Los Angeles Metro Rail, with several stations on the Red Line and the Purple Line, providing easy access to downtown Los Angeles and the rest of the San Fernando Valley. The area is also served by numerous bus lines and has a high level of walkability, especially in the more densely populated areas.

Education

The neighborhood is served by the Los Angeles Unified School District, including several highly regarded public and private schools. It is also home to the American Film Institute, one of the top film schools in the U.S., and other institutions that offer education in film, television, and the performing arts.

Demographics

Hollywood has a diverse population, with a significant number of residents involved in the entertainment industry. It is a melting pot of cultures, with a wide range of ethnicities and nationalities represented.

See Also

• Cinema of the United States
• History of film
• Los Angeles in popular culture