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2024-05-05 13:35:31

Paramount Pictures

American film and TV production company
American film and TV production company

Paramount Pictures is the sixth-oldest film studio globally and the second-oldest in the US. It is part of the 'Big Five' studios and a member of the MPA.

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1902
Paramount Pictures is Founded

Paramount Pictures, one of the most iconic film studios, was established in 1902.

1912-04-12
Engadine Corp. founded by Adolph Zukor

In April 12, 1912, Adolph Zukor founded Engadine Corp.

1912-05-08
Paramount Pictures founded

Paramount Pictures was established on May 8, 1912, in Hollywood, California by Adolph Zukor, a Hungarian-born early investor in movie theaters. It is the oldest operating major film studio in Hollywood and the fifth-oldest in the world.

1912-06-07
Famous Players Corp. founded by Adolph Zukor

On June 7, 1912, Adolph Zukor established Famous Players Corp.

1913-11-23

1914-05-08
Founding of Paramount Pictures Corporation

On May 8, 1914, Paramount Pictures Corporation was founded by Utah theatre owner W. W. Hodkinson, who had bought and merged five smaller firms. Paramount was the first successful nationwide film distributor.

1915
Cecil B. DeMille directs film with live piano accompaniment

In 1915, Cecil B. DeMille directed a film with live piano accompaniment.

1916-06-28
Formation of Famous Players–Lasky Corporation

In 1916, Adolph Zukor engineered a three-way merger of Famous Players, the Lasky Company, and Paramount, creating the Famous Players–Lasky Corporation. This new company, although retaining the name 'Paramount,' became the largest film company at the time.

1916-11-07
Finalization of Famous Players–Lasky and Paramount Pictures Fusion

The fusion of Famous Players–Lasky Corporation and Paramount Pictures was officially finalized on November 7, 1916, solidifying their dominance in the film industry.

1917
Famous Players-Lasky's Wings wins first Oscar for best picture

In 1917, Famous Players-Lasky's film 'Wings' won the first Academy Award for Best Picture, marking a significant achievement in the history of cinema.

1918-02
Famous Players-Lasky Corp. Absorbs Paramount Pictures

In February 1918, Famous Players-Lasky Corporation absorbed Paramount Pictures, leading to significant changes in the film industry.

1921
Release of The Sheik

In 1921, the film 'The Sheik' was released, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Starring Rudolph Valentino, this romantic drama became a significant cultural phenomenon of its time.

1926-01-05
Purchase of Robert Brunton Studios

In January 1926, Lasky bought the Robert Brunton Studios in a 26-acre facility deal, expanding Paramount's West Coast production capabilities.

1927-04-01
Name Change to Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation

On April 1, 1927, the company's name was changed to Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation, reflecting the evolving structure of the studio.

1928
Wings wins the first Academy Award for Best Picture

In 1928, the film Wings was awarded the very first Academy Award for Best Picture by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

1929
Paramount wins first-ever Academy Award for Best Picture

Paramount's first-ever Academy Award for Best Picture win boosted the studio's reputation and encouraged them to continue producing high-quality films.

1930-04-24
Paramount-Famous Lasky Corporation becomes Paramount Publix Corporation

On April 24, 1930, Paramount-Famous Lasky Corporation was rebranded as Paramount Publix Corporation. This change marked a significant moment in the company's history.

1932-11-28
Paramount Publix Corp. changes name to Paramount Productions Inc.

Paramount Publix Corporation changes its name to Paramount Productions Inc. on November 28, 1932.

1933-03-14
Paramount Pictures files for bankruptcy

On March 14, 1933, Paramount Pictures filed for bankruptcy due to over-expansion and the use of overvalued stock for purchases. This financial crisis led to a period of restructuring and reorganization for the company.

1935-06-04
John E. Otterson becomes president of Paramount Pictures Inc.

On June 4, 1935, John E. Otterson assumed the role of president at the re-emerged and newly renamed Paramount Pictures Inc. His appointment marked a new chapter in the company's leadership.

1935-08-28
Relisting of Paramount Pictures on the New York Stock Exchange

On August 28, 1935, Paramount Pictures was re-listed on the New York Stock Exchange under new leadership. This event signified a successful relaunch of the studio.

1936-08-01
Merger of Paramount Productions Inc. with Paramount Pictures Inc.

On August 1, 1936, Paramount Productions Inc. merges with Paramount Pictures Inc.

1937-03-25
Removal of Bronson Gate bell-tower after earthquake

In March 1937, an earthquake in Los Angeles prompts Paramount staff to remove the bell-tower on top of Bronson Gate as a safety measure, despite causing no major damage.

1939
Paramount Pictures creates television stations in Los Angeles and Chicago

In 1939, Paramount Pictures established television stations in Los Angeles (later known as KTLA) and Chicago's WBKB, showing early support for the television medium.

1942
Fleischer Studios purchased by Paramount

Paramount acquired Fleischer Studios in 1942 and reorganized it as Famous Studios, which eventually shut down in 1967 with its library integrated into Paramount Animation.

1944
Paramount wins Academy Award for Best Picture for Going My Way

In 1944, Paramount won its second Academy Award for Best Picture for the film Going My Way, showcasing the critical acclaim of films from Paramount during the mid to late 40s.

1947
Film directed by Lewis Allen

In 1947, a film directed by Lewis Allen was released.

1948
United States v. Paramount Pictures, Inc. Supreme Court ruling

In 1948, the Supreme Court ruled in the case of United States v. Paramount Pictures, Inc. that film studios could not control cinema chains. This ruling had a significant impact on Paramount Pictures, leading to increased competition from television and the need to make strategic changes in their productions.

1949-12-31
Split of Paramount Pictures Inc.

Paramount Pictures Inc. was split into two separate entities due to the U.S. Supreme Court's mandate. Paramount Pictures Corporation was established as the production distribution company, while the 1,500-screen theater chain was handed over to the new United Paramount Theaters.

1950-01-01
Paramount Pictures Corporation Officially Renamed

On January 1, 1950, Paramount Pictures Corp. changed its name to Paramount Pictures Corporation.

1951
George Stevens directs A Place in the Sun

In 1951, George Stevens directed the film A Place in the Sun.

1952
The Greatest Show on Earth

The film 'The Greatest Show on Earth' was released in 1952.

1953-11-27
Paramount invests in International Telemeter pay TV service

In 1951, Paramount bought a stake in International Telemeter, an experimental pay TV service which operated with a coin inserted into a box. The service began operating in Palm Springs, California on November 27, 1953.

1954-05-15
End of International Telemeter pay TV service

Due to pressure from the FCC, the International Telemeter pay TV service, in which Paramount had invested, ended on May 15, 1954.

1956
Cecil B. DeMille's successful film 'The Ten Commandments'

In 1956, Cecil B. DeMille, associated with Paramount since 1913, created his most successful film at Paramount, a remake of his 1923 film 'The Ten Commandments', providing some relief to Paramount despite its losses.

1958-02
Sale of pre-1950 films by Paramount to MCA Inc./EMKA, Ltd.

In February 1958, Paramount sold 764 of its pre-1950 films to MCA Inc./EMKA, Ltd. (known today as Universal Television), as Paramount saw little value in its film library.

1961
Double Indemnity Screening

In 1961, the film 'Double Indemnity' directed by Marion Brando was screened as part of the 100 Years of Paramount Pictures event.

1963
Film directed by Martin Ritt

In 1963, a film directed by Martin Ritt was released.

1965
Renaming of United Paramount Theaters to ABC Theaters

United Paramount Theaters underwent a name change to ABC Theaters in 1965. The theater chain was later sold to businessman Henry Plitt in 1977 and renamed Plitt Theaters.

1966-03-24
Gulf+Western Industries Acquires Paramount Pictures

On March 24, 1966, Gulf+Western Industries, Inc. gained control of Paramount Pictures, leading to a shift in focus towards the entertainment division.

1967
Paramount Pictures Logo Update

In 1967, Paramount Pictures introduced the fourth and current iteration of their logo, featuring a more simplified design with 22 stars, removal of clouds and the word 'Pictures', and a refined font choice.

1968
Formation of Films Distributing Corp by Paramount

In 1968, Paramount formed Films Distributing Corp to distribute sensitive film product, including 'Sin With a Stranger', one of the first films to receive an X rating in the United States.

1970
Formation of Cinema International Corporation (CIC) by Paramount and Universal Studios

In 1970, Paramount teamed with Universal Studios to form Cinema International Corporation (CIC), a new company that would distribute films by the two studios outside the United States, marking a significant collaboration.

1972-03-15
The Godfather Trilogy

The Godfather Trilogy, released between 1972 and 1990, is a highly influential series of gangster films that set the standard for the genre.

1973
El Dorado

In 1973, the film 'El Dorado' was directed by Sidney Lumet and screened on film.

1974
Robert Evans resigns as head of production at Paramount Pictures

In 1974, Robert Evans left his position as head of production at Paramount Pictures. His departure marked a significant change in leadership at the studio.

1975-09
Paramount logo simplified in blue

In September 1975, Paramount simplified their logo in a shade of blue, based on the modified design of the 1968 print logo. This design was used for many decades.

1976
Barry Diller and the 'Killer-Dillers' take over at Paramount Pictures

In 1976, Barry Diller and his team, known as the 'Killer-Dillers', assumed leadership at Paramount Pictures. This marked a shift towards a new era of management at the studio.

1977
Screening of a Film Directed by Jonathan Demme

In 1977, a film directed by Jonathan Demme was screened.

1978
Terrence Malick directs Days of Heaven

In 1978, Terrence Malick directed the film Days of Heaven.

1979
Star Trek Original Movie Series

The Star Trek Original Movie Series, spanning from 1979 to 2002, continued the legacy of the iconic TV series by bringing it to the big screen.

1980-03-29
Chronicles of Changing Times: The Cinema of Edward Yang

A film series titled 'Chronicles of Changing Times: The Cinema of Edward Yang' was showcased from March 29 to May 5, 1980.

1981
Indiana Jones Film Series Launches

Paramount Pictures was involved in launching the Indiana Jones film series in 1981, adding to its portfolio of successful and important films.

1983-08-25
Destruction of Original New York Street

On August 25, 1983, the original New York Street set was destroyed in a fire.

1984
Barry Diller leaves Paramount Pictures for 20th Century Fox

In 1984, Barry Diller departed from Paramount Pictures and joined 20th Century Fox. His departure marked a significant change in leadership at both studios.

1985-05
Formation of Talent Department at Paramount

In May 1985, Paramount Pictures established its own talent department, aiming to have a stable of contracted film personnel. However, the department was shut down in July 1986.

1986-12
New logo with CGI of lake and stars

In December 1986, Paramount launched a new logo featuring computer-generated imagery of a lake and stars. This version was designed by Dario Campanile and animated by various studios.

1987
Consolidation of Distribution Operations at Paramount

In 1987, Paramount Pictures consolidated its distribution operations by closing branch offices and relocating staff to cut costs and improve efficiency.

1989-06-05
Gulf+Western renamed Paramount Communications Inc.

On June 5, 1989, Gulf+Western underwent a name change and became Paramount Communications Inc.

1992-08-03
Completion of the 5 acre backlot

On August 3, 1992, the current 5 acre backlot was finished at a cost of $1.5 million.

1993-09-16
Frasier

The TV show 'Frasier' aired from 1993 to 2004, focusing on the life of psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane.

1994-03-11
Paramount merges with Viacom, Inc.

On March 11, 1994, Paramount merged with Viacom, Inc. under the leadership of Sumner Redstone, Executive Chairman of the Board and Founder.

1995
Introduction of film franchises like Indiana Jones and Mission: Impossible

During this era, Paramount introduced successful film franchises like Indiana Jones and Mission: Impossible.

1996
Mission: Impossible Series

A successful action film series that began in 1996, based on the TV series of the same name and starring Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt.

1997
Titanic

Paramount distributed Titanic, a monumental film that achieved immense success worldwide.

1998-10-07
Charmed

The TV series 'Charmed' ran from 1998 to 2006, following the lives of three sisters who are powerful witches.

1999-06-30
Redone logo with South Park

On June 30, 1999, a redone version of the Paramount logo debuted with South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut. This version was created by Pittard Sullivan.

1999-10-05
Angel

The TV show 'Angel' aired on Fox from 1999 to 2004, a spin-off from the popular series 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'.

2000-01-01
Turn of the Century Blockbusters

Blockbuster films released around the turn of the 21st century, marking a significant era in cinema.

2002-03
Updated logo with shooting stars

In March 2002, an updated Paramount logo was introduced featuring shooting stars falling from a night sky to form the arc. This version was created by BUF Compagnie.

2003
The Italian Job

The movie 'The Italian Job' was released in 2003.

2005-12-11
Paramount acquires DreamWorks SKG

Paramount Motion Pictures Group purchased DreamWorks SKG for $1.6 billion, aiming to enhance its pipeline of pictures and restore its position as a leader in filmed entertainment.

2006-02-01
Completion of DreamWorks acquisition by Paramount

On February 1, 2006, Paramount studio confirmed the completion of the acquisition of DreamWorks.

2006-12-31
Breakup of United International Pictures (UIP)

Grey broke up the famous United International Pictures (UIP) international distribution company, with 15 countries being taken over by Paramount or Universal by December 31, 2006.

2007
No Country for Old Men (in the UK)

Paramount distributed No Country for Old Men in the UK, contributing to the film's international acclaim.

2008
Paramount Partners with FanRocket for VooZoo Application

In early 2008, Paramount partnered with Los Angeles-based developer FanRocket to make short scenes taken from its film library available to users on Facebook through the VooZoo application.

2009-05
Star Trek Series

The Star Trek Series, released between 2009 and 2016, revitalized the iconic science fiction franchise with a new cast and modern storytelling.

2010-02-08
Viacom repurchases DreamWorks' library stake

On February 8, 2010, Viacom bought back Soros' controlling stake in DreamWorks' pre-2005 film library, solidifying Paramount's ownership of films released before the merger.

2011-12-16
Logo with mountain range and sun

On December 16, 2011, an updated Paramount logo was introduced with animation done by Devastudios, featuring a surrounding mountain range and the sun shining in the background.

2011-12-21
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol

Released by Paramount Pictures on December 21, 2011.

2012-08-03
Screening of The Lost Weekend

In August 2012, a screening of the movie 'The Lost Weekend' took place as part of the celebration of 100 Years of Paramount Pictures.

2012-08-04
Screening of The Desperate Hours

In August 2012, a screening of the movie 'The Desperate Hours' directed by Mitchell Leisen in 1955 was held to commemorate 100 Years of Paramount Pictures.

2012-08-05
Screening of Midnight / Hands Across the Table

As part of the 100 Years of Paramount Pictures celebration, a screening of 'Midnight' and 'Hands Across the Table' was held on August 5, 2012.

2012-08-06
Screening of Seconds

On August 6, 2012, a screening of the movie 'Seconds' was organized in honor of 100 Years of Paramount Pictures.

2012-12-19
The Guilt Trip

Released by Michaels/Goldwyn on December 19, 2012.

2012-12-21
Jack Reacher

Released by TC Productions on December 21, 2012.

2013-03-28
G.I. Joe: Retaliation

Released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Hasbro Studios, and Di Bonaventura Pictures on March 28, 2013.

2013-05-16
Star Trek Into Darkness

Released by Bad Robot Productions and K/O Paper Products on May 16, 2013.

2013-06-21
World War Z

Released by Hemisphere Media Capital, Plan B Entertainment, and GK Films on June 21, 2013.

2014-01-17
Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Released by Di Bonaventura Pictures and Mace Neufeld Productions on January 17, 2014.

2015-07-01
Terminator Genisys

Released by China Movie Channel on July 1, 2015.

2015-07-31
Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation

Released by Bad Robot Productions, Alibaba Pictures, China Movie Channel, and TC Productions on July 31, 2015.

2016-07-22
Star Trek Beyond

Released by Alibaba Pictures, Huahua Media, Bad Robot Productions, Sneaky Shark Productions, and Perfect Storm Entertainment on July 22, 2016.

2016-10-21
Jack Reacher: Never Go Back

Released by TC Productions, Shanghai Film Group, and Huahua Media on October 21, 2016.

2017-01-19
Shanghai Film Group and Huahua Media finance Paramount Pictures movies

On January 19, 2017, Shanghai Film Group Corp. and Huahua Media agreed to finance at least 25% of all Paramount Pictures movies over three years. This deal also involved distributing and marketing Paramount's features in China, reflecting the trend of Chinese companies collaborating with Hollywood studios.

2017-03-24
Life

Released by Columbia Pictures and Mockingbird Pictures on March 24, 2017.

2017-03-27
Jim Gianopulos becomes chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures

Jim Gianopulos was appointed as the chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures on March 27, 2017, taking over from Brad Grey. This leadership change marked a significant shift in the studio's management.

2017-05-25
Baywatch

Released under Uncharted; Shanghai Film Group, Huahua Media, Seven Bucks Productions, The Montecito Picture Company, Fremantle Productions, and Flynn Picture Company on May 25, 2017.

2017-10-20
Geostorm

Released by Electric Entertainment and RatPac-Dune Entertainment on October 20, 2017.

2017-12-07
Paramount sells international distribution rights of Annihilation to Netflix

On December 7, 2017, Paramount sold the international distribution rights of Annihilation to Netflix. This marked a significant deal in the industry, showcasing the shift towards digital platforms for film distribution.

2018-02-23
Annihilation

Released by Scott Rudin Productions and DNA Films on February 23, 2018.

2018-07-27
Mission: Impossible – Fallout

Released by Alibaba Pictures, Bad Robot Productions, and TC Productions on July 27, 2018.

2018-07-31
National Hispanic Media Coalition and National Latino Media Council targeting Paramount

On July 31, 2018, Paramount was targeted by the National Hispanic Media Coalition and the National Latino Media Council for its lack of Latino and Hispanic representation in the film industry.

2018-08-25
NHMC protest at Paramount Pictures lot

NHMC protested at the Paramount Pictures lot on August 25, 2018, demanding better representation for Latinos and Hispanics in the film industry.

2018-10-17
Second NHMC protest at Paramount film lot

The NHMC protested at the Paramount film lot for the second time on October 17, 2018, emphasizing the need for increased Latino and Hispanic representation in the entertainment sector.

2019-10-11
Gemini Man

Released by Alibaba Pictures, Fosun Pictures, and Jerry Bruckheimer Films on October 11, 2019.

2020-04-03
ViacomCBS rebrands CBS All Access to Paramount+

On April 3, 2020, ViacomCBS officially closed the deal to rebrand the CBS All Access streaming service as Paramount+ to expand internationally using the well-known Paramount name and content from various studios.

2021-09
Jim Gianopulos fired and replaced by Brian Robbins

In September 2021, Jim Gianopulos was dismissed from Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon president Brian Robbins took over as the new head.

2022-02-16
ViacomCBS changes name to Paramount Global

On February 16, 2022, ViacomCBS rebranded as Paramount Global, aligning the company more closely with its renowned studio name.

2022-03-08
Paramount Players merged into Paramount Pictures Motion Picture Group

On March 8, 2022, Paramount Players' operations were integrated into Paramount Pictures Motion Picture Group, while still functioning as a label with upcoming film projects.

2022-05-27
Top Gun: Maverick

A film set to be released on May 27, 2022, produced under Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films and distributed by Paramount Pictures.

2022-11-15
Paramount signs exclusive deal with Walter Hamada

On November 15, 2022, Paramount entered an exclusive agreement with former DC Films president Walter Hamada to oversee the development of horror films starting in 2023.

2023-07-14
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts

An upcoming film involving Hasbro, Bay Films, New Republic Pictures, and Di Bonaventura Pictures, set to be released on July 14, 2023, distributed by Paramount Pictures.

2024
Paramount Pictures Terms of Use

In 2024, Paramount Pictures established terms of use for their services.

End of the Timeline
Paramount Pictures

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Paramount Pictures

American film and TV production company
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