Hollywoodism: Jews, Movies and the American Dream

This film discusses the effect on how major American films in Hollywood were influenced by the Eastern European Jewish culture that most of the major movie moguls who controlled the studios shared. Through clips of various films, the filmmakers illustrate the dominant themes like that of the outsider, the outspoken American patriotism, and rooting for the underdog in society.

Directed by Simcha Jacobovici, Stuart Samuels, Hollywoodism: Jews, Movies and the American Dream leans on a strong ensemble — R.H. Thomson, Neal Gabler, J. Hoberman — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1998.