The “New” Media
How Radio and Film Changed the Lives of Canadians
Mickey Mouse? Really?
He’s Just an Ordinary ‘Canadian’
What were the new media in 1920?
Remember This?
• The Rogers Radio• Cost $150 when a
car cost $395• Made radio practical
for regular people (not enthusiasts)
• It was a Canadian invention
The CBC
• Created by the AIRD commission
• First Broadcast 1932• Reached 76% by 1939
America’s Sweetheart
• Mary Pickford was Canadian and was one of the biggest stars in Hollywood
• At her peak earned $10 000/week
• Founded United Artists with Charlie Chaplin & DW Griffith
Steamboat Marie
• Marie Dressler starred in over 40 movies during the early years of the industry
• She was born in Cobourg(!)
The ‘M’ in MGM
• Louis B. Mayer• Famous for his
spectacular style of films
• Was the second M in MGM but became the main decision maker in one of Hollywoods biggest studios
That’s Him Folks!
• Jack Warner• Founded Warner Bros.
Studios • The inspiration for
Daffy Duck’s lisp.• Though he owned
Mickey Mouse
The appeal of Horror
Dracula!