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In 1927 an average of 60 million Americans went to the cinema on a weekly basis. This increased to 110 million by 1929.

The increase was partly due to the development of audio films in 1927, with Al Jolson starring in The Jazz Singer (1927) marking the beginning of the era of the talkies. The increase was also down to Hollywood's success in producing 500 films per year.

The 1920s was also the era of cartoon characters, with Felix the Cat and Mickey Mouse gaining popularity among people of all ages.

In 1929 The Oscars were established to honour film stars.

But not every American was happy with the new cinemas.

The Hays Code

The Hays Code was drawn up in 1930. In accordance with this code, scenes of nudity and dancing of a sexual nature were prohibited, a kiss could last for no more than seven metres of film, adultery was not to be portrayed in a good light, clergymen were not to be ridiculed and films should condemn killing.

Some people, especially religious people, were very concerned about a lack of morals and the influence of the films on young people.