The Movies
A Studio Simulator with Film-Making Tools
Forgotten Games · 2005
Archived on
Associated With
Lionhead Studios; published by Activision - developer, publisher
Defining Feature
A Windows PC studio-management simulation with script, cast, set, dialogue and film-sharing controls
Status
Preserved - Released for Windows PC in November 2005
Overview
The Movies let players manage a film studio and watch the productions created through their decisions.
Released for Windows in November 2005, Lionhead’s game combined buildings, staff, stars, budgets and research. Players selected scripts, directors and sets before viewing the resulting films.
Sandbox Mode placed greater emphasis on creation, allowing control over historical periods, scripts, dialogue and star appearances. Completed films could then be posted to the official website for other people to watch.
Why It Mattered
Its best idea was that the management game generated something viewers could actually watch. Completed films could be published to the official website, turning studio decisions and player creativity into shareable work.
Development and Release
- Activision announced publishing rights in March 2003 while Lionhead was developing the project.
- The Windows PC version reached US retail on 8 November 2005.
- The ESRB classified the game T for Teen.
Studio Management
- Story Mode covered talent, resources, research and development, genres and box-office competition.
- Players selected scripts, directors, sets and stars before viewing finished films.
Film Creation
- Sandbox Mode allowed control over period, scripts, dialogue and star appearance.
- Completed films could be posted to the official themoviesgame.com site.
Sources & Records
- The Movies Premieres at Retail Outlets Nationwide — Confirms the 2005 retail release and describes studio management and film-making modes.
- Activision Signs Multi-Year Agreement with Peter Molyneux — Records the publishing agreement and planned game features before release.
- The Movies rating record — Confirms the Windows PC platform and Teen rating.
Gallery
Credit
Game image: Lionhead Studios / Activision; screenshot contributor not established
Licence
Historical Ephemera
Displayed for commentary, criticism, research and historical documentation where permitted by applicable law. No permission for reuse is granted.
Caption
A studio lot in The Movies turns filmmaking into a management challenge: players build the facilities, organise productions and guide performers towards stardom.
Credit
Game artwork: Lionhead Studios / Activision
Licence
Historical Ephemera
Displayed for commentary, criticism, research and historical documentation where permitted by applicable law. No permission for reuse is granted.
Caption
The Movies logo accompanies the gameplay view, identifying the title discussed in the article.