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Howard Hughes Blows Up Hollywood | Calling the Shots | 1

Jul 31, 2025
Howard Hughes, the teenage millionaire, heads to Hollywood with big dreams but quickly faces the harsh realities of filmmaking. His journey includes funding ambitious projects and navigating the challenges of Tinseltown. The tumultuous production of 'Hell's Angels' showcases Hughes' struggles with creative control and the shift to sound in film. As he tries to redefine his legacy after setbacks, Hughes' resilience and daring spirit shine through, making for an inspiring and chaotic story of ambition and innovation in the film industry.
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INSIGHT

Howard Hughes' Hollywood Challenge

  • Hollywood was dominated by major studios but Howard Hughes broke in as an outsider with no film experience.
  • He learned filmmaking was harder than it seemed despite his wealth and ambition.
ANECDOTE

Swell Hogan's Costly Failure

  • Howard funded a film with Ralph Graves, who acted, wrote, and directed despite inexperience.
  • The film failed due to weak script and poor direction, teaching Howard harsh lessons in filmmaking.
ANECDOTE

Success with Two Arabian Nights

  • Howard teamed with Lewis Milestone, a hotheaded but talented director, to make Two Arabian Nights.
  • Despite setbacks and costly reshoots, the film was acclaimed and earned a small profit.
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