A simple water tower, built in 1926, received the Warner Brother’s iconic “W.B” logo, representing the studio’s founding brothers. Harry, Sam, Jack, and Albert Warner opened the Sunset Boulevard location of Warner Bros. Studios in Hollywood, California. The brothers originally created their company for film distribution; however, Warner Bros. Studios eventually produced their own films.

Incorporated in April of 1923, Warner Bros. quickly became one of the most successful independent film companies of all time. The brothers’ desire for innovation led to the world’s first “talkie” film, The Jazz Singer, in 1927. With music and synchronized sound, this film changed the industry forever. Other film companies followed Warner Brother’s example.

With the success of The Jazz Singer, Warner Bros. sought to expand. Warner Bros. set their sights on a newly completed film lot owned by their rival, First National Pictures.

In 1928, Warner Bros joined First National Pictures on its lot and eventually absorbed its rival. By 1936, First National Pictures ceased to exist. Warner Brothers’ assumed control of the entire studio and produced films at a more rapid rate.

Although the studio produced successful films, the company suffered during the Great Depression. By 1931, the majority of Americans did not have the money to purchase a movie ticket. The studio lost over eight million dollars in 1931, and over fourteen million dollars the following year.

Despite financial difficulties during the depression, Warner Brothers produced some of the first horror films in color including Doctor X and Mystery of the Wax Museum.

Today, Warner Bros. continues their contribution to the film industry with such blockbuster series as Harry Potter and Batman. Warner Brothers remains one of the most innovative studios in the film industry.