In the 1930s, the Great Depression hit Hollywood hard. To entice audiences back into theaters, studios began offering 'double features'—two movies for the price of one. The 'A-movie' was the main attraction with a big budget and famous stars. To fill the second slot, studios produced cheaper, formulaic films known as 'B-movies.' These were shot quickly (often in less than two weeks) and had strict length requirements to ensure the entire program didn't exceed three hours. While the term eventually became a label for low-quality or cult films, B-movies were essential for the industry; they served as a training ground for future stars like John Wayne and directors like Anthony Mann. The system eventually collapsed in the 1950s due to legal changes and the rise of television, but the 'B-movie' aesthetic remains a celebrated part of cinema history.