Introduction
The early making of an industry. The "thinkability" of the cinema: is it art or is it a business?
Cinemania: entrepreneurs and would-be producers
The design of a "powerful weapon": cinema under fascism
The visible hand: a way to the cinematic renaissance
"We can be like Hollywood"
Building the cinematic miracle: cinema under democracy. Multiple actors and the re-birth of an industry
Entrepreneurial efforts in the worldwide race
Drawing the crowds: box office miracles
Shooting the miracle. Towards obscurity
Conclusions.