ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Franz Waxman's emigration to the USA and his career within the broader context of 1930s transnational film and music industries. It challenges the dominant narrative of forced exile by highlighting the economic and professional opportunities that shaped Waxman's decisions to move first to Paris and then to Hollywood. The chapter situates Waxman's experiences alongside those of Miklós Rózsa and Friedrich Hollaender, illustrating how these composers adapted to new cultural and professional landscapes. Waxman's work in the German entertainment industry, his collaborations with figures like Friedrich Hollaender, and his innovative contributions to early sound film are analysed to demonstrate his adaptability and creative agency. The chapter argues that Waxman's migration was not merely a response to political pressures but also a strategic career move enabled by international networks and the burgeoning sound film industry. By focusing on the interplay of migration, professional development, and artistic innovation, the chapter provides a nuanced understanding of Waxman's trajectory and the opportunities afforded by the global film industry.
