Which factor is considered a major influence on American film development?

The ties with England played a significant role in the development of American film, particularly during the early years of cinema. The influence of English storytelling traditions, along with the UK's established theater culture, helped shape American films' narrative structures and styles. This connection facilitated the exchange of ideas and artistic conventions that would ultimately inform the burgeoning American film industry.

Moreover, many of the early filmmakers and actors hailed from Britain or were influenced by English theatrical practices. The burgeoning film industry in the United States adapted and evolved with these influences, leading to a distinctive American film style while still reflecting its English roots, which contributed to the establishment of Hollywood as a center for film production.

In contrast, while the Enlightenment undoubtedly influenced various cultural aspects, it is less directly linked to the specific development of American film. The Industrial Revolution in Europe had broader implications for technology and society but did not serve as a direct influence in the storytelling or filmmaking techniques used in early American cinema. The rise of television, while significant in its impact on entertainment, occurred later and led to changes in the film industry rather than influencing its early development stages.