As you noted, the break-point occurred in the 1950's. One of the cost/benefit factors involved with that process was based on a perceived need to differentiate the value of the theatrical viewing experience from that of the home viewing experience (B&W television). The same economic forces were used to drive the short lived production of 1950's 3D movies succeeded by the transition to wide-screen production of full color theatrical releases.
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As you noted, the break-point occurred in the 1950's. One of the cost/benefit factors involved with that process was based on a perceived need to differentiate the value of the theatrical viewing experience from that of the home viewing experience (B&W television). The same economic forces were used to drive the short lived production of 1950's 3D movies succeeded by the transition to wide-screen production of full color theatrical releases.